OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD
Record of Proceedings

Bullhead City Council Regular Meeting – June 16, 2026

City Council — Tuesday, June 16, 2026
BodyBullhead City, Arizona
SessionCity Council
DateTuesday, June 16, 2026
StatusFILED
Video Record
0:00 / 2:02:15

Transcript — Verbatim
0:00

Start our regular city council meeting.

0:02

I'm going to uh welcome you all once again.

0:07

Can I go ahead and get a roll call?

0:09

All council members are present.

0:10

Thank you.

0:11

Our invocation tonight will be by Pastor Bill Jones from Bethel Community Church.

0:16

For those of you that wish to, go ahead and rise to join us.

0:24

Good evening, Madam Mayor and City of Council and attendance.

0:29

It's good for you to be here and thank you for welcoming me.

0:33

Let's pray.

0:35

Most gracious God, we humbly come before you this evening.

0:38

We thank you, Father, for your blessings, your goodness, and your mercy.

0:42

Father, we pray for the continued success and prosperity of the city.

0:46

Father, we ask for wisdom, understanding, and discernment for this body as they make decisions for our public and as they do the wheel in the work of the government.

0:58

We thank you, Father, for the blessings that you have bestowed upon Bullhead City.

1:03

And as we prepare for our summer vacations and summer activities, Father, we pray for safety for the people who come to recreate in our area, we pray that they would maintain a status of peace and know that this is a community, but we want them to enjoy themselves.

1:23

We pray for the first responders, the police officers, firefighters, EMTs, nurses, doctors, all of the people, Father, who stands ready to aid us in our times of trouble.

1:35

We ask, Father, in the name of Jesus that you would guide this body, that you would continue to give them wisdom and give them strength and give them good decision making.

1:45

And we lift up our new incoming mayor and our new uh police chief, we pray for their continued success, and we ask, Father, that they would be a blessing to the city and the city would bless them.

1:59

And we just thank you, Father, for the purpose and the plan that you have in store for this community, and we thank you for this time of fellowship and togetherness in the matchless name of Jesus.

2:11

Amen.

2:12

Amen.

2:13

Please join me in the Pledge of Allegiance.

2:20

And for religious with liberty and justice for all.

2:33

So this evening we have both proclamation and a presentation, and we will be starting with the proclamation.

2:40

If I could get the representatives from Catholic charities to join me up at the podium, all right.

3:02

So the proclamation declaring July 6, 2026 is Catherine Kathy Peterson Day in Bullhead City.

3:17

Let me read, whereas Catherine Cathy Brummet Peterson has dedicated more than 35 years of faithful service to Catholic charities, exemplifying compassion, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to help get those in need.

3:33

And whereas Kathy was instrumental in bringing the Legacy Foundation, Christine Stamper Center for Help and Hope, help and hope to Bullhead City, helping transform a vision into a vital community resource that provides shelter, support, and hope to individuals and families facing hardship.

3:54

And whereas Kathy devoted countless hours to developing the operational guidelines and foundations necessary for the shelter success, ensuring that services would be delivered with dignity, accountability, and care, and whereas Kathy remained deeply connected to the community throughout the development of the shelter, buildings, relationships with clients, community partners, service organizations, volunteers, and local resources whose collaboration helped bring the project to life.

4:28

And whereas Kathy led with faith and purpose, earning the trust of those she served and those who served alongside her, guiding the evolution of what began as a day drop-in center in a strip mall into a 57-bed shelter that now provides safety, stability, and hundreds of meals for each day for those in need.

4:50

And whereas throughout her career, Kathy remains steadfastly focused on the people served by Catholic charities, often expressing her belief that a measure of society is how we treat the most vulnerable.

5:04

And whereas Kathy's legacy extends beyond programs and facilities through the countless lives she has touched, the individuals she has mentored, and the culture of compassion, service, and hope she helped to establish throughout our community.

5:20

And whereas the city of Bullhead City wishes to recognize and celebrate Kathy's extraordinary contributions, leadership, and enduring impact on the lives of our residents and the well-being well-being of our community.

5:34

Now, therefore, I, Karen Dalman, mayor of City of Bullhead City, Arizona, do hereby proclaim Monday, July 6, 2026, as Catherine Brummet Peterson Day in Bullhead City, Arizona, encourage all residents to join in recognizing and celebrating her remarkable service, dedication, and legacy for caring for others.

5:59

In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this 16th day of June 2026.

6:06

And Olivia Rebecca, I know you are here to accept the award on her behalf.

6:11

I'll bring it down to you.

6:12

But if you want to say a few words, that would be great.

6:15

I'll start.

6:17

I had the honor of working with Kathy.

6:19

Um met her at the grand uh presentation over at the Aquarius when they put the design forward and started the process.

6:29

And from that point on, it's just been uh an exciting ride for me with Catholic charities.

6:33

I'm the current chair and been appointed for two more years, lucky them.

6:38

And but anyway, it's set near and dear to my heart.

6:41

She is she's been a blessing to the organization, everybody, as you said, that she's touched.

6:47

She's left an a lasting impression.

6:48

So we're we're honored to be here.

6:50

She couldn't be here.

6:51

Her retirement party is tomorrow, and she does not know this.

6:55

So we're going to be surprising her with this proclamation.

6:58

And I think this is being taped by our good friend in the back, so we'll be able to show her this as well.

7:03

So thank you very much.

7:04

We appreciate uh you honoring her her steadfast dedication to the community.

7:09

No problem, it's our pleasure.

7:10

Rebecca, do you want to say anything?

7:12

Oh, absolutely.

7:12

I'll take a chance to talk about Kathy in her greatness.

7:15

So Kathy was here before us.

7:16

She's she's the reason we're here.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Procedural███████████████████████23%
Zoning Regulations████████████████16%
Public Engagement███████7%
Fiscal Sustainability██████6%
Animal Welfare█████5%
Election Procedures█████5%
Water And Wastewater Management█████5%
Engineering And Infrastructure████4%
Public Safety████4%
Summary of Proceedings

Bullhead City Council Regular Meeting – June 16, 2026

The Bullhead City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included a proclamation, a presentation from Mohave Electric Cooperative, public comments, board appointments, public hearings on liquor licenses, approval of a final plat, budget amendments, a PFAS settlement legal contract, and selection of the General Plan update for voter ratification. The meeting lasted approximately 2.5 hours.

Consent Calendar

  • Minutes of June 2, 2026 Special Council Meeting – Approved.
  • Resolution No. 2026R-18 – Authorized abandonment of a 10-foot utility easement at 2643 Desert Foothills Boulevard. Approved.

Public Comments & Testimony

  • Mike Damron (San Jose, CA) – Thanked the council and wished them a safe trip home.
  • Diana Lestat (Bullhead City Elks Lodge #2408) – Invited the community to a Paint and Pour event on July 11, 2026, at 1 PM at 1745 Emerald Drive. Tickets $35.
  • Terry Tomlinson (BHS Legacy Foundation) – Praised the new Animal Resource Center and provided an update on the food bank’s new administration building (formerly Holy Spirit Church), expected to be fully operational by August.
  • Eva Genevieves – Announced a city council candidate forum/debate on June 17, 2026, at 6 PM at the former Realtors Center.
  • Unnamed speaker (critical) – Criticized the council for starting the meeting early, expressed anger over a $13 million bond passed earlier, claiming it declared a state of emergency and gave the city manager unchecked power. Also criticized the council for honoring a person who had sued Donald Trump 42 times, and referenced a political event at the Colorado Bell. The speaker expressed concern about a 22% cut in Social Security by 2032.
  • Christie F – Invited the public to a bingo fundraiser at Laughlin Ranch Bar and Grill on June 25, 2026, at 4:30 PM. Cash prizes.

Discussion Items

  • Proclamation – The council proclaimed July 6, 2026, as Catherine "Cathy" Peterson Day in Bullhead City, honoring her 35+ years of service to Catholic Charities and her role in establishing the Christine Stamper Center for Help and Hope. The proclamation was accepted by Olivia and Rebecca, who noted it would be a surprise for Cathy’s retirement party.
  • Mohave Electric Cooperative Presentation – Jerry presented an update on the cooperative’s performance and safety. Key points:
    • 800 meters gained in 2024 and projected 800 in 2026.
    • 10-year growth rate of 15.4%.
    • Rate adjustment of $5.99/month for residential customers (March 2026).
    • Mohave Electric remains the lowest-cost electric utility in Arizona, with an average bill of $117 for 974 kWh.
    • Nationwide, the cooperative ranked 789th out of 815 utilities in controllable costs (lowest in Arizona).
    • 2026 improvements include cable replacements, conduit installation in older areas, drone line inspections, and line hardening.
    • Safety tips for monsoon season: secure outdoor items, avoid cutting trees near power lines (first trim free), and call 811 before digging.
  • Manager’s Report – City Manager Cotter highlighted:
    • BARC Grand Opening – The new Animal Resource Center opened with a semi-private ceremony. Public tours scheduled for June 17 (4-6 PM) and June 18 (9-11 AM, 12-2 PM, 4-6 PM).
    • General Plan – Encouraged public education; the plan will be on the November ballot.
    • City Council Election – Primary election July 21, 2026; voter registration deadline June 22; early voting June 24–July 17.
    • Summer Recreation Programs – Over 1,200 kids in summer camp; free football camp with Las Vegas Raiders players on June 19; open swim and dive-in movie at the pool.
    • America 250 – Freedom Truck Traveling Museum at Optimum Center June 17–19 (9 AM–5 PM). Events include brisket lunches, look-alike contests, car show, and karaoke. Also, a July 1 event at Bullhead Belle with live music and fireworks, sponsored by Findlay.
  • Council Reports – Councilwoman Smith urged volunteers for the food bank (discipleship program closing, losing 40 volunteers). Vice Mayor Alfonso highlighted a youth art experience at Magic by Me (June 22–26).
  • Board Appointments – All appointments were approved:
    • BATS Commission – Steven “Chris” Maurer (partial term ending Sept. 30, 2026).
    • Board of Adjustment – Jackie Edge (two-year term).
    • Building Board of Appeals – Enrique Reyna (two-year term).
    • Parks and Recreation Commission – After a ballot vote, Amanda Aman, Heather Petrillo, and David Schott were appointed (three slots, four applicants).
    • Planning and Zoning Commission – Bruce Cone, Gary Davis, Gary Genovese, and Joseph Stone were appointed (four slots, five applicants).
  • Public Hearings on Liquor Licenses – Both recommended for approval:
    • Juanita’s Restaurant (Series 12) – Located at 2649 Highway 95. Approved.
    • Bodega Latin Eats (Series 12) – Located at 2350 Miracle Mile. Applicant Dakota Kenyon described the business as a Latin fusion restaurant. Approved.
  • Item 10: Montano Ridge Estates Final Plat – Mayor recused due to conflict of interest; Vice Mayor presided. Approved the final plat for Unit 3 (79 lots, 32 acres). A new stoplight at Parkway and Montano Ridge was discussed and budgeted for.
  • Items 11 & 12: Zoning Amendments for Additional Time – Two extensions granted for building permits (multifamily project near Arroyo Vista and Royal Vista, and a mixed-use project at 328 Lee Avenue). Both approved.
  • Item 13: Odor Control Program – Approved $220,000 (+ tax) for bioxide chemical at three lift stations (Yale, Dean Hackett, 16-2). Sole source justified.
  • Item 14: Ratify A/C Replacement – Ratified $60,000 for replacement of air conditioning at Section 10 Water Reclamation Plant blower building. Emergency procurement.
  • Item 15: Security Services Agreement – Approved $73,091/year for American Guard Services for court security. The previous vendor lacked certified guards.
  • Item 16: Budget Amendments – Approved $660,000 transfers from contingency to various funds to cover incurred-but-not-reported expenses (IBNR) for the trust.
  • Item 17: PFAS Settlement Legal Services – Approved contracts with Grossman & Kelly, LLP and Bartlett Law Offices to seek settlement from PFAS class action. Estimated recovery $900,000–$2.25 million (firm keeps 1/3). No upfront cost to city.
  • Item 18: General Plan Update – After a presentation by Planning Manager Johnny Laurel, the council voted to adopt Resolution 2026R-20, approving the Laughlin Ranch Amendment version of the 2026 General Plan Update. This plan converts about 2,600 acres of residential to light industrial in the southern Laughlin Ranch area. The plan will be placed on the November 3, 2026 general election ballot for voter ratification. Motion passed 6-0.
  • Item 19: Arizona 2026 Legislative Session Update – Assistant City Manager Pruitt reported:
    • State budget of $18.2 billion approved; no funding for Bullhead City this year.
    • Tax conformity bills passed, reducing state revenue by $444 million in 2026, but no immediate cuts to state-shared revenue expected.
    • HCR 2016 (municipal rate increase moratorium) and SB 1431 (restricting local design input) both failed, preserving local control.
    • SMART fund (for matching federal grants) was funded, benefiting rural areas like Bullhead City and the MPO.

Key Outcomes

  • Proclamation – July 6, 2026 declared Catherine “Cathy” Peterson Day.
  • Board Appointments – All five appointments confirmed by vote.
  • Liquor Licenses – Both Juanita’s Restaurant and Bodega Latin Eats recommended for approval to the state.
  • Final Plat – Montano Ridge Estates Unit 3 approved; a future stoplight will be installed.
  • Budget Amendments – $660,000 authorized from contingency to cover year-end accruals.
  • PFAS Settlement – Legal contracts approved to seek settlement funds to help pay for future water filtration systems.
  • General Plan – Laughlin Ranch Amendment selected for voter ratification in November 2026.
  • Legislative Update – No action taken; noted that two local-control bills failed and SMART fund was preserved.

Meeting Transcript

Start our regular city council meeting. I'm going to uh welcome you all once again. Can I go ahead and get a roll call? All council members are present. Thank you. Our invocation tonight will be by Pastor Bill Jones from Bethel Community Church. For those of you that wish to, go ahead and rise to join us. Good evening, Madam Mayor and City of Council and attendance. It's good for you to be here and thank you for welcoming me. Let's pray. Most gracious God, we humbly come before you this evening. We thank you, Father, for your blessings, your goodness, and your mercy. Father, we pray for the continued success and prosperity of the city. Father, we ask for wisdom, understanding, and discernment for this body as they make decisions for our public and as they do the wheel in the work of the government. We thank you, Father, for the blessings that you have bestowed upon Bullhead City. And as we prepare for our summer vacations and summer activities, Father, we pray for safety for the people who come to recreate in our area, we pray that they would maintain a status of peace and know that this is a community, but we want them to enjoy themselves. We pray for the first responders, the police officers, firefighters, EMTs, nurses, doctors, all of the people, Father, who stands ready to aid us in our times of trouble. We ask, Father, in the name of Jesus that you would guide this body, that you would continue to give them wisdom and give them strength and give them good decision making. And we lift up our new incoming mayor and our new uh police chief, we pray for their continued success, and we ask, Father, that they would be a blessing to the city and the city would bless them. And we just thank you, Father, for the purpose and the plan that you have in store for this community, and we thank you for this time of fellowship and togetherness in the matchless name of Jesus. Amen. Amen. Please join me in the Pledge of Allegiance. And for religious with liberty and justice for all. So this evening we have both proclamation and a presentation, and we will be starting with the proclamation. If I could get the representatives from Catholic charities to join me up at the podium, all right. So the proclamation declaring July 6, 2026 is Catherine Kathy Peterson Day in Bullhead City. Let me read, whereas Catherine Cathy Brummet Peterson has dedicated more than 35 years of faithful service to Catholic charities, exemplifying compassion, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to help get those in need. And whereas Kathy was instrumental in bringing the Legacy Foundation, Christine Stamper Center for Help and Hope, help and hope to Bullhead City, helping transform a vision into a vital community resource that provides shelter, support, and hope to individuals and families facing hardship. And whereas Kathy devoted countless hours to developing the operational guidelines and foundations necessary for the shelter success, ensuring that services would be delivered with dignity, accountability, and care, and whereas Kathy remained deeply connected to the community throughout the development of the shelter, buildings, relationships with clients, community partners, service organizations, volunteers, and local resources whose collaboration helped bring the project to life. And whereas Kathy led with faith and purpose, earning the trust of those she served and those who served alongside her, guiding the evolution of what began as a day drop-in center in a strip mall into a 57-bed shelter that now provides safety, stability, and hundreds of meals for each day for those in need. And whereas throughout her career, Kathy remains steadfastly focused on the people served by Catholic charities, often expressing her belief that a measure of society is how we treat the most vulnerable. And whereas Kathy's legacy extends beyond programs and facilities through the countless lives she has touched, the individuals she has mentored, and the culture of compassion, service, and hope she helped to establish throughout our community. And whereas the city of Bullhead City wishes to recognize and celebrate Kathy's extraordinary contributions, leadership, and enduring impact on the lives of our residents and the well-being well-being of our community. Now, therefore, I, Karen Dalman, mayor of City of Bullhead City, Arizona, do hereby proclaim Monday, July 6, 2026, as Catherine Brummet Peterson Day in Bullhead City, Arizona, encourage all residents to join in recognizing and celebrating her remarkable service, dedication, and legacy for caring for others. In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this 16th day of June 2026. And Olivia Rebecca, I know you are here to accept the award on her behalf. I'll bring it down to you. But if you want to say a few words, that would be great. I'll start. I had the honor of working with Kathy. Um met her at the grand uh presentation over at the Aquarius when they put the design forward and started the process. And from that point on, it's just been uh an exciting ride for me with Catholic charities. I'm the current chair and been appointed for two more years, lucky them. And but anyway, it's set near and dear to my heart. She is she's been a blessing to the organization, everybody, as you said, that she's touched. She's left an a lasting impression. So we're we're honored to be here. She couldn't be here. Her retirement party is tomorrow, and she does not know this.

SUMMARIZED BY OPENPUBLICA AI
TRANSCRIPT VIA PUBLIC VIDEO
openpublica.com