Redevelopment office announces promotion, Heritage District traffic‑box public art

The Town of Gilbert’s Office of Economic Development announced the promotion of Mike Martella to redevelopment program manager at the Redevelopment Commission meeting on May 21.

Council member Torgerson told commissioners Martella was selected after a competitive recruitment process; Martella has worked for the town for more than five years and previously served as an economic development project manager. "Mike brings visionary leadership, unmatched enthusiasm and deep expertise into this critical role," Torgerson said. Martella addressed the commission and said he looks forward to working with businesses and residents in the Heritage District.

Torgerson also reported that the final traffic control box public art wrap in the Heritage District was completed as part of the Community Canvas placemaking and public art initiative. Gilbert Elementary School students and their art teacher produced the artwork installed on the traffic box at the crosswalk near Gilbert Elementary. Torgerson described the school as a dual‑language Spanish immersion school and said the artwork reflects the school's values of kindness and culture.

Town staff congratulated Kristen Devine on recently receiving her AICP certification from the American Planning Association. The meeting then adjourned.