Public Meetings - Bullhead City, Arizona

This was the regular meeting of the Bullhead City Planning and Zoning Commission held on Thursday, March 7, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. in the Bullhead City Council Chambers. Commissioners present: Dr. Sheila Barnett (Vice Chairwoman), Stephen Brown, Pamela Smith (Chairwoman), Mel Stein. Commissioners absent: Gary Genovese and Melinda Sobraske. Staff present: Planning Manager Johnny Loera, Deputy City Clerk Debie Ogden, and City Attorney Gam Emery. The meeting primarily addressed a conditional use permit for a sand and gravel mining operation. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The Commission unanimously approved the February 1, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes as presented. (Motion by Vice Chairwoman Barnett, second by Commissioner Sobraske; vote: 5-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Call to the Public (non-agenda): No members of the public spoke. - Public Hearing on Conditional Use Permit U23-003: - Stephanie Moore, a Bullhead City resident at 2490 Copper Court, publicly thanked the Commission, the ownership of Cool River Investments, S&S Concrete, and Planner Johnny Loera for addressing neighbors' concerns. She expressed support for the revised CUP limiting operations to the eastern 40 acres of the parcel and noted that a resolution was reached before the hearing. Discussion Items - Conditional Use Permit U23-003 – Sand and Gravel Mining: - Planning Manager Johnny Loera presented the final component of a three-part process. In August 2023, the City Council approved a General Plan Amendment and zoning map change to Light Industrial for the 80.49-acre parcel. The current request was for a CUP to allow sand and gravel mining in an M-1 (Industrial, General Limited) district. The applicant (Cool River Investments, LLC / S&S Concrete & Materials LLC) originally proposed mining the entire 80 acres, but after neighborhood concerns, the plan was revised to limit operations to the eastern 40 acres (as shown on Exhibit I). Operations would last 10–15 years, limited to daylight hours, with dust control, and no equipment stored on-site except a screening plant. The CUP would be specific to S&S Concrete and valid until March 7, 2039, unless the Commission chose a shorter period. - Dan Ayler, representing the owner and operator, answered questions. He confirmed the operator is S&S Concrete (or a derivative company) and that the 15-year term was based on estimated material quantities within the 40 acres. - Commissioner Stein asked about the 15-year duration; the response indicated sufficient material for that period. - Dan Ayler also noted that a future right-of-way for Rio Rancho Boulevard from Highway 95 to the parkway exists through the property, unrelated to the mining CUP. - Commissioners' Reports and Comments: - Commissioner Stein reminded about the Colorado River Women's Council auction and early voting for the presidential preference election. - Commissioner Brown announced a monthly food distribution at the Bullhead City Food Bank (30,000 pounds) on the following Friday. Key Outcomes - Approval of Conditional Use Permit U23-003: The Commission voted unanimously (5-0) to approve the CUP for sand and gravel mining on the eastern 40 acres of the parcel at 2525 Rio Rancho Blvd. The approval was subject to nine stipulations outlined in the staff report, including compliance with city codes, daylight-only operations, dust control, and requirements for grading and floodplain permits. The CUP is valid until March 7, 2039. - No other action items: The meeting adjourned without setting future agenda topics.

The Bullhead City Council held a regular meeting on February 21, 2024, at 5:30 PM with all seven council members present. The meeting included an invocation, presentations, extensive public comments, manager's report, council reports, and action on several agenda items including board appointments, zoning changes, a final plat, audit acceptance, an intergovernmental agreement for internet crimes against children, a highway improvement amendment, and a building contract. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda as presented (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Gene O'Neill (resident and candidate for city council) expressed opposition to an electronic billboard in front of Chicago Title that displays an anti-Trump message from a political action committee called Mad Dog Pack, which includes "Bullhead City" on the sign. He asked the city to address the issue as many residents are offended. - Hilda Angus (District 2 County Supervisor and candidate for Arizona State Senate) expressed concern about the increasingly mean and vicious tone of public calls, and thanked council members for serving. - Stephen Lee (resident) defended freedom of speech and criticized what he saw as attacks on public participation. He urged the council to focus on larger societal issues, including alleged corruption and depopulation agendas, and mentioned recruiting Major General Vallet for a presentation. - Paulette White (Vice President of Colorado Concert Association) promoted upcoming concerts: Vox Fortura on February 21 at 7 PM (tickets $35) and Key of G (Garth Brooks tribute) on March 7. - Harvey Pryor (30+ year resident) criticized the city's fire hydrant inspection program, stating that only 100 hydrants had been inspected in six months out of approximately 2,500, which he said would take 12.5 years. He accused the city manager of being dishonest and also questioned the bus terminal project. - Sean Regan (Arizona Veteran Canine Services) announced a bingo fundraiser and a 31-mile suicide prevention challenge for March. He noted that veterans are 58% more likely to die by suicide than non-veterans and criticized the council for lack of support, though he said he is now applying for a $2 million VA grant. - Nick Parsons (resident) proposed using shipping containers from the state's border wall initiative for five job-creating projects: megawatt solar storage, self-sustaining community gardens, homeless housing (to be shipped elsewhere), EV charging stations, and disaster relief supplies. - Stan Kepler and Chris (RC hobbyists) requested the city build an oval track and dirt drag strip at Rotary Park to expand their RC car activities. They highlighted the family-friendly nature and the local hobby shop. - Jim Fuller (resident) shared his personal story of escaping Cuba and warned that the U.S. is at risk of becoming like Cuba. He urged standing up for freedom. - Unnamed speaker (after Jim Fuller) alleged that Hilda Angus had physically assaulted him earlier that day at the Board of Supervisors meeting and that he had filed a police report. He complained about disrespect and requested cameras be left on after meetings. - Gary Genevieve (Colorado River Historical Society) promoted a honey baked ham fundraiser for the museum, noting the museum's new addition is nearly complete. - Another speaker promoted the 77th annual Lincoln Day Dinner (Denim and Diamonds theme) in Kingman on an unspecified date, featuring Carrie Lake as keynote speaker. Tickets $75. Manager's Report - Toby Cotter (City Manager) addressed the anti-Trump sign, explaining that the city leases the land to Lamar Advertising, receives about $35,000 per year plus 8 seconds of city advertising per minute, but does not control messaging. He emphasized that political ads are free speech. - Mark Clark (Utilities Director) corrected fire hydrant claims: the city has approximately 2,250 public hydrants, not 2,500. Since the city took over the water system, 1,780 hydrants (79%) have been tested, including 100 in the last six months. He detailed a new program with two additional employees and 180 monitoring hydrants that will continuously track pressure and temperature. The program is in the 24-25 budget. - Cotter also updated on Highway 95 reconstruction (project funded by $27 million from ADOT thanks to city advocacy), the animal shelter project out to bid, and upcoming spring sports tournaments. Discussion Items - Board of Appeals Appointments (Item 3): Seven applicants were considered. Council voted by ballot; the top five vote-getters were Don Albers (7 votes), Amy Prince (7), Bruce Henderson (6), Jeff Myers (6), and Enrique Reyna (5). Two-year terms were assigned to Reyna and Myers; three-year terms to Albers, Henderson, and Prince. Approved unanimously. - Zoning Change – C2 to C3 (Item 4): Approved a zoning map change for parcels at 1545 and 1547 Grandview Drive to allow a pool chemical warehouse with a small office. Conditions included stacking restrictions. Approved 7-0. - Zoning Change – R1L to M1 (Item 5): Tabled to March 19, 2024, at the request of staff, as the applicant and neighbors had reached a resolution and the application is expected to be withdrawn. Approved 7-0. - Final Plat – Hillcrest Park Tract 5149 Unit 2 (Item 6): Approved the subdivision of 4.1 acres into 21 lots with private streets and HOA ownership. Approved 7-0. - Annual Audit Presentation (Item 7): Auditor Brian Hemerley (Baker Tilly) presented a clean audit opinion with no findings, no material weaknesses, and no instances of non-compliance. The expenditure limitation report is still being finalized but expected to break even. Council accepted the audit 7-0. - ICAC Task Force IGA (Item 8): Approved a five-year intergovernmental agreement with Phoenix Police Department for the Arizona Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, allowing continued participation with no financial obligation to the city. Approved 7-0. - Bullhead Parkway Improvement Amendment (Item 9): Approved an amendment to the ADOT agreement for a $3.7 million HSIP grant safety project (median and lighting) from Silver Creek to Laredo. The city's additional share is $35,000. Approved 7-0. - Council Chamber Door and Glass Replacement (Item 10): Approved a contract with Jim's House of Glass for $98,038.84 to replace the original 1991 doors and windows, plus an $8,038.84 transfer from general fund contingency. Approved 7-0. Key Outcomes - The Board of Appeals gained five new members: Don Albers, Bruce Henderson, Jeff Myers, Amy Prince, and Enrique Reyna (two- and three-year terms). - Zoning changes were approved for a pool chemical warehouse (Grandview Drive) and tabled for a potential industrial rezone (Rancho Colorado Blvd). - The city’s annual audit received a clean opinion with no findings. - The city renewed its participation in the ICAC task force for five years. - Additional funding of $35,000 was approved for the Bullhead Parkway safety improvement project. - Council chambers will receive new doors and windows at a cost of $98,038.84.

The Bullhead Area Transit Commission held a regular meeting on February 5, 2024, at 12:30 PM. Three commissioners were present, one seat was vacant, and Vice Chair Toon Forest was absent, establishing a quorum. The meeting included public comment, approval of minutes, a bylaw amendment, staff reports on finances, ridership, grant transitions, and a transit facility project, and discussion of future agenda items. Public Comments & Testimony - Scotty (member of the public) raised several concerns: the missing bus stop at Palma Road and Hancock, two unused bus stops on the east side of Clearwater (suggesting they be moved to a location near a three-foot easement where he often waits), and the difficulty sitting on wet grass at a stop. He also criticized commissioners for repeated absences, suggesting that missing two meetings without makeup should result in removal from the commission. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes – November 6, 2023: A motion was made and seconded. The minutes were approved unanimously by voice vote. Discussion Items - Amendment to Section 205 of Bylaws – Voting on Minutes: The commission discussed and voted to strike the sentence "A commission member shall not vote to approve minutes from a meeting at which the member was not in attendance." Staff had previously advised that a present commissioner may vote on any item before them. A motion to approve the amendment was made, seconded, and passed unanimously. - Staff Reports: - Financial Performance: Staff presented financial summaries for September 2023, including cost-per-hour metrics and reimbursement progress to ADOT. No questions were raised. - Annual Ridership Statistics (2023 vs. 2022): Overall ridership increased by over 9% from 119,000 to 130,000 rides. Staff noted a 32% increase on the green line, the most significant change. Historical context was provided: pre-COVID peak 180,000 rides (2015-2016), a 30% drop during COVID, and a steady recovery since. A commissioner requested quarterly data; staff agreed to provide it and offered seasonal trends (fall highest, winter lowest). - Grant Program Transition (5311 to 5307): Staff is finalizing the transition to the 5307 small urban grant. An authorizing resolution will go to city council on February 6, 2024. After council approval, one final step (certifications and assurances) remains before the commission can directly apply for 5307 funds. - Transit Multimodal Facility Project Update: Staff is working with Selbergen Associates. A workshop is scheduled for February 6, 2024 (3:30 PM, council chambers) and a public open house on February 12, 2024 (5:00-6:00 PM, council chambers). Feedback will inform final plans, expected by April/May 2024, which will then go to council. Environmental clearances (NEPA) are the next major hurdle before construction funding. - Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Stations: Staff reported there are currently no EV charging stations within Bullhead City limits. Statewide, there were 50,000-60,000 registered EVs in 2023 (about 3.5% of all registered vehicles), a number that has doubled since 2020. Feedback from the upcoming public meetings will help decide whether to include EV charging at the new facility. - Future Agenda Items: A commissioner asked about renaming the transit service. Staff suggested deferring until the facility is closer to completion to avoid losing momentum. The commission agreed to hold off on that topic. Key Outcomes - Approval of November 6, 2023 Minutes: Approved unanimously. - Approval of Bylaws Amendment (Section 205): Approved unanimously, allowing any present commissioner to vote on minutes regardless of attendance at the prior meeting. - Next Steps: Staff will present the transit facility project at the February 6 council workshop and February 12 public open house. The 5307 grant resolution will be presented to council on February 6. Future ridership reports will include quarterly breakdowns. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent.

The Bullhead City Planning & Zoning Commission held a regular meeting on Thursday, February 1, 2024, at 5:30 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Chairwoman Pamela Smith with six commissioners present (Barnett, Brandt, Brown, Genovese, Smith, Stein) and Commissioner Brandt absent. The commission approved the previous meeting minutes and recommended approval of a zoning map change and a redevelopment plan to the City Council. Consent Calendar - Approval of January 4, 2024, Regular Meeting Minutes: A motion was made by Commissioner Stein and seconded by Commissioner Brandt to approve the minutes as written. The motion carried 6-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 3 – Redevelopment Plan: Albert Diaz, owner of a property at 903 Riverview, expressed concern about a previous $820 fine from code enforcement and questioned whether the redevelopment plan would lead to property taking or further fines. Chairwoman Smith clarified that the plan does not involve eminent domain or property acquisition; it is an overlay to seek state funding for homeowner improvements. - Jack Kemala, a resident on Lake View, asked whether the plan would provide assistance for aesthetics (e.g., curb, gutter, sidewalk) on the residential side, or only through citation processes. Staff explained that future CDBG grants could fund such infrastructure improvements, but there are no guarantees. Discussion Items - Item 2 – Zoning Map Change Z23-013 (1545 & 1547 Grandview Drive): Planning Manager Johnny Loera presented the request to change the zoning from C2 (General Commercial) to C3 (Commercial and Minor Industrial) to allow a warehouse for a pool supply wholesale facility. The building would be approximately 8,000 sq. ft., with 1,000 sq. ft. for sales/display and 7,000 sq. ft. for storage. The surrounding area includes both C2 and C3 uses. No public comments were made. The commission discussed the consistency with existing uses and the applicant’s plan. A motion to approve was made, seconded, and carried 6-0. - Item 3 – City Center Redevelopment Plan: Staff presented the plan, which covers approximately 115 acres along Riverview Drive and Lakeside Drive in the Riviera neighborhood. The plan is authorized under A.R.S. §§ 36-1471 through 36-1479 and aims to address blight through enhanced code enforcement, demolition of unsafe structures, and pursuit of state and federal grants (e.g., CDBG, Arizona Department of Housing funds) for housing rehabilitation and infrastructure. The plan does not propose changes to the General Plan, zoning, or property acquisition. Commissioner questions focused on the scope (only frontage roads initially), the availability of grants for individual homeowners, and the potential financial burden on residents. Staff noted that code enforcement would increase but that the plan primarily opens funding opportunities, such as those used for the 66-unit Clearwater affordable housing project. The commission discussed expanding the area in the future. A motion to approve as written was made and seconded. Key Outcomes - Zoning Map Change Z23-013: Approved unanimously (6-0) with a recommendation to City Council. The change from C2 to C3 is subject to compliance with city codes, including a 6-foot screen fence, landscaping, and parking per chapters 17.26, 17.44, and 17.48. The change becomes effective upon issuance of a building permit before February 20, 2026. - City Center Redevelopment Plan: Approved by a vote of 5-1 (one opposed) with a recommendation to City Council. The plan creates a redevelopment area in portions of Sections 19, 20, and 29, T20N, R22W. It does not alter existing land use regulations or require property acquisition. - Commissioner Comments: Vice Chairwoman Barnett reminded the public about the annual Wine and Jazz event on February 3, 2024, hosted by the Kiwanis Club of the Colorado River at the Chamber of Commerce from 6-10 PM. Commissioner Genovese noted ongoing rainy weather. No future agenda topics were set. The meeting adjourned at approximately 6:00 PM (estimated from the transcript).

The Bullhead City Franchise Licensing Commission held its regular meeting on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, at the Bullhead City chambers. The meeting was called to order at an unspecified time, with roll call and the Pledge of Allegiance. Agenda items included approval of previous meeting minutes, quarterly reports from franchise holders, and a legal discussion regarding the impending expiration of the Suddenlink (Optimum) cable license agreement. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes – October 24, 2023: The minutes were approved with a correction: for Southwest Gas, the active customer count should read 22,983 (as verified by staff). Motion carried unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Gary Genevieve (Bullhead City resident): Asked about whether power lines near trees are shielded or bare. Penny Lyons (Unisource) deferred to technical expertise but advised assuming downed lines are live. Discussion Items - Optimum (Suddenlink) – Quarterly Report & License Renewal: No representative appeared and no report was submitted despite staff requests. City Attorney Garn provided an update: the existing 10-year license expires in May 2024. The company had invoked a statutory renewal process two years ago. The attorney has reached out to a corporate contact but received no response. A special meeting will be scheduled (likely late February / early March) to review the current license terms and negotiate renewal. The license covers use of city rights-of-way, customer service standards, and other provisions. - Unisource Energy (Penny Lyons): Reported 1,201 residential and 55 commercial customers as of November 2023, with no power outages. Provided electrical safety tips. No rate case finalized yet; a docket number may be available through the Arizona Corporation Commission. - Bermuda Water (Stephen Taylor): Reported 9,648 total customers, with 1,921 within city limits. Leaks: 41 total, 5 in city; all repaired with no street closures. An 18% rate increase took effect September 1, 2023; no further increases planned. - Southwest Gas (Charles Cook, new District Manager): Provided limited data due to recent start. Reported 71 new meter sets in the prior quarter and ongoing PVC pipeline replacement projects near Hancock Lakeside and Marina Boulevard. No rate change details; directed to website for updates. - Republic Services (Chris Klein): No recent or planned rate changes. Serving 19,586 customers. Collected 5,117.77 tons of residential waste and 1,766 tons of bulky waste in Q4 2023. Free bulky service continues (6 per year per customer). Mobile app available. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved with correction to Southwest Gas active customer count (22,983). - Optimum/Suddenlink license renewal: City Attorney will establish contact, schedule a special meeting (target late Feb/early March), and provide current license to commissioners for review. Commissioners will communicate concerns directly to the attorney. - Future agenda topics: Primarily the Optimum license renewal; no other topics proposed. - Meeting adjourned after brief closing remarks.

The Bullhead City Parks and Recreation Commission held its regular monthly meeting on January 17, 2024, at 12:30 PM. All commission members were present except Vice Chair Petrillo. The meeting included public comments, a parks update, discussion and approval of the previous meeting minutes, and a recommendation to city council to modify the Rotary Park Master Plan. Topics for the next meeting were also set. Public Comments & Testimony - Dan Kepler, representing remote control hobby groups, expressed strong appreciation for the Parks Department’s work on the circle dirt track, noting a recent race drew participants from California, Tucson, Phoenix, Northern Nevada, and Utah, boosting local hotel and restaurant revenue. He requested permission to use the RC airport pad at Rotary Park for one‑tenth‑scale drag cars (quarter‑mile of 132 feet) two Sundays per month, and to install a dirt oval track south of the existing dirt track with a fence and using the existing driver’s tower. He cited growing interest from Utah groups and emphasized potential revenue for the city. - Jason Newland, a Bullhead City resident who uses Rotary Park 3–4 times a week, expressed support for the master plan, requesting more walking/running trails and shade trees at beach areas, and encouraged consideration of the RC hobbyist community’s needs. - Scotty (a community member) urged the commission to reconsider the location of the proposed ADA playground, arguing the current site next to the dog park has poor parking and potential safety conflicts between wheelchairs and dogs. He suggested moving it to the east side of the fishing pier where there is ample unused parking. Parks Update - Director David Heath reported: - The municipal pool will close for the winter to install a new pool deck (funded this year), with a planned reopening by May 1, 2024. - City council approved funding for a new basketball court at the Optimum Community Center gymnasium, which will be closed until April 30, 2024, for this and other renovations (lighting, painting, A/C, doors, kitchen, parking). - Upcoming tournaments and events: - SSUSA Winter Classic (44 senior men’s softball teams) – ongoing. - January 19–21: Pylon football youth 7v7 tournament (practices at Rotary Park). - January 27–28: 200% Sports football tournament (52 youth teams at Rotary Park). - February 2–4: NAFA men’s masters fast‑pitch softball (600 players/spectators). - February 16–18: AFA softball (100 adult teams). - February 17: AYSO Colorado River Invitational (96 youth soccer teams, possibly more). - February 20–26: Spring Worlds Tune‑up senior softball tournament (70 teams). - New free community programs (“Fun Believable Fridays”): Cookies and Cupid (Feb 2), Don’t Clay with My Heart (Feb 9), 321 Blast Paper Rockets (Feb 16), Fruit Smoothies (Feb 23) – spaces limited, sign‑up at BullheadCity.com/rec. Discussion Items - Approval of November 15, 2023 Meeting Minutes: A motion to approve was made and seconded; the motion carried unanimously (4 in favor). - Discussion and Possible Action to Modify the Rotary Park Master Plan: Public Works Director Angie Johnson presented the proposed updates, required for grant applications. Key additions include: - Parking expansions (northwest corner, near pump track, along Balboa Drive, between ball fields, and along the road between the dog park and first aid station). - New restrooms (rehabbing the lift station, near playgrounds, along the trail, near beaches). - An asphalt pump track north of the existing dirt pump track. - A new roadway between the ballpark and park, closing portions of Balboa for safety. - Future playground near the three‑plex fields. - Splash pad and restroom near the existing playground. - Rehabilitated and expanded skate park. - Family fun zone with playground, concrete games, shade, and restrooms. - Expanded beaches, rerouted walking trails along the river, and additional restroom at the east end of the swim beach. - Commission Questions: - A commissioner noted the elimination of previously planned additional ball fields. Staff explained that new four‑plexes at Community Park are expected to meet demand. - The park will remain accessible during construction, with fenced‑off work areas. - The grant application is for approximately $14 million (half city, half state parks); notification could take over a year, with 3–5 years to complete all projects. - Priority will be given to parking and bathrooms, but full funding would allow rapid progress. Public input will be sought at later stages (e.g., splash pad design). - Vote: A motion to approve the modified Rotary Park Master Plan was made, seconded, and carried unanimously. The recommendation will be forwarded to the City Council. Agenda Setting for Next Meeting - Commissioners agreed to add two topics to the next meeting’s agenda: 1. Discussion of the request from RC hobbyists to share the RC airport with drag cars. 2. Discussion of the ADA playground location (originally opposed by a public speaker). - The chair noted that the new master plan already adds parking in the area, which may address concerns. Key Outcomes - Approved: November 15, 2023 meeting minutes (4‑0 vote). - Approved: Recommendation to City Council to modify the Rotary Park Master Plan (unanimous vote). - Next Steps: The master plan update will be forwarded to City Council; staff will continue preparing grant applications for up to $14 million. - Topics for Next Month’s Agenda: Shared use of the RC airport for drag racing and review of the ADA playground location. - No Skate Park Update: Staff indicated an update is expected soon and will be brought to the commission.

The Bullhead City Planning and Zoning Commission met on January 4, 2024, at approximately 12:30 PM. All commissioners were present except Commissioner Sabrowski. The meeting covered a general plan amendment, two zoning map changes, and associated site plans for development projects on Silver Creek Road and Highway 95. Public comments were heard on each item, and key decisions were made regarding housing, storage, and commercial development. Consent Calendar - Approval of December 7, 2023 Meeting Minutes: The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the December 7, 2023 regular meeting. (Motion carried with 6 votes in favor, none opposed.) Public Comments & Testimony - Item 2 (General Plan Amendment for 2350 Silver Creek Road): - Larry (speaker, adjacent resident): Opposed the amendment, stating that changing from residential to apartments is "going backwards" and that the area already has housing planned. He also cited traffic concerns on Silver Creek Road. - Item 3 (Zoning Map Change for 2350 Silver Creek Road): - Steve D. (speaking as himself, not the council): Expressed strong support for the project, emphasizing that the city is in dire need of housing and has already lost high-paying jobs due to lack of housing. He noted rent prices have risen from $850 to $1,850 per month. - Susan Norris (resident of Calle de Mercado): Opposed the project, citing high-speed traffic on Silver Creek (60 mph) and safety concerns for children. She asked to move the development elsewhere. - Larry Enforce (Bullhead City resident): Did not oppose the project itself but objected to the location, arguing the area is already zoned for residential and that converting it to apartments is inappropriate. - Item 4 (Zoning Map for 1600 Highway 95 - Anthem Travel Center): - Tanya Lane (owner/board member, Edgewater Condominiums): Raised several concerns including water drainage issues, loss of views due to five-story buildings, a fueling station (or dock location), traffic safety, and an easement for emergency vehicles. She noted that her association previously leased part of the state-owned land. - John Shantz (Edgewater condo owner): Opposed the project, arguing that the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) intended the site for public use and that private development would not benefit citizens financially. (The city clarified the land was not BLM but state land, and that zoning change from public lands to mixed use is required after sale to try private ownership.) - Ted Martin (1611 Highway 95): Expressed concerns about density (three five-story buildings) leading to two dual left-turn lanes, drainage issues on Merrill Avenue, and lack of buffering for existing condos. Questioned why the project adds a turn lane intersection "horrific" if Merrill is being closed. - Dan Ayler (representing property owners upstream): Did not oppose the project but requested a continuance to allow more time for consultation with property owners and officials about circulation impacts. He noted Rio Rancho Boulevard had been previously planned, and that the office had not been contacted about the development. Discussion Items Item 2: Minor General Plan Amendment - Staff (Johnny) presented the request to change the land use designation from medium density residential (up to 6 units/acre) to high density residential (up to 20 units/acre). The 9.8-acre parcel located at 2350 Silver Creek Road is part of a two-part request. - Commissioner questions focused on visibility and traffic. The interim engineer noted that walls or obstructions near driveways should not block traffic views. - Applicant (Elio Khalif) described the project as a dual use: storage units (auto boxes) ‎on the front half and 112 apartments on the back half. He relocated the concept of luxury auto storage (man caves) and apartments to meet housing needs. - The Commission discussed that the storage units would be on Silver Creek (as commercial use) and the apartments would be behind them, which some members found acceptable given the surrounding land uses (office, mortuary, United Rentals). - A traffic study will be required. The plan shows a gate for emergency access only on Calle de Mercado (south end). - The applicant noted that if approved, storage units would be masonry, not metal, and that HOAs would maintain the private roads. - Motion to approve the amendment carried (6-0). Item 3: Zoning Map Change Z23-011 for 2350 Silver Creek - This is the second part of the same request: a change from RNA-A to PAD (Planned Area Development) with underlying R1 and R2-MF zoning, consisting of 75 storage units and 112 apartment units. - The architect (Rob Sampson) presented slides showing concept images for the storage facility ("auto boxes") and the apartment buildings with a pool in the center. - Commissioners raised concerns about the design and utility of the storage units on Silver Creek Road. Commissioner X called them "utilitarian, almost penal looking" and preferred them at the rear. - The commission added conditions: a block wall along the southern boundary (with emergency access only if fire department requires) and no ingress/egress from Calle de Mercado. - Staff noted that the ordinance already includes a screen wall (6-foot), but the commission specified a block wall. - Motion to approve with conditions carried 4-2 (Commissioner X voted against, two others opposed). Item 4: Zoning Map Change Z23-012 for 1600 Highway 95 - This project, the Anthem Travel Center, is an 18-acre site formerly owned by the state, now in private ownership. The mixed-use proposal includes: - On the west side of Highway 95: two hotels (119 rooms each), one condominium tower (60 units), restaurants, and boat dock fueling station. - On the east side: a convenience store with 16 gas pumps, 6 future hydrogen stations, additional casual dining fast food pads, retail, and a storage facility. - City Public Works Director Angie Johnson presented the traffic improvements: closure of Merrill Avenue intersection, a new signalized intersection at Anthem Drive with dual left turns, right-turn lanes on Highway 95, and a low-water crossing for the wash. - The architect (Greg Simonoff) presented slides showing resort-style design with river views, a pedestrian boardwalk dock, and water taxi access. - Commissioner questions touched on drainage issues (hydraulic study required), buffering for Edgewater Condos, and addressing concerns about the proposed right-in/right-out on Highway 95. - Staff clarified that drainage will be managed with on-site retention and that conditions cannot be worsened downstream. - A motion approved zone change to MU Mixed Use, carrying 6-0. Item 5: (pulled from the agenda) - No action was taken. Key Outcomes - General Plan Amendment (P23-003) for 2350 Silver Creek Road: Approved (6-0). Changes land use from medium-density residential to high-density residential to allow up to 20 units per acre. - Zoning Map Change (Z23-011) for 2350 Silver Creek Road: Approved (4-2). Rezoned to PAD with conditions: block wall along southern boundary and no ingress/egress from Calle de Mercado except emergency fire access. - Zoning Map Change (Z23-012) for 1600 Highway 95: Approved (6-0). Changed from Public Lands to Mixed Use, allowing commercial and residential development. - The commission directed that all items will be forwarded to the City Council for final action on January 16, 2024.

The Bullhead City Council met on December 20, 2023, at 5:30 PM. The meeting opened with a moment of silence and prayer for the five children who tragically lost their lives in a recent fire, followed by a presentation from Veterans United and the Pledge of Allegiance. All seven council members were present. Veterans United Presentation - Veterans United presented a check for $2,570 to the Meals on Wheels program, which was raised at an event that also supported the Senior Nutrition Center. The program provides about 40,000 meals annually to homebound clients and serves congregate lunches at the Senior Center located across the street. Public Comments & Testimony - Stephen Lee (Voices for Freedom) – Expressed opposition to "medical or political tyranny" and urged residents to visit preventgenocide2030.org to support bills by Chip Roy and Mike Lee. He offered a flag to be displayed in council chambers, which he described as a version of the American flag. He stated his reasons for not pledging allegiance to the flag with tassles, which he called the "corporate flag of the United Nations." - Gary Finkelstein (Colorado River Historical Society and Museum) – Announced a honey-baked ham fundraiser benefiting the Colorado River Historical Society and Museum. Orders could be placed by calling Susanna van Sloten at 928-234-807 by noon Thursday. The ham would be available for pick-up at his house. - Jim Fuller – Spoke about scripture and emphasized that the local forum is an "awesome place" to fix national problems, expressing hope that freedom to speak at meetings continues. - Rolf Vetter – Appeared with a group of his tenants and indicated his item (Item Number 3 on the consent agenda) was on the agenda; the mayor directed him to speak when that item was called. - Eva Corbett – Promoted the Mojave High School Choir's "Decades" event on Friday, January 5, 2024, at 6 PM at the Mojave High School auditorium. - Harvey Pryor – Extended condolences to the family of the five children lost in the fire and criticized A&G Wing for allegedly condoning an employee who took photos at the accident scene and posted them. He demanded that the city put on the agenda an update on the Bullhead City app to show working fire hydrants. - Scotus from Bald – Demanded that the city fix nonfunctioning fire hydrants and ensure that the Bullhead City app provides a list of working hydrants. He also mentioned animal issues and referenced the subject of civil grand juries. - Chief Moore (Fire District) – Rebutted social media rumors that fire hydrants were not working at the recent fire, stating that two hydrants functioned properly and urged the community to focus on supporting victims and first responders. Discussion Items - Mutual Release and Settlement Agreement (Item 3) – The Council unanimously (7-0) approved a settlement agreement of $231,000 from Miracle View Condo Homeowners Association and principal owner Rolf Vetter regarding a failing septic system at 1690 Marble Canyon Drive. City Manager Cutter explained that the city forcibly connected the property to the sewer and worked to prevent homelessness. Rolf Vetter spoke against the settlement, alleging that the city refused to permit a $4,000 septic repair, which instead led to over a million dollars in costs. The mayor responded, saying the city acted to keep residents housed and that Vetter had attempted an insurance claim to deem the building condemned. - Purchase of Police Department Equipment (Item 6) – The Council unanimously (7-0) approved the purchase of 38 Taser 7 basic bundles for $108,856 (with a 5-year warranty) to replace the outdated X26P models. Captain Harms stated that the new technology provides better performance. - Fishing Pier Rehabilitation Grant Approval (Item 7) – The Council unanimously (7-0) adopted Resolution 2023-R56 to apply for up to 750,000 in grant funds from the Arizona State Parks and Trails State Lake Improvement Fund for rehabilitating the fishing pier at Rotary Park. The pier, over 25–30 years old, needs structural repairs and is used by public safety officers. If awarded, construction is expected to be completed before July 1, 2024. Consent Calendar - The Council voted unanimously (7-0) to approve the consent agenda items (all items other than those pulled from the consent agenda). Key Outcomes - Taser Replacement Approved: Purchase of 38 Taser 7 bundles for 108,856, with a 5-year warranty, to replace outdated models. - Fishing Pier Grant Approved: Application for up to $750,000 from the Arizona State Parks and Trails Lake Improvement Fund for the rehabilitation of the fishing pier at Rotary Park. - Settlement Litigation Approved: Mutual release and settlement agreement for the public nuisance case at 1690 Marble Canyon Drive, requiring the city to pay legal costs and receiving up to $231,000 from the defendant. - Year-End Summary presented by the City Manager: The City Manager highlighted the purchase of building material for a new animal shelter, new police cars, new police boats, new SWAT vehicles, a new bell at the city's Community Park, an agreement on the optimum community center, and numerous infrastructure and grant projects. - Highway 95 & Veteran Peninsula Updates: The mayor described a trip to Winslow, Arizona, where $27 million was secured for repaving Highway 95, and two trips to Phoenix to secure ownership of the Veterans Peninsula, which stopped the $13,000 annual payment to the state. The mayor also noted trips to Phoenix to lobby for $8 million for right-hand turn lanes and to Las Vegas for a Coast Guard luncheon to patrol beaches. - Mojave County Partnership: The mayor noted that the city paid $13,000 per year for the Veterans Peninsula, but is now owned and will never pay the state another penny. - Maintenance: The city will be pursuing a contract for a $750,000 water infrastructure project. - Next Meeting: The next meeting is scheduled for the first regular meeting of 2025. Mayor's Report & Responses - The mayor defended multiple business trips, detailing a trip to Winslow ($27 million for Highway 95 reading), two trips to Phoenix (transfer of the veterans peninsula and $8 million for right-turn lanes), a trip to a Coast Guard lawyer to help with beach patrols, a trip with tourism division to secure funds for the air show, and a recent trip to D.C. for $300 million for water infrastructure. - The mayor also encouraged the public to donate to the River Fund to help victims of the recent tragedy. - The Council member also extended condolences and thanked the community for support of Toys for Tots and holiday charities. - The meeting concluded with best wishes for a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

The Bullhead City Planning and Zoning Commission met on Thursday, December 7, 2023, at approximately 12:30 PM. The meeting included approval of previous meeting minutes and a public hearing on a zoning map change request from R1L (Residential Single Family Limited) to M1 (Industrial General Limited) for a 3.84-acre parcel at 2210 Rancho Colorado Boulevard. The commission ultimately voted 2-3 to deny the request, recommending against the zone change. Consent Calendar - Approval of the November 2, 2023 special meeting and regular meeting minutes. Motion approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Eva Corbett (Bullhead City resident) invited attendees to the Mojave High School Christmas choir concert on December 8 at 7:00 PM. - Public Hearing on Zoning Map Change Z 23-010: - Dan Ayler (representing multiple properties including No Swan, Rio Siesta, and Rancho Colorado) argued the zone change would severely and adversely affect planned residential developments. He stated that an eight-foot fence would not block views from elevated properties, and that the city has a greater need for housing than for an expanded wrecking yard. He noted that his company had donated a $1.5 million water system to the city. - Jason Patterson and Christopher Gunter (representing Diamond Elite Sunset Apartments, 65 tenants) opposed the change, citing concerns about traffic, noise, safety, and theft for elderly tenants. They stated the property is visible from all apartment levels. - Larry Morse (engineer for Rancho Colorado, No Swan, and Rio Siesta projects) stated the zone change would impair grading operations needed to avoid direct line-of-sight into the junkyard from the McKee property and future phases. - Paul Zita (Century Complete Homes, buyer of Rancho Colorado subdivision) opposed, stating the residential zoning along the street was a key factor in their decision to purchase. He projected $1.5 million in TPT tax revenue from the first 161 homes and noted they have invested in cleanup and landscaping. - Kevin Staffi (owner of Rio Siesta property) opposed, stating that even a 20-foot fence would not block the view from his property and that the corner lot at the entrance is not suitable for a wrecking yard. - Jamie Kelly (attorney for No Swan Properties) opposed, explaining that the adjacent 9-acre parcel is planned for multifamily R2MF zoning and that a chain-link fence topped with barbed wire is not appealing. She argued that other M1-zoned locations are more appropriate. - Tom Dolman (part-owner of No Swan Properties and Rancho Colorado) spoke about hundreds of volunteer hours spent creating a view corridor with palm trees and landscaping on city property, asking that it be maintained. - Robert Ward (interest holder in Rancho Colorado and lessor of commercial property on Interstate Place) stated that A&G Towing is subletting in violation of lease and should clean up their existing property instead of expanding. - Applicant Anthony Molero (A&G Towing/All Good Auto and Truck Dismantling) stated that he needs more room for storage and impounds, and that he is willing to install an eight-foot corrugated metal fence with caps and leave the existing berm for screening. He claimed that if denied, he would level the property, move a 15-foot crusher to the fence line, and stack cars 30-40 feet tall. He also stated that leases with Robert Ward had expired and he had been trying to negotiate. Discussion Items - Zoning Map Change Z 23-010: Staff (Johnny) presented the request, noting the parcel is at the southeast corner of Rancho Colorado Boulevard and Interstate Place. The applicant agreed to a stipulation that vehicles not be stacked higher than five feet on the parcel to ensure visibility behind a wall. Commissioners discussed the visual impact, the existing berm, and the potential for landscaping. Staff clarified that an eight-foot wall is the maximum height allowed and that the berm is partially on neighboring properties. - Commissioner Garn reminded the commission that zoning decisions are not based on past contributions to the city, nor do they guarantee views. The key question is whether expansion of M1 along a corridor with C1, C2, and R1L zoning is appropriate. Key Outcomes - Motion to approve the zoning map change from R1L to M1: Motion made and seconded. Vote: 2 in favor, 3 opposed. Motion denied. The recommendation will be forwarded to the City Council, though the applicant may still request council consideration. - The meeting adjourned after the vote. Note: The transcript also includes unrelated announcements about sewer pump maintenance, Rotary Park, and Republic Services trash collection schedules, which occurred after adjournment and are not part of the official meeting.