Chandler City Council, Public Housing Authority, and Study Session - August 12, 2025

The meeting consisted of three segments: a Public Housing Authority Commission meeting, a Regular City Council meeting, and a Study Session. Note: The meeting date as provided is August 12, 2025, though the transcript references August 11, 2025. All agenda items were discussed and decisions made accordingly.

Consent Calendar

• Public Housing Authority: Approved consent agenda items 1 and 2 unanimously.
• Regular City Council: Approved consent agenda items 1 and 2 unanimously.

Public Comments & Testimony

• No unscheduled public appearances were made. Scheduled public appearances included service recognitions for city employees Jamie Powell (10 years) and Ophelia Sessma (40 years), a proclamation declaring August 2025 as Drowning Impact Awareness Month, recognition of student athlete Amani Galera Young as Gatorade Arizona Girls Track and Field Player of the Year, and a presentation celebrating the partnership between Google Fiber and the Institute for Digital Inclusion Acceleration (IDIA).

Discussion Items

• Airport Ground Lease Agreement with Chandler Air Services (Item #1): Ryan Reeves presented an amendment to lease 018, extending the deadline for completion of a 14,400 sq ft hangar with 3,000 sq ft office to August 31, 2026, after delays including loss of funding and FAA clearance. Councilmember Poston questioned the decision not to re-RFP; staff cited cost and time savings. The tenant has secured permits, bonds, and a financial partner. Steel delivery is expected in September 2025. The item will be voted on Thursday.
• Pigeon Abatement Services (Item #6): Michael presented a comprehensive bird abatement program for 11-12 city facilities, using humane methods including netting, at a cost of over $300,000. Councilmember Ancinus expressed shock at the price tag and inquired about past costs and permanence. Councilmember Harris raised concerns about underlying causes like feeding of wild animals and suggested exploring ordinances. City manager acknowledged work on a community-wide solution. The item is for discussion and will be voted on Thursday.
• Monopole Tower Services for Advanced Metering Infrastructure (Item #20): John from utilities presented the purchase and installation of seven monopoles (40-60 ft) to complete the antenna array for water meter reading. The system enables real-time data and a customer portal for alerts, leak detection, and bill payment. Councilmember Orlando clarified staffing impacts and water conservation benefits. Resident notification resulted in only one inquiry. Vote on Thursday.
• SRP Landscape Water Efficiency Program (Item #30): Simone Drosrud presented a five-year partnership with SRP to assess and improve irrigation efficiency at Chandler's 70 parks. SRP funds 100% of assessments and 50% of improvements (up to 15 parks per year). Vice Mayor Ellis and Councilmember Orlando discussed the concurrent process of assessment and repair. The program aims to conserve water and set an example for residents. Vote on Thursday.

Key Outcomes

• The Public Housing Authority meeting concluded with unanimous approval of its consent agenda.
• The Regular City Council meeting concluded with unanimous approval of its consent agenda and recognition of awardees and proclamations.
• The Study Session reviewed four agenda items. No votes were taken; these items are scheduled for a vote at the Thursday, August 14, 2025 (or subsequent) council meeting. Council expressed support for the airport lease amendment, raised questions about pigeon abatement costs and policy, endorsed the AMI monopole project, and supported the SRP water efficiency partnership.