Public Meetings - Eloy, Arizona

The Eloy City Council met on Monday, March 9, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. (the agenda listed 5:00 p.m., but the transcript indicated a 6:00 p.m. start) in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included public comments, a quarterly financial update, the approval of a consent agenda, a status update on the General Plan, and the unanimous approval of an employment contract for Mackenzie Letcher as the new City Manager. The meeting adjourned after an executive session was listed but not discussed publicly. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included: - Approval of minutes from the January 26, 2026, and February 9, 2026, work sessions. - Adoption of Resolution No. 26-1649 authorizing street name changes to twenty street segments in various Toltec subdivisions. - Consideration and ratification of Exhibit A to the First Amendment of the Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with Pinal County for continued participation in the Regional SWAT Team. - Approval of Case No. PP2024-002: Daybreak Industrial – an 8-lot subdivision on approximately 118.63 acres with General Industrial (I-2) zoning. - Adoption of Resolution No. 26-1650, Ordinance No. 26-999, and Resolution No. 26-1651 for the TES Eloy major General Plan Amendment and Rezone (338 acres at the northeast corner of West Battaglia Road and West Frontier Street) from Single-Family Residential (R1-12) to Mixed Use (MU) and Multiple-Family Residential (R-3) with a Planned Area Development Overlay (PAD). Public Comments & Testimony - Sayyidina (Eloy resident): Complained about the conduct of City Attorney Mr. Cooper and Community Development Director Daniel Seimer regarding a nuisance abatement case on his property. He alleged that the city obtained a court order to remove nuisances (abandoned cars, dead horses, etc.) but that no such nuisances existed when enforcement arrived. He claimed that the removal crew moved his property (benches, fencing, light poles, fountains) and hired a beekeeper who killed his honeybees and sprayed chemicals, harming his children and animals. He stated that he would post details online. - Brent Grizzell (representing Matera LLC, Riverside): Expressed support for the city continuing to explore bond financing mechanisms (revitalization districts, CFDs) to fund infrastructure (sewer, water, streets) for large developments, including his company's 835-acre property at Sunshine and Battaglia. He noted that such financing would make it easier for home builders to develop in Eloy. - Lenora Ruby (Eloy resident, Robson Ranch): Expressed concern about the Free Point project, citing her experience as a former school principal in Tacoma, Washington, where a chemical plant deposited sulfuric acid particulates and lead into the soil of nearby schools and neighborhoods. She urged the council to closely examine Free Point's particulate measurement practices, noting that the EPA has charged the company previously. Discussion Items - General Plan Update – Status Update and Public Review Period: Dan Symer, AICP, Community Development Director, and Ryan Stevenson of Logan Simpson presented the final phase of the General Plan update. The 60-day public review period began March 9, 2026, and will run through May 3, 2026. Key engagement statistics: 7,500 community engagements, 306 virtual questionnaire responses, 3,500 web page views, 2,300 unique subscribers, and 6 community workshops with 159 participants. The plan is organized around four themes: purposeful growth, prosperous economy, balanced environment, and resilient infrastructure. A mobile immersion lab (immersive virtual experience) will be held on March 26, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at City Hall. The Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a hearing on May 20, 2026, the council will consider adoption on June 22, 2026, and the plan will go to the November 2026 ballot for voter approval. Council members discussed outreach methods (physical copies, water bill inserts, school district collaboration) and noted that 40% of participants self-identified as Hispanic, reflecting diverse input. - Approval of Employment Contract for Mackenzie Letcher as City Manager: City Attorney Mr. Cooper presented the contract terms: an open-ended contract with a $177,210 annual salary (midpoint of city manager salary chart), a $7,200/year car allowance, a phone and technology allowance, continuing education benefits (ICMA membership and travel), annual performance reviews, and a nine-month severance if the council terminates without cause. The council read a letter of recommendation from David Malwitz, former Eloy Assistant City Manager (now in Pasadena, California). Council members expressed strong support, citing Letcher's professionalism, relationship-building skills, and vision. Letcher accepted the position, thanking his family (parents, wife Stephanie, mother-in-law Sandra) and the council for the opportunity. The motion passed unanimously (7-0). Key Outcomes - The consent agenda, including street name changes, the SWAT team IGA, the Daybreak Industrial subdivision, and the TES Eloy General Plan Amendment/Rezone, was approved by a 7-0 vote. - The General Plan update will enter its 60-day public review period (through May 3, 2026), with a mobile immersion lab on March 26, 2026, and a council adoption hearing scheduled for June 22, 2026. - The council unanimously approved the employment contract for Mackenzie Letcher as City Manager, effective immediately. Mr. Letcher will serve as City Manager with the terms discussed. - The council directed staff to bring forward the Code of Ethics resolution (passed in 2021) for all elected officials to review and sign, especially with upcoming elections.

The Eloy City Council met on Monday, February 23, 2026, at approximately 6:00 PM (agenda listed 5:00 PM) in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included presentations on affordable housing and chamber updates, public comments, approval of a consent agenda, and authorization for police vehicle equipment. The council also voted to enter executive session to discuss the city manager's employment contract. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the November 24, 2026, regular meeting. - Approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Eloy Police Department and Toltec School District No. 22 for continued assignment of a School Resource Officer (SRO). - Adopted Resolution No. 26-1643 approving Case No. CUP2025-010: a Conditional Use Permit for an AT&T wireless communication tower on a 40-acre property at 2365 West Hanna Road (R1-43 zoning). - Approved the first amendment to the Purchase and Sales Agreement with Eloy Community Development Partners, LLC for the purchase of approximately 81 acres at the northwest corner of Houser Road and 11 Mile Corner Road. - All items approved unanimously by roll call vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Scheduled Public Appearances: - Autumn Cottages Affordable Housing Presentation: Chavelle Guno, representing Autumn Community Foundation, presented plans for workforce/affordable housing. The project includes six duplexes (three-bedroom, two-bath) and a community center with a pizza cafe and community garden, located downtown on Fourth Street. She noted that Arizona has only 5.6 affordable housing units per capita. She requested the city consider waiving impact fees and public work fees, and provide incentives for workforce housing, such as rebates similar to those given to a large manufacturing plant. She stated she invested nearly $250,000 of personal funds. The city attorney noted that the presentation was informational and could not be acted upon due to open meeting laws; staff would review her requests. - Eloy Chamber of Commerce Quarterly Update: Andrew Rodriguez, Executive Director, reported membership increased from 174 in 2024 to 223 currently. Office visits rose from 1,668 in 2024 to 2,593 in 2025; phone calls from 834 to 1,443. The Chamber won the "Outstanding Membership Engagement Strategy" award at the Arizona Chamber Executives Conference, the only chamber in Arizona to receive it. The "Eloy Glow" event had 6,640 paid attendees (23.4% local, 76.6% from outside) and the flyer was viewed 180,000 times. Upcoming events include a golf tournament, farmers market, health fairs, basketball tournament, Cinco de Mayo Fiesta, softball tournament, and Memorial Day event. - Unscheduled Public Comments: - Jody Baronson (Eloy resident): Expressed concern about the cancellation of the $16 food box program at the farmers market, which affected approximately 120 people. She asked that the city not deny food to elderly, families, and disabled individuals, and requested better communication to avoid overbooking. - Mr. Sayed: Invited the council and public to break the Ramadan fast across the street at the Muslim community center, offering free food. He also mentioned his organization is donating nearly 20 acres for a similar nonprofit project. - Tahim: Also invited attendees to share food and mentioned distributing toys. Reports & Announcements - Mayor’s Announcements (Mayor Sutton): - Attended a budget retreat on February 13; noted reduced funding for next year. - Met with owner of new Plate and Pallet restaurant (former Encore space); opening possible soon. - Met with County Supervisor Videlello regarding solar projects; attended Solar Neighborhood meeting. - Spoke to Arizona State House Transportation Committee requesting $8.2 million for Houser Road completion. - Attended ribbon cutting for MHO Hotel on Sunland Gin Road; City of Eloy cut the ribbon with Congressman Ciscomani, who secured $1 million for resurfacing Frontier Street. - Attended groundbreaking for Pinal Hispanic Council’s Tiny Home Project. - Council Member Announcements: - Council Member Curtis: Attended Florence State of the City Address; impressed with their junior city council program; suggested exploring similar program for Eloy. - Council Member Garcia: Also attended tiny home groundbreaking; praised mental health focus. Congratulated Santa Cruz Valley Union High School wrestling team for state champions. - Council Member Valderas: Attended Eloy Air Park area plan meeting; pleased with resident engagement. Attended budget retreat. - Council Member Galindo: Attended Urban Land Institute Trends Day conference; discussed topics including TSMC’s impact, energy gap (future nuclear), housing policy debate, and economic uncertainty. - City Manager Announcements: - Summer hiring for aquatics and recreation: 30 positions, $15-$19/hour, flexible scheduling, recruitment open now. - Spring break camp at Troy Thomas Community Center: March 9-12 and 16-19, 7:30 AM to 4 PM, registration online. - Nitrate update: Blending water reduced nitrate levels below threshold; official ADEQ review in April; notice of violation remains; bottled water available at City Hall for residents (one case per week per household with water bill). Discussion Items - Business Item A – Acceptance of Proposal for Police Vehicle Up-fit: Council considered a proposal from MHQ of Arizona for emergency up-fit services for two 2025 Ford F-150 Responder Police Trucks, priced at $65,000 per Arizona State Contract CTR078487, funded by a one-time $200,000 state legislative appropriation. After no questions, the item was approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda was approved unanimously (all items A-D). - Business Item A (police truck up-fit) was approved unanimously. - The council voted unanimously (all present) to enter executive session to discuss the city manager’s employment contract and legal matters, pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.03(A)(3) and (4). The session was closed to the public. Note: The agenda listed the meeting start time as 5:00 PM, but the mayor called the meeting to order at approximately 6:00 PM.

The Eloy Planning and Zoning Commission met on February 18, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting covered consent agenda items, two public hearings and recommendations for major development projects (TES Eloy and Houser Crossing), and informational updates. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Case PP 2024-002 (Daybreak Industrial): An eight-lot subdivision on approximately 118.63 acres with General Industrial (I2) zoning, requested by Ryan Montalano of Colliers Engineering & Design on behalf of Farmo L Cluck L Cum Farrell LLC, EY 660 LC, and Drake 1320 LLC. Staff presented a modified stipulation (highlighted in yellow) clarifying in‑lieu fee calculations. The commission approved the consent agenda as amended, moving the item forward unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Sandra Martin (Robson Ranch resident): Asked whether the Houser Crossing project would include low‑income housing funded by the federal government. The applicant clarified that no specific developer for affordable housing is currently identified, but the developer is committed to workforce housing. The chair noted that the current action is only a rezoning decision; detailed site plans will come later. - Audience member (name not stated): Asked whether a new fire station would be needed for the Houser Crossing area. City staff explained that response times are currently within acceptable limits and a new station is not immediately warranted, though one may be needed as the area grows. Discussion Items - TES Eloy (Case GPA 2025-001 / RZPAD 2025-002): Request by Julie Vermillion (CBL Consultants) on behalf of I10 E 11 mile corner and Batangria drive 453 LLC. The project proposes a major general plan amendment from Medium Density Residential and General Industrial to Mixed Use, and a rezone from Single‑Family Residential (R1‑12) to Mixed Use with a Planned Area Development (PAD) overlay on approximately 338 acres at the northeast corner of West Patagonia Road and West Frontier Street. The applicant highlighted projected development impact fees (≈$3 million for parks, ≈$3.5 million for roadways, ≈$2.5 million for public safety), commercial/retail opportunities, job creation, and water‑use reductions from industrial/office uses. No public opposition was received. The commission unanimously approved the request. - Houser Crossing (Case GPA 2025-005 / RZPAB 2025-004): Request by Don Louie Fontana (Boomer) on behalf of the City of Eloy for a minor general plan amendment from Light Industrial to Community Commercial and High Density Residential, and a rezone to General Commercial (C2) and Multi‑Family Residential (R3) with PAD and Innovation overlays on approximately 79 acres at the northwest corner of Houser Road and 11 Mile Corner. The property is city‑owned and was awarded via RFP to Eloy Community Development Partners. The applicant cited a market study, the site’s strategic location near future Houser Road extension, and the need for workforce housing. Staff noted modified stipulations (items 11, 17, and 19) clarifying property sale and improvement obligations. The commission unanimously approved with those clarifications. Key Outcomes - Approved the Consent Agenda (Daybreak Industrial) with modified stipulations. - Approved TES Eloy rezone and general plan amendment, forwarding a positive recommendation to City Council. - Approved Houser Crossing rezone and general plan amendment, forwarding a positive recommendation to City Council. - The next regular meeting will be held on March 11, 2026, at 6:00 PM (with a possible work session starting at 5:30 PM). Informational Items - Staff reported on the second open house for the Air Park Master Plan, which had about 20 attendees; concerns included past master plan communication and future infrastructure in platted subdivisions from the 1960s–70s. - Ordinance 26‑997 (SkyDive Arizona, RZPAD 2025‑003) was approved by City Council. - The MHO Hotel on Sunland Gin held a ribbon‑cutting ceremony on February 19, 2026, with owners renovating rooms at an approximate $60‑per‑night rate.

The Eloy City Council met on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 6:13 PM. The meeting included public comments, council and city manager announcements, a police department activity report, approval of the consent agenda, a discussion and vote on Well 3 regulatory compliance services, a public presentation praising the interim city manager, and an executive session for a performance review. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (7-0) the consent agenda, including routine items. Note: Item B's actual dollar amount was corrected to $169,924.76. Public Comments & Testimony - Sayed Taha (resident, 3100 South Bearford): Invited the city council, community, and police to Ramadan breaking-fast dinners at his property (community center) on Saturdays in the upcoming month. Requested a few days' extension from the city to allow seating and enjoyment during Ramadan. Also noted that the property will be dedicated as a nonprofit mosque, community center, and church for public use. - Donna (community member near Toltec and Batanglia): Complained about unlicensed food vendors setting up in a vacant lot next to her community, with up to four vendors observed on Saturday and one already present that evening. Asked whom to call to address the issue. Discussion Items - Mayor's Announcements: Highlighted Councilmember Valdraska's performance in “Little Shop of Horrors” at Robson Ranch; noted the success of the pet vaccination clinic at City Hall; addressed concerns about elevated nitrates in the water supply, assuring the council that the situation is being closely monitored. - Councilmember Announcements: - Councilmember Valdraska: Reported on the Point-in-Time Homeless Count (Jan 30) in Eloy, noting a transient population needing resources like more trash bins, donated shower vouchers, and accessible water spigots. Also judged the Pinal County School Spelling Bee, with three winners advancing. - Vice Mayor Tarango: Attended the Florence Chamber Awards dinner (Jan 31) and the Central Arizona Project Pinal Stakeholder Dinner (Feb 4). Discussed Colorado River negotiations, noting Arizona reuses 52% of water vs. 5% in the upper basin, and that Pinal County’s agriculture has taken the brunt of cuts to protect Lake Mead. - Councilmember Curtis: Attended the Florence Chamber Awards, noted positive comments about Eloy from speaker Craig McFarland. - Councilmember Schneider: Thanked the council and public for supporting the theater production at Robson Ranch. - City Manager Rachel (Acting): Provided a detailed update on the elevated nitrate levels in the city’s water system: - Current status: Nitrate levels at 10.3 mg/L (down from 11 mg/L after recent testing), still above the threshold to remove the Tier 1 notification. - Cause: Overlapping operational challenges including emergency repairs to Well 4 and long-term repairs to Well 3 (down 6-8 months, expected completion in April). Blending water via Well 4 is ongoing. - Support for families: Two pallets of water available at City Hall for infants under 6 months; families must show a utility bill to receive one case per week. - Long-term solutions: Two capital improvement projects approved, including a nitrate filtration system at Pump Station 1 (completion within months). Well 3 repair includes an item on tonight’s consent agenda. - Urged residents to subscribe to the city’s alert system for emergency notices. - Police Chief Benyalez: Presented the January 2026 police activity report: - Department updates: Officer recruit Tad Mendez graduating from academy Feb 12; three vacancies for officers and three dispatcher vacancies (one dispatcher leaving). Dispatch center averages 8,600 911 calls/year with 9.4-second pickup time. - Community engagement: Hosted volunteer brunch, Citizens Academy, cops and clergy meeting, and two pet vaccination clinics (combined totals: 230 rabies, 243 parvo, 90 bordetella, 24 cat combos, 31 microchips, 66 licenses). - Notable incidents: Attempted arson at community action building (suspect arrested); fraud where victim lost $25,000 to “Microsoft” scam (investigation ongoing); homicide of Maria Guadalupe Ocuna on Dec 21 remains unsolved (reward up to $1,000). - Statistics: January 2026 – 1,305 police calls, 303 fire calls, 619 911 calls, 2,121 total dispatch calls; 142 incident investigations; 264 traffic citations; 16 traffic collisions; 184 public records requests. - Expressed concern about dispatcher burnout due to mandatory 16-hour overtime. - Public Presentation (Mr. and Mrs. Shu): Commended Interim City Manager Letcher (and Jeremy) for their work on the House of Road waterline phase two project, stating more progress was made in the last 2.5 months than in the previous three years by staff. Noted the option presented was comprehensive and thoughtful, though not yet to the finish line. - Item 8A – Well 3 Regulatory Compliance Services: Staff recommended approval of a proposal from Wilson Engineers for regulatory compliance services (ADEQ ATC and AOC permits) not to exceed $175,000, funded through reallocation within the water CIP with no net impact. The council approved unanimously (7-0). Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (7-0). - Item 8A (Wilson Engineering): Approved unanimously (7-0) for Well 3 regulatory compliance services up to $175,000. - Executive Session: Council voted to convene into executive session (ARS 38-431.03 A.1,3,4) for a three-month performance review of the interim city manager, including evaluation and contract negotiations. - Meeting Adjourned: Following the executive session, the council voted to adjourn.

On February 9, 2026, the Eloy City Council held a meeting featuring a presentation from Free Point Ecosystems regarding a proposed advanced recycling facility in Eloy, followed by unscheduled public appearances. The presentation detailed the company's plastic pyrolysis technology, its operations, permits, and community benefits. Three members of the public spoke in opposition, raising concerns about environmental and health impacts, compliance issues at the company's existing plant, and the industry's track record. Discussion Items - Free Point Ecosystems Presentation: The Chief Development Officer for Free Point Ecosystems presented an overview of their proposed facility. The company takes waste plastic (polyethylenes, polypropylenes, polystyrenes) and uses pyrolysis (heating in the absence of oxygen) to convert it into a recycled oil and gas product, which is sold to petrochemical companies like Dow, DuPont, Exxon Chemical, and Shell. The process is certified by ISCC, a nonprofit entity, and yields about 95% hydrocarbon vapor and 5% char. Approximately 10% of the hydrocarbon stream is used to heat the kilns. The facility in Eloy would be the company's Southwest hub, processing up to 175 million pounds of waste plastic annually, with over 100 employees and 30 inbound trucks per day. The company already operates a similar facility in Hebron, Ohio. Site plan approval was received in December 2025; an air permit modification was submitted to Pinal County in November 2025, and all regulated emissions fall under a minor source air permit. The presentation included a discussion of sorting, contamination removal, and rail access improvements. Council members asked about plastic types, job skill levels, truck routes, rail congestion, and process safety. Public Comments & Testimony - Ralph DeChew (from Green Valley): Expressed opposition, drawing parallels to the Hinkley, California water contamination case. Urged the council to prioritize resident safety over tax revenue and requested a copy of the presentation. - Kevin Green (from Tucson, representing Stop Waste Tucson): Raised serious concerns based on Free Point's Hebron facility record, citing at least three notices of violation from Ohio EPA for visible emissions, excess particulate matter, and venting volatile chemicals through an open flare (79 bypass events between February and June 2025, ranging from 30 minutes to 59 hours). He noted a pattern of technical and financial failures in the plastic pyrolysis industry, with facilities in Oregon, Utah, Texas, and Nevada having closed. He recommended an independent review before moving forward and provided an information packet. - Rita O'Connell (from New Mexico, National Organizer for Beyond Plastics): Argued that chemical recycling is a false solution, noting that only 9 of 11 operational facilities are running, often below capacity, and that even if fully operational they would handle only 2% of U.S. plastic waste. She questioned ISCC certification, citing fraud investigations in the EU and UK, and criticized mass balance accounting (allowing 5% recycled content to be called recycled). She referenced a 2023 Department of Energy study finding that only up to 6% of waste entering a pyrolysis facility becomes recycled plastic. She highlighted that Eloy is already in the 94th percentile nationally for ozone in the environmental justice index, and the facility would permit 100 tons of volatile organic compounds annually, exacerbating asthma and heart disease. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken during this portion of the meeting. The mayor thanked both presenters and public speakers, closed the discussion, and announced a 10-minute break before the next agenda item. No directives or referrals were made.

The Eloy City Council met on Monday, January 26, 2026 at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included a public appearance, reports from the Mayor, Council, and City Manager, a consent agenda approved unanimously, and three business items—all of which were also approved unanimously. Councilmember Vlad Laska was excused. Public Comments & Testimony - Joseph Caruso (United Way of Pinal County) presented the Reading by Third Grade initiative in partnership with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. He stated that only 27% of Pinal County third graders read proficiently, and only 13% of Eloy third graders do—well below state and national averages. He asked the Council to encourage families with children under five to sign up for the program, to seek volunteers (via volunteerpinal.org), and to consider sponsorships ($31 provides 12 books per child). He also announced an annual golf tournament on April 24, 2026 at Francisco Grande Hotel to support the initiative. Council members asked about coordination with other programs (e.g., Pinal Alliance for Economic Growth and AARP tutoring) and about the Friend, Family and Neighbor program serving 351 families with informal childcare training. Mr. Caruso agreed to provide additional information for social media promotion. Mayor’s and Council Reports - Mayor Sutton reported on the 30th annual Legislative Day at the Arizona League of Cities and Towns, where he served as co-chair. Key legislative takeaways: proposed elimination of property tax for seniors who own their homes (with questions about secondary mortgages); a possible summer gas tax holiday; EV impact fees including an $80 registration fee; discussion of dropping data center incentives (currently untaxed interior equipment); and a proposed one-cent-per-gallon water tax. He noted the Arizona Smart Fund is down to about $15 million and could be exhausted within six months, impacting local matching grants. He also attended a Zoom call on the nation’s 250th birthday (semi-quincentennial) celebration on July 4, 2026, and the Eloy Chamber of Commerce Gala where Officer Corona was recognized for life-saving efforts. Finally, he attended a Pinal Regional Transportation Authority (PRTA) meeting regarding keeping transportation funds within Pinal County. - Councilmember Curtis attended the Martin Luther King Jr. Breakfast and March (Eloy was the first municipality nationally to recognize MLK Day) and visited the Senior Center, noting active programming and full parking. He reminded about the Point-in-Time Homeless Count on Wednesday (Casa Grande) and Friday (Eloy, meeting at CARA at 8 AM). - Councilmember Schneider attended the annual MLK student march (led by Paul’s crew, from kindergartners to 8th graders), the CDOU annual meeting, and the MLK March on January 19. He also met with Keith Watkins of the Arizona Commerce Authority to discuss extending fiber optics to rural communities and improving the site-selection process for businesses. The Commerce Authority now uses checklists from companies rather than local advertising; they offered to help Eloy fill out requests to stay competitive. - City Manager Matt McKinsey announced the Father-Daughter Banquet on February 6 (6-9 PM at Robson Ranch, $20 per person residents/$30 non-residents, pre-registration required); the Eloy PD Citizens Academy on February 7 (8 AM-5 PM, with seven applicants so far, contact David Crane); and an Air Park Master Plan community outreach meeting on February 11 at 6 PM at the Toltec Senior Center. Consent Calendar All items on the consent agenda (Items VII.A through VII.I) were approved unanimously by roll call. These included: - Approval of minutes from January 12, 2026 regular meeting. - Purchase of one Ford F-150 Police Responder truck from San Tan Ford ($54,953.32), funded by insurance settlement. - MOU with Pinal County Sheriff’s Office for 911 telephone bill facilitation. - Authorization to use Sunland Asphalt for pavement preservation on N. Madison St. and W. 2nd Pl. (not to exceed $105,000). - Approval of Final Plat (Case FP2025-008) for Desert Septic, a 1.84-acre lot reconfiguration at 4650 and 4712 N Tumble Weed Road. - Purchase of a Next-Generation Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS) from DataWorks Plus (not to exceed $28,000). - Acceptance of a Sub-recipient Agreement with Pinal County for CDBG Projects 30280 (ADA Ramp Improvement). - Approval to submit a grant application to Pinal County for $130,000 for main water valve improvements. Discussion Items Item VIII.A – Acceptance of FY 2024-2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR) Brian Wright introduced the audit, and Josh from Heinfeld, Meech & Co. presented. He reported an unmodified (clean) audit opinion, no internal control deficiencies, and no findings on federal compliance (CDBG grant). The financial statements were dated December 16, 2025. The Council accepted the ACFR unanimously (7-0). Item VIII.B – Change Order to Veregy LLC for Odor Control Engineering Design ($115,000) Staff recommended approval for $115,000 change order to allow Sunrise Engineering to provide odor-control design and permitting for the belt filter press at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. ADEQ required odor control after increasing the threshold distance from 300 to 1,000 feet, which was not in the original scope. Without ADEQ approval, the press cannot be placed into service. Construction of the odor control system will be funded separately in FY 2026-27 via utility obligation bonds. The change order covers only engineering. The belt press construction is expected to take 9-12 months after approval. The Council approved the change order unanimously (7-0). Item VIII.C – Change Order to CAIDD for Security Wall at Well 3 Replacement Site (not to exceed $125,000) Staff recommended approval of a change order to Central Arizona Irrigation and Drainage District (CAIDD) for constructing an 8-foot masonry security wall (approx. 270 feet, one main gate, and a 20-foot road gate) around the new Well 3 site at the southwest corner of Trekell Park. The wall is required per EPA and ADEQ guidelines and the America’s Water Infrastructure Act of 2018. The item was omitted from the original proposal but sufficient funds exist within the FY 2025-26 Water CIP (reallocation, no net increase). The Council approved the change order unanimously (7-0). Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved (7-0). - FY 2024-2025 ACFR: Accepted (7-0). - Change Order – Veregy LLC ($115,000): Approved (7-0). - Change Order – CAIDD ($125,000): Approved (7-0). - Next Steps: The City will proceed with odor-control engineering design and security wall construction; staff will reallocate CIP funds accordingly. The City Clerk will distribute United Way information to council for social media. The homeless count will take place January 28 (Casa Grande) and January 30 (Eloy). The Father-Daughter Banquet is February 6, PD Citizens Academy February 7, and Air Park Master Plan meeting February 11.

On January 26, 2026, the Eloy City Council held a work session to receive a presentation and discuss the findings of the city's employee compensation and classification study. The study was conducted by HR&A consultants to ensure competitive, equitable, and fiscally responsible pay structures. No formal votes were taken; the discussion will inform budget decisions at an upcoming retreat. Discussion Items - Employee Compensation and Classification Study Presentation: Consultants presented a comprehensive market analysis comparing Eloy’s pay ranges to relevant labor markets (public sector, private, and non-profit in the region). Of 61 jobs studied (out of 90 total), 25 positions were found to be 5% to 9.9% below market, and another 25 positions were more than 10% below market. The remaining jobs were within ±5% of market and considered aligned. Key recommendations included updating the pay structure (grades 101–125 with 5% step separations, 40% spread for blue-collar, 50% for professional/management) and providing 3–5% salary increases for all employees, with larger adjustments for those significantly below market. - Council Discussion and Concerns: Councilmembers raised several points: - Inflation vs. wage growth: A councilmember noted that past high inflation (8.3% in 2022) eroded purchasing power, and asked whether wage increases truly keep up. The consultant explained they use the Employment Cost Index (ECI) as a more stable measure, currently at 3.6%, and that real wage increases this year were only 1.1% after inflation. - Competitive pressure: A councilmember expressed concern about the impact of the new Santan Valley incorporation, which will increase competition for talent, especially in blue-collar technical jobs (public works, utilities). The consultant agreed that new entities typically drive up wages, reinforcing the need for competitive pay to retain institutional knowledge. - Health insurance costs: Councilmember Galindo asked about projected benefit increases, noting that any raise could be eaten by higher premiums. Staff (Sylvia) reported that initial projections show double-digit increases, but the city has historically secured strong rates. The city’s health benefits—including a $1,000 maximum out-of-pocket for families—were highlighted as a major retention tool, even outweighing salary differences. - Retention vs. recruitment: A councilmember questioned the balance between salary and work environment. The consultant noted that research shows supervision and engagement are more critical than money for retention. Staff emphasized the city’s employee appreciation efforts and the value of low premiums and co-pays. - Timing: Staff indicated that final cost figures for compensation and benefits will be presented at the upcoming budget retreat. Health insurance numbers will be known in 30–45 days. Key Outcomes - The council received the presentation and discussion, with no formal action taken. - The consultant’s recommendation of 3–5% raises and targeted adjustments for below-market positions will be factored into the budget retreat discussions. - Council directed staff to return with more detailed cost projections, including the impact of health insurance increases, before making final compensation decisions. - The meeting adjourned with a note that the regular council session would follow in 26 minutes.

Note: The agenda listed the meeting start time as 5:15 PM, but the chair stated the time as 6:00 PM sharp at the beginning of the meeting. This discrepancy is noted. The Planning & Zoning Commission convened on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Eloy City Council Chambers. The meeting included approval of minutes, a consent agenda item, a non-action public hearing on a major general plan amendment, informational presentations on the airport master plan, general plan update, and airpark area plan, and commissioner updates. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The commission voted unanimously (7-0) to approve the December 17, 2025, meeting minutes with clarifications. Corrections were made to reflect that Item V (Roman number 4) was discussion only (JW Water work in progress, later determined to be proceeding without a permit), Item VI (Roman number 6) was heard with no action, and Item VII (Roman number 7, Hideout Ranch) was a motion that passed with staff conditions. A typographical quote was clarified. - Case CUP2025-010: AT&T Wireless Communication Tower: A conditional use permit for a wireless facility on a 40-acre property at 2365 West Hanna Road (zoned R1-43). The public hearing was opened and closed with no public comments. The commission voted unanimously (7-0) to approve the consent agenda item. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public hearing for the consent agenda item or the non-action public hearing for the TES Eloy general plan amendment. Discussion Items - Case GPA2025-001: TES Eloy – Major General Plan Amendment (Non-Action Hearing): Julie Vermillion of Coe & Van Loo Consultants presented a request to amend the General Plan for approximately 338 acres at the northeast corner of West Battaglia Road and West Frontier Street from Medium Density Residential and General Industrial to Mixed-Use. The site currently has an odd patchwork of land uses and includes a city-owned wastewater treatment plant. The applicant held a neighborhood meeting with no opposition received. The proposed mixed-use designation would allow a flexible transition between industrial and residential uses. The commission asked no questions and closed the public hearing with no action taken. - Airport Master Plan Implementation and Capital Improvements Program Update: Christina Wazniak, Airport Manager, presented the recently completed airport master plan (accepted by council February 10, 2025) and the Airport Capital Improvement Program (ACIP) for 2025-2035. Key projects include drainage improvements (Phase 2 completed, Phase 3 and 4 in design), T-hangar rehabilitation, apron rehabilitation, land acquisition for an automated weather observing system, and new taxi lanes for hangar development. The airport has a hangar waitlist of 65 people but only 12 T-hangars. Funding relies heavily on FAA and ADOT grants (e.g., city share for FY2025-26 was $75,000 on $750,000 total). The commission discussed the possibility of private land leases to generate revenue for hangar construction. - General Plan Update – Mapping the Future Outreach Summary: Heather Garverino of Logan Simpson presented the outreach summary. Nearly 4,000 people have been engaged through 61 listening sessions and workshops since September 2025. The 60-day public review of the draft General Plan will begin January 29, 2026. A mobile immersion lab (30-foot curved screen) is planned for late March to visualize community feedback. The final plan will go to the commission in May, council in June, and a ballot vote in November 2026. Commission members were encouraged to act as ambassadors during the 120-day rest period after council adoption. The commission asked about ballot language (standard state-mandated yes/no) and access to previous feedback summaries. - Eloy Airpark Area Plan – Existing Conditions Report and Initial Outreach Summary: Heather Garverino presented the area plan process. The first questionnaire (online) received 114 comments, 335 views, and 70 completed responses, with strong engagement from 36–50-year-old long-term residents. Key themes: strong skydiving identity, desire for commercial amenities, economic development, safety, and compatibility. Existing conditions report (150 pages) completed. A second questionnaire will launch January 26, 2026, and a visioning workshop is set for February 11, 2026, at the Toltec Senior Center. The draft boundary map will be discussed at the March 11, 2026 commission meeting. The commission discussed whether the airpark designation implies mandatory resources or FAA implications. Staff clarified that the airpark plan is a planning overlay (specific plan) with no federal mandates, but it will help guide infrastructure planning and land use transitions. The FAA height review applies within 20,000 feet of the runway regardless. - Informational Items: - Mayor Sutton reported that the Hideout Ranch rezoning (C2) and conditional use permit (commercial entertainment) both passed the City Council 7-0 on January 20, 2026. - Commissioner Lopez raised concerns about the Bluestone Motel (Sunland Gin Road) appearing abandoned and an eyesore. Staff (Dan) provided an update: the property was shut down for environmental issues three years ago, remediation (cesspool demolition, soil remediation) is underway, and the owner is working to connect to city water/sewer. The acting city manager is in discussions about rehab. Commissioner Lopez suggested possible demolition. - Staff announced that the March 2026 Planning & Zoning Commission meeting has been rescheduled from March 18 to March 11, 2026, to accommodate spring break and other activities. The following meeting will be in late April. Key Outcomes - Minutes of December 17, 2025, approved unanimously (7-0). - Case CUP2025-010 (AT&T Tower) approved unanimously (7-0). - No action taken on TES Eloy General Plan Amendment (non-action hearing). - Hideout Ranch rezoning and CUP passed City Council 7-0 (informational). - Commission directed staff to investigate and report on the Bluestone Motel status at a future meeting. - The next regular meeting was set for March 11, 2026, at 5:15 PM (agenda time) / 6:00 PM (transcript time). - Commissioners were encouraged to attend the February 11, 2026, airpark visioning workshop and the March general plan mobile immersion lab.

The Eloy City Council met on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 5:00 PM (the meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM per the transcript) in the Eloy City Council Chambers. The meeting included a break for executive session, routine consent agenda approvals, public comments on a proposed chemical plant, and a series of public hearings and votes on the Hideout Ranch Entertainment Center. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approved as a block: Resolutions 26-1639, 26-1640, 26-1641, and 26-1642 authorizing Brian Wright to deposit, transfer, and withdraw monies with Enterprise Bank and Trust, the Local Government Investment Pool, and Western Alliance Bank. - Resolution 26-1643 adopting the amended consolidated rate and fee schedule for Community Development and Public Works, effective February 16, 2026. - Contract No. 2026-02-COE with Gould 1st Construction, LLC for code enforcement remediation services. - Preliminary Plat PP2025-001 (Sunshine Industrial Park) – 26 lots on 148.36 acres, Light Industrial zoning. - Ordinance 26-997 approving RZPAD2025-003 (Skydive Arizona) – rezoning 76 acres to Light Industrial (I-1) and General Industrial (I-2) with Planned Area Development Overlay. - Resolution 26-1647 and Ordinance 26-998 (Eloy 310) – major General Plan Amendment from Community Commercial and Light Industrial to Mixed-Use, and rezone from R1-12 to I-1 and R-3 on 310 acres. - Memorandum of Understanding with Desert Rose Bahá’í Institute for emergency cooperation via DRBI Radio Station. Public Comments & Testimony - Unscheduled Public Comment: A resident (name not stated) raised concerns about the planned FreePoint Ecosystems plant, describing it as a high-temperature chemical processing plant rather than a manufacturing plant. He requested a 15-minute briefing from retired EPA manager Kevin Green, which he had previously requested from the interim city manager two months prior without response. He left informational packets for council members. The mayor acknowledged the request. Discussion Items - Mayor’s Announcements: Mayor Sutton highlighted recent events including the Reach Across America wreath-laying, Christmas tree lighting, Land Advisors annual update (Eloy mentioned multiple times), Love’s grand opening (with Wendy’s and Dunkin’ Donuts), Chamber mixer, staff window decorating contest (finance first, police second, admin third), senior center gift distribution, and a meeting with Arizona Water president. - Council Members’ Announcements: Councilmembers reported on the Pinal County Partnership breakfast (panel of mayors discussed growth, affordable housing, infrastructure, and legislative challenges), the Jason Lopez dedication ceremony, and upcoming golf tournaments supporting St. Helen of the Cross, Eloy Lions Club, and United Way’s Dolly Parton Imagination Library. Councilmember Galindo urged caution about citizen initiatives that could delay development, citing recent annexation and data center votes in other cities. - Interim City Manager Announcements: Upcoming events: MLK youth march (Jan 15), vaccination clinic (Jan 17), MLK Day celebration (Jan 19, Eloy Junior High), and the annual father-daughter banquet (Feb 6, pre-registration required). - Police Chief Briefing: Chief Bignalis presented 2026 goals: strengthening training and leadership, community engagement (including a public-facing crime mapping tool expected mid-February), staffing and succession planning (adding community service officers, dispatchers, etc.), and leveraging technology (Peregrine, flock cameras, AI-assisted report writing). Traffic collisions were attributed to speed, inattention, and impairment; a traffic enforcement unit will be deployed. Hideout Ranch Entertainment Center (Items VIII.A through VIII.E) - Minor General Plan Amendment (GPA2025-003): Public hearing to change 19.75 acres from Parks/Open Space to Community Commercial. Applicant Kevin Peterson (Petersen Eloy 501, LLC) described plans to repurpose the old San Miguel Golf Course clubhouse into a restaurant and event center with outdoor space. Several residents from Grand Valley Ranch spoke in favor, citing community engagement and potential benefits. One speaker asked for delay over safety/security concerns. The council voted unanimously to adopt Resolution 26-1644. - Rezone (RZPAD2005-63.A1): Public hearing to rezone the same property from Open Space Recreational, Multi-Family Residential, and Single-Family Residential to General Commercial with PAD. Modifications allowed indoor commercial entertainment for up to 150 persons and outdoor events up to 300 persons by right, with a management plan for larger events. Staff noted noise limits at property boundary (70 decibels). Residents expressed concerns about noise, traffic, drainage, and accountability; others supported the project. The council voted unanimously to adopt Ordinance 26-996. - Adoption of Public Record (Resolution 26-1648): Declared the PAD Development Plan a public record. Passed unanimously. - Conditional Use Permit (CUP2025-008): Public hearing for outdoor commercial entertainment for events between 300 and 600 persons. Staff explained that events above 600 require a special event permit and a second permanent access road. The applicant agreed to conduct a traffic impact analysis and to limit outdoor music to 10 PM (though city code allows 11 PM). Councilmember Garcia expressed support for a phased approach. Passed unanimously via Resolution 26-1645. - Development Agreement (Resolution 26-1646): Authorized the mayor to execute a development agreement for a comprehensive Traffic Impact Analysis covering the entire 300-acre property. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda was approved by a 7-0 roll call vote. - The FreePoint Ecosystems briefing request was acknowledged; no action taken. - All five Hideout Ranch Entertainment Center items (GPA, rezone, public record, CUP, development agreement) were approved unanimously with no dissenting votes. Councilmember Sutton emphasized that the city will take complaints seriously and hold the developer accountable. - The meeting adjourned after the final vote.