Public Meetings - Chandler, Arizona

The Chandler City Council held a regular meeting on Thursday, June 25, 2026, beginning at approximately 6:00 p.m. The meeting opened with an invocation and Pledge of Allegiance. Key actions included the unanimous approval of the consent agenda (33 items), recognition of the city's third consecutive CEASE designation against sexual exploitation, and public comments on ALPR surveillance and a neighborhood rezoning. Councilmembers also shared current events and announcements. Consent Calendar - The Council approved the consent agenda (items 1–33) via a single motion by Councilmember Orlando, seconded by Councilmember Poston. The vote was unanimous (6-0) with Councilmember Harris recused on item 7. Public Comments & Testimony - Igor Zenkov (Chandler resident): Spoke against the use of Flock ALPR cameras and mass surveillance, citing privacy concerns and the business models of vendors. He suggested alternative privacy-preserving approaches. The Mayor noted that a discussion on ALPRs is scheduled for August. - Paul Steers (Chandler resident, 3715 N. Nevada Street): Expressed support for a rezoning in his neighborhood that was included on the consent agenda. He asked the Council to direct staff to explore extending similar zoning to the rest of the neighborhood to resolve non-conforming status issues. Recognition - Arizona Anti-Trafficking Network (AATN): Fidencio Rivera, Chair of the AATN Board, presented the city with a plaque recognizing Chandler's designation as a CEASE (Cities Empowered Against Sexual Exploitation) city for the third consecutive year. Rivera highlighted that Chandler trained at least 75% of its staff and committed to annual retraining. Mayor Harkey thanked the organization and noted that the program helps combat sex trafficking. Current Events & Announcements - Mayor Harkey: Promoted the July 4th All-American Bash (Dr. AJ Chandler Park, 7–9:30 p.m.) and the Operation Back to School event on July 11th (Compass Christian Church, 8–11 a.m.). - Councilmember Poston: Announced that the state budget now covers a 35% shortfall in statewide 911 funding, thanks to lobbying by the city and the Arizona League of Cities and Towns. - Councilmember Orlando: Thanked City Manager Kelly (referring to Kelly Pombier) for his 30-plus years of service and retirement, noting his consistent presence at community events. - Councilmember Harris: Reported on the Pride Flag Raising ceremony (June 18) and the ribbon-cutting for the Chandler Compadres Boys & Girls Club renovation. He also shared his involvement in Jack and Jill of America’s teen oratory competition and multiple Juneteenth celebrations, emphasizing the importance of ending human trafficking. - Councilmember Hawkins: Thanked City Manager Kelly for his years of service and impact. - City Manager Kelly: Recognized new Assistant to the City Manager Amelia for securing the CEASE designation. He noted that the meeting ends fiscal year 2025-26 and requested a staff photo with Council to show unity. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda (33 items) was approved with a 6-0 vote (one recusal). - No other formal actions were taken. - The next regular council meeting will occur in fiscal year 2026-27.

The meeting began with the Public Housing Authority Commission, where commissioners unanimously approved the consent agenda for June 22, 2026. The commission then adjourned and the City Council Study Session was called to order. The session featured a proclamation for Parks and Recreation Month, recognition of the 2026 Civic Program graduates, and a brief discussion on a zoning item. Consent Calendar - The Public Housing Authority Commission voted unanimously to approve items 1-3 on the consent agenda. Motion by Commissioner Orlando, seconded by Vice Chair and Sinus. All commissioners present voted yes. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were scheduled or made. Proclamation for Parks and Recreation Month - Mayor Kevin Hartke read a proclamation declaring July 2026 as Parks and Recreation Month in Chandler, highlighting the city's 70 parks and recreational programs. - Brandon Pubman, Park Superintendent, spoke about the importance of parks for community health and well-being, noting the challenge of celebrating in July heat. Recognition of Civic Program Graduates - Mayor Hartke and Amelia Krajowski, Assistant to the City Manager, recognized the 2026 Civic Program participants. The mayor encouraged graduates to use their knowledge to engage with the community. - Participants recognized: Juliet Acker, Lindsay Barnes, Alejandra Maya, Christine McKee, Jenny Miller, Nardia Padilla, Renee Potts, Michaela Kean, Melanie Smith, Stephen Fair, Antonio Taylor, Jennifer Teague, and Peyton Williams. Discussion Items - Councilmember Orlando asked staff about agenda item 9, the Arizona Commerce Center request for withdrawal. Staff explained it is a rezoning for an industrial business park (typical along Arizona Avenue) with two innovation buildings. The withdrawal is due to a pending development agreement for a railroad crossing on Ryan Road. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Proclamation and civic graduation recognized. - No formal votes were taken on the discussion item; it was informational.

The Chandler City Council held its regular meeting on April 23, 2026, beginning at the call to order with a quorum present. The meeting featured special presentations, approval of a consent agenda including charter amendment ballot questions, public comments, and current events announcements. Special Public Appearances - James R. Snediger Award: Terry Kimball, President/CEO of the Chandler Chamber of Commerce, presented the James R. Snediger Award to Police Chief Tom Dwiggins. Chief Dwiggins accepted on behalf of all Chandler public safety personnel, recalling the 1999 line-of-duty death of Officer Snediger and expressing gratitude for community and council support. - Post Office Renaming: Coi Romine, from Congressman Greg Stanton’s office, announced federal legislation to rename the downtown Chandler post office (101 North Colorado Street) as the Mayor Coy Payne Memorial Post Office Building. The legislation honors the late Mayor Coy Payne, Arizona’s first Black mayor, who also served as a councilmember and educator. The bill is working through the House with no definitive timeline. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda included items 1–21, with speakers on items 11 (charter amendments), 17 (sewer), and 20 (water). - Item 11: Four proposed charter amendments. Rick Human (resident) supported the first three technical changes but opposed the residency requirement for directors, arguing new hires at director level should live in the city. Councilmember Harris indicated he would vote no on item 11, calling the changes foundational to Chandler’s culture. - Item 17: Noah James Markham (Tempe resident) expressed excitement about sewer improvements but criticized the current odor. - Item 20: Markham thanked the city for addressing water issues, noting legislators at the state capitol are not doing their job. - The consent agenda was moved and seconded. During discussion, Councilmember Orlando clarified that the resolutions include ballot language and can be amended or removed before the June 8 deadline. Councilmember Ellis noted that putting the items on the ballot lets voters decide. The clerk clarified that only one reading of the resolutions is needed (contrary to earlier mention of a second reading). - Vote: The consent agenda carried unanimously, but Vice Mayor Inciñus dissented on item 11 only. (Note: The transcript states the motion carried unanimously while also noting dissent on item 11; the clerk confirmed the vote count as carried with one dissent on that item.) Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Beal (Chandler resident): Criticized city leadership and the Chandler Police Department for not enforcing laws, citing an incident where 8–10 officers ignored violations. He opposed e-bike regulations that allow riding on sidewalks, warned of safety risks (e-bikes traveling 28 mph crossing intersections in two seconds), and noted Chandler’s park system ranked 93rd in the U.S., well below Scottsdale’s 48th. He referenced a 1965 fatal crash involving a child on the wrong side of the road as a cautionary parallel. - Noah James Markham (Tempe resident): Raised concerns about a person openly carrying a gun in a car, urged police to monitor such activity. He praised women in leadership, specifically expressing a desire for a woman city manager. He criticized a Phoenix police incident involving ICE protestors and supported the Mesa ICE agreement, thanking Congressman Stanton for funding. He noted a Mesa ICE facility had a capacity of 21 but housed 46 people, and thanked Stanton and other officials for addressing that. Current Events & Announcements - Mayor Harkey: Invited the community to the Military Bound Ceremony on May 2 at Hamilton High School (10 a.m.–12 p.m.) honoring over 50 students enlisting in the armed forces, and to the Roads to Riches Financial Literacy Car Show & Night Market on April 25 at City Hall (5–10 p.m.), supporting scholarships. - Councilmember Poston: Attended the 100 Club’s Heroes Gala where Chandler police officers Rupert Snediger and Dallin Bacon were named Officers of the Year for saving a seven-year-old girl. - Councilmember Inciñus: Announced the Dia del Niño toy drive celebration at Galveston Elementary School on April 25 (1–5 p.m.), partnering with Chandler Unified School District and Chavez Media. - Councilmember Lindo: Spoke at the fifth annual Pacific Island Festival, noting it has moved to Chandler and is the only such festival in the East Valley. - Councilmember Harris: Championed a new local ordinance making it a class 1 misdemeanor to knowingly put any drug or substance into someone’s food or drink without consent (or attempt to do so). This gives Chandler police tools to address drink/food spiking and supports hospitality safety. He also announced graduations: himself earning an MBA in August, Councilmember Ellis earning a nurse practitioner degree, and his wife Elizabeth graduating from law school. Councilmember Ellis will receive an honorary doctorate in divinity on May 2. - Councilmember Ellis: Thanked boards and commissions for their volunteer service and encouraged residents to apply for openings via the city website or clerk’s office. - City Manager: Recognized Deputy City Manager Ryan Peters and Fleet Manager Mike Hollingsworth for the fleet being named one of the top 100 fleets nationally, and Chandler Escalante receiving the Workforce Practitioner of the Year award from the Arizona Association for Economic Development. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda was approved, with the four charter amendment resolutions set for the November 3 ballot. The deadline to modify or remove any resolution is June 8, 2026. - The city will proceed with the federal post office renaming effort. - The food and drink tampering ordinance was championed and is now in effect as a local misdemeanor. - Upcoming community events were announced: Military Bound Ceremony (May 2), Financial Literacy Car Show (April 25), Dia del Niño (April 25).

Chandler City Council Study Session - April 21, 2026\n\nThe Chandler City Council held a study session on April 21, 2026, at 6:00 PM at City Hall. The meeting included proclamations for National Police Week, Water Safety Month, and Earth Day; a briefing on proposed charter amendments for the November 2026 ballot; presentations on federal grant funding allocations for affordable housing and community development; a briefing on contracts for sober living services; and an overview of the integrated water master plan. No formal votes were taken, as this was a study session.\n\n Proclamations & Public Appearances\n- National Police Week and Peace Officers Memorial Day: Mayor Kevin Harkey proclaimed May 10–16, 2026, as National Police Week and May 15, 2026, as Peace Officers Memorial Day. Assistant Chief Perez accepted on behalf of the Chandler Police Department.\n- Water Safety Month: The Mayor proclaimed May 2026 as Water Safety Month. Chris Smith from Chandler Aquatics, along with police and fire representatives, emphasized community partnerships for drowning prevention. A retiring firefighter with 25 years of service spoke about water safety and thanked the council.\n- Earth Day: The Mayor proclaimed April 22, 2026, as Earth Day. Theo Englin and Derek Gerson from the Chandler Nature Center accepted, highlighting sustainability efforts.\n- Teen Advisory Group (TAG): Volunteers were recognized and invited for a photo with the council.\n\n Discussion Items\n\n Proposed Charter Amendments (Item 11)\nCouncilmember Orlando called for discussion on four proposed charter amendments to be placed on the November 3, 2026, general election ballot:\n1. Selection of Vice Mayor term beginning in January of each year.\n2. Residency requirements for appointed officials and department directors.\n3. Reducing ordinance readings from two to one, with council authorized to require two readings via city code for certain matters (e.g., fines, taxes, revenue, land purchases).\n4. Resign-to-run timing: resignation triggered upon filing petitions.\n\nStaff clarified that the charter language would authorize the council to require more than one reading for specific items, and that a subsequent city code would define which items require two readings. Councilmember Orlando sought clarification on ensuring state law requirements for two readings are not violated. Councilmember Poston asked about potential conflict between charter and subsequent code. Staff confirmed the language authorizes council to set more readings via ordinance, and that the city could adopt more restrictive ordinances. Council asked staff to review the language for clarity before the June 8 ballot deadline and possibly bring back amendments.\n\n Federal Grant Funding – CDBG & HOME (Items 12–14)\nCouncilmember Ellis introduced presentations by Karen (Neighborhood Resources) on three resolutions:\n- Resolution 5998: HOME Investment Partnership funds directed to tenant-based rental assistance for low/moderate income Chandler residents.\n- Resolution 5997: Annual action plan for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds, supporting public services and capital projects for decent housing and suitable living environments.\n- Resolution 5995: Homeowner Rehabilitation Program (via FSL Home Improvement) providing repairs (HVAC, roof, ADA modifications) for low/moderate income homeowners. In FY2025, 33 households were served; 70% were aged 62+. Staff reported a $13,000 increase in CDBG allocation and a $1,200 decline in HOME funds for FY2026.\n\n Sober Living Services Contracts (Item 15)\nRyan Falch presented agreements with five licensed sober living providers selected via RFP. Contracts provide 176 beds across 19 homes (some in Chandler, others in the valley) for unhoused individuals and those in recovery. Services include wraparound case management by city navigation team (behavioral health, employment, benefits). Funding primarily from opioid settlement funds and general funds. Outcomes: 78% of clients had zero income at entry; 71% did not return to homelessness in Maricopa County.\n\nCouncilmember Harris expressed concern about Chandler dollars going to homes outside Chandler, stressing that residents should remain in the community. He requested intentional efforts to find Chandler-based providers. Staff noted they did solicit all known Chandler agencies and will do further outreach. Councilmember Ellis countered that specialized licensed care is limited and expanding geographic scope ensures enough beds, noting that Chandler residents are still served and many homes are within the city.\n\n Integrated Water Master Plan (Item 20)\nCouncilmember Orlando called for a briefing on the contract with Black & Veatch for an integrated water, wastewater, and reclaimed water master plan. The 600-day effort will incorporate the 2026 General Plan land uses and, for the first time, automated meter infrastructure (AMI) daily demand data. It will guide future capital programs. Councilmember Orlando asked about flexibility for development during the study period; staff confirmed that individual development proposals would be evaluated separately and would not be delayed.\n\n Key Outcomes\n- No formal votes were taken during the study session; all items were for briefing and discussion.\n- Staff will review charter amendment language for clarity before the June 8 ballot submission deadline and may bring back revisions.\n- Council expressed support for the homeowner rehabilitation, CDBG, and HOME programs.\n- Staff will conduct additional outreach to identify Chandler-based sober living providers for future contracts.\n- The water master plan contract and scope were explained; council had no further questions.

Multiple meetings were held on this date: a Public Housing Authority (PHA) Commission regular meeting, a regular City Council meeting, and a City Council study session. The PHA meeting approved a consent agenda. The City Council meeting featured proclamations for Valley Bike Month and National Library Week, employee service recognitions, and approval of its consent agenda. The study session included discussions on supporting a Navy vessel naming, signage purchases, a grant for police equipment, a regional task force agreement, and a photo enforcement contract extension. Consent Calendar - PHA Commission approved items 1–2 unanimously. - City Council approved the consent agenda (items 1–2) unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were scheduled or received. Proclamations & Recognitions - Mayor Harkey proclaimed April 2026 as Valley Bike Month. A city staff member thanked council for supporting the annual family bike ride event on April 11, 2026. - Mayor Harkey proclaimed April 19–26, 2026 as National Library Week. Staff highlighted the newly renovated Hamilton Library and encouraged library card sign-ups. - Employee service recognitions: Tersen Delva (10 years, IT), Jennifer Honey (25 years, Communications, retirement), Liz Denning (25 years, Public Works, retirement). - Farewell to Alexis Apadaca, who is leaving the city for a state-level position. Discussion Items - Support for Naming USS Chandler: Corey Pulvar (Military & Veterans Affairs Commission) presented the effort to gain council support for naming a Navy vessel USS Chandler. Councilmember Orlando expressed support and suggested sending letters to state delegation. No vote taken; discussion only. - Purchase of Uptown Chandler Signage: Micah Miranda explained that existing pole-mounted signs are being replaced with more durable monument-style signs similar to those in the West Chandler Employment Corridor. Councilmember Orlando asked clarifying questions. - State Grant for Police Equipment: Police Chief presented a $302,000 grant from AZ DPS for a mass spectrometer and overtime for narcotics detectives. Highlighted fentanyl seizures: 2.4 million pills in 2024. Councilmember Orlando praised the grant as a first-time award. - Technical Operations Task Force IGA: Assistant Chief DeAndre proposed an IGA with DPS and Gilbert PD for a regional technical investigative task force at no cost to Chandler. Councilmember Ellis asked about ICE involvement; assured none. Councilmember Harris raised privacy concerns about cameras and listening devices; DeAndre explained they are used only for specific investigations and not for facial recognition or surveillance of the public. - Photo Enforcement Contract Extension: Assistant Chief Ski presented a three-year extension with Verra Mobility (formerly ATS) for 17 cameras at 12 intersections. Reported 37.6% reduction in injury collisions at camera intersections. Fiscal year 2024-25 net positive of $23,000 reinvested in traffic safety. Councilmember Harris expressed concerns about data breaches, calibration schedules, contract language, and privacy protection. He requested more information before a vote and noted the contract has not been revisited in 10 years. Councilmember Ellis supported the extension, noting the long-standing partnership and safety benefits. Councilmember Orlando highlighted officer cost avoidance and safety data. The item was scheduled for a vote on the following Thursday. Key Outcomes - PHA Commission and City Council consent agendas approved unanimously. - No formal votes were taken on study session items. The photo enforcement contract extension will be considered at a later meeting (Thursday following this meeting) pending answers to Councilmember Harris's questions.

The Chandler City Council held its regular meeting on February 6, 2026. Councilmember Harris was absent. The meeting opened with an invocation by Pastor Tim Kuntz and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Councilmember Poston. The council approved a consent agenda and heard unscheduled public comments on a retention basin project, Flock surveillance technology, recycling center and noise complaints. Council members also shared updates on economic development, community events, and city initiatives. Consent Calendar - Approved items 1 through 13 unanimously. Councilmember Poston noted she had checked with the city attorney and outside counsel and determined no recusal was needed on item 10. Public Comments & Testimony - Jenny Vitelli (Chandler resident) discussed the retention basin project, criticizing the sequence of analysis and construction. She said staff failed to properly analyze drainage issues and that basins are now rocked and landscaped without proper drainage testing. She complained about the aesthetic of the rock used, describing it as “crushed concrete” that doesn’t match the neighborhood. She acknowledged that staff (Dan and Jeremy) are willing to work on mitigating the gray appearance, but she urged the council to hold the rock yard accountable. - Rohit Chandra Shaker (downtown Chandler resident) expressed concerns about the city’s use of Flock’s Alpha technology. He argued the agreement contradicts Chandler’s stance on immigration enforcement, stating that Flock has shared data with ICE and DHS despite assurances, and that cities in sanctuary states have released Chandler’s data through FOIA requests. He requested a copy of the privacy terms of service and suggested suspending the Flock agreement. Councilmember requested that the city manager provide a review of the Flock services to the council. - George Richie (Akateo area resident) raised two issues: (1) difficulty disposing of antifreeze at the Chandler Recycling Center due to an appointment requirement and rude staff, calling the system “ridiculous” and urging easier access; (2) ongoing noise complaints from the Intel plant at Dobson and Akateo, claiming the noise penetrates his bedroom and that the city’s compliance measurements are invalid. Councilmember Orlando asked staff to review the recycling appointment requirement in the upcoming budget and to work with Intel on noise mitigation. - Noah James Markham (Tempe resident) suggested downtown Chandler should have more restaurants and a nightclub to attract young people, and called for a Pride parade and stronger opposition to ICE and President Donald Trump. Council Announcements & Current Events - Mayor Hartke: Announced that Chandler Airport Day hosted nearly 15,000 attendees. Congratulated Dr. Anna Battle as new Chandler Unified School District superintendent. Invited the community to the State of the City address on February 13 (reception at 5:30 p.m., remarks at 6:30 p.m.) at the Center for the Arts. Noted that Chinese New Year begins February 17, 2026 (Year of the Horse). - Councilmember Poston: Praised the downtown developer summit and the updated downtown regional area plan, saying Chandler is “open for business” in downtown redevelopment. Also thanked neighborhood preservation staff for removing stickers from light poles. - Councilmember Ellis: Announced the expansion of CE Precision Assemblies, an aerospace manufacturer, into a 40,000-square-foot facility in west Chandler, creating new jobs. Also welcomed Yol Police Pizza, opening February 9 on National Pizza Day. - Councilmember Orlando: Reminded of the Innovation Fair on February 21 at Dr. AJ Chandler Park, featuring over 160 interactive exhibits. - Councilmember Hawkins: Thanked city employees who participated in the point-in-time homeless count at 6 a.m., highlighting their compassion and effort. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously (absent: Councilmember Harris). - No formal votes were taken on public comments. Council directed staff to review Flock surveillance practices and recycling center appointment requirements. Staff will provide findings in upcoming briefings. - The public hearing moved to February 23, 2026 was noted.

The City Council of Chandler held its regular meeting on January 22, 2026, beginning with a prayer by Rabbi Mandy Deutsch and the Pledge of Allegiance. The agenda featured the recognition of the 2025 Parade of Lights winners, the unanimous approval of the consent agenda, and action on the acceptance of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. The meeting included unscheduled public comments regarding civil liberties and canal safety, followed by a variety of community event announcements and council reports. Consent Calendar - Items 1 through 28: Approved unanimously. Councilmember Landy noted that concerns previously raised regarding a specific application (Item 10) had been resolved through further communication between the applicant and residents, citing positive feedback and the applicant's proactive engagement. Public Comments & Testimony - Noah James Markham (Tempe resident): - Expressed support for the right of men to remove shirts in public spaces, including sidewalks and businesses like grocery stores and gas stations. - Argued for improvements to downtown Chandler, suggesting more buildings, restaurants, and events such as a Pride Event. - Encouraged continued investment and new ideas for the Chandler Mall. - Stated a position in favor of hiring more female police officers, citing a lack of representation. - Brooke Beal (Chandler resident): - Expressed concern regarding the city's handling of the consolidated canal and called for an address from the Bureau of Reclamation's interim regional director. - Expressed fear and indicated feeling threatened with assault after taking photos of lawbreaking on the canal, specifically regarding a parent's reaction to documenting a minor's violation. - Expressed a position that the canal is unsafe, citing criminal activity (upwards of 10 individuals breaking the law per hour) and a perceived lack of enforcement by Chief Chapman, which he argued empowers bullies. Discussion Items - Parade of Lights Awards: Recognized 2025 winners across categories including Best Lit Musical/Dance Group, Community Group, Business Group, Biggest and Brightest, and Judge's Choice. Winners included Moonlight Sirens Tribal Belly Dance Company (First Place, Musical/Dance), Santan Elementary Student Council (First Place, Community), Stars in Motion Dance School (First Place, Business), TDC Fellowship (First Place, Biggest and Brightest), and Move Martial Arts (Judge's Choice and Second Place, Community). A group photo was taken at the start of the segment. - Resolution 5970 (Financial Audit): - Julie Goucher (Accounting Senior Manager) and Joshua Jumper (Heinfeld Meach, Audit Firm) presented the annual audit for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. - The audit firm reported an "unmodified opinion" (a clean opinion) on the city's financial statements, dated November 26, 2025. - No internal control deficiencies were noted. - The city spent $33 million in federal grant expenditures reported in the single audit package. - Mayor Harkey expressed strong support, praising the accounting team and the city's fiscal responsibility. - Council Announcements: - Councilmember Poston discussed a recent joint meeting with legislative delegation members regarding water security and local control. - Councilmember Poston announced open applications for the Mayor's Committee for People with Disabilities scholarships (up to $1,000) and Disability Awareness Awards. - Vice Mayor Sinus announced upcoming events: Chandler Municipal Airport Day (Jan 24), Downtown Developer Summit (Jan 30), and the Chandler International Film Festival. - Councilmember Harris announced the "Boost and Buckaroos Barnyard Dance" (Jan 31) and passport services. - Councilmember Hawkins announced the Marty Gross Festival (Feb 7) in downtown Chandler. - Councilmember Hawkins also announced open applications for the Teen Leadership Academy (March 10). Key Outcomes - Resolution 5970: Adopted unanimously, accepting the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for fiscal year 2025 and certifying compliance with Arizona Revised Statutes (AR§§ 35-481, 41-1494). - Parade of Lights: 10 winning groups were officially recognized and photographed. - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously including the clarification on Item 10. - Public Safety: No immediate actions taken on canal safety or law enforcement enforcement positions; staff noted they would follow up on unscheduled public comments.

The Chandler Planning and Zoning Commission convened on January 21, 2026 (referred to as January 22, 2026 in this summary context), to review the first public hearing update for the Chandler 2026 General Plan. The meeting featured a comprehensive presentation by Staff and the Resident Advisory Committee chair, detailing the update process, specific policy revisions, and public engagement efforts. The Commission unanimously approved the draft General Plan, which is scheduled to be forwarded to City Council for a vote on February 5, 2026, with a potential placement on the August primary ballot for voter ratification. Consent Calendar - The Commission approved the minutes from the December 7th, December 17th, and January 7th meetings. - The Commission approved the notice of cancellation for the February 4th meeting. - All actions on the Consent Agenda were taken via unanimous voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Chair Dunn (Resident Advisory Committee Chair): Expressed strong support for the General Plan update process, commending the diverse membership of the Resident Advisory Committee (RAC) and the high level of public participation. Speaker stated that the plan "works" and requires only "tweaking" rather than a redesign. Speaker argued that the process successfully captured the concept of "build-out" and encouraged unique development and redevelopment opportunities. - Commissioner Gala: Expressed full support for the comprehensive nature of the plan, particularly noting the effectiveness of using AI and interactive displays during public engagement. Speaker praised the inclusion of infrastructure capacity checks (water and sewer) and specific language regarding "quality jobs." Speaker also expressed support for the affordability initiatives, noting that high job growth in the city creates a natural demand for local housing. - Commissioner Billstein: Asked clarifying questions regarding the amendment process for General Plan changes (noting no amendments occurred in the prior 10 years). Speaker inquired about transportation infrastructure capacity and affordable housing focus areas. Speaker expressed a position that the city has successfully balanced job growth with infrastructure planning and supports future diversity in housing types. Discussion Items Review of the Chandler 2026 General Plan Update - Staff Presentation (Lauren): Outlined the update process, which involved nearly 4,500 public interactions, including "Chandler Talks," 54 one-on-one interviews, and a mobile immersion lab. Staff noted that 88 public comments were received during the 60-day review period (October 1 to December 1), resulting in 50 revisions. - Land Use Changes: Staff explained that four land use categories were retained. Specific changes included reclassifying a downtown property from employment to residential to align with the Downtown Regional Area Plan and correcting single-family subdivisions along the Price Corridor. - Growth Areas: Two growth areas were removed due to existing specific area plans (Downtown and Air Park). "Growth Area One" was renamed from "Uptown Chandler" to "North Arizona Avenue" to align with economic development boundaries and historical naming. - Density Updates: Urban residential density in the "Neighborhood" category was increased from a minimum of 18 to 26 dwelling units per acre. Staff expressed a position that a cap was not necessary. - Housing in Commercial Zones: Language was added to allow urban residential density in "Regional Commercial" zones, contingent on infrastructure capacity (water, sewer, streets) and compatibility with surrounding uses. - Employment Zone: Updated language now explicitly welcomes high-tech manufacturing, advanced manufacturing, and next-generation software engineering. Added a provision allowing residential uses within employment zones only through "true vertical mixed-use" in designated growth areas like South Price Corridor. - Implementation Plan: A new 10-year implementation action plan was added to track departmental goals. - Light Rail: Removed language regarding future light rail, citing insufficient ridership data and lack of public discussion on the topic. - Commissioner Billstein Questions: Inquired about the process for amending the General Plan. Staff responded that amendments can only be filed once a year (in November) and must meet specific size triggers (e.g., five acres). Commissioner Billstein also asked about traffic infrastructure. Staff stated that a transportation master plan is reviewed every 5-10 years, with most arterials already at full build-out capacity. The focus for future road widening is currently on North Chandler (e.g., Warner Road) due to space constraints and expense, with plans extending into the 2030s. - Affordable Housing Discussion: Commissioner Billstein asked where affordable housing is prioritized. Staff detailed that within a mile of downtown, single-family zones are now eligible for up to a four-plex. Staff is developing pre-approved plans for accessory dwelling units (ADUs), duplexes, triplexes, and four-plexes. Additionally, the city is planning to redevelop older housing complexes (like "Villas on the Queen") to increase unit density. Resident Advisory Committee Input - Chair Dunn: Reported that the RAC, consisting of 21 members, recommended approval of the draft. The committee addressed concerns regarding "Uptown Chandler" naming and the removal of light rail references. Chair Dunn commended the public participation rate as the highest ever seen. Key Outcomes - Motion: A motion was made to approve the draft PLH 25010 Chandler General Plan Update, titled "Chandler 2026 General Plan: Evolving the Chandler Way." - Vote: The motion carried unanimously (all Aye, no opposed, no abstentions). - Next Steps: The Commission's recommendation will be transmitted to the City Council. The City Council is scheduled to vote on the draft on February 5, 2026. Following Council approval, the General Plan will be placed on the ballot for the August primary election for resident ratification. - Referral: If approved by Council and voters, the plan becomes the guiding document for future development. - Public Notice: The Commission announced "Airport Days" to be held on the upcoming Saturday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Chandler Airport.

The Chandler City Council convened on January 9, 2026, to address utility rate adjustments, solid waste ordinances, and the annual vice mayor election. Following a prayer and roll call, the council heard a presentation from Budget and Policy Director Matt Dunbar regarding necessary rate increases for water, wastewater, reclaimed water, and solid waste services due to aging infrastructure, increased operational costs, and contract adjustments. The council voted on two separate ordinances and elected Councilmember Angel Encinas as the new Vice Mayor for the 2026 term. Consent Calendar - Motion carried unanimously: Approval of the recital of the Pledge of Allegiance and the initial organizational actions. Public Comments & Testimony - Megan Richardson (Resident): Expressed concern regarding traffic and safety at Knox Gifted Academy (Hartford and Orchid Lane), citing a lack of school zone signage, crossing guards, and police presence. She urged the city to address illegal U-turns and unsafe driving. - Position: Requested city intervention and a plan to improve school safety. - Councilmember Harris: Responded to the unscheduled comment, noting that law enforcement has programs for school area surveillance and traffic calming. He suggested the city coordinate with the school district (CUSD) and emphasized that the school is a private charter, not public. - Position: Supported future administrative follow-up and inter-agency coordination to address safety concerns. Discussion Items - Utility Rate Analysis (Matt Dunbar): Presented a 15% rate increase for water and wastewater, 18% for reclaimed water, and 6% for solid waste. Key drivers included: - Replacement of high-risk water mains over a 30-year timeline. - Increased costs for CAP and SRP water purchases, treatment chemicals, and power. - Contractual increases for solid waste hauling. - A shift from biennial to annual rate adjustments to prevent large future spikes. - Councilmember Harris: Expressed support for the annual adjustment strategy to avoid future "huge holes" and requested a more granular financial spreadsheet linking CIP projects to rate impacts. He also questioned the 5-year cost of service study cycle and advocated for conducting them more frequently (every 2-3 years) to address inflation. Dunbar confirmed a new study begins July 1 of the next fiscal year but emphasized the policy allows for earlier studies if cost drivers change significantly. - Councilmember Orlando: Questioned the applicability of the $23.50 special collection fee, confirming it applies only to extra collections beyond regular service. He also asked about the volume of resident bulk pickups (confirmed as less than 2 per household on average). - Councilmember Hawkins: Asked regarding residents recycling freezers/washers, suggesting a potential city partnership with vendors for free appliance pickup to reduce liability and resident costs. Staff agreed to research vendor liability and feasibility. - Position Summary: The council broadly supported the rate increases as necessary for infrastructure maintenance and forward-thinking financial planning, with Councilmember Lando voting "no" on the water/wastewater ordinance (Item 11) citing general opposition to rate hikes during inflationary times. Key Outcomes - Ordinance 5148 (Water, Wastewater, Reclaimed Water): Motion carried to tentatively adopt the ordinance adjusting rates and fees. - Vote Tally: Majority approved; Councilmember Lando voted "no". Councilmembers Poston and Orlando did not vote (absent/recused/unrecorded in transcript, though discussion confirmed they were present). - Ordinance 5149 (Solid Waste): Motion carried unanimously to amend Chapter 44, code sections 44-1, 44-4, and 44-5. Changes include clarifying