Good morning, Surprise.

Residents in the northwest valley are collecting signatures to stop a proposed BNSF Railway hub set for 4,320 acres near Wittmann — they believe the project will change the rural community they call home.

A worker suffered burns while maintaining an air handler in an attic at a Surprise home over the weekend when his welding torch flashed—his coworker helped him exit and control the fire before firefighters transported him in critical condition to a burn center.

The Surprise City Council approved a $400,000 reimbursement to the Texas Rangers and Kansas City Royals due to higher-than-expected spring training revenue.

The payment follows a contract with the teams, who have shared the complex at Surprise Stadium since 2003 (listed in a budget amendment).

Surprise Mayor Kevin Sartor declared Monsoon Awareness Week (June 8 to June 15) to help residents prepare for heavy storms, flash floods, and dust hazards as the season begins.

He urged locals to use the My Surprise phone app for reporting street hazards and staying informed about safety tips.

Local immigration advocates say anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles have raised fears that similar enforcement actions will hit the Valley—residents are upset over ICE detaining families.

The groups warn that if federal actions intensify, community tension may grow—officials have not yet commented.

Surprise Human Service and Community Vitality and Fire-Medical departments received certification from an international autism education board — a process that required 80% of staff to complete specialized training — to offer improved services for autistic residents.

The certification supports enhanced emergency response and community programs — steps aimed at better care for local families — and reinforces the city's commitment to inclusive support.