Public Meetings - Bullhead City, Arizona

The Bullhead City Council held its regular meeting on March 4, 2025, at 5:30 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included a call to the public, reports from the city manager and council members, and action on four agenda items. All votes were unanimous (7-0) unless noted otherwise. The meeting opened with an invocation by Captain John Birks of the Salvation Army and the Pledge of Allegiance. The mayor apologized for an earlier workshop that started before its scheduled time; no action was taken at that workshop. Public Comments & Testimony - Barbara Pape announced the Colorado River Republican monthly meeting on March 5, 2025, at Chaparral Country Club, featuring speakers John Martell and Lauren Spadvick. - Diana Lestat promoted an Elks Lodge golf tournament on April 12, 2025, to benefit St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and the Jack C. Warder Elks Youth Camp. Registration is $100 per player; hole sponsorships are available. - Brian Ware (resident of Brookfield Homes Development) complained about a booster pump 18 inches from his property line at 2633 Wilderness Lane, running all night. He asked if permits existed and whether the city was failing to provide adequate water pressure. City Manager Cotter responded that the pump is a developer-required addition and staff would investigate why the temporary system is still in use. - Harvey Pryor (Bullhead RC) thanked the city for supporting RC activities at Rotary Park and announced a trail crawl on March 9, 2025, at 9:00 AM on Treadless Trail. - Captain John Birks (Salvation Army) described services offered: family food boxes (Monday–Friday, 9 AM–12 PM), homeless food bags, clothing vouchers, furniture assistance for fire victims, and homeless showers. The thrift store provides water and a place to sit for homeless individuals on Tuesdays. - Gary Genevis (Colorado River Historical Society) promoted Easter honey-baked ham fundraisers and highlighted upcoming museum speakers. - Eva Genovese announced the Bullhead City Celebrity Cook-off on March 8, 2025 ($40/ticket) benefiting the food bank, and a St. Patrick's Day-themed event for cats on March 16, 2025, at Mojave Steakhouse. - Scott (last name not given) criticized the council for starting a workshop early, questioned a $20,000 donation to an organization (implying conflict of interest with a council member's vacation), and threatened to pursue legal action regarding election campaign signs and Senate Bill 1036. The mayor defended his vacation as a personal trip to the U.S. and British Virgin Islands with 14 couples from Bullhead City. Manager's Report - Red Light Enforcement Update (Chief Trebes): Since late 2024, 222 hours of dedicated enforcement on Highway 95 between Hancock and Riverview resulted in 181 stops, 157 citations (110 for red-light violations), 24 warnings, 13 arrests, and one 20-day vehicle impound. Two collisions were handled. Overall accidents on the highway decreased by 30–40 from the previous year, under 400 total. Enforcement will continue. - Spring Sporting Events: The Bullhead City Tournament of Champions softball event will be held March 6–8 at Mojave High School and city softball fields. Other tournaments will run through May. - Summer Camp: A full report will be given at the next meeting; registration opens April 1, 2025. Discussion Items Item 2 – Purchase of Slurry/Micro Surfacing Machine - The council approved the purchase of a new RoadSaver RS-3G slurry machine from E.D. Etnyre & Co. for $477,003 plus taxes and freight, and waived competitive bidding. The machine will replace a 2016 unit. Staff cited uniformity of parts and operator familiarity as reasons for single-source purchase. The new unit has a 24-month/250,000-mile chassis warranty and a 12-month/100,000-mile warranty on major components, plus a 5-year/100,000-mile emissions software warranty. Delivery expected August/September 2025. The old truck will be sold (estimated $100,000–$150,000). Sales tax and freight were not included in the listed price but will be added. (Motion approved 7-0) Item 3 – Precast Concrete Restroom for UTV/ATV Trailhead - The council approved purchase from CXT Precast Concrete Products for $219,665.39 plus a $20,000 contingency (total not to exceed $239,665.39). The restroom will serve the new UTV/ATV trailhead parking lot. The project is partially funded by a $1.398 million grant from Arizona State Parks and Trails (federal and OHV funds). An initial bid for a stick-built restroom exceeded $300,000 and was rejected. The restroom will include an adult changing station as required by state law. Water and sewer lines are already in place. Security cameras may be added later. (Motion approved 7-0) Item 4 – Resolution 2025R-8: Transfer of National Park Service Lands - The council adopted a resolution directing staff to seek transfer of approximately 900 acres of National Park Service land within city limits but outside Lake Mead National Recreation Area to the city for public benefit. Current city permits cover Heritage Park (south of the bridge) and two beautification projects. City Manager Cotter stated the NPS has no plans or funds for the land. If transferred, the land would be used for parks, recreation, streets, water, sewer, and other public purposes – not for sale or mining. The timing is favorable due to supportive congressional delegation and administration. No immediate development plans exist; the land would be preserved for future use. (Motion approved 7-0) Item 5 – Update on State Legislative Activities - Assistant City Manager Travis Pruitt reported on key bills: - HB 2769 – Sovereign Land Transfer: Requests transfer of 37+ acres (peninsula behind Palo Verde Meadows and three islands) to the city. Passed first House committee; expected to proceed through Senate. - SB 1353/HB 2866 – Municipal Development Permit Review: Would limit city timeline for permit approvals/inspections and allow developers to hire third-party reviewers if deadlines are missed. City is monitoring. - SB 1013 – Fee Increase Vote: Would require a two-thirds council vote for any fee, tax, or assessment increase. Passed Senate; moving to House. - Highway 95 Funding: Mayor and staff are seeking additional state funds for right-turn lanes on Highway 95, building on previous allocations of $9 million and $8 million. A meeting with Rep. John Gillette is scheduled. - Food Tax Limitation: Proposed statewide cap at 2% (elimination initially proposed). Bullhead City does not have a food tax, so no direct impact. No action was taken on this update. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda (minutes of Feb 18, 2025) approved without discussion (7-0). - Waiver Motion to read ordinances and resolutions in full was approved (7-0). - Item 2 (Slurry Machine): Approved (7-0). - Item 3 (Restroom): Approved (7-0). - Item 4 (NPS Land Transfer): Resolution adopted (7-0). - No action on Item 5 (legislative update).

The Bullhead City Council convened on March 4, 2025, for a tour of the new Bullhead City Animal Resource Center at 3:30 PM, followed by a work session at 4:45 PM in the Council Chambers. The work session focused on proposed changes to the Comprehensive Fee Schedule. No formal action was taken; the discussion served as a workshop ahead of a planned adoption on May 20, 2025. Tour of Animal Resource Center - The City Council toured the new Bullhead City Animal Resource Center. The facility is an active construction site, and the tour was not open to the general public. Members of the media could obtain site clearance. No legal action was taken during the tour. Discussion on Comprehensive Fee Schedule The City Manager, Toby Cotter, presented proposed changes to the fee schedule. This is an annual review, and this year only a few modifications were recommended. The proposed changes include: - Budget Document Fee: The fee (currently $25 for an annual adopted budget) would apply to any budget document (tentative, preliminary, or adopted) requested as a hard copy. Staff noted that digital copies are available online and a physical copy is available for public view at City Hall and in the Council Chambers. The change aims to recover copying costs. - Gary Keith Park Pavilion Rental Fee: A new daily rental fee of $1,000 for private use of the pavilion (a new amphitheater near the school). Nonprofit organizations (e.g., Rotary, Kiwanis) may receive a waiver of all fees, as is the practice for all city parks. The fee is for the rental only; additional charges may apply for services like cleaning deposits, staff, or maintenance. Councilmember questions clarified that the fee covers a full day, and event organizers are responsible for demarcating private areas. The City Manager noted that the fee can be reconsidered annually based on demand. - Lost Water Fee: A new fee of $4.00 per 1,000 gallons plus applicable taxes to reimburse the city for water lost from line breaks caused by contractors or others damaging water lines. Mark Clark, Utilities Director, explained that the city loses about 35 million gallons of water annually from all line breaks. The fee is calculated using line pressure, diameter, and duration of the break. Councilmembers discussed the importance of calling for line locates and how the city would handle mismarked lines (the city would not charge if the error was on the city's part). The fee is intended to recover costs for pumping and lost revenue. - Removal of Council Chambers Rental Fee: The City Manager recommended deleting the existing fee for renting the Council Chambers and its conference room after 5:00 PM, noting that other city facilities (Optimum Center, senior center, animal shelter) now offer meeting space. Councilmembers expressed agreement, indicating the room should be reserved for city use only. Key Outcomes - No votes or formal decisions were made. The proposed fee changes will be posted on the city website for a minimum of 60 days as required by state law. - The City Council will consider and adopt the fee changes at the regular council meeting on May 20, 2025. If adopted, fees will become effective July 1, 2025. - The City Manager will remove the Council Chambers rental fee from the schedule, with the consensus of council. - Future fee considerations may include rental rates for the RC track and the senior center, as needed.

The Parks and Recreation Commission convened on February 19, 2025, at 12:30 PM to hear public comments, receive a superintendent report on facility updates and upcoming events, and consider improvements to the Rotary Park RC track. The commission unanimously approved the previous meeting minutes and voted to recommend the RC track improvements to city council. A public comment about a dog off-leash area was taken under advisement for a future agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - A resident requested a designated area along the river and sandbar where dogs can play off-leash without fear of animal control citations. She expressed appreciation for the parks' condition. The vice chair and attorney noted the commission could not respond directly but offered to place the topic on the next agenda; the commission agreed to do so. Discussion Items - Parks and Recreation Superintendent Report: Superintendent Heath provided updates on facility openings: the Optimum Community Center gymnasium, multi-purpose room, and offices are now open, hosting programs such as Vita free tax service (Mon/Tue/Thu 8 a.m.–1 p.m.), basketball, gymnastics, and tenant moves for Veterans in Motion, Positive Pause, and Saint. Grand opening events are scheduled for the Senior Enrichment Center (March 4), UTV trailhead at Parkway in Silver Creek (March 18), and Gary Keith Park (April 11–12). Upcoming events include: AFA Bash for Bats Adult Softball Tournament (Feb 21–23, 70 teams at Rotary and Ken Fovard Parks), Farmers Market (March 1, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.), Power Play Sporting Events youth baseball (March 1–2, 60 teams), Dave Cops Tournament of Champions girls softball (March 6–8, largest high school tournament in the nation), 200% Sports youth 7-on-7 football (March 8–9, 110 teams), Empire Sporting Events youth baseball (March 15–16, 36 teams). Free Fun Believable Friday events for ages 3–14: Candy Hearts Experiments (Feb 21), Race into Fun (Feb 28), Shamrock Slime (March 7), Lucky Leprechaun Day (March 14). Golden Games 2026 training events: chair volleyball (March 10), horseshoe pitching (March 14), basketball skills (March 19). Commissioners praised the recent Golden Games and asked about age limits and volunteering; Heath confirmed all ages welcome and volunteers can call 928-763-0158. - Rotary Park RC Track Improvements: Superintendent Heath presented a proposal for upgrades to the existing RC track, including new clay dirt (six loads donated by SNS Concrete, ten more to be purchased), electrical outlets at the driver’s stand and shed, lights (already in town, installation within a week), two additional water hoses, pipe for track layout (fundraised by club), signage, and improved ADA access. A new oval track is planned south of the driver’s stand, funded by city council. Community members spoke in support: David Alton (club organizer) reported 35 entries at the first race, projected 100–150 after improvements, and noted club-run events with $10 entry fee going back into the track. Anthony Del Vecchio suggested adding a crawler garden, road course, drag strip, and high-banked clay oval. Harvey Pryor described the hobby’s positive impact on mental health and community, highlighting inexpensive box-stock classes for youth. Brian Iwano (Bullet Hobbies owner) offered education on LiPo battery safety and collaboration on events. Commissioners discussed integrating RC activities into city recreation programs; Heath affirmed 100% support for partnership. Key Outcomes - Motion to approve November 20, 2024 regular meeting minutes: Unanimously approved (4 in favor). - Motion to recommend Rotary Park RC track improvements as presented: Unanimously approved (4 in favor). The recommendation will be forwarded to city council. - Next agenda topics: The commission agreed to discuss a potential dog off-leash area at Rotary Park and, if necessary, updates on the oval RC track (though construction may begin before the next meeting).

The City Council met on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers. The meeting began with an invocation, pledge of allegiance, and a proclamation declaring March 1, 2025 as the 29th Annual Carrie A. Edgmon Bicycle Safety Rodeo Day. The Council then heard public comments on a variety of topics, received a manager’s report, and approved the consent agenda. Three public hearings and one contract ratification were considered, all passing unanimously. Proclamation - Proclamation: Vice Mayor Dan Alfonso read a proclamation declaring Saturday, March 1, 2025 as the “29th Annual Carrie A. Edgmon Bicycle Safety Rodeo” Day in Bullhead City. A representative from the Bullhead City Morning Kiwanis described the free event, which provides bike helmets, safety checks, and a safety course for children. Call to the Public - Diana Lestat (Bullhead City Elks Lodge) announced a golf tournament fundraiser on April 12, 2025 at Mojave Resort Golf Course to benefit the Steele Children’s Research Center and the Elks Youth Camp. She invited the community to participate. - Stephen Lee spoke about government transparency, expressing concern over a “technocracy” and “military industrial complex.” He urged the Council to be aware of these issues and referenced a state bill to ban geoengineering. - Judy Lauren requested traffic improvements on Highway 95 at Newberry, citing increased congestion and a recent accident. She asked for a traffic signal or a reduced speed limit. - Dr. Sheila Barnett (Mojave Health Coalition) promoted the fourth annual Family Health Fair on March 1, 2025 at Mojave Community College, offering free mammograms, dental x-rays, immunizations, health screenings, and educational sessions. - Christina Peterson requested a designated dog beach area at Rotary Park, particularly during summer months, to allow water access for rehabilitation of dogs with medical needs. She acknowledged responsible owners but noted some misuse. - Brian Ware raised a public records request regarding a “Yes on 416” message placed on digital billboards. He said city staff emails appeared to authorize the message and he sought to know who paid for it, citing a prior Arizona Attorney General warning about improper political messaging. He asked the Council to investigate. - Scotty from Bullhead criticized the local newspaper for not printing his letters and raised concerns about fire hydrant functionality and immigration enforcement. He urged the city to fix fire hydrants promptly. - John Sullivan (Western Golf Group) proposed developing a junior golf program in conjunction with the city and the Arizona Junior Golf Association, possibly using Rotary Park facilities. He said he would bring more details to a future meeting. - Julie Hassett (Colorado River Concerts) promoted a February 27 concert by Jason Lyle Black, titled “Blockbusters to Broadway,” at Mojave High School Auditorium, and thanked the community for supporting a previous concert by Ernie Haase & Signature Sound. - Harvey Pryor spoke positively about recent RC activity at Rotary Park and requested an overhead podium display for the public to show images during Council comments. - Stephen Brown (Bullhead Regional Food Bank) thanked the Council and City Manager for allowing the food bank to operate at Rotary Park’s ramada. He reported serving about 600 families weekly and announced a large food distribution on the coming weekend, providing 25,000–30,000 pounds of food. He invited volunteers. - Gary Genovese (Colorado River Historical Society & Museum) announced an Easter ham fundraiser and said details would be provided at the next meeting. Manager’s Report City Manager Toby Cotter reported upcoming grand openings: the Senior Enrichment Center on March 4, 2025 (ribbon cutting around 8:30 a.m.) and the UTV/ATV parking staging area on Silver Creek Road on March 18, 2025 (time to be determined). He also noted that spring sports tournaments are occurring nearly every weekend through May and urged local businesses to prepare for increased visitors. Consent Agenda The consent agenda (Items 1–3) was approved unanimously with no items withdrawn: 1. Minutes of the February 4, 2025 Regular Council Meeting. 2. Resolution 2025R-5 approving an interlocal agreement for mutual law enforcement aid with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. 3. Acceptance of a grant and dedication of right-of-way in fee title (The Den/BCSD 15). Discussion Items Item 4 – Viewpoint Subdivision (Zoning Map Change and Preliminary Plat) - Public hearing on Ordinance 2025-3 to rezone approximately 80 acres from R1L-D35 (35,000 sq. ft. minimum lot) to R1L-D6 (6,000 sq. ft. minimum lot) and approve the preliminary plat for 190 single-family residential lots and nine common area parcels west of Royal Vista Drive. The Planning & Zoning Commission had recommended approval. No public comments were offered. The Council approved unanimously (7-0). Item 5 – City Centre District (Zoning Map Change and Development Agreement) - Public hearing on Ordinance 2025-4 rezoning approximately 247 acres from Public Lands to Planned Area Development (PAD) with underlying residential and commercial uses, and Resolution 2025R-6 approving a Development Agreement. The project aims to create a “downtown Bullhead City” with a walkable main street, commercial frontage along Highway 95, housing, and a roundabout with an art feature. The Planning & Zoning Commission had recommended approval after addressing building height concerns. During discussion, Vice Mayor Alfonso raised concerns about parking for RVs and boats, noting a 25% reduction in commercial parking requirements. City Manager Cotter noted a centralized storage area is planned and that the highest and best use is not storage, but the developer could add storage if needed. A member of the public (Harvey Pryor) echoed parking concerns. Councilmember Grace expressed excitement for the project. The Council approved unanimously (7-0). Item 6 – Laughlin Ranch Well 1 Pump Replacement - Request to ratify an agreement with Empire Pump for a new pump and motor installation at Well LR-1 for $86,194.80 plus taxes. Utilities Director Mark Clark reported the well serves the Laughlin Ranch and Desert Foothills area; three vendors were informally solicited due to time constraints, and Empire Pump was the lowest bid. The Council ratified the contract and authorized the City Manager to issue payments (7-0). Item 7 – Optimum Community Center Rental Fees - Resolution 2025R-7 adopting rental fees for the newly renovated Optimum Community Center. City Manager Cotter explained the rates were set after surveying local venues and were designed to cover costs while remaining reasonable for events like weddings and birthday parties. Assistant General Manager Ann Roberts clarified that “per event” fees vary by attendance (e.g., gym rental for 1–100 people is $150, for 101–200 is $200). The Council adopted the resolution unanimously (7-0). Key Outcomes - Unanimous votes (7-0) on all actions: Items 1–7 were approved as presented. - Directives: None noted; all items were final approvals. - Next steps: The City Manager’s report highlighted March 4 and March 18 grand openings; the Viewpoint subdivision and City Centre District will proceed to final plat and permitting stages; the well repair will commence immediately; the Optimum Community Center rental schedule takes effect with a grand opening at the end of March.

The Bullhead City Planning and Zoning Commission met on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at 5:30 PM in the City Council Chambers. The commission approved minutes from the January 2, 2025 meetings with a correction, and conducted a public hearing for a zoning map change and preliminary plat for the Viewpoint residential subdivision. The motion to approve the Viewpoint project carried unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the call to the public or during the public hearing for the Viewpoint project. Discussion Items - Minutes Approval: The commission approved the minutes of the January 2, 2025 Special and Regular Meetings after correcting a typo on page 3 of the regular meeting minutes (changing "revisit item four" to "revisit item three"). The motion carried 5-0, with one commissioner not voting. - Viewpoint Zoning Map Change and Preliminary Plat (Z24-010/S24-004): The commission considered a request to rezone approximately 80.57 acres from R1L-D35 (Residential: Single-Family Limited with a minimum of 35,000 sq. ft. per dwelling unit) to R1L-D6 (Residential: Single-Family Limited with a minimum of 6,000 sq. ft. per dwelling unit) and to approve the preliminary plat for the Viewpoint subdivision. The project, located south of Bullhead Parkway and west of Arroyo Vista Drive, proposes 190 single-family residential lots ranging from 6,000 to 19,837.2 sq. ft., with nine parcels set aside for utilities, landscaping, drainage, and parks. Access will be via a new intersection at Arroyo Vista Drive and an extension of North Avenue. A traffic impact analysis estimated 1,997 vehicle trips per day at build-out. The project had received prior approvals that lapsed in 2019. Staff recommended approval subject to eight conditions, including a requirement to record the final plat for the first phase by February 18, 2027. No members of the public spoke during the public hearing. Commissioner Don Anderson of Anderson-Nelson, representing the applicant, answered questions about lot sizes, drainage, and street connections. Key Outcomes - Approved the January 2, 2025 Special and Regular Meeting minutes with the noted correction (5-0, one commissioner not voting). - Approved the zoning map change from R1L-D35 to R1L-D6 and the preliminary plat for Viewpoint (motion carried 5-0, one commissioner not voting), subject to the conditions outlined in the staff report and draft ordinance, including: - Compliance with Titles 16 and 17 of the city code and the Bullhead City Procedures Manual. - Submission of utility and fire department approvals prior to final plat. - Establishment of a property owners’ association and submission of required documents. - Recording of the final plat for the first phase by February 18, 2027, with possible extensions per city code.

The Bullhead City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at 5:30 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting covered a consent agenda, public comments, and six action items, including approval of an amended water/wastewater contract, acceptance of the FY2024 audit, adoption of an impact fee audit, a supplemental grant for the River Fund, and repeal of the Franchise/License Commission. All items were approved, with one dissenting vote on the River Fund grant. Consent Calendar - Item 1: Minutes of the January 21, 2025 Regular Council Meeting were pulled for corrections (two typographical errors noted by Council). The minutes were approved as amended unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - A speaker expressed strong opposition to federal grants and nonprofit organizations like Catholic Charities, warning that grant funding may evaporate under the new administration, and urged the city toward self-sufficiency. - Jamie Starr demanded a traffic light at Sterling Road and Highway 95, citing a recent fatal motorcycle crash, and criticized code enforcement, blighted properties, and road conditions on Marina Boulevard. He threatened lawsuits if issues are not addressed. - Barbara Pape announced a Colorado River Republican Women meeting on February 5, 2025, with Supervisor Rich Lettman. - Steven Brown (Bullhead Regional Food Bank) promoted a March 8 celebrity cook-off fundraiser and noted temporary food distribution at Rotary Park due to construction. - Dr. Sheila Barnett (Mojave Health Coalition) announced a family health fair on March 1, 2025, at MCC, including free screenings and lunch-and-learn sessions. - Tom Doman (Rotary Club) reported the Slab Brama BBQ challenge raised over $30,000 for scholarships and community projects. - Dr. Christina Dumall announced a new Bullhead City chapter of the Arizona Republican Assembly (AZRA), emphasizing conservative principles and candidate support. - Charles Lewin alleged police harassment and profiling since moving to Bullhead City eight months ago. - Scott Farber complained about building department failures on a landscaping final related to an air conditioning condenser screen, requesting council intervention. - A speaker criticized traffic ticket fees as excessive and suggested grants lead to over-policing. - Sean Regan objected to the River Fund grant, stating his veteran father was denied services multiple times, and questioned accounting for the funds. - A final public comment criticized the city for distributing taxpayer money without proper oversight of nonprofits. Discussion Items - Item 2 – Amendment to Water/Wastewater Repair Contract: Utility Director Mark Clark presented an amendment increasing the job order contract (JOC) with Premier Backhoe, Inc. from $182,000 to $400,000 annually. The increase primarily funds installation of 80 fire hydrants per year (as approved in August 2024) and adds asphalt/concrete repair services. The contract was awarded via a competitive bid process; Premier was the lowest bidder at $25,226.55. Council approved unanimously. - Item 3 – FY2024 Audited Financial Report: Auditor Brian Hemmerley (Baker Tilly) presented results. The city received a clean (unqualified) opinion with no material weaknesses or significant deficiencies. Key statistics: General fund equity increased $6.8 million; actual revenues were in line with budget, expenditures were $4.8 million under budget; water fund charges exceeded expenses by $2.2 million; wastewater fund had a $3.4 million equity decrease due to operating losses. Federal grant single audit covered three grants (CDBG, rural transit, COVID-19 relief) – all clean. Expenditure limitation was $60.1 million; actual spending $43.8 million, leaving $16.3 million under limit. Council accepted the report unanimously. - Item 4 – Biennial Impact Fee Audit: City Manager Cotter noted the audit confirms Bullhead City’s impact fees are the lowest in the state and comply with state law. Council adopted the audit after a public hearing with no comments. - Item 5 – River Fund Transportation Assistance Grant Amendment: Human Services Director Jeff Tipton requested an additional $20,000 from contingency to supplement the $50,000 already budgeted for FY2025 due to high demand. The River Fund assists homeless individuals with bus tickets, temporary shelter, and car repairs. Tipton reported 202 encounters in the last three quarterly reports, including 57 bus trips out of area, 17 stranded/car repairs, 26 temporary shelters, and 46 gasoline/repair cases. Public comment criticized denial of services to veterans. Councilmember asked for an end-of-year report on expenditures. Motion passed 6-1, with Councilmember O’Neill opposed. - Item 6 – Ordinance Repealing Franchise/License Commission: The council adopted Ordinance 2025R-2 to repeal Chapter 2.96 of the municipal code, a final step after a prior public hearing. Unanimous approval. Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda minutes as amended (unanimous). - Approved Item 2 (water/wastewater contract amendment) unanimously. - Accepted Item 3 (FY2024 audit) unanimously. - Adopted Item 4 (impact fee audit) unanimously. - Approved Item 5 (River Fund grant amendment) 6-1. - Adopted Item 6 (ordinance repeal) unanimously. - Manager’s report: Senior Enrichment Center grand opening set for March 4, 2025; Parkway Safety Grant project stalled until April due to waiting for polls.

Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the November 4, 2024 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Scotty (Bullhead City resident) requested that the commission ride the bus route to Safeway between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. to observe accessibility issues. He also requested a bus stop at the DMV/police station/court area and asked that paratransit cardholders be allowed to request the driver to stop at Rio Grande (a former stop) to reduce his walking distance. He noted he has a paratransit card but has not used it. - Harvey Pryor (Bullhead City resident) echoed Scotty's requests for a DMV stop and also asked for a bus stop at the new hospital, as the current route does not serve it. He requested that the green route on Miracle Mile stop at 2585 Miracle Mile for Southwest Behavioral without requiring a transfer. He criticized the city's lack of public information about a December 30, 2024 bus accident, stating that no official statement has been released. He also noted that the meeting time (5:30 p.m.) prevents transit-dependent residents from attending because the last bus leaves before the meeting ends. Discussion Items - Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Update: Interim MPO Executive Director Johnny Loera reported that the MPO is now fully staffed (2 people) with an office at 2135 Highway 95. The first major task is a Unified Planning Work Program, which includes creating a public participation plan, a Title VI Civil Rights Act plan, and a Long-Range Transportation Plan (20-year horizon). The Long-Range Plan will require a consultant and take 12–18 months. The MPO will also develop a Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) for funding projects. The first advisory committee and executive board meetings are scheduled for March 2025. A dedicated MPO website will provide public access to documents. - Finance and Ridership Report (Michael, Transit Staff): - Reimbursements from ADOT under the 5311 grant are delayed due to ADOT's e-grant system overhaul (started late December 2024, still incomplete). A stack of reimbursements is ready, but staff cannot submit until the system reopens. ADOT has requested an FTA extension because multiple agencies are affected. For the 5307 grant (transition after September 2024), staff must wait for the TIP to be developed by the MPO before applying for funds. No immediate risk of losing funds. - Ridership for calendar year 2024 reached 142,000 rides, up from about 100,000 during COVID. The peak was 180,000 before a slight decline pre-COVID. Ridership fluctuates seasonally (spring/fall highest). Staff projects 150,000 rides for the next fiscal year based on historical growth (6–8% per year). - No passenger complaints were received since the last commission meeting. - Transit Accident Report: On December 30, 2024, a transit bus had a collision on Miracle Mile near Riverview Drive. The driver suffered a medical episode, drove through a barricade, and struck several parked construction vehicles, ending with a large dump truck. The driver and two passengers were transported to Warm Springs Hospital with minor injuries. The vehicle's disposition is pending insurance determination. Staff noted that a press release was issued by the city's PIO the next day. - Transit Facility Update: Work on the transit facility plan has been delayed due to holidays and the contractor focusing on other city projects. Staff is finalizing discussions on fixtures and furnishings. The final plans are expected to be completed in early February 2025, after which they will be presented to city administration, the council, and the commission. Environmental clearance (NEPA) is being included in the plans. Once funding is secured (staff will apply for federal grants), construction can proceed. Staff hopes to have a clearer timeline by the end of 2025. - Commission Questions: A commissioner asked about the drop in ridership in the last three quarters (about 4,000 fewer riders). Staff responded that ridership fluctuations do not affect funding, which is population-based. Another commissioner asked about adding a fifth route; staff explained that service expansion is guided by planning documents (short-range transit plan). A planning grant application has been submitted, with a preliminary award expected in February 2025. The planning study would take about a year, with a final plan potentially adopted by July 2026. Commission involvement and public input will be sought. - Future Agenda Items: No items were identified for the next meeting. Key Outcomes - The minutes of the November 4, 2024 commission meeting were approved unanimously. - Staff will continue to pursue reimbursement from ADOT and prepare for direct FTA submissions once the MPO's TIP is in place. - The MPO will begin its Unified Planning Work Program, with initial committee meetings in March 2025. - A short-range transit planning grant application is pending; staff will update the commission at the May 2025 meeting on its status. - The transit facility plan is expected to be finalized in February 2025, after which staff will seek funding for construction. - No new future agenda items were proposed; the next regular meeting is anticipated in three months (likely May 2025). Note: The agenda listed the meeting at 5:30 p.m., while the summary instruction referenced 12:30 UTC; the date (February 3, 2025) is consistent.

The Bullhead City Council met in regular session on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, 1255 Marina Boulevard. All seven council members were present. After an invocation by Pastor Earl Jones of Spirit Life Church and the Pledge of Allegiance, the Council acted on a consent agenda, a liquor license public hearing, a parking lot lighting purchase, a political sign-free zone code amendment, the sunsetting of a commission, and a State Route 68 safety resolution. Manager’s Report - City Manager Toby Cotter reported that spring sports tournaments and special events are underway; the previous weekend at Rotary Park included football, softball, and soccer, with a football team from New Jersey playing a team from Colorado. Events will continue through May. - The Optimum Community Center phase one is nearly complete, including the gym and classrooms; a grand reopening is planned for March, with a soft opening already in progress. - The Bullhead Animal Rescue Center construction is projected to finish around late August/September 2025. Concrete has been removed, plumbing is set, foundations are scheduled to be poured soon, and framing, drywall, skylights, and AC/duct work are underway or planned. - The Senior Enrichment Center is nearly finished; electricity is about to be turned on, flooring and moving remain, and an early March opening is planned. - Right-turn lane construction on Highway 95 has started on three southside locations, with the Thunderstruck/high school project awarded to McCormick starting in March. About $7 million remains; Safeway is next in design. The state was originally asked for close to $20 million and awarded $8 million. Mayor and Council Member Reports - Mayor D’Amico offered brief remarks: “Congratulations, America.” No other council reports were given. Consent Calendar - The Council approved the consent agenda unanimously. It included: - Minutes of the January 7, 2025 regular council meeting. - Ratification of the termination of a 2009 Property Escrow Agreement. - Acceptance of right-of-way grants and drainage easements for The Bullhead Commons. - A 24.05 acre-foot water allocation for the Goldrush Resort project. - Resolution 2025R-1 abandoning a 12-foot pedestrian easement at 2231 Paseo del Rio. Public Comments & Testimony - Harold Smith, Veterans in Motion board member, thanked the Council and announced a February 14, 2025 fundraiser at the FSR V Resort Ballroom; he credited Dot Foods, Anderson Ford, Legacy, and Bernard Chiropractic as supporters. - Jeremy Brunk, TWN Communications, reported the company’s fiber project is about 75% complete for conduit/vaults and 50% for restoration in the Medland One area, and about 80% complete for conduit/vaults and 50% for restoration in Medland Two, with completion on track for March 13, 2025. - Barbara Pape invited the community to the Colorado Republican Women luncheon on February 5 at Chaparral Country Club, featuring Supervisor Rich Lettman. - Rose Jacobs, Colorado River Concert Series, announced the 50th anniversary season; the February 4 show 'Decades of Love' with Ernie Haas and the Signature Sound will be at Mojave High School, tickets $35. - Deborah Rosie, Bullhead City Elks Lodge, thanked the Council for supporting local charities. - Randy Mack announced Bullhead City now has its own locally programmed Jack FM 103.9 radio station. - A Bullhead City resident voiced concerns about unfixed intersections, road construction, the recent closure of urgent care on Raymond Road without public notice, an unsafe driveway at the new hospital, and mentioned Senate Bill 1036 and Proposition 416. - During the sign-free zone discussion, Grace Hecht asked about enforcement and announced Make Bullhead Better’s community baby shower on February 13, with 10 mothers registered and registration at MakeBullheadbetter.com. - During the same discussion, Scotty, a Bullhead City resident, complained that his campaign signs were removed and two were not returned, said candidates needed clearer education on rules, and called the sign restriction an infringement on free speech. Discussion Items - Liquor License – Circle K 9561: Staff said the new Circle K, to be built just south of the current Circle K at 1080 Highway 95, is ready for construction, and the Series 9 Liquor License Job No. 314541, submitted by Maria Danielle Burgess, would be for that store. No applicant was present. The mayor expressed hope the new store would not have the loitering issues seen at the current Circle K. The Council voted to recommend approval to the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control. - Optimum Center Parking Lot Lighting: The Council considered purchasing 19 dual-head and 8 single-head solar lights from ClearWorld through the Purchasing Cooperative of America for $214,278.20 plus tax and shipping, plus a budget transfer of up to $260,000 from contingency. Staff noted the original budget had $3 million in contingency, none of it spent, and that lighting was removed from the construction contract to save 15-20% markup. Council questions confirmed no co-op fees, no solar tax credits, and battery replacement costs approximately $550 per single head and $1,100 per dual head after the 5-year warranty. - Political Sign-Free Zones: Staff explained that Arizona Revised Statute 16-1019(F) allows the City to designate sign-free zones in city rights-of-way in commercial, tourism, resort, and hotel areas; private property signs remain allowed. The original map covered Highway 95, Silver Creek Road, and parts of Bullhead Parkway, based in part on cell-phone data showing hundreds of thousands of non-local visitors. Council discussion added Riverview Drive between Highway 95 and Lakeside Drive, the parkway from 150 feet east of Highway 95 to the Colorado River, Highway 95 150 feet south of Mojave Drive, and Bullhead Parkway 150 feet south of Laughlin Ranch Boulevard. Councilmembers supported the additions as a way to reduce visual clutter in tourist corridors while preserving private property sign rights. Staff said the designated area remains well below the three-square-mile state limit. In response to a public question, staff said illegal signs are already removed; political signs in the right-of-way are given a courtesy call when contact information exists, then removed and stored at City Hall. - Sunsetting the Franchise License Commission: City Manager Cotter said state law no longer permits cable franchise agreements, so the commission’s original purpose is obsolete; the commission creates staff and clerk workload, while utility companies and citizens already appear before the Council. Councilmembers agreed the commission had run its course. - State Route 68 Safety Improvements: The Council reviewed a resolution recommending that ADOT study safety improvements on State Route 68 at the gateway to Bullhead City. The manager cited a recent UTV/vehicle crash and a summer rollover fatality, and noted business owners had asked for signage or flashing beacons. The district engineer was willing to receive the resolution. The mayor strongly supported it. Key Outcomes - Motion to waive full reading of ordinances and resolutions passed unanimously. - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Item 6 approved 6-1 to recommend approval of the Series 9 liquor license. - Item 7 approved 7-0 for the ClearWorld lighting purchase, the $260,000 contingency transfer, and authorization for the City Manager or designee to issue payments. - Item 8 approved 6-1 to adopt Ordinance 2025-1, Resolution 2025R-2, and Resolution 2025R-3 with the sign-free zone amendments. - Item 9 approved 7-0 to sunset the Franchise License Commission and direct the City Manager to prepare an implementing ordinance. - Item 10 approved 7-0 to adopt Resolution 2025R-4 recommending State Route 68 safety improvements. - Staff will prepare the sunset ordinance, provide candidate education materials on sign-free zones, and send the SR 68 resolution to ADOT.

The Bullhead City Council met in executive session on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, 1255 Marina Boulevard, Bullhead City, Arizona. Prior to the session, beginning at approximately 3:30 p.m., council members were invited to view recently purchased water and wastewater equipment and vehicles in the parking lot adjacent to the council chambers. All council members were present, and the council moved into executive session. Call to Order & Roll Call - The meeting was called to order at 4:00 p.m. - Roll call confirmed that all council members were present. - A motion was made to move into executive session, and the council proceeded into closed session. Executive Session Agenda Items - Legal advice concerning the status of Arizona Municipal Risk Retention Pool v. City of Bullhead City, Maricopa County Superior Court Case No. CV2024-029964, under Arizona Revised Statutes § 38-431.03(A)(3). - Annual review of the City Manager, under Arizona Revised Statutes § 38-431.03(A)(1). - The agenda expressly noted that no legal action would be taken by the City Council during the executive session. Transcript Note - The raw transcript captures only the opening roll call and the motion to enter executive session. After that point, it contains extensive unrelated city promotional and public-service content, including police department, wastewater, trash and recycling, parks, senior services, and community college announcements, rather than a record of the closed-door deliberations. - No minutes were provided, and no public comments were taken during the open portion of the meeting. Key Outcomes - The City Council convened in executive session at 4:00 p.m. on January 21, 2025. - All council members were present. - The council entered executive session for the two listed agenda items. - Consistent with the agenda, no legal action was expected or reported from the executive session.