Gilbert Talks

03/05/2026

Tonight community leaders gathered at HD SOUTH - Home of the Gilbert Historical Museum to talk about the Gilbert Town Hall community.

The mission of Gilbert Talks is to foster constructive community dialogue around issues of importance in Gilbert for purposes of enriching understanding, motivating engagement, and promoting effective policymaking.

These leaders took time away from their work, their family, and themselves to dive into continuing to make Gilbert a great place to live, work, and play.

We are so grateful for everyone’s presence, contribution of time and ideas, and being able to share a delicious meal together.

Big thank you to everyone who was able to attend tonight!

And special shoutout for Twisted Tines catering for making the delicious dinner and to HDSouth for contributing the space for us to come together!

None of this would be possible without the support of these leaders and our 2026 board.

Emily Evans
Jan Simon
Darren Patoni
Libby Pierce

Eddie Cook
Tim Colquhoun

Eric Pettitt
Rudy Apodaca
Marnie Schubert

11/14/2025

The latest episode of the Gilbert Talks podcast is out. Make sure to like and subscribe so you get all the updates.

This is Part 1 of Talk 16. Hosted by HD SOUTH - Home of the Gilbert Historical Museum. This talk brought together members of the community, Gilbert Town Hall, and town council, to talk about looking at changes that may be necessary to maintain Gilbert, AZ as the community we know and love today.

This is Part 1 of Talk 16. Hosted by HD South | Home of the Gilbert Historical Museum. This talk brought together members of the community, town, and town co...

11/13/2025

🎙️ New Episode Alert! 🎙️

Episode 2: Civil Discourse

Join us on the Gilbert Talks podcast as we explore the importance of civil discourse in the community of Gilbert, Arizona. In this episode, Ben Cooper and Lauren Gray share their insights on developing and implementing a Civil Discourse Workshop designed to foster understanding and empathy among residents. Learn about their diverse professional backgrounds, the workshop's curriculum, and the impact of promoting respectful dialogue in today's polarized environment. Discover how civil discourse can bridge divides and strengthen community bonds.

Join us on the Gilbert Talks podcast as we explore the importance of civil discourse in the community of Gilbert, Arizona. In this episode, Ben Cooper and La...

10/23/2025

Thank you for joining us for Talk 16!

10/23/2025

10/10/2025

Gilbert Talks is hosting an engaging and informative evening, "Talk 16 - The Price of Progress: Is Primary Property Tax the Answer? " on October 15th at HD SOUTH - Home of the Gilbert Historical Museum. This event touches on how we fund essentials like public safety, roads, and parks without overburdening taxpayers.

Get the details and register at https://shorturl.at/u6jqn.

10/08/2025

One week away! Have you saved your seat? RSVP Today!

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/talk-16-the-price-of-progress-is-primary-property-tax-the-answer-tickets-1304778721279?aff=oddtdtcreator

10/07/2025

Meet Kenny Buckland, Town of Gilbert Councilmember.

Kenny Buckland has been focused on growing his leadership skills for almost 40 years. From his teenage years of managing the family business to being second in command of the Gilbert Police Department, serving numerous roles, including SWAT Commander. Kenny spearheaded the Data Driven Approaches to Crime and Traffic Safety (DDACTS) program, where with no more time, staffing, or money, Gilbert reduced crime by 46% in the highest crime area. Kenny also served as Class Commander for DDACTS training to agencies around the nation. After retiring, Kenny supported law enforcement in counterterrorism and protecting our borders as a senior leader in long range surveillance technology. Additionally, Kenny has owned his own business in document scanning and video redactions, has served as a global crisis manager, and served as a Senior Director in both Sales and Strategic Partnerships. Purpose has been his north star. Servant leadership has been the key to success.

Kenny holds a master’s degree in educational leadership and a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. He is a graduate of the distinguished FBI National Academy Command College and Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command. Kenny was honored to have spent eight years as the Arizona Senate President appointee to the DUI Abatement Council. Kenny holds a third degree blackbelt in Judo, having both competed and coached.

Kenny and his wife, Dawn Marie, have a blended family of five adult children and two grandchildren, and they value spending every moment they can with their family.

Join Buckland for an engaging and informative evening at Talk 16 - The Price of Progress: Is Primary Property Tax the Answer? hosted by Gilbert Talks.

Register Today!: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/talk-16-the-price-of-progress-is-primary-property-tax-the-answer-tickets-1304778721279?aff=oddtdtcreator

10/02/2025

Talk 16 is just two weeks away! Register today to save your seat!
Registration, while not required, is encouraged!

Join us for an engaging discussion!

09/29/2025

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Some days Wordle hits close to home. Today’s puzzle lined up perfectly with what Gilbert Talks is all about — strengthening the way we listen, connect, and work together as a community.
Because the right word at the right time can make all the difference. 💬