Public Meetings - Bullhead City, Arizona

The Bullhead City Council convened in Executive Session at 4:00 PM on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, in the City Council Chambers at 1255 Marina Boulevard. The meeting was called to order, roll was taken, and the Council entered into closed-door discussions as permitted under Arizona Revised Statutes. No legal action was taken during the session. The meeting adjourned following the executive session. No minutes were provided for this meeting, and the raw transcript available does not contain any discussion from the executive session; instead, it consists of unrelated public information content (e.g., general plan update, police department overview, water safety video). Executive Session Agenda Items - Discussion or consultation for legal advice and to provide instruction concerning a potential economic incentive contract with an entity that has demonstrated the ability to add to the economic development of the community. (A.R.S. § 38-431.03(A)(3)&(4)) - Discussion or consultation for legal advice concerning the Mohave County Airport Authority. (A.R.S. § 38-431.03(A)(3)) Key Outcomes - No votes or decisions were made public, as the entire meeting was held in executive session. The council received legal advice and provided instruction on the two listed items, but the specifics were not disclosed to the public. - Note: The agenda, minutes, and transcript provided are inconsistent. The minutes are unavailable, and the transcript does not document the executive session but rather contains promotional and informational content unrelated to the council's closed-door discussions. This summary reflects the official agenda only.

The Bullhead Area Transit System (BATS) Commission held its regular meeting on Monday, August 3, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the Bullhead City Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order with all commissioners present, including Commissioner Hendrickson attending via Zoom. Key agenda items included public comments, approval of minutes, grant updates, a city council workshop report, and the launch of a short-range transit planning project. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the May 11, 2026, meeting. Motion carried by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Harvey Pryor, a resident, expressed strong support for adding a bus stop on the orange route at 2585 Miracle Mile and near Alanis Way, noting that the current route does not stop at the hospital, forcing patients to walk a half-mile or more. He also urged the commission to survey the north end of town to serve apartments there, noting that children lack transportation to the Boys & Girls Club. He requested timely action on these long-standing requests. Discussion Items - Transit Program Updates (presented by Michael): - 5307 Grant Update: Staff reported significant progress on transitioning from the previous 5311 program to the 5307 direct-recipient model. The annual apportionment is approximately $1 million. The first grant application, covering funds from October 2024 through September 2026, is expected to be submitted within days, with approval anticipated in 1–2 weeks. Additional grants for the next fiscal year (2026–2027), a replacement bus (5339), and a fleet-wide radio system upgrade are queued. Staff hopes to present financial data at the November meeting. - Passenger Complaint Report: No reportable complaints were received during the quarter. - City Council Workshop Presentation: Staff presented to the City Council on boarding/alighting safety, access to service providers, bus stop shelter amenities, and new/expanding services. Council requested minor, low-cost modifications, which staff are working on. A short-range transit plan was discussed as a tool to systematically address service changes. - Transit Planning Project Update: The contractor, Kimley-Horn, held a kickoff meeting the previous week. The short-range transit plan will take about a year to complete and will include extensive data analysis (ridership, on-time performance, stop amenities, dial-a-ride) and public input via surveys, stakeholder meetings, and on-board/stop postings. The plan is fully funded through the MPO at no cost to the city. - Upcoming Service Closures: No transit service will run on Monday, September 7 (Labor Day) and Monday, October 12 (Columbus Day). - Commissioner Comments: A commissioner asked about contingency plans for bus breakdowns in extreme heat. Michael responded that backup vehicles are pre-checked daily and can be swapped out typically within 20–30 minutes, with mechanics on standby to minimize passenger inconvenience. No formal action was taken. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes of the May 11, 2026, meeting (unanimous). - Noted progress on the 5307 grant application and the transit planning project; staff will continue to update the commission. - No future agenda items were identified for the next meeting. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 6:30 PM (time not specified in transcript).

The Bullhead City Council met in regular session at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, in City Council Chambers, 1255 Marina Boulevard. All council members were present. The meeting included ceremonial items, public comment, a consent agenda, manager and council reports, public hearings on zoning matters, and action on vehicle purchases and a meeting rescheduling. Presentations & Proclamations - Mayor Karen Dalman presented a proclamation declaring July 25, 2026 as Kiwanis Club of the Colorado River Day, recognizing the club's 50th anniversary. Club representatives thanked the city and highlighted programs including Cornfest, scholarships, and bed deliveries for children. - Presiding Judge Stephen Moss of Mohave County administered the Oath of Office to Paul George as Bullhead City Police Chief. Chief George pledged leadership based on integrity, transparency, accountability, and community-oriented policing. Consent Calendar - By a 6-0 vote, the council adopted Ordinance No. 2026-9 amending Chapter 3.44, Inspection Services Recovery Fee, and Resolution No. 2026R-23 declaring the code amendment a public record. - By a 6-0 vote, the council waived the reading in full of all ordinances and resolutions presented for adoption. Manager's Report - The City Manager reported on the River Valley Artist Guild mural painted during the America 250 Freedom Festival by at least 75 community members; the artwork will be placed in a public building. - BARC, the new animal care facility, opened that day. Staff reported the facility grew from about 6,000 square feet to more than 21,000 square feet, with expanded hours Tuesday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Adoptions and community response were positive. - The City Manager noted it was election day, with the county responsible for tabulating and posting results. Public Comments & Testimony - Michael Patrick Damron addressed what he described as a misuse of attorney processes, but stated he had no animosity toward council members. - Tom Christensen spoke about the jet ski rental ordinance, arguing that requiring proper watercraft liability insurance is important to protect the city and citizens and to allow insurers to help regulate risk. - Trisha Kluskins, speaking with a group including We Care for Animals, asked the council to reconsider the ordinance prohibiting food and water for community cats. She supported trap-neuter-vaccinate-return, or TNVR, citing more than 3,000 community cats sterilized in the county since 2016, and proposed allowing feeding only by caregivers actively involved in TNR efforts. - A jet ski rental business owner urged enforcement of the existing watercraft liability insurance requirement, saying automobile insurance does not cover dock or water incidents. - Cameron Norrie, a watercraft rental operator, said he pays $200,000 out of pocket for watercraft rental liability insurance and that mandatory insurance is needed because insurers inspect each vessel and make it safer for tourists and citizens. - Melinda Sabraski, Bullhead City Elementary School Board member, thanked city staff for vacuuming dirt out of the middle school's artificial turf during construction of a nearby park. - Sue DeMarco supported We Care for Animals and S.N.A.P./S.N.I.T., announced a free spay/neuter/vaccination/microchip clinic September 25-27, and congratulated the new police chief. - Paula Fontes Hambi encouraged residents to volunteer as poll watchers, noting some polling locations were short-staffed. - Diana Lestat announced a free children's story time on July 25 at Ace Hardware. - Dennis Rogers of Bullhead City Elks Lodge 2408 promoted an Up on the Roof fundraiser on September 26 and cited national Elks charitable contributions. - Dave Heath, CEO of the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Colorado River, thanked the community and promoted summer and after-school programs. - Julie Hassett promoted Mojave College Bighorns soccer and noted Colorado River Concerts programs. - Mohave County Supervisor Rich Lettman announced that the Board of Supervisors voted 5-0 to proceed with condemnation of leases between Mohave County and the Mohave County Airport Authority to take possession of Laughlin Bullhead International Airport. He stated no one is closing the airport, expressed concerns about operating losses and a lack of transparency, and thanked Bullhead City representatives for partnership. Council Reports & Announcements - A council member invited the public to a grand opening of a new cath lab on July 23. - A council member noted the Bullhead City Regional Food Bank needs volunteers and donations. - A council member reported attending a Bullhead City resident's 104th birthday celebration and delivering flowers and a card on behalf of the city. Discussion Items - BATS Commission Appointment: Christopher Toschi was appointed to the Bullhead Area Transit System Commission for a partial term effective immediately and expiring September 30, 2026, by a 6-0 vote. Toschi described his background in telecom networking, project management, and volunteer work. - Ordinance No. 2026-10 (Riverview Drive zoning extension): The council held a public hearing and voted 6-0 to approve an amendment to Z24-003 allowing additional time to obtain building permits for a 1.19-acre multifamily site at 490 Riverview Drive. Staff reported the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval 7-0. The applicant proposes 24 three-bedroom residential units with garages. - Ordinance No. 2026-11 (Trails of Black Mountain extension): The council voted 6-0 to approve an amendment to Z22-008 allowing additional time to record the final plat for the first phase of the Trails of Black Mountain project, about 223 acres near Riverview Mall and City Square. Staff noted progress on traffic and geotechnical reports, with a preliminary plat expected within months; the commission recommended approval 7-0. Council discussion raised the need for the Arcadia Road connection, with acknowledgment that funding may depend on nearby developments or possible city participation. - Ordinance No. 2026-12 (CityCentre residential setbacks): The council voted 6-1 to approve an amendment to the CityCentre District Development Agreement reducing interior side setbacks on 40-foot-wide residential lots from 5 feet to 3 feet. The developer said this allows wider floor plans, and staff verified the fire marshal had no objection. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommendation was 5-2. One council member expressed reluctance because of prior variances approved for the development. - Purchase of seven police vehicles: The council voted 6-0 to approve purchase of seven vehicles from Phil Long Dealerships through the TIPS Cooperative for $398,966.75, plus $30,321.48 in use tax, totaling $429,288.23, and authorized the city manager to issue resulting payments. Police Chief George said the purchase replaces five patrol vehicles and two command staff vehicles and supports a new community service aide position. The purchase came in about $9,100 under the budgeted amount. - Rescheduling August 18, 2026 meeting: The council voted 5-1 to move the regular council meeting from Tuesday, August 18, 2026, to Monday, August 17, 2026. Key Outcomes - Adopted the consent agenda, including Ordinance No. 2026-9 and Resolution No. 2026R-23. - Waived the reading in full of all ordinances and resolutions presented for adoption. - Appointed Christopher Toschi to the BATS Commission. - Approved three zoning amendments via Ordinance Nos. 2026-10, 2026-11, and 2026-12, with votes of 6-0, 6-0, and 6-1, respectively. - Approved the police vehicle purchase totaling $429,288.23. - Rescheduled the August 18, 2026 regular council meeting to August 17, 2026. - Police Chief Paul George was sworn in, and July 25, 2026 was proclaimed Kiwanis Club of the Colorado River Day.

The Parks and Recreation Commission of Bullhead City did not hold a public meeting on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. as scheduled. According to the public notice, the meeting was cancelled because there were no items to come before the Commission at that time. No minutes or formal proceedings were generated.

The Bullhead City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, 1255 Marina Boulevard, with all six council members present. The agenda included recognition of outgoing River Fund CEO Mike Conner, a hospital operations update, public comment on several community issues, a manager's report covering America 250 celebrations and a large-scale animal rescue, two liquor license public hearings, and five action items. All action items were approved, including the appointment of Dean Alfonso as Vice Mayor on a 4-2 vote. Presentations & Proclamations - The Council presented a certificate of appreciation to Mike Conner, outgoing CEO of the Bullhead City River Fund, honoring his dedicated service and significant contributions to the community for more than 40 years, including 16 years at the helm of the River Fund. - David Schott, CEO of Western Arizona Regional Medical Center (WARMC), provided an update on hospital operations. He reported 389 days since the last serious safety event and 458 days since the last fall with injury; recognition by Becker's Healthcare as one of 536 U.S. hospitals without a C. diff infection (the only hospital in Mohave County and one of nine in Arizona on that list); 162,000 patient encounters in the past year; more than $45 million in uncompensated care; $3.8 million in capital investments; $57 million in payroll; $10 million paid in taxes; and $120 million in total community benefit. He also announced that Southwest Cardiology (in the community since 1984) has joined WARMC, bringing the cardiology team to five cardiologists and three advanced practice providers, and an MRI open house on July 23, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Greg Eisless, a former insurance agent, expressed concerns about the city's watercraft liability ordinance, stating that watercraft liability insurance is a specialty coverage, is not included under general liability policies, and is expensive. - Najib Nuri (Cabul Inc., operating Fastrip gas station/jet ski rental) stated he has complied with the city's $1 million watercraft liability insurance requirement since 2011 and has paid $775,000 in premiums; he attributed the ordinance to political pressure from his competitors. - Cameron Norrie, a new watercraft rental business owner with 45 units, stated he pays $180,000 for insurance and expressed concern that other companies are using automobile insurance policies as a loophole to meet the requirement at a fraction of the cost. - Dr. Soy of A to Z Health and Wellness Clinic described services offered at 1355 Raymar Road, including chronic disease management, diabetes education, and foot/wound care. - Jackie Wallen, representing River 250 and the Laughlin Tourism Commission, presented the Davis Dam Banner Project (a 25-by-75-foot banner that hung from Davis Dam from June 30 to July 7) and proposed a "River 250 Legacy Collection" of 250 authenticated commemorative pieces made from the banner, with proceeds benefiting Colorado River nonprofits and one piece going to the Colorado River Historical Society Museum. - Ron Miller complained about a homeless encampment at the end of a drainage/access area ("train"), describing overflowing trash, people bathing in the water, and safety concerns including an individual with a samurai sword. - Paula Pontes Hambi raised concerns about utility bills and Arizona Corporation Commission decisions, noting Arizona Public Service's 14% rate increase request and urging attendees to research candidates in the November election. - Melody Jordan (Colorado River Republican Women) invited the public to an August 5 meeting at Chaparral and reminded attendees that early voting runs through July 17, with the primary election on July 21. - Julie Hassett (Colorado River Concerts) promoted the organization's 52nd season beginning November 5, 2026, featuring Terry Barber. - A public speaker (Scotty) made allegations regarding signs he has posted about David Rose and alleged IRS reporting issues involving local officials; his time expired. Another speaker (Mike) defended a neighbor, stated she did not contact the IRS, and asked Scotty to stop posting signs. Manager's Report - The City Manager reported on America 250 celebrations, noting video highlights, the presence of both the Arizona 250 and America 250 historical trailers, and 37 River 250 events; the River Valley Artist Guild canvas presentation was postponed to the July 21 meeting. - Recreation Manager Claire Adams reported the five-week "Star-Spangled Summer" camp reached its highest registration total ever with 1,360 registrations; introduced a first-ever mad science camp; and hosted a free one-day football camp led by Bullhead City native and Las Vegas Raiders player Shaq Alubi, attended by 322 children. Swim lessons filled weekly, and the 4th of July pool party and senior splash pad event were well attended. - The City Clerk announced that Deputy City Clerk Susan Carroll earned the Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) designation through a three-year program at Arizona State University. - Election information: the primary election is Tuesday, July 21, 2026; early in-person voting runs through July 17 at the Mohave County Library (10 a.m.-4 p.m., with extended hours to 7 p.m. on July 17); the last day to request a mail ballot is July 10. - Human Services Director Jeff Tipton reported on the Riverbend Circle property: following a June 23 welfare check, a coordinated animal-hoarding rescue removed 50 live cats from the residence, with rescue partners Feral Cat Warriors and We Care for Animals performing the bulk of the trapping, and Animal Enforcement also removing cats. Four cats were humanely euthanized due to severe medical conditions; Feral Cat Warriors took 42 cats into care, and BARC is caring for 8 (4 in medical isolation). The property was secured and boarded up. The City Manager noted the building has been red-tagged and will be demolished unless action occurs through the legal system. Mayor and Council Members' Reports - One Council Member reported that the men's home at Praise Chapel will close, and the Food Bank of Bullhead City (920 Hancock Road) needs volunteers. - The Mayor congratulated the community on America's 250th anniversary and the patriotic celebrations in Bullhead City. - A Council Member reported that police, fire, and ambulance services responded to 628 calls from July 3-5, including six motor vehicle collisions (three with injuries) and three watercraft incidents (two with injuries); there were no fatalities during the holiday weekend. - Council Members praised the coordinated response to the cat-hoarding case and the city's America 250 events. Consent Calendar - Item 1: Approved the minutes of the June 2, 2026 Regular Council Meeting, June 16, 2026 Special Budget Meeting, and June 16, 2026 Regular Council Meeting. - Item 2: Accepted the grant and dedication of a 30-foot public utility easement (portion of Section 24, T20N, R22W, APN 220-04-059, vicinity of 1842 Goldrush Road). - Approved unanimously (6-0). Public Hearings on Liquor License Applications - Item 3: The Council voted 6-0 to recommend approval of a Series 10 (Beer and Wine Store) License and Interim Permit (Job No. 401689) for Eagles Market (Raphael Rafo, applicant), 2178 Riviera Boulevard. A Council Member noted this was an agent change; no public comment was offered. - Item 4: The Council voted 6-0 to recommend approval of a Series 12 (Restaurant) License (Job No. 400368) for Takumi Sushi House and Kitchen (Jeffrey Craig Miller, applicant), 1047 Highway 95, Suite A1. Staff had no concerns; no public comment was offered. Action Items - Item 5: Approved (6-0) the River Fund Transportation Assistance Grant in the amount of $50,000 to assist homeless individuals in Bullhead City with transportation needs, and authorized the City Manager to execute the agreement. New River Fund Executive Director April Wing was introduced; Human Services Director Jeff Tipton noted the program has provided 319 bus tickets to reunite people with family. - Item 6: Approved (6-0) the Sixth Amendment to the Memorandum of Agreement with Catholic Charities Community Services in support of the Legacy Foundation Christine Stamper Center for Help & Hope, in the amount of $127,000, effective July 1, 2026. One Council Member requested more detailed reporting on where shelter clients come from; another Council Member agreed the facility could do a better job collecting that information. A member of the public (Scotty) opposed the item, alleging the organization will not open its books and that registered sex offenders use the shelter. - Item 7: Approved (6-0) a financial leasing agreement with Simpson Norton Corporation of Goodyear, Arizona, for six Toro mowers (two Greensmaster 3400, two Groundsmaster 4300, two Reelmaster 5510-D) at a cost not exceeding $514,433.90 including tax, through a 48-month capital lease with monthly payments of approximately $9,871.99. Public Works Director Johnson stated the city mows about 220 acres of grass (50-100 acres per day) and that the lease includes a four-year warranty. When asked why diesel was chosen, he stated diesel engines last longer and cost 20-35% less to run than gasoline. - Item 8: Appointed Council Member Dean Alfonso to serve as Vice Mayor for Fiscal Year 2026-2027 (July 7, 2026 through the next appointment) on a 4-2 vote. One Council Member expressed concern that Alfonso is in an election cycle, noting a need for another appointment if he is not re-elected; the City Clerk confirmed that would simply be handled by a new agenda item. - Item 9: Adopted Resolution No. 2026R-22 (6-0), appointing and directing City Finance Director Robert Drexler to submit the Annual Expenditure Limitation Report to the Arizona Auditor General. Drexler noted the report is required by state statute by July 31 each year. - Item 10: Approved (6-0) the estimated total annual assessment of $65,983 for all Improvement/Lighting Districts for Fiscal Year 2027, granting the City Manager or designee authority to sign tax levy certification forms and forwarding the information to Mohave County for inclusion in its FY 2026-27 Statement of Tax Levies and Rates. Key Outcomes - All substantive agenda items were approved, all by 6-0 votes except the Vice Mayor appointment (4-2). - Dean Alfonso was appointed Vice Mayor for FY 2026-2027. - The City Manager committed to ensuring drainage easements and street-end areas do not become homeless encampments, following public complaints. - Staff committed to working with Catholic Charities toward more detailed reporting on shelter client origin. - The meeting adjourned following completion of the agenda.

The Bullhead City Planning and Zoning Commission held a regular meeting on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the City Council Chambers. The commission approved extensions for two zoning map changes, reduced residential setbacks for the CityCentre District project, and extended a conditional use permit for Revive Behavioral Health with modifications. Officers were elected for the 2026-2027 fiscal year, and prior meeting minutes were approved. Consent Calendar - Approved the May 7, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes. - Approved the May 21, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes. - Elected a member to serve as Chairperson for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. - Elected a member to serve as Vice Chairperson for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. - Conducted the annual review of the Planning and Zoning Commission Bylaws; no changes were proposed, and no action was taken. Public Comments & Testimony - No general public comments were made during the initial call to the public. Public testimony was heard during individual agenda items as noted below. Discussion Items Item 6 – Zoning Map Change Z24-003 Amendment 1 (490 Riverview Drive) The applicant, Katrina Bingochea, requested a two-year extension to obtain building permits for a 1.19-acre parcel zoned R2MF (multi-family residential) to build condominiums. One public comment opposed the extension, stating insufficient progress. The applicant noted progress on administrative plans and new partners. Commissioner discussion acknowledged updated designs (including garages). The commission voted 7-0 to approve the extension. Item 7 – Zoning Map Change Z22-008 Amendment 2 (The Trails of Black Mountain) The applicant, John Gall of Arizona Land and Water Resources, requested a two-year extension to record the final plat for the first phase of a mixed-use project. He reported completion of a traffic impact analysis, geotechnical report, and grading plans, with a preliminary plat expected within 60 days. The project proposes 75 dwelling units in the first phase, with 400-450 total units overall, including workforce housing priced in the low $300s. No public comments were made. The commission voted 7-0 to approve the extension. Item 8 – Zoning Map Change Z24-011 Amendment 1 (CityCentre District Setbacks) The applicant, Jake from Mantle Investments, requested approval to reduce residential side setbacks from 5 feet to 3 feet for the CityCentre District project, a 250-acre master-planned development. Staff withdrew their recommendation and remained neutral, leaving the decision to the commission. The applicant argued that the reduction allows more efficient home designs (e.g., 34-foot-wide homes instead of 30-foot) and helps achieve attainable housing. Commissioner concerns included density, aesthetics, and the cumulative reduction of setbacks (front setbacks had already been reduced from 20 to 15 feet). Discussion noted that similar three-foot setbacks exist in other Bullhead City subdivisions (e.g., Chaparral Terrace, Rancho Colorado, Adobe Hills). The applicant committed to placing air conditioning units in the rear or roof. The commission voted 5-0 to approve the setback reduction. Item 9 – Conditional Use Permit U19-003 Amendment 1 (Revive Behavioral Health) The applicant, Kristin Ott of Revive Behavioral Health, requested a six-year extension of the conditional use permit for a behavioral health residential facility at 2150 Silver Creek Road. She reported that the facility has served approximately 2,500 residents over six years, with a 33% graduation rate and 70% of residents being local to Bullhead City. She requested a modification to condition 16 regarding security: to exclude medical and non-safety-related calls from the threshold that would trigger reinstatement of overnight security. Staff reported no complaints from neighbors and that police calls were primarily medical in nature (21 dispatches in the last year, 12 between 5 PM and 8 AM). The commission discussed and agreed to an amendment that security reinstatement would be triggered only if law enforcement records show an average of more than two calls per month over a six-month period that are not medical or non-safety issues. The commission voted 7-0 to approve the CUP amendment as modified. Key Outcomes - Item 6: Motion to approve the two-year extension for Z24-003 passed 7-0. - Item 7: Motion to approve the two-year extension for Z22-008 passed 7-0. - Item 8: Motion to approve the residential setback reduction from 5 feet to 3 feet passed 5-0. - Item 9: Motion to approve the six-year extension of the conditional use permit for Revive Behavioral Health, with the amendment to condition 16 excluding medical and non-safety calls, passed 7-0. - No future agenda topics were set.

The Parks and Recreation Commission of Bullhead City did not hold a public meeting on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. because there were no items to come before the Commission.

The Bullhead City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included a proclamation, a presentation from Mohave Electric Cooperative, public comments, board appointments, public hearings on liquor licenses, approval of a final plat, budget amendments, a PFAS settlement legal contract, and selection of the General Plan update for voter ratification. The meeting lasted approximately 2.5 hours. Consent Calendar - Minutes of June 2, 2026 Special Council Meeting – Approved. - Resolution No. 2026R-18 – Authorized abandonment of a 10-foot utility easement at 2643 Desert Foothills Boulevard. Approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Mike Damron (San Jose, CA) – Thanked the council and wished them a safe trip home. - Diana Lestat (Bullhead City Elks Lodge 2408) – Invited the community to a Paint and Pour event on July 11, 2026, at 1 PM at 1745 Emerald Drive. Tickets $35. - Terry Tomlinson (BHS Legacy Foundation) – Praised the new Animal Resource Center and provided an update on the food bank’s new administration building (formerly Holy Spirit Church), expected to be fully operational by August. - Eva Genevieves – Announced a city council candidate forum/debate on June 17, 2026, at 6 PM at the former Realtors Center. - Unnamed speaker (critical) – Criticized the council for starting the meeting early, expressed anger over a $13 million bond passed earlier, claiming it declared a state of emergency and gave the city manager unchecked power. Also criticized the council for honoring a person who had sued Donald Trump 42 times, and referenced a political event at the Colorado Bell. The speaker expressed concern about a 22% cut in Social Security by 2032. - Christie F – Invited the public to a bingo fundraiser at Laughlin Ranch Bar and Grill on June 25, 2026, at 4:30 PM. Cash prizes. Discussion Items - Proclamation – The council proclaimed July 6, 2026, as Catherine "Cathy" Peterson Day in Bullhead City, honoring her 35+ years of service to Catholic Charities and her role in establishing the Christine Stamper Center for Help and Hope. The proclamation was accepted by Olivia and Rebecca, who noted it would be a surprise for Cathy’s retirement party. - Mohave Electric Cooperative Presentation – Jerry presented an update on the cooperative’s performance and safety. Key points: - 800 meters gained in 2024 and projected 800 in 2026. - 10-year growth rate of 15.4%. - Rate adjustment of $5.99/month for residential customers (March 2026). - Mohave Electric remains the lowest-cost electric utility in Arizona, with an average bill of $117 for 974 kWh. - Nationwide, the cooperative ranked 789th out of 815 utilities in controllable costs (lowest in Arizona). - 2026 improvements include cable replacements, conduit installation in older areas, drone line inspections, and line hardening. - Safety tips for monsoon season: secure outdoor items, avoid cutting trees near power lines (first trim free), and call 811 before digging. - Manager’s Report – City Manager Cotter highlighted: - BARC Grand Opening – The new Animal Resource Center opened with a semi-private ceremony. Public tours scheduled for June 17 (4-6 PM) and June 18 (9-11 AM, 12-2 PM, 4-6 PM). - General Plan – Encouraged public education; the plan will be on the November ballot. - City Council Election – Primary election July 21, 2026; voter registration deadline June 22; early voting June 24–July 17. - Summer Recreation Programs – Over 1,200 kids in summer camp; free football camp with Las Vegas Raiders players on June 19; open swim and dive-in movie at the pool. - America 250 – Freedom Truck Traveling Museum at Optimum Center June 17–19 (9 AM–5 PM). Events include brisket lunches, look-alike contests, car show, and karaoke. Also, a July 1 event at Bullhead Belle with live music and fireworks, sponsored by Findlay. - Council Reports – Councilwoman Smith urged volunteers for the food bank (discipleship program closing, losing 40 volunteers). Vice Mayor Alfonso highlighted a youth art experience at Magic by Me (June 22–26). - Board Appointments – All appointments were approved: - BATS Commission – Steven “Chris” Maurer (partial term ending Sept. 30, 2026). - Board of Adjustment – Jackie Edge (two-year term). - Building Board of Appeals – Enrique Reyna (two-year term). - Parks and Recreation Commission – After a ballot vote, Amanda Aman, Heather Petrillo, and David Schott were appointed (three slots, four applicants). - Planning and Zoning Commission – Bruce Cone, Gary Davis, Gary Genovese, and Joseph Stone were appointed (four slots, five applicants). - Public Hearings on Liquor Licenses – Both recommended for approval: - Juanita’s Restaurant (Series 12) – Located at 2649 Highway 95. Approved. - Bodega Latin Eats (Series 12) – Located at 2350 Miracle Mile. Applicant Dakota Kenyon described the business as a Latin fusion restaurant. Approved. - Item 10: Montano Ridge Estates Final Plat – Mayor recused due to conflict of interest; Vice Mayor presided. Approved the final plat for Unit 3 (79 lots, 32 acres). A new stoplight at Parkway and Montano Ridge was discussed and budgeted for. - Items 11 & 12: Zoning Amendments for Additional Time – Two extensions granted for building permits (multifamily project near Arroyo Vista and Royal Vista, and a mixed-use project at 328 Lee Avenue). Both approved. - Item 13: Odor Control Program – Approved $220,000 (+ tax) for bioxide chemical at three lift stations (Yale, Dean Hackett, 16-2). Sole source justified. - Item 14: Ratify A/C Replacement – Ratified $60,000 for replacement of air conditioning at Section 10 Water Reclamation Plant blower building. Emergency procurement. - Item 15: Security Services Agreement – Approved $73,091/year for American Guard Services for court security. The previous vendor lacked certified guards. - Item 16: Budget Amendments – Approved $660,000 transfers from contingency to various funds to cover incurred-but-not-reported expenses (IBNR) for the trust. - Item 17: PFAS Settlement Legal Services – Approved contracts with Grossman & Kelly, LLP and Bartlett Law Offices to seek settlement from PFAS class action. Estimated recovery $900,000–$2.25 million (firm keeps 1/3). No upfront cost to city. - Item 18: General Plan Update – After a presentation by Planning Manager Johnny Laurel, the council voted to adopt Resolution 2026R-20, approving the Laughlin Ranch Amendment version of the 2026 General Plan Update. This plan converts about 2,600 acres of residential to light industrial in the southern Laughlin Ranch area. The plan will be placed on the November 3, 2026 general election ballot for voter ratification. Motion passed 6-0. - Item 19: Arizona 2026 Legislative Session Update – Assistant City Manager Pruitt reported: - State budget of $18.2 billion approved; no funding for Bullhead City this year. - Tax conformity bills passed, reducing state revenue by $444 million in 2026, but no immediate cuts to state-shared revenue expected. - HCR 2016 (municipal rate increase moratorium) and SB 1431 (restricting local design input) both failed, preserving local control. - SMART fund (for matching federal grants) was funded, benefiting rural areas like Bullhead City and the MPO. Key Outcomes - Proclamation – July 6, 2026 declared Catherine “Cathy” Peterson Day. - Board Appointments – All five appointments confirmed by vote. - Liquor Licenses – Both Juanita’s Restaurant and Bodega Latin Eats recommended for approval to the state. - Final Plat – Montano Ridge Estates Unit 3 approved; a future stoplight will be installed. - Budget Amendments – $660,000 authorized from contingency to cover year-end accruals. - PFAS Settlement – Legal contracts approved to seek settlement funds to help pay for future water filtration systems. - General Plan – Laughlin Ranch Amendment selected for voter ratification in November 2026. - Legislative Update – No action taken; noted that two local-control bills failed and SMART fund was preserved.

At this special meeting on June 16, 2026, the Bullhead City Council held a public hearing and unanimously adopted the final budget for Fiscal Year 2026-2027. The total budgeted expenditures across all funds are $199,750,036. The city does not levy a property tax; its primary revenues come from a 2% city sales tax, state-shared revenues (sales tax, income tax, and highway user fuel tax), grants, and fees for services. Consent Calendar - Waiver of Reading: Council voted 6-0 to waive the full reading of all ordinances and resolutions presented for adoption at the meeting. Discussion Items - Public Hearing (Agenda Item 2): City Manager Cotter provided an overview of revenue sources, noting the city relies on a 2% sales tax, state-shared revenues, and grants. Finance Director Drexler detailed the budget process, stating that preparation began in November 2025, included department meetings, and a council work session on April 20, 2026. He confirmed the budget is balanced. Key allocations include: - General Fund: $50,524,903 (public safety accounts for over $23 million, nearly half of the General Fund). - Special Revenue Funds: $32.4 million (including transit, MPO, housing, water impost, pest abatement, and $16 million for potential grant projects). - Capital Projects Funds: $31.8 million (including $16.8 million for the CityCenter Improvement District and nearly $10 million for road projects). - Enterprise Funds (water/wastewater): $68.6 million (with $26 million for wastewater capital improvements and $11 million for water capital improvements). - Internal Service Funds: $10.7 million. - No members of the public spoke during the hearing. Key Outcomes - Adoption of Resolution No. 2025R-28: Council voted 6-0 to adopt the final budget for Fiscal Year 2026-2027, as presented. The motion carried without further discussion.