Public Meetings - Mesa, Arizona

This study session was held on October 21, 2025, to review the agenda for the regular council meeting and discuss several capital improvement and grant items. Councilmembers also shared updates on community events. No formal votes were taken, as this was a discussion-only session. Discussion Items - Agenda Review (Item 1): The mayor invited questions on the regular meeting agenda. One councilmember asked for a cost breakdown of Item 4A, Desert Well 7. Staff explained that the $4.5 million bid award covered equipping only (drilling was completed earlier at about $2–2.5 million), bringing the total well cost to approximately $6.7 million. The mayor noted the significant cost increase since 2019. Staff reported that multiple bids came in well below the engineer's estimate (nearly $9 million), reflecting a more competitive market. - Pecos Storm Drain Improvements (Item 5C): The vice mayor highlighted this project in District 6, following severe flooding in 2025. Staff described a 12-year collaboration with the flood control district to address regional drainage. The cost share is 60% city, 40% flood control district. Councilmembers praised city staff’s response during the storms and emphasized the importance of continued infrastructure investment. - Firefighter Cancer Screenings and CPR Devices (Item 5B): A councilmember acknowledged a FEMA grant for sworn firefighter cancer screenings and automated CPR devices. The fire chief confirmed the grant funds both the screenings and the purchase of devices that improve CPR effectiveness. Staff noted the devices have already saved lives. Share Events & Conferences - Vice Mayor reported on Mesa’s America 250 committee planning, noting the city is ahead of others in the state. - A councilmember attended the Arizona Forward Sustainability Summit, where Mesa Youth Climate Action Fund grantees presented; spoke at a Rainbow Girls leadership event; participated in a walk/bike/roll to school safety event; planted trees at Guerrero Park; attended the Phoenix Pride Parade; and visited an ASU civic hackathon at the Mix Center. - The mayor attended the Children’s Action Alliance luncheon, the MCC ribbon cutting for a construction laydown yard, a Good Samaritan recognition for a cardiac arrest save, the College Bound Hoops gala, and a Salt River Project meeting with the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community. - Councilmember Spillsbury promoted the upcoming Día de los Muertos event at Mesa Arts Center. Key Outcomes - No formal decisions were made during the study session. The regular council meeting was scheduled to follow, and the next study session was set for Thursday morning, October 23, 2025, at 7:30 AM. - Councilmembers expressed strong support for continued storm drainage investments, cost-effective well projects, and firefighter health initiatives. Note: The transcript references the meeting date as October 20, 2025, but the assigned meeting time is October 21, 2025 (01:30 UTC). The summary uses the provided date.

Note: The meeting transcript states the meeting was held on October 20, 2025, but the provided timestamp indicates October 21, 2025. This summary uses the given date. The meeting began with an invocation by Pastor Christian Orques of Strong Church, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Councilmember Goforth was excused. The consent agenda was approved unanimously, with Item 5A removed for separate discussion. The council then debated and approved the purchase of real property from the Maricopa County Community College District. Three citizens presented public comments covering the Salvation Army's increased needs, procedural complaints about public comment rules, and opposition to the 287(g) ICE agreement. Consent Calendar - All items on the consent agenda (Items 2, 3A, 4A-4C, 5B-5E, 6A) were approved unanimously with Councilmember Goforth absent. Items included approval of minutes, a liquor license for Brooklyn V's Pizza, contracts for well pump installation, fuel station improvements, hostile vehicle mitigation barriers, a FEMA firefighter grant agreement, an intergovernmental agreement for storm drain improvements, a development agreement with Hadrian Automation Inc., and an amendment to joint legal representation in the Gila River Stream Adjudication, as well as the Hawes Village Development zoning case. Public Comments & Testimony - Captain John Burks (Salvation Army): Introduced himself as the new core officer in Mesa. Reported that the Salvation Army's food assistance program has seen a 50% increase in daily need, serving 100–150 individuals per day (Monday–Friday). In the last three weeks, they had to turn people away on four days due to food shortages. Also described a senior lunch program (55+, $2.50 per meal) and plans for a youth after-school program at their 241 East 6th Street location. - Gillian Ryan (Indivisible Mesa): Criticized the council for inconsistent application of public comment rules. She alleged that on September 8, 2025, four speakers were allowed (contrary to the usual three) when a large group supported the 287(g) agreement, and that on September 22, 2025, the council attempted to limit speakers from her group. She claimed that on October 6, 2025, blue comment cards were not read into the record, and that staff are not informing attendees that blue cards are not recorded. She also questioned the hiring of former police chief Ken Cost as assistant to the city manager at a salary of $270,000, and reiterated her opposition to the 287(g) agreement. - Joanne Fraser (Mesa resident, retired Army Master Sergeant): Expressed opposition to the 287(g) agreement, citing her ancestors who fought in the American Revolution alongside immigrants. She argued that the country should not turn against immigrants and called for cancellation of the agreement. Discussion Items - Item 5A – Purchase of Real Property from Maricopa County Community College District: The city proposed purchasing two buildings at 145 and 165 North Centennial Way for $4.7 million. A public speaker, David Wynn Stanley, questioned the necessity, noting vacant city-owned buildings and suggesting telework or purchasing an option instead. City staff (Mr. Butler and Ms. Merritt) responded: one building is in poor condition and will be demolished, with the land later sold for economic development; the other building is needed immediately for city employees. Staff also noted that the city owns the adjacent parking garage, making this a strategic purchase. Councilmember Adams confirmed that memorial items from the Veteran Center area would be preserved if possible. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously (7-0, with Goforth excused). - Item 5A approved unanimously (7-0, with Goforth excused). - No further motions or votes; meeting adjourned. - No action was taken on public comments regarding the 287(g) agreement or public comment procedures.

On October 9, 2025, the Mesa City Council held a study session to review the agenda for the upcoming October 20 council meeting and receive presentations on several city initiatives, including the purchase of two downtown buildings, a major rezoning within Haas Crossing, a citywide branding refresh, and a plan for entryway monuments. Council members discussed and provided direction on each item. Discussion Items - Purchase of MCCD Buildings (145 & 165 N Centennial): Staff presented a proposal to purchase two buildings from Maricopa County Community College District for a total of $4,730,000. The 33,000-square-foot building at 145 N Centennial appraised at $4,080,000 and would be used for city offices. The 20,000-square-foot building at 165 N Centennial appraised at $650,000 and would be demolished due to $2.7 million in deferred maintenance, with the land used for future redevelopment. Council discussed the relocation of the Veterans Coalition (present until end of November), the need for staff space, and integration with the arts and innovation district. The purchase is funded from prior land sales and will be voted on at the October 20 meeting. - Haas Crossing Village 5 Rezoning (Case ZON240892): Staff presented a request to rezone 18 acres at Warner and Hawes Roads, shifting commercial zoning from near the freeway to the corner to create a more viable commercial site. The plan includes 342 single-residence units (attached, alley-loaded, and casita types) with 8+ acres of open space. The Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval with conditions, including relocation of lots away from SR 24. Council discussed parking provisions (two garage spaces plus two driveway spaces per unit, plus 26 guest spaces and 72 on-street spots), the need for commercial development, and the overall mix in Haas Crossing. The item will return for action on November 3, along with a General Plan Amendment. - Citywide Branding Refresh: Anna Pareto and Jay O'Donnell presented a plan to unify Mesa's many visual identities (more than 40 logos) into a cohesive brand framework. The six-month phased approach includes discovery (surveys, stakeholder focus groups), brand identity development, testing, and rollout. Council expressed strong support for retaining the existing logo and color palette, emphasizing the importance of consistent messaging and narrative. They encouraged staff to proceed, noting that outside facilitation may be used for focus groups. A timeline of approximately six months was provided. - Entryway Monuments Plan: Staff presented a plan to create a family of entryway monuments across the city to enhance placemaking and economic development. A first phase proposes six high-visibility gateway signs, one per council district, at locations such as Country Club/202, McKellips/202, Gilbert/US 60, Power Road/Salt River, and Ellsworth/SR 24. Council debated site selection criteria (traffic volume, visibility, right-of-way) and asked for additional options, including near Sloan Park. They directed staff to continue refinement, coordinate with the branding effort, and bring back feasibility and cost estimates. The overall plan will include a sign hierarchy (gateway, entry, district, community monuments) and maintenance guidelines. Key Outcomes - Council provided consensus to proceed with the purchase of the two MCCD buildings, with a formal vote scheduled for the October 20 council meeting. - Council directed staff to continue work on the Haas Crossing Village 5 rezoning and General Plan Amendment, with further discussion on November 3. - Council endorsed the citywide branding refresh initiative and asked staff to begin the discovery phase, aiming for completion in six months. - Council supported the development of an entryway monumentation plan and approved moving forward with site feasibility analysis for six proposed gateway locations, with further refinement and stakeholder input. - Next study session canceled for October 16; next meeting is October 20.

Mayor Freeman opened the meeting with a moment of silence for retired Mesa Fire Captain Paramedic Paul Schuop, who passed away after a battle with glioblastoma brain cancer. Fire Chief Mary Camilli spoke about his service. The Mayor also proclaimed October 2, 2025 as the International Day of Nonviolence in Mesa, emphasizing civility and respect. Public Comments & Testimony - Gail Graves (Mesa resident) expressed opposition to the city's cooperation with ICE under the 287(g) agreement, arguing that it leads to racial profiling and fear. She urged the council to break the contract and require ICE agents to wear visible identification. - Marissa Luna (Mesa nurse) opposed the 287(g) agreement, stating that it has caused fear among immigrant communities and reduced attendance at cultural events. She argued that the agreement harms people of color and undermines trust between police and the community. - Noel James Markham (Mesa resident) raised concerns about police training for interactions with people with disabilities, advocated for hiring more women officers, and called for paid parental leave and leave for miscarriage or abortion. He also questioned the council's decision to hold a recall election. Consent Calendar All items listed with an asterisk were approved by a single 7-0 vote. Key items included: - Approval of minutes from previous meetings. - Liquor license applications: Approved for Echo Karaoke, Golden Valley, Taco Land Inca Mex, Level 1 Arcade Bar, Sunnyside, and Walmart Fuel Center. Recommended disapproval for Drama Ramen and Bowl (to the State Liquor Board). - Contracts for gas service regulators, mobile natural gas supply, stagehand services, tires, construction materials, janitorial supplies, and water/wastewater monitoring. - Intergovernmental agreements for drainage improvements on Elliott Road and a grant pass-through for transit micro shelters. - Ordinance reducing speed limit on Extension Road from 40 to 35 mph between Baseline and Southern. - Zoning and development agreement for Gateway Parkway (Ray and Hawes roads). - Bingo application for Stephen Clark at 3403 East Main Street. - Repeal and replacement of Chapter 36 (non-conforming uses). Key Outcomes - The council approved the entire consent agenda unanimously (7-0). - No other motions or votes were taken; the meeting adjourned immediately after the consent agenda vote. - The public comments were received but no formal action was taken on the issues raised.

The Mesa City Council held a study session on October 6, 2025. The council reviewed the upcoming regular meeting agenda, convened an executive session, and received detailed presentations on proposed zoning code amendments regarding legal non-conforming sites and the regulation of battery energy storage systems (BESS). Council also acknowledged receipt of board minutes, shared current events, and set future meeting dates. Consent Calendar - During the agenda review, council discussed item 3E (a liquor license). Staff confirmed it remains on the consent calendar for denial, as the applicant did not amend or withdraw. Councilmember Adams inquired whether the item was a legislative act; after clarification, it was left on consent for denial. Public Comments & Testimony - None. Discussion Items 4A. Proposed Amendments to City Code on Legal Non-Conforming Sites and Procedurally Conforming Sites - Mary Kopaski Brown (Planning Director) and Nona Appiah (Development Services Director) presented amendments to Chapter 36 of the city code. - The amendments add definitions for legal nonconforming uses, lots, structures, and sites, and introduce regulations for procedurally conforming uses. - A key change increases the reconstruction threshold for a partially destroyed nonconforming structure from 50% to 75% of the cost to rebuild, providing more flexibility for existing businesses. - Councilmembers questioned the basis for the 75% figure. Staff explained it was based on professional judgment and best practices, not a specific formula. They noted the change aims to help businesses rebuild after events like fires. - Council also discussed the distinction between cost and physical damage; the 75% applies to cost, not square footage destroyed. 4B. Regulation of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) - Staff presented proposed zoning and fire code amendments to define and regulate BESS facilities, an emerging land use with unique safety risks. - Key definitions: BESS (electrochemical storage device) and BES facility (physical site). A principal use is 1 MW (allowed only in GI and HI districts with a Planned Area Development overlay); an accessory use is <1 MW (allowed in agricultural, residential, commercial, employment, and downtown districts). - Application requirements include an operational plan, preliminary emergency response plan, decommissioning plan, and good neighbor policy. - Development standards under discussion: 400-foot separation from residential districts, 100 feet from property line to first battery, 10 feet between battery units, sound studies (initial and annual for 5 years), and screening one foot above tallest equipment. - Council asked about decommissioning bonds (staff is exploring financial assurances), noise standards (baseline ambient noise from initial study), and potential adoption of evolving standards (NFPA 855, UL 9540A). - Staff is currently gathering public feedback, with a virtual meeting scheduled for October 13, 2025. A final ordinance is expected in December 2025. Key Outcomes - The council acknowledged receipt of board minutes via unanimous motion. - Vice Mayor Summers moved to place item 9A on the consent agenda for the upcoming regular meeting; the motion was seconded. - The next study session is set for Thursday, October 9, 2025, to review the October 20 regular meeting agenda. The October 16 study session is canceled. - Council was reminded of upcoming events: Celebrate Mesa on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at Red Mountain Park from 5-9 p.m.

The Mesa City Council held a study session on October 2, 2025, primarily to review items on the agenda for the October 6 council meeting and to receive a presentation on a proposed revitalization program in the Washington Escobito Heritage neighborhood. Staff provided updates on procedural changes to liquor license recommendations, transit bus stop shade structures, and a speed limit adjustment on Extension Road. The council also approved minutes and shared updates on community events. Agenda Review for October 6, 2025 - Liquor License Recommendation Denial (Item 3E): Leanne, a staff member, explained that due to a procedural change by the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control (DLLC), which reduced the extension period from six months to 60 days, the city will see more initial denial recommendations for liquor licenses. The current denial is expected to be withdrawn once the applicant provides missing information. Councilmembers acknowledged the change. - Mesa Arts Center Labor Contracts (Item 4C): Councilmember Summers asked about the nature of contracts for shows at the Mesa Arts Center. Staff clarified that the city provides labor for some shows and recovers those costs through agreements with touring productions, making the city a pass-through with a small revenue margin. - Micro Shelters for Bus Stops (Item 5B): Councilmember Spilsbury inquired about the micro shelter project. Staff confirmed that these modular shade structures are being placed at stops with insufficient space for full-size shelters. The project will install 40 to 50 shelters using federal funding, aiming to achieve shade coverage at over 80% of bus stops. A map of proposed locations will be provided. - Speed Limit Reduction on Extension Road (Item 6A): Councilmember Summers asked about the speed limit change from 40 to 35 mph on Extension Road between Baseline and Southern. Staff explained that this reduction is part of a bike lane project that will restripe the road after a mill and overlay maintenance project. The northbound lane will be reduced to one lane. Delineators similar to those on First Avenue, but white, will be installed at 25-30 foot spacing. Presentation: Sale of City-Owned Properties and Revitalization Partnership with Habitat for Humanity - Proposal Overview: Jeff Robbins, Redevelopment Administrator, presented a plan to sell three city-owned vacant parcels in the Washington Escobito Heritage neighborhood (owned since the 1980s) to Habitat for Humanity Central Arizona. The partnership aims to build 3 to 6 owner-occupied affordable homes and fund a home repair program for existing homeowners. - Lasting Affordability Model: Habitat CEO Todd Rogers and COO Deborah Bradley described a "lasting affordability" model using a 99-year renewable ground lease. Homes will be sold to families earning 30-80% of Area Median Income (AMI) at below-market prices. Homeowners will build equity through 1.5% simple interest annually and zero-interest mortgages. When selling, they must sell back to Habitat at a restricted price, keeping homes affordable permanently. Homebuyers commit to 400 hours of sweat equity. - Home Repair Program: Mirabella Sacedo explained that Habitat's Neighborhood Revitalization program will provide affordable health-and-safety repairs (roofing, HVAC, electrical, etc.) to existing owner-occupied homes in the area. Since the census tract is low-to-moderate income, homeowners automatically qualify, and they may participate in sweat equity. - Community Engagement: Cynthia Escura reported outreach to about 150 homes via door-to-door flyers in English and Spanish, text reminders, and a meeting with 20 residents. A survey showed overwhelming support for both the housing proposal and the repair program, with no opposition. Residents expressed appreciation for addressing vacant lots and fears of gentrification. - Financial Structure: - Negotiated sale price: $40,000 per parcel ($120,000 total). - City contribution: $400,000 to support construction. - Estimated construction cost for three units: $1.2 million (Habitat will cover additional costs if more units are built). - Sale proceeds will be reinvested into the neighborhood revitalization program, making the deal cash-neutral for the city. - Next Steps: Council directed staff to draft a development agreement and purchase and sale agreement for return early 2026. Construction could begin as early as late 2026 into 2027. Habitat also offered volunteer team-build slots for city employees. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (Item 3): Councilmember Spilsbury moved to approve the minutes, seconded by Councilmember Adams. The motion passed unanimously. Councilmember Reports and Events - Several councilmembers reported attending community events, including the Peace Pole dedication at MCC, Coffee with a Cop, the Arizona Natural History Museum fundraiser, Domestic Violence Awareness Night, and a walk for alopecia. Councilmember Adams noted the renaming of Mountain Vista Medical Center to Four Peaks on Honor Health. Key Outcomes - Council agreed to proceed with the Habitat for Humanity partnership and directed staff to prepare agreements for formal consideration early 2026. - The minutes of previous meetings were approved. - The study session adjourned with a motion from Councilmember Duff, seconded by Councilmember Spilsbury, passed unanimously.

The Mesa City Council met on September 23, 2025, at 6:16 PM. The meeting included public comments on a 287G immigration enforcement agreement, approval of an irrigation water delivery district, debate and approval of a residential development (Price Manor 2), continuances for zoning items, and the initiation of utility rate and capacity fee adjustment processes. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda (items 2–7) unanimously, including liquor license applications, contracts for park signs, industrial plumbing supplies, natural gas supplies, acceptance of Proposition 202 funds, an intergovernmental agreement for crime analysis, and zoning and speed limit ordinances. Public Comments & Testimony - 287G Program (Immigration Enforcement): 113 blue cards were submitted in opposition. Three speakers testified: - Betsy Soderquist (opposed, 50-year Mesa resident) described the four 287G models and expressed concern that the task force or hybrid models could endanger due process and constitutional rights. She cited a Brennan Center report on $170.7 billion in federal enforcement funding. - Alisa Lamontang Owens (opposed, Dobson Ranch resident, naturalized citizen) stated that such agreements reduce community trust in police and lead to racial profiling, making immigrants reluctant to report crimes. - Adela (13-year-old Mesa resident, opposed) said the agreement has caused fear in her community and that children fear family separation. She asked the council to cancel the 287G agreement. - Mesa Vista Estates IWDD (Item 5D): Robert Blinko (District 1 resident) spoke in support, noting that the aging irrigation system requires pooled resources for repairs. - Price Manor 2 (Item 8C): Multiple speakers: - Mario Diaz (support, nearby resident) urged development of the blighted property. - Tim Brown (support, neighbor) described crime and dumping on the site. - Marilyn Crosby (opposed, Lehigh resident) argued that opposition is about broken promises and lack of proper notice, not development itself. - Michelle McCrosky (opposed, Lehigh community board and 4-H leader) cited density, traffic, and impact on agricultural lifestyle and children riding horses on Lehigh Road. - Utility Rate Adjustments (Item 10A/B): Five blue cards in opposition. Two speakers: - Rick Swalback (opposed) requested delayed action until utility bills clearly show the 30% general fund transfer, past bond decisions, and median customer usage data. - Scott Webster (opposed) echoed the call for transparency, proposing the bill be renamed to reflect the government supplement. - Water/Wastewater Capacity Fees (Item 11A/B): Two speakers: - James Ashley (Home Builders Association of Central Arizona, opposed) objected to the process, stating capacity fees should be adopted under the development impact fee statute (ARS 9-463.05) rather than the capacity fee statute, and that there was insufficient stakeholder outreach. - David L. Smith (Dreamland Villa resident, in support) argued that new development should pay for the $400 million in needed infrastructure, not existing ratepayers. Discussion Items - Continuance of Non-Conforming Uses Amendments (Item 8B): Councilmember Adams moved to continue to October 6 due to insufficient information on whether the changes apply citywide or only to battery energy storage. Passed 6–1. - Price Manor 2 (Item 8C): A 6.5-acre development at McKellips and Center Street, rezoned from RS-9 to RSL-4.5 for 41 single-family homes for sale. The applicant, Jaren Sweeney (Brighton Holmes), addressed concerns: proposed exit-only gate to the east, disclosure about agricultural neighbors, no short-term rentals, and a horse trail. Council debated: Councilmember Adams opposed based on a campaign promise to protect Lehigh's rural lifestyle; Councilmembers Spilsbury, Duff, Reddi, and Mayor John Giles supported, citing the need for attainable housing and the property's location outside the Lehigh sub-area. Approved (motion by Spilsbury, second by Duff). - Continuance of Park North Multifamily (Items 9A/B): The applicant requested a continuance to date uncertain to address concerns from the June 2 meeting. Councilmember Summers moved to continue, requiring the revised project to go back to the Planning and Zoning Board. Approved unanimously. - Utility Rate Adjustments (Items 10A/B): Brian Richel (OMB Director) presented the Notice of Intent for 2026 rate adjustments. Key changes: residential water rate adjustment reduced from 6% to 3.5% (with capacity fee) or 4.3% (without), non-residential landscape raised to 20% to accelerate equity. Monthly impact: $5.96 (water, wastewater, solid waste) or $6.72 (including electric/gas). Mesa remains third-lowest among valley cities. Council opted to proceed with the notice-of-intent process, with a public hearing on November 17 and final action on December 1. Approved unanimously. - Water/Wastewater Capacity Fees (Items 11A/B): Christopher Hazard (Water Resources Director) proposed a new capacity fee for new development to fund $400 million in expansion projects (e.g., Signal Butte treatment plant). Fee: $9,500 per 3/4-inch meter equivalent. If adopted, residential water rates would drop by 0.5%. Council approved the Notice of Intent, scheduling a public hearing for December 1, with stakeholder meetings to follow. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Mesa Vista Estates IWDD (5D): Approved, recommendation sent to Maricopa County. - Non-Conforming Uses Amendments (8B): Continued to October 6, 2025 (6–1). - Price Manor 2 (8C): Approved (motion passed, no recorded tally outside of ayes). - Park North Multifamily (9A/B): Continued to date uncertain, with requirement to return to Planning and Zoning Board. - Utility Rate Notice of Intent (10A/B): Approved unanimously, with final action on December 1. - Water/Wastewater Capacity Fee Notice of Intent (11A/B): Approved unanimously, with final action on December 1. - Proclamation: Domestic Violence Awareness Month will be recognized at the October 6 council meeting.

The Mesa City Council held a study session on September 23, 2025, to review the regular meeting agenda and discuss two primary items: the Price Manor rezoning application (Item 9A) and a proposed text amendment addressing legal non-conforming structures related to a battery storage project (Item 8B). Council members also acknowledged receipt of board minutes and shared current events. Discussion Items - Price Manor Rezoning (Item 9A): Council discussed the citizen participation process for the proposed development. Planning staff explained the three required notification methods: mailed letters to a 500-foot radius and registered neighborhoods/HOAs, site posting, and newspaper publication. Staff confirmed that the applicant provided an affidavit stating letters were mailed, but several neighbors reported not receiving notice. Council member Adams noted a conflict between the affidavit and neighbor complaints, suggesting a “tie goes to the runner” approach favoring those who said they were not notified. Council member Spilsbury observed that immediate neighbors (adjacent to the east) expressed support, while opposition appeared to come from farther residents. The mayor noted that a previous concession—changing egress to the west—shifted neighborhood support. The project aims to provide missing middle housing in an area with mixed zoning, similar to the previously approved Price Manor One project. - Battery Storage Text Amendment (Item 8B): Council member Go Forth requested more time to review the proposed zoning ordinance amendment, stating she received new information only hours earlier about its link to a battery storage facility under construction. Staff explained that a prior zoning interpretation prohibited battery storage citywide, threatening financing for an already-permitted, partially built project. The amendment would create a “procedurally conforming” status, allowing reconstruction if destroyed (but no expansion) and updating non-conforming structure standards citywide. Council members raised concerns about fire safety, the lack of prior notification, and the perceived tailoring of the amendment to one developer. Vice mayor suggested a two-week continuance to October 6 for further study, which was generally supported. The council also learned that a broader battery storage ordinance will be presented in late November or early December. Key Outcomes - Price Manor: The item will be considered at the regular council meeting immediately following the study session; it was left off the consent agenda for separate discussion and a motion on continuance. - Battery Storage Text Amendment: Council agreed to continue the item to the October 6 meeting to allow additional briefings and public discussion. A motion to that effect is expected at the regular meeting. - Item 3C: The applicant withdrew the item; it will be read into the record as withdrawn. - Minutes: The council unanimously approved acknowledgment of the Housing and Community Development Advisory Board and Parks and Recreation Advisory Board minutes.

Mesa City Council Study Session – September 11, 2025\n\nThe Mesa City Council held a study session on September 11, 2025, to review the upcoming council agenda, discuss proposed water and wastewater capacity fees, receive presentations on utility rate adjustments for fiscal year 2025-26, and hear an update on 2026 employee benefits. Councilmembers Duff and Adams were absent and excused. The meeting opened with a moment of reflection honoring September 11 and recent political violence. No public comments were made.\n\n Consent Calendar\n- The council reviewed the agenda for the September 22 council meeting. They directed that items 7A (Park North Fam multifamily) and 7B be removed from the consent calendar due to anticipated public interest. The developer requested the items be placed back on the agenda for a final action; staff confirmed the plan and development agreement had no substantive changes.\n\n Discussion Items\n- Water and Wastewater Capacity Fees: Staff presented a proposal for a new one-time capacity fee to ensure growth pays for growth, as existing impact fees sunset in 2023–2024. The fee would be approximately $9,500 per residential equivalent (combined water and wastewater) for a ¾-inch meter. The fee is based on an incremental cost methodology using the AWWA M1 manual, supported by a $400 million growth-related capital plan over 10 years. The fee would generate about $18 million per year, placed in a separate fund for growth projects. Council discussed the calculation methodology, equity across meter sizes, comparison to neighboring cities (e.g., Phoenix $30,000; Tempe $4,400), and the need to avoid burdening existing ratepayers. There was discussion on why the fee was not implemented sooner and the importance of complying with ARS 9-511.01.\n- Utility Rate Adjustments (Water, Wastewater, Electric, Natural Gas, Solid Waste): Staff presented recommended rates for FY 2025-26 with and without the capacity fee. Key proposals included:\n - Water: Without capacity fee – residential tier one increase of 4% (4.5% service charge, tier two 5.5%, tier three 6.5%, tier four 7.5%, multi-unit usage 14.5%, commercial 14%, landscape 15%, large commercial 20%). With capacity fee – residential tier one increase of 3.5% (tier two 3.5%, tiers three and four 4.5%, multi-unit 12%, commercial 13%, large commercial 19%).\n - Wastewater: Without capacity fee – residential 8%, commercial 9%. With capacity fee – residential 7.5%, commercial 8.5%.\n - Electric: Proposed $1 service charge increase (down from $3 earlier), with tiered usage increases (summer tier one 2%, tier two 4%; winter tier one 5%, tier two 36% final year to achieve inclining rate). Average residential bill expected to increase $2.27/month (1.7%) but overall monthly bill projected to drop to $137.88 due to lower commodity costs.\n - Natural Gas: Service charge left at $0, summer tier increases unchanged (7% and 15%), winter tier one 7%, winter tier two increased 24% to better align with large users. Average residential increase $1.43/month.\n - Solid Waste: Residential 5.5% increase ($1.82/month to $34.99 for typical 90-gal service). Commercial 5.5% increase across bins and roll-off services. Bulk item pickup fee proposed to rise $2 to $31.\n- Equity Discussion: Council stressed achieving parity between residential and non-residential rates. Audit and Finance Committee recommended accelerating equity from FY 28-29 to FY 27-28. Staff modeled this with higher commercial increases (14% water without capacity fee) to avoid sticker shock. Council asked about landscaping rates being lower than residential tiers. Staff agreed to model a higher increase for commercial landscaping to provide flexibility.\n- Capacity Fee and Rate Link: If the capacity fee is adopted, the water and wastewater rate increases could be reduced slightly (e.g., residential water tier one from 4% to 3.5%). Council discussed how to present this to the public without confusion. Staff will include the capacity fee assumption in the notice of intent and set rates higher initially (without capacity fee) to allow council to later lower them if the fee passes.\n- Employee Benefits for 2026: Jan Ashley presented the benefits package. Changes include moderate premium increases (9% to 73% range across plans) and increased out-of-pocket maximums (deductibles, copays) to manage rising healthcare costs. Prescription drug plan design will be unified across all plans. Flexible spending account maximums increased (dependent care to $7,500/year). New vendor (The Standard) for life and disability insurance offers higher coverage at lower cost. Health and Wellness Center continues free primary/preventive care. Open enrollment runs October 1–15, 2025.\n\n Key Outcomes\n- Council directed staff to:\n - Model a higher increase for commercial landscaping rates (above 15%) to provide flexibility for rate-setting.\n - Adjust the tier structure in the water rates with capacity fee to maintain consistent incremental percentages across tiers (e.g., 3.5%, 4.5%, 5.5%, 6.5%).\n - Present updated rate recommendations at the September 22 study session.\n- The notice of intent for utility rate adjustments and the capacity fee ordinance will be introduced on September 22, with a 60-day public comment period.\n- Council expressed general support for the capacity fee concept and the utility rate proposals, with further refinements to be discussed.\n- The benefits package will proceed as presented with no changes directed.\n- The September 18 study session will be replaced by a strategic planning session at the new Northeast Public Safety Facility.\n- Meeting minutes for the Historic Preservation Board and Economic Development Advisory Board were approved unanimously.