OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD
Record of Proceedings

Bullhead City Council Meeting Summary: August 5, 2025

City Council — Tuesday, August 5, 2025
BodyBullhead City, Arizona
SessionCity Council
DateTuesday, August 5, 2025
StatusFILED
Video Record
0:00 / 2:04:44

Transcript — Verbatim
2:54

Good evening.

2:55

Today is Tuesday, August fifth, twenty twenty-five.

2:58

It is five thirty, time to call this meeting to order.

3:04

All council members are present.

3:11

If you would like to, please stand and join us.

6:17

Another project.

8:41

City Council members and city staff.

8:45

My name is Ashley, and I'm a Bullhead City resident, along with my friends, Daniel, Jalen, Laylani, Captains John, and Misty.

8:55

If I might for just one moment, I assume you're a group.

10:27

One more.

10:29

That's okay.

11:50

We just want to thank you so much for the opportunity just to come and share a little bit of what our youth were able to go to music camp.

11:57

We had, I think it was third twelve or thirteen youth that went to music camp.

12:01

It was a blessing to uh go all the way to Heber and come back.

12:05

It was a little cooler up there.

12:07

Sorry for you guys that stayed behind and suffered in the heat.

12:10

Uh, but it was a blessing and it was an honor.

12:12

I just want to share a little bit of what they learned, and uh, we'll might be able to come back in a three months or so and show uh their continued progress.

12:19

God bless you all, and thank you.

12:21

Thank you.

12:45

I'm a board member of Riverview RV Resort at 2000 Raymer Road, and I am here representing our over fifty-five community of six hundred and ninety-seven lots and about twelve hundred residents.

12:58

Our issue is with the handling of the water shut off and turning back on to our entire park.

13:04

Residents incurred damages to their homes, water heaters, and water lines due to the negligence of the water department and not adjusting and monitoring the amount of water pressure coming into our park.

13:17

On July 24th, 2025, the city shut off the water to the entire park without notice.

13:23

We were not prepared.

13:24

Once the city did the repairs, the water was turned back on without any city worker checking the pressure reducing valve coming into the park.

13:34

No one in the park can get to this valve, only the city workers have access.

13:40

PSI came into the park at 120 without any reduction down to the normal sixty to sixty-five PSI.

13:48

It wasn't until the next day that we reached the city to have this valve inspected and turned down if possible.

14:06

This is the second time this year.

15:01

We would like the water bill and the sewer bill to be looked at during these dates.

15:06

724, 725, 726, 2025, for reimbursement of water use billing, which directly ties to sewer billing.

15:16

This was water loss, not water consumption.

15:20

That's pretty much my statement.

15:22

I got a few things I'd like to say myself.

15:24

I jumped on my cart to drive around and look.

15:27

It's really hard when you have a woman pacing up and down the street that's 85 years old living by herself.

15:33

Water's flowing out from under her house, and she wants to know what we can do.

15:37

And all we can do is shut off her water, and she has to call a plumber the next day.

15:42

But this puts it puts the onus on your city.

15:51

One going out.

15:53

And nobody from the city came for almost 16 hours to check this pressure, and the pressure the pressure reduction valve was stuck open.

16:01

And it doesn't take much at all to come and check those gauges after a water turn after the water's turned back on.

16:07

So we would really like to make sure that that happens the next time so we don't run into this problem all the time.

16:13

This is twice now.

16:15

Thank you.

16:16

Thank you.

16:21

Next.

16:26

Hi, my name is Janice Johnston here in Bullhead.

16:29

I'm here on behalf of P Flag Bullhead City, one of your newest uh nonprofits here in Bullhead City.

16:36

And I told you I'd be back.

16:38

We have a meet and greet coming up on August 16th at the library from one to three.

16:44

There's no fee, it's a kind of a listening session and an opportunity to answer questions about who we are, what we do.

16:52

And I also wanted to let people know that we have a membership drive going right now.

16:57

Our membership year runs from September no October 1st to September 30th.

17:04

And uh right now we're offering a first year membership for $15 to run from now until September 2026.

17:14

After October 31st, that will go up to uh $30 a person.

17:19

So I would really love to see people come to the meet and greet and get to know us and us get to know what the community wants.

17:28

And also flipping gears, uh the Mojave County Democratic Central Committee has opened up a district two office over at the Alexandria Plaza, right there on Ray Mar, close to Chase Bank and the tractor supply.

17:42

No, Harbor Freight.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Youth Programs███████████████████19%
Public Engagement██████████10%
Engineering And Infrastructure██████████10%
Water And Wastewater Management████████8%
Community Engagement████████8%
Public Safety████████8%
Procedural███████7%
Fiscal Sustainability██████6%
Education and Workforce█████5%
Summary of Proceedings

Bullhead City Council Regular Meeting Summary – August 5, 2025

The Bullhead City Council meeting on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 5:30 PM included a range of discussions and actions. The meeting began with an invocation, presentations, and a robust public comment period. Key items included approval of a liquor license, amendments to agreements with Catholic Charities and the Boys & Girls Club, a $1.5 million state grant for Hancock Road improvements, purchase of SWAT equipment, street maintenance contracts, wastewater treatment membrane replacement, and a resolution inviting the U.S. Secretary of the Interior to the Davis Dam 75th anniversary. The city manager also reported on Golden Vertex mine operations, recreation programs, Mojave College’s new bachelor's degrees, and the Metropolitan Planning Organization’s public participation plan.

Presentations & Proclamations

  • Southwest Gas provided an update (no further details in transcript).

Consent Calendar

  • Approved expenses for biosolids disposal to Mohave Valley Landfill (up to $225,000 for FY2025/2026).
  • Accepted dedication of utility improvements (booster station) at 1579 Havasupai Drive.

Public Comments & Testimony

Several residents spoke during the Call to the Public, raising a variety of issues:

  • Ashley (group representative): Thanked the council for youth music camp opportunity; 12–13 youth attended.
  • Riverview RV Resort representative: Critical of the city’s water shut-off on July 24, 2025, stating no notice was given, and water was turned back on at 120 PSI (normal 60–65 PSI) without checking the pressure reducing valve, causing damage to homes. Requested reimbursement for water/sewer bills during July 24–26, 2025. Emphasized that this was the second occurrence this year.
  • Janice Johnston: Announced PFLAG Bullhead City meet-and-greet on August 16 at the library (1–3 PM) and membership drive; also promoted Mojave County Democratic Central Committee district office opening.
  • Cala Fontes Hambian: Expressed concern about potential changes to Medicare, Medicaid, and SNAP; quoted JFK on common interests.
  • Stephen Brown: Requested improved lighting and possibly flashing red lights at the Clearwater and Marina intersection, citing near-accident while riding e-bikes.
  • Unnamed speaker: Complained about a new $1 fee at the city hall kiosk for paying gas bill without notice; criticized the water department’s handling of the pressure issue; raised concerns about street light synchronization on Terrain Road, lack of signage for left-turn lane at community park, and urged adoption of “cool pavement” similar to Phoenix.
  • Eva Genevieves: Invited council to Republican women’s luncheon with Congressman Paul Gosar on August 6.
  • Sean Ree: Cited recent Mojave Daily News article showing Bullhead City School District 5th and 8th graders scoring below 30th percentile in math and English; criticized the council’s past decision to fund teacher housing without proof of improved outcomes; urged action.

Manager’s Report

  • Meeting Date Change: Next regular council meeting moved to Monday, August 18, 2025 (not August 19).
  • Golden Vertex Corp. Mine Operations: General Manager Jamie Bond reported mine operations resumed after acquisition by Mako USA in March 2025. Currently at 62 employees (up from 32), goal of 97 by Q2 2026. 90% of hires from Bullhead City. Crushing 10,000 tons/day. HR Manager AJ Pompos noted competitive benefits and plans to partner with Mojave Community College for welding internships.
  • Recreation Programs: Dave Heath, Recreation Director, listed numerous free/low-cost programs including senior softball, horseshoes, pickleball, indoor walking, Fun Fridays, RC racing, Golden Games training, and more. Full schedule available.
  • Mojave College: The college (formerly Mojave Community College) is now offering bachelor’s degrees (up to 19 programs), enhancing local education opportunities.
  • Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO): Executive Director Steve D’Amico presented the Public Participation Plan, required under Title VI. A 45-day public comment period began August 5. Two town halls scheduled: August 11 and September 8 at City Council Chambers (5:30 PM). Plan available at bullheadcitympo.org and hard copies at multiple locations.

Discussion Items

  • Item 3 – Liquor License for Miguelito’s Mexican Food: Public hearing; no comments from audience. Council approved motion to recommend approval to the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control. (7-0)
  • Item 4 – Fifth Amendment with Catholic Charities (Legacy Foundation Christine Stamper Center): City Manager Cotter outlined additional monthly reporting requirements added at Councilmember Ring’s request (e.g., client count by program, veteran status, age groups, prior residence). Councilmember Ring applauded accountability. A public commenter (Scotty) complained about trespassers and requested a fence. Councilmember Ring advocated for no time limits on shelter stays during extreme heat. Catholic Charities representative Rebecca Vaughn thanked council and noted a fence is a funding priority. Council approved. (7-0)
  • Item 5 – Fourteenth Amendment with Boys & Girls Club of the Colorado River: Terry Tomlinson (Legacy Foundation) explained the club requested a $100,000 increase (from $50,000 to $100,000) due to financial shortfalls after a potential merger with Scottsdale fell through. Legacy Foundation committed $250,000 including a $100,000 loan likely converted to grant, $50,000 for salary enhancement for new CEO, and $50,000 operational support. Interim CEO Kari Shepherd highlighted programs (Power Hour, workforce readiness, STEM). Councilmember Alfonso strongly opposed the increase, criticizing thrift store management, lack of inventory, and poor customer service. Several public speakers supported the increase, noting the need for youth services and trust in new board member Tomlinson. Councilmember Ring moved to approve as read; Councilmember Alfonso offered an alternative motion for $50,000 but was not recognized. The main motion passed 5-2 (Councilmember Alfonso and one other opposed).
  • Item 6 – Hancock Road Improvement IGA (Resolution 2025R-33): Assistant City Manager Pruitt reported a $1.5 million state grant secured with help from Senator Hilda Yanes. Total project cost ~$3 million. Fund transfer expected soon. A public commenter (Scotty) urged notification to landowners about utility work before paving to avoid cuts. Utility Director Clark confirmed valve/hydrant inspections are underway, and a no-cut street policy for 3 years will be enforced. Council approved. (7-0)
  • Item 7 – SWAT Equipment Purchase (Sole Source, $63,075.67): Police Chief Trebes and Lt. Rigger presented the need to replace 10-year-old equipment. Equipment is integrated Project 7 system. Councilmember Ring questioned quantity discrepancies (18 pouch sets vs. 15 operators); Lt. Rigger did not have immediate answer but staff committed to follow up. Council approved. (7-0)
  • Item 8 – Asphalt Emulsion Contract (Ergon Asphalt, $771.68/ton, total not to exceed $926,014.74): Public Works Director Johnson noted two bidders, price down from $814.68/ton last year. Approved. (7-0)
  • Item 9 – Type II Slurry Seal Sand Contract (S&S Concrete, $33.29/ton, total not to exceed $199,735.20): Only one bidder; price increased $3.84/ton from last year. Councilmember Alfonso noted the increase amounts to ~$23,000 more. Approved. (7-0)
  • Item 10 – Wastewater Treatment Plant Membranes (Zenon Environmental, $809,830 + tax): Utility Director Clark explained sole-source needed because rack systems are proprietary. Membranes last 6–7 years; replacing two of four trains now, remaining two next year. Councilmember Ring asked about storage; Clark confirmed immediate installation upon delivery. Approved. (7-0)
  • Item 11 – Resolution Inviting Secretary of Interior Doug Burgum to Davis Dam 75th Anniversary (Resolution 2025R-34): Pruitt explained the resolution also requests an intergovernmental summit on water and land issues. Councilmember Alfonso and Mayor applauded the idea. Approved. (7-0)

Key Outcomes

  • Liquor License for Miguelito’s Mexican Food: Approved to recommend to state (7-0).
  • Catholic Charities Agreement (Item 4): Approved with enhanced monthly reporting requirements (7-0).
  • Boys & Girls Club Funding (Item 5): Approved at $100,000 for FY2025/2026, despite opposition over management concerns (5-2).
  • Hancock Road IGA (Item 6): Approved; $1.5 million state grant accepted (7-0).
  • SWAT Equipment (Item 7): Approved as sole source purchase (7-0).
  • Asphalt Emulsion (Item 8): Approved (7-0).
  • Slurry Seal Sand (Item 9): Approved (7-0).
  • Wastewater Membranes (Item 10): Approved (7-0).
  • Davis Dam Anniversary Resolution (Item 11): Approved; resolution to be sent to Secretary Burgum (7-0).
  • Next Meeting: Rescheduled to Monday, August 18, 2025, at 5:30 PM.
  • MPO Public Participation Plan: 45-day comment period open; town halls on August 11 and September 8.

Meeting Transcript

Good evening. Today is Tuesday, August fifth, twenty twenty-five. It is five thirty, time to call this meeting to order. All council members are present. If you would like to, please stand and join us. Another project. City Council members and city staff. My name is Ashley, and I'm a Bullhead City resident, along with my friends, Daniel, Jalen, Laylani, Captains John, and Misty. If I might for just one moment, I assume you're a group. One more. That's okay. We just want to thank you so much for the opportunity just to come and share a little bit of what our youth were able to go to music camp. We had, I think it was third twelve or thirteen youth that went to music camp. It was a blessing to uh go all the way to Heber and come back. It was a little cooler up there. Sorry for you guys that stayed behind and suffered in the heat. Uh, but it was a blessing and it was an honor. I just want to share a little bit of what they learned, and uh, we'll might be able to come back in a three months or so and show uh their continued progress. God bless you all, and thank you. Thank you. I'm a board member of Riverview RV Resort at 2000 Raymer Road, and I am here representing our over fifty-five community of six hundred and ninety-seven lots and about twelve hundred residents. Our issue is with the handling of the water shut off and turning back on to our entire park. Residents incurred damages to their homes, water heaters, and water lines due to the negligence of the water department and not adjusting and monitoring the amount of water pressure coming into our park. On July 24th, 2025, the city shut off the water to the entire park without notice. We were not prepared. Once the city did the repairs, the water was turned back on without any city worker checking the pressure reducing valve coming into the park. No one in the park can get to this valve, only the city workers have access. PSI came into the park at 120 without any reduction down to the normal sixty to sixty-five PSI. It wasn't until the next day that we reached the city to have this valve inspected and turned down if possible. This is the second time this year. We would like the water bill and the sewer bill to be looked at during these dates. 724, 725, 726, 2025, for reimbursement of water use billing, which directly ties to sewer billing. This was water loss, not water consumption. That's pretty much my statement. I got a few things I'd like to say myself. I jumped on my cart to drive around and look. It's really hard when you have a woman pacing up and down the street that's 85 years old living by herself. Water's flowing out from under her house, and she wants to know what we can do. And all we can do is shut off her water, and she has to call a plumber the next day. But this puts it puts the onus on your city. One going out. And nobody from the city came for almost 16 hours to check this pressure, and the pressure the pressure reduction valve was stuck open. And it doesn't take much at all to come and check those gauges after a water turn after the water's turned back on. So we would really like to make sure that that happens the next time so we don't run into this problem all the time. This is twice now. Thank you. Thank you. Next. Hi, my name is Janice Johnston here in Bullhead. I'm here on behalf of P Flag Bullhead City, one of your newest uh nonprofits here in Bullhead City.

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