Payson Town Council Regular Meeting – June 26, 2024

The Payson Town Council held a regular meeting on June 26, 2024, at 4:11 PM in the Town Hall Council Chambers. All seven council members were present. The meeting included a call to the public, consent agenda, current events, a proclamation, public hearings, consideration of several resolutions and an ordinance, new business items, and an executive session. All votes were unanimous 7-0 unless noted.

Consent Calendar

• B.1: Approved a Council Decision Request to retain Pierce Coleman as the Town’s prosecutor.
• B.2: Approved Resolution No. 3400, an intergovernmental agreement with Gila County for the 2024 Household Hazardous and Electronic Waste Day event.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Call to the Public: Susanne Covert thanked the Council for progress; Tom Dunning commended infrastructure and events, expressed support for affordable housing and the aquatic center.
• Item F.3 (Aquatics Property): Connie Cockrell (Gila County Community College Board) spoke in favor, noting potential curriculum use.
• Item F.4 (Timber Ridge Overlay): Ken Cluvo opposed, citing concerns about manufactured homes making Payson look impoverished. Tom West opposed, noting neighbors disliked existing manufactured homes in Payson Pines. Marie Fascano spoke in favor, citing beautiful manufactured home communities. Marge Risley opposed, citing impacts on wildlife and quality of life. Laura Malone asked for definition of affordable housing.
• Item H.3 (Airplane Roundabout): Representatives from EAA presented the proposal; no public opposition was voiced during discussion.

Discussion Items

• C.1 Town Manager Report: Troy Smith summarized roadway projects (B Line Bus Pavement Preservation, Granite Dells Road reconstruction, pavement preservation), splash pad hours extension, Fourth of July celebration, and other updates. Council agreed to cancel the August 28, 2024 meeting for the League of Cities and Towns Conference.
• D.1 Proclamation: Council Member Nossek read a proclamation declaring July 13, 2024 as Payson Book Festival Day. Connie Cockrell and Carol Baxter accepted.
• E.1 Alibertos Mexican Food Liquor License: Public hearing; Michelle Bailey presented the application. Approved 7-0.
• F.1 Resolution 3401 – 2024-2034 General Plan Adoption: Doni Wilbanks, Taylor Plummer, and Adam Rankin presented. After discussion, Council amended the plan to change a 16-acre parcel at 1600 Doll Baby Ranch Road from traditional residential to mixed-use. Approved 7-0. The plan will be placed on the November 5, 2024 general election ballot for ratification.
• F.2 Resolution 3402 – 2024 Payson Emergency Operations Plan: Fire Chief David Staub and consultants Ashleigh Makuch and Wes Dixon presented the 64-page all-hazards plan. Approved 7-0.
• F.3 Resolution 3403 – Property Acquisition for Aquatics/Recreation Center: Troy Smith presented the purchase of approximately 20 acres (Gila County Parcel 304-02-015X) for $3.2 million ($160,000/acre). The Town will assume Danco Homes LLC’s purchase contract. The Town will lease back 5 acres to Danco for affordable senior housing. Council discussed $100 earnest money and lease terms. Approved 7-0.
• F.4 Ordinance 965 – Timber Ridge Manufactured Home Overlay: Second public hearing. Nicole Adams presented rezoning of 26.1 acres at 300 W. Rumsey Drive to add a manufactured home overlay. Planning & Zoning Commission recommended conditions including a carport/garage requirement. Council discussed affordability impacts; the developer stated a carport adds ~$7,000–$10,000, a garage ~$25,000. Approved 7-0 with P&Z recommendations.
• H.1 PSPRS Pension Funding Policy: Dana Ohanesian presented. Policy targets 100% funded ratio by June 30, 2036 with annual contributions plus $600,000 in FY 24-25. Approved 7-0.
• H.2 Kroger Opioid Settlement: Jon Paladini explained the Town’s participation via the One Arizona Agreement; funds support after-school and summer programs. Approved 7-0.
• H.3 Proposal for Airplane Frame in ADOT Roundabout: EAA representatives presented a plan to place a restored airplane frame in the roundabout at Hwy 87 and Airport Road. Council discussed liability, maintenance, and project management. No vote; staff directed to contact ADOT to clarify requirements and feasibility.
• H.4–H.12 Board and Commission Appointments: All appointments approved 7-0:
  • Airport Commission: Dan Nyhus, Dale Mueller, Phillip Jossi (terms to June 30, 2027).
  • Planning and Zoning Commission: Mike Foil, Nathan Morris (to June 30, 2027); Laura Malone (to June 30, 2026).
  • Board of Adjustment: Pamela Jackson (to June 30, 2027).
  • Building Advisory Board: Marty DeMasi, Terry Lowman, Allison Blake (to June 30, 2027); Tara DeHaan (to June 30, 2026).
  • Historic Preservation and Conservation Commission: Charles Proudfoot (to June 30, 2027).
  • Parks and Recreation Commission: BJ Bollier, Deborah Jones (to June 30, 2027).
  • PSPRS Board (Fire): Aaron Athey (to June 30, 2028).
  • PSPRS Board (Police): Jason Hazelo (to June 30, 2028).
• H.13 Executive Session: Council voted 7-0 to enter executive session for legal advice regarding Boulder Creek HOA v. Town of Payson. Session held from 7:54 PM to 8:15 PM; no action taken.

Key Outcomes

• All consent agenda items approved 7-0.
• 2024-2034 General Plan adopted with amendment; placed on November 2024 ballot for voter ratification.
• 2024 Emergency Operations Plan adopted.
• Property acquisition for future aquatics/recreation facility approved.
• Ordinance 965 approved, allowing manufactured homes in Timber Ridge PAD.
• PSPRS pension funding policy and Kroger opioid settlement participation approved.
• All board/commission appointments approved.
• Airplane roundabout proposal tabled for further staff investigation.
• Executive session held; no action taken.

The meeting adjourned at approximately 8:15 PM.