The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors approved more than $130,000 in funding this week.
The largest portion of that money, about $100,000, will go toward the International Dark Sky Discovery Center in Fountain Hills. The county board’s Vice Chairman Thomas Galvin said the center teaches Maricopa County residents about the importance of dark skies for humans, animals and plants.
“We’re gonna help subsidize the cost of admission and we’re gonna create hands-on exhibits for anyone who comes to the International Dark Sky Discovery Center,” Galvin said. “This is to help people appreciate our open spaces here in Arizona.”
Galvin said some of the remaining funds will go to the East Valley Institute of Technology, a vocational school in Mesa.
“So I’m investing $8,000 in an early education training curriculum, supplemental resources and aides for students at this program in Mesa,” Galvin said. “This is really worthwhile because this is gonna help students graduate, get jobs and further economic development in Mesa and the East Valley.”
The rest of the money will go toward trail improvements and heat relief efforts.
“This week, I’ve invested $3,000 for the purchase of dog shoes and leashes for people at heat relief centers in the continuing effort to help keep pets cool and safe during these summer months,” Galvin said.
The county previously installed dog bowls and water fountains for hikers.
The new projects will be paid for using Maricopa County Community Solutions Funding, which is designed to provide clear public benefits for residents.
