Public Meetings - Payson, Arizona

The Town of Payson Common Council held a special meeting on November 20, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. at Town Hall Council Chambers to canvass the results of the November 4, 2025 Special Bond Election for Proposition 421 and to consider Resolution No. 3469. Mayor Stephen Otto chaired the meeting. Present were Council Members Charlie Bell, Jim Ferris, and Scott Nossek (via Zoom). Absent were Vice Mayor Susan Tubbs and Council Members Brett Flaherty and Dallin Haws. The meeting adjourned at approximately 4:03 p.m. Election Canvass and Resolution Approval - Town Clerk Tracie Bailey presented the official canvass: Proposition 421 (Parks and Recreation Open Space Related to an Aquatic Facility) received 1,544 votes in favor and 4,854 votes against, and was declared rejected by the qualified voters. No indebtedness was ordered. - Council proceeded to discussion and a motion by Council Member Bell, seconded by Council Member Ferris, to adopt Resolution No. 3469. The resolution formally canvasses, declares, and adopts the results of the special bond election. Key Outcomes - Vote on Resolution No. 3469: Motion carried unanimously, 4‑0 (Mayor Otto, Council Members Bell, Ferris, Nossek). - The bond measure (Proposition 421) was rejected; no general obligation bonds will be issued for an aquatic facility. - The Town will record the resolution and canvass documents as required by law and submit a Mail Ballot Elections Report to the state legislature no later than January 1, 2026. - The full cost of the election is not yet known, pending invoicing from Gila County.

The Payson Town Council held its regular meeting on November 12, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. in Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included public comments, approval of consent agenda, water department update, approval of 2026 meeting schedule, delegation of authority for vehicle lockout SOPs, discussion of Hangar One leases, and appointment to Planning and Zoning Commission. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes for October 8 and 22, 2025. - Resolution No. 3465 approving loan agreement with Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona. - Resolution No. 3466 approving Arizona Mutual Aid Compact. All passed unanimously 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Michael Glenn read a statement for Marge Oldenkamp commending airport manager Dennis Dueker for ensuring only licensed individuals perform maintenance. - Cynthia Stratton urged Council to reopen Taylor Pool discussion, suggested using 1% sales tax, grants, sponsorships, and community outreach. - Jeff Robbins advocated for financial transparency, noting the transparency portal had not been updated since June 30, 2025; he encouraged reading the town budget and reallocating restricted funds to PSPRS. - Judy Hansen spoke in favor of rebuilding Taylor Pool using 1% sales tax. - Tom Dunning requested proclamations be made during regular meetings and opposed staff sitting at the back of the room. - Guy Pfister thanked Council for bringing the Special Bond Election to the public. - Brook Meyers echoed thanks, noting the election promoted open discussion and civic engagement. - Darlene Younker DeLage supported reopening Taylor Pool and requested investigation of prior administration’s choices regarding the pool and land purchases. - Denise Bacon supported repairing Taylor Pool. Public comments during Hangar One discussion (H.4): - Thomas West argued that the Hangar One leases are more restrictive than previous leases, limiting fuel storage, maintenance, and multiple owners per lease. - Tom Thompson, president of Payson Aero Club, opined that rates are unfair and inequitable based on hangar age, square footage, and electricity charges. - Mike White provided a handout and claimed overcharging based on square footage and amenities. - Dale Mueller advocated for uniform pricing per square foot. Discussion Items - H.1 Water Director Tanner Henry reported that the Water Meter Replacement Project is nearly complete, reducing water loss from 12% to 3.3%. A customer portal is in development for usage monitoring and leak alerts. Operations repaired 181 water main breaks this year. Groundwater levels remain stable. PFAS treatment projects and well replacements are underway. Major capital projects include Beeline Bus and Phoenix Street water main projects. - H.2 Town Clerk Tracie Bailey presented the proposed 2026 Council Meeting Schedule, with adjustments for holidays and events. Council discussed possibly changing meeting day/time but noted an ordinance and public notice would be required. - H.3 Fire Chief David Staub requested that authority over vehicle lockout Standard Operating Procedures be returned to the Fire Chief and Town Manager, as no changes are planned and council approval is unnecessary. The procedure covers non-emergency lockouts performed for a fee. - H.4 Discussion on Hangar One Leases: Town Attorney Robert Wingo explained that the leases comply with Arizona law, FAA grant assurances, and the International Fire Code. Maintenance and fuel use are allowed within safety regulations. Rates are based on fair market value and are not discriminatory. The $15 electricity fee applies to all hangars and is necessary to support the airport as an enterprise fund. All hangars are under a consistent lease structure, and multiple owners or LLCs can legally hold a lease. No formal action was taken. - H.5 Appointment of Rima Urban to the Planning and Zoning Commission – Council noted she was the only applicant and had previously served. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda approved 7-0. - 2026 Council Meeting Schedule approved 6-1 (Council Member Jim Ferris opposed). - Vehicle lockout SOP authority returned to Fire Chief and Town Manager approved 6-0 (Council Member Charlie Bell absent). - Rima Urban appointed to Planning and Zoning Commission 7-0. - Pool discussion will be added to the December agenda as directed by Council Member Dallin Haws; Town Manager confirmed an upcoming agenda item seeking direction on a pool.

The Payson Town Council held a work study session on November 12, 2025, from approximately 3:00 p.m. to 3:33 p.m. to receive an update on the Payson Event Center project. Interim Project Manager Rod Buchanan presented findings from stakeholder meetings, a market analysis, and infrastructure plans. Council members discussed the need for more detailed cost and timeline information before committing further funds. No formal action was taken, as work studies are for discussion only. Discussion Items - Rod Buchanan presented key findings: stakeholder feedback from approximately 30 individuals (including previous council members and community representatives) indicated high market demand for community events and rodeo, moderate demand for equine/livestock activities, and low demand for major concerts and family shows. Recommended facilities included a covered arena with airflow circulation, a 20,000–25,000 sq ft divisible multi-flex building, permanent restrooms, event offices, and infrastructure improvements (water, sewer, electrical, paved parking, technology). The recently purchased town property was identified as suitable for a public-private partnership (e.g., hotel, wedding venue), and adjacent forest service land for active recreation (trails, cabins, camping). - Council members expressed varied reactions: Council Member Bell stated the presentation lacked new information and requested specific costs, a layout, and identities of stakeholders. Council Member Ferris echoed the desire for concrete completed work and cost ranges, noting the absence of a plot plan and tribal feedback. Council Member Flaherty stressed the need for careful planning to avoid future drainage issues. Council Member Haws recommended a community open house with price tags on amenities to ensure realistic feedback. Other members supported the project but wanted more tangible progress. - Town Manager Darren Coldwell agreed to provide council with information on project expenditures to date and the overall budget. Key Outcomes - No formal action was taken; the meeting was informational only. - Council members indicated that no additional funds should be allocated until project priorities and a solid budget are clearly defined. - Town Manager Coldwell committed to follow up with council regarding current expenditures and the overall project budget. - Next steps include completing a concept design (expected by February 2026), finalizing drainage and infrastructure assessments, conducting a community open house, and developing a business plan with at least two operating models (staff-run and private arrangement).

The Payson Town Council held its regular meeting on October 22, 2025, at 4:02 p.m. in the Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting covered public comments on airport hangar leases, the proposed pool bond, and Resolution 3464; a current events presentation including a GFOA award and staff updates; discussion and postponement of Resolution 3464; and a Police Department update on staffing and promotions. The meeting adjourned at approximately 5:29 p.m. Public Comments & Testimony - Mike White expressed concerns about inequitable hangar rates and a poorly written lease contract at the airport, alleging overcharges and violations of grant terms. He requested the matter be placed on a future agenda. - Mike Quinn spoke in support of the proposed pool bond, stating it would increase property values by an average of 4% and urged council members to support it. - Tom West called for hiring an airport maintenance technician and cited specific maintenance issues at the airport, including light bulbs and door pulleys. - Tom Dunning spoke in opposition to Resolution 3464, arguing it was unnecessary and would limit the town's financial flexibility. He urged the council not to pass it. - Judy Hansen asked for line-item cost estimates for building a pool at the Malibu site and expressed support for rebuilding the Taylor pool instead, mentioning the need for transparency. - Brooke Meyers spoke in opposition to the $16 million pool bond, citing concerns about long-term costs, property tax increases, and the need to prioritize infrastructure, public safety, and education. - Tom Thompson spoke in opposition to the pool bond and Resolution 3464, supporting rebuilding the Taylor pool and requesting that Resolution 3464 be tabled until after the November bond election. - Mike Voden Jr. addressed maintenance and improvement needs at Green Valley Park, suggesting hiring a custodian, adding lighting, trash cans, and benches, and addressing dog waste issues. Discussion Items - Current Events Presentation: Town Manager Darren Coldwell reported that the town received a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA), congratulating Finance Director Dana Ohanesian and staff. He announced Nicole Adams as Employee of the Month, David Staub's formal appointment as Public Safety Director, and the hiring of a new engineer starting in January, with plans to hire two more engineers. A new "Ask the Town" button was added to the website for public inquiries, and the digital budget book is now available online. Mayor Otto addressed concerns about a forensic audit, explaining that such audits are triggered by specific criminal allegations and are not warranted at this time; Town Attorney Robert Wingo cautioned against further discussion. - Resolution 3464: Town Manager Coldwell presented Resolution 3464, which would allocate the 1% sales tax increase (adopted via Ordinance 964) to designated funds: 50% for paying down emergency services (PSPRS) debt, 25% for road improvements, and 25% for capital improvements/maintenance of existing facilities. He noted the resolution provides transparency and flexibility, but some council members expressed concerns about timing, given the upcoming November bond election for a new pool. Vice Mayor Susan Tubbs moved to postpone the resolution until after the November 4th election and to also bring back discussion of the food tax. Council discussion included considerations about the food tax, the original intent of the 0.88% sales tax, and the need to silo funds for debt repayment. The motion to postpone was seconded by Council Member Brett Flaherty. - Police Department Update: Public Safety Director David Staub and Police Commander Jesse Davies presented an update on police staffing, promotions, and recent hires. Promotions included Sergeant Jesse Davies to Commander, Selena West to Support Services Manager, Lieutenant Ben Anderson, Sergeant Nick Bogatko, and Mary Trout to Interim Dispatcher Manager. New hires included lateral officers Lindsey Eggert (from Phoenix PD) and Max Farren (returning officer), and academy graduates Hailee Krause, Sam Winters, and recruit Zack Griffin (expected to graduate in December). The department is currently at 76% staffing (26 of 34 authorized sworn positions) and could reach 91% if upcoming candidates are successful. Discussion included the commitment requirements for academy graduates (the receiving agency may have to cover costs if officers leave) and the cost savings of having Chief Staub serve as Public Safety Director (saving approximately $160,000 annually including benefits). Key Outcomes - The council voted unanimously (7-0) to postpone Resolution 3464 until after the November 4, 2025 bond election and to bring back discussion of the food tax at that time. - No other formal actions were taken.

The Payson Town Council met on October 8, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. in the Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting covered a proposed personnel policy amendment, a noise ordinance amendment, a fire department report, and extensive public comment on a proposed pool bond. Consent Calendar - B.1 – Approval of September 24, 2025 Meeting Minutes: Approved unanimously (6-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Lori Vanover expressed support for a new pool bond, citing the need to invest in a community amenity and noting the Taylor Pool would require millions in repairs. - Diane Green opposed Resolution No. 3463, arguing that personnel policy changes should involve the Town Council and that allowing the Town Manager to unilaterally abolish positions could lead to abuse. - Ron Vanover supported building a new pool at the Malibu location, stating the old pool is outdated and a bond would cost homeowners about $90 per year. - Mike Quinn supported the new pool, presenting a handout on grants and arguing that opposition was political; he claimed $8–14 million in grants could be obtained. - Michael R. Fox supported the pool bond, criticizing council members who oppose it and urging them to prioritize community needs. - Jeff Robbins supported the Malibu pool location, emphasizing that the town needed to work together and that the site could also alleviate pressure on Rumsey Park. - Tom Dunning opposed Resolution No. 3463, calling it a dangerous transfer of power from the elected council to an unelected town manager. - Calvin Smedley opposed Resolution No. 3463, arguing it would centralize authority and reduce public representation. - Jana DeForest described damage to her retaining wall from stormwater runoff, asserting the Town was responsible for approving improper drainage modifications; she requested the Town take action. - Tom Thompson supported installing an airplane display at the Beeline/Airport roundabout, claiming the Town delayed the project; he opposed the pool bond, preferring to refurbish the existing Taylor Pool. - Lori Anne Martinez promoted the “Lanterns on the Lake” event (October 16) and called for restoration of funding for the Time Out Shelter. - Darlene Younker Delage opposed the pool bond and Resolution No. 3463. - Barbara Buntin opposed the pool bond, questioning the motives behind the Malibu location. - Lori Permenter opposed Resolution No. 3463, warning that shifting authority to the Town Manager would silence the public’s voice. - Sharon Arnst asked the Council to postpone the vote on Resolution No. 3463 due to public confusion, but also expressed support for the pool as a positive community asset. Discussion Items - Resolution No. 3463 – Personnel Manual Amendments: Town Manager Darren Coldwell explained that the current personnel manual required council approval for changes, which conflicts with Arizona’s council-manager form of government. He stated the amendments would allow him to manage personnel (e.g., hiring, firing, policy updates) without council involvement, aligning with state law. Town Attorney Christina Estes-Werther noted the manual was outdated and that council involvement in personnel matters could expose members to legal liability. Council members discussed the separation of powers and the ability to reverse the change if needed. Multiple public speakers opposed the resolution. Council Member Dallin Haws expressed hesitation, citing concerns about transparency and the timing of the change. - Ordinance No. 972 – Noise Ordinance (Summer Construction Hours): A second public hearing was held. No public comments were received. Chief David Staub noted the amendment brings the town’s noise ordinance into compliance with state law regarding summertime construction hours. - Fire Department Report – Chief David Staub: Reported on the town’s ISO (Insurance Services Organization) fire protection rating. Payson has maintained a rating of 3 (on a 1–10 scale, 1 being best) for the past decade. The department scored above peer averages in community risk reduction, water supply, and deployment. Chief Staub noted that acquiring a ladder truck (already on order) could improve the rating to 2, which would further lower residents’ insurance costs. He explained that the rating places Payson among the top 35,000 communities nationwide (out of over 105,000). Key Outcomes - Resolution No. 3463 passed by a vote of 5-1 (Council Member Dallin Haws dissenting; Council Member Brett Flaherty absent). The resolution adopts amendments to the personnel manual, giving the Town Manager authority over personnel policies without council approval. - Ordinance No. 972 was approved unanimously (6-0). The ordinance amends Title XIII, Chapter 130, Section 130.20 to adjust summertime construction hours in line with state law. - Consent Agenda approved (6-0). - Introduction of Gregg Martinez as the new Economic Development Director; he addressed the Council briefly.

The Planning and Zoning Commission met on Monday, October 6, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. in the Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included approval of previous minutes, a public hearing for a conditional use permit (CUP), and a presentation by the Water Department on water resources and the development review process. The meeting adjourned at 4:04 p.m. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (September 8, 2025): Motion by Laura Malone, seconded by Jeremy P. Gephart. Carried 5-0. (Present: Douglas Martin, Karen Schaier, Laura Malone, Jimmy D. Lee, Jeremy P. Gephart; absent: Nathan Morris.) Scheduled Hearings CUP25-001 – Conditional Use Permit for Residential Care Facility - Applicant: Dustin Bullard, agent for Adams Real Estate Holdings LLC (property owner). - Location: 300 W Wade Ln, tax parcel 30408125A (zoned R3). - Proposal: Operation of a residential care facility/institution (Mogollon Treatment Center) for temporary care and rehabilitation within an existing residence. Use is conditionally allowed in R3 zoning. - Key Details: Maximum 16 residents (occupants must be capable of self-evacuation); custodial care only (no acute medical/psychiatric care); on-site well disconnected; fire sprinklers required; changes in occupancy may require a tenant improvement permit; compliance with Unified Development Code (Chapter 152); 12 conditions recommended by staff. - Staff Recommendation: Approval, subject to conditions. - Applicant Comments: Dustin Bullard stated the estimated opening is possibly by January 1, 2026, depending on fire sprinkler and inspection timelines. He noted that his previous similar facility next door (male facility) took about 18 months to open. Bullard emphasized use of local contractors where possible and community engagement (e.g., donated dirt to bike park, plans to sponsor local sports). He explained that residents are voluntary (not court-ordered, though some may be on probation), and that disruptive individuals are not placed in Payson. He also noted the property has been improved from an eyesore. Bullard added that state audits are unannounced, and exceeding licensed capacity results in immediate license revocation. - Commissioner Questions & Positions: - Jimmy Lee expressed support but encouraged the applicant to create a formal feedback loop for neighbors to address future concerns, given that circumstances may change. Bullard offered to add contact information on the website or a placard. - Doug Martin asked if occupants are court-ordered; Bullard clarified participation is voluntary. - Nicole Adams (Zoning Administrator) noted that code enforcement can address violations or nuisances, and changes in use would require a new CUP. - The applicant noted that the fire department would verify occupancy during certificate of occupancy inspection, and state audits occur unannounced. - Motion: by Karen Schaier, seconded by Laura Malone, to approve CUP25-001 subject to staff-recommended conditions. Vote: 5-0 (all present voted yes). Unanimously passed. Discussion Items Water Department Requirements and Review Process Presentation - Presenter: Tanner Henry, Water Department Director. - Overview of Water Resources: - Average annual precipitation: 18 inches (varies widely; e.g., 1978 had 33 inches, 2002 had <10 inches). - Current water consumption: 1,800 acre-feet per year supporting a population of 16,000. - Water portfolio capacity: 4,500 acre-feet, enough to support up to 44,000 people (town is landlocked, so 44,000 is unlikely). - Sources: Groundwater (38 wells; safe yield 2,520 acre-feet/yr; natural recharge 2,282 acre-feet/yr); Green Valley Park (reclaimed water percolation that augments recharge); CC Cragin (Blue Ridge Reservoir) project (provides up to 3,000 acre-feet via a water treatment plant — note typo correction from 300 to 3,000). - Groundwater Recharge & Storage: - Pre-2019, 100% groundwater; now CC Cragin water is injected into the aquifer via aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) wells. Since 2019, 3,000 acre-feet total stored. - ASR wells use intelligent valves (V Smart) to maximize injection in fractured granite geology, a unique approach drawing international interest. - Monitoring shows recovery: groundwater levels dropped from 80 ft to 230 ft in early 2000s, then rebounded to 110 ft after CC Cragin began. - Development Review Process: - Staff reviews proposed developments for water demands, fire flows, and infrastructure needs. - If inadequate, developer must improve system (e.g., booster stations, new mains). - Public water main construction requires ADEQ approval after disinfection and bacteriological testing. - Water Development Fees: - Fee per Equivalent Dwelling Unit (EDU): $3,391 (set by consultant per state code). - Meter installation: $500 if infrastructure exists; $1,000 if new service line required. - True-up period for commercial uses: 3 years. - Resource Management: - Not in an Active Management Area (AMA), so no 100-year assured water supply designation required. Town is considering voluntary acquisition for readiness and to answer realtor inquiries, but cost is $250,000. - Town has drought stages in code based on consumption vs. production. - CC Cragin water right is a congressional allotment; use-it-or-lose-it risk mitigated by ASR injection or filing a water conservation plan with ADWR. - Commissioner Interaction: - Commissioner Laura Malone asked about the

The Payson Town Council held a regular meeting on September 24, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:34 p.m. in the Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included a lengthy public comment period, approval of a consent agenda, a decision on a controversial wildfire hardening code, a first reading of a summer construction noise ordinance, and updates on an aquatic center bond and employee wellness program. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the August 13, 2025 regular council meeting. - Authorized a letter of support for the Yavapai-Apache Nation Water Rights Settlement. - Authorized the Town Manager to submit a Participation Form for the Town to join Opioid Settlement Agreements with secondary manufacturers, releasing claims in exchange for remediation funds. - Authorized Public Works to proceed with renaming Nugget Street to Gordons Way. - Approved submitting a Project Initiation Letter to ADOT for a topographical survey of a proposed wildfire evacuation route. - Declined to authorize Civil & Environmental Consultants, Inc. to complete engineering and design services for the Longhorn Road and McLane Road roundabout project. - All consent items were approved unanimously (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Steve and Linda England requested that a neighbor dispute involving signage, fencing, and loud music be reclassified as a code violation, citing Town Code 131.03 and 131.09, and expressed concerns about property devaluation and harassment. Council members asked staff to review the issue; the Town Attorney reported the matter was being addressed. - Paul Frommelt thanked the Council for placing the Aquatic Center bond on the ballot and expressed support for refurbishing Taylor Pool instead of building a new pool. - Eric Wahlberg opposed the Wildfire Structural Hardening Code, asking for more public review time due to potential cost impacts on homeowners. - Jonathan Jackson (construction business) shared concerns about increased costs for remodels and new homes under the proposed fire code. - Council Member Flaherty read an email from contractor Gino Wulkotte opposing the code, citing negative effects on housing affordability, lack of insurance relief, inequity (only new builds/remodels), and questioning its effectiveness compared to enforcing existing firewise rules. - Stacy Frederick echoed Wulkotte's concerns and opposed the code, urging more public input and enforcement of current firewise codes. - Lori Permenter supported the aquatic center bond and urged a “yes” vote, arguing that a no vote would not guarantee Taylor Pool renovation, and noting cost estimates of $11 million uncovered for Taylor vs. $16 million covered for Malibu. - Michael Fox supported a new pool and requested increased police patrols at Green Valley Park. Vice Mayor Tubbs asked staff to review patrol needs. - Tom Dunning expressed disappointment over cancelled Council meetings and urged regular meetings even with lighter agendas. - Calvin H. Smedley supported the pool bond and criticized three council members for opposing it. - Jack Etter II opposed the pool, expressing concern about growth, water availability, and increased traffic, and urged focusing on existing infrastructure. - J. Byron Tanenhaus (Noble Building and Remodeling, 20+ years) opposed the hardening code, urging enforcement of defensible space around homes instead. - Mike White raised concerns about inequitable hangar lease rates at the airport and potential jeopardy to FAA grant funding. Council Member Haws renewed a request to place the item on a future agenda. - Craig Triphahn supported the street name change from Nugget Street to Gordons Way. - Tom West (Payson Aero Club, Light Sport LLC) joined concerns about hangar rates, lack of maintenance at the airport, and a billing error, and also spoke about a pending request for an aircraft display in a roundabout. - Tom Thompson (via Zoom) criticized hangar rental rates and urged the Council to delay Malibu Pool expenditures until after the bond election. - Mike Quinn supported the pool bond, calling the annual cost minimal compared to benefits. - Jimmy Lee introduced himself as the new Chamber of Commerce representative, looking forward to working with the Town. - Inga Chouinard opposed the pool bond, stating the Town had not been fiscally responsible and favored refurbishing Taylor Pool. Discussion Items - Resolution 3462 – Infrastructure Development Agreement with Payson Golf Club, LLC (Item F.1): Planning Director Doni Wilbanks presented the agreement for 125 residential condominium units. The developer will fund and construct roadway improvements, drainage upgrades, and right-of-way dedication; private streets will remain private. The property is zoned R-3 (by-right), and the agreement expires in three years if platting conditions are not met. Bob Jackson, owner of Payson Golf Club, expressed satisfaction. The resolution was approved 7-0. - Ordinance 970 – Wildfire Structure Hardening Code (Item F.2): Assistant Chief Kevin McCully and Chief David Staub presented the ordinance, requiring fire-resistant materials for eaves, decks, and siding on new builds and major remodels. They reported a meeting with seven contractors whose main concerns were cost of eaves and deck protection. Cost estimates for a 2,600 sq. ft. home: $1,200 additional for eaves and deck upgrades; siding could cost up to 37% more for treated wood. Council members debated the effectiveness and cost burden. A motion to approve failed 2-5 (Mayor Otto and Council Member Ferris in favor; Vice Mayor Tubbs, Council Members Bell, Flaherty, Haws, and Nossek opposed). - Ordinance 972 – Summer Construction Hours (Item F.3): Chief Staub presented the first public hearing for an ordinance extending summer construction hours (May 1–October 15) to comply with state law; start time would be 5 a.m. (4 a.m. for concrete pouring). No public comment was offered. No action taken (first reading only). - DynaDome System Evaluation (Item H.1): Postponed to a later meeting at the Town Manager’s request. - Employee Wellness Program (Item H.2): Human Resources Director Lynne ODonnell presented a new wellness program using the Well Able platform, featuring holistic wellness, incentives, device integration, and community features. Full implementation is scheduled for November 1, 2025. - Council Meeting Protocols (Item H.3): Town Manager Darren Coldwell discussed cancellation of meetings when no agenda items are present. Council consensus was to leave discretion to staff to cancel meetings if there is nothing on the agenda. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda approved unanimously (7-0). - Resolution 3462 (Payson Golf Club development agreement) approved 7-0. - Ordinance 970 (Wildfire Structure Hardening Code) failed 2-5. The item is not expected to return unless council requests it. - Ordinance 972 (Summer construction noise) received its first public hearing; second reading will occur at a later meeting. - Aquatic Center update: Town Manager reported cost estimates at 40% design: $12.4 million without cover, $16 million with cover; operating expenses $482,240, revenue $173,200. Informational pamphlet to be released September 30, 2025. - Meeting cancellation policy: Council agreed to maintain current practice allowing staff discretion to cancel meetings with no agenda items.

The Payson Planning and Zoning Commission met on September 8, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. in the Town Hall Council Chambers to approve minutes, consider a preliminary plat extension, and discuss future agenda items. All action items passed unanimously 4-0 with two commissioners absent. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (May 5, 2025): Motion carried 4-0 (Martin, Schaier, Malone, Morris in favor; Lee and Gephart absent). Discussion Items - C.1 – Second and Final Request to Extend Preliminary Plat for North Peak Hills Phase 3 - Property located at 1801 West Airport Road (APN 302-96-101A). Original preliminary plat approved December 18, 2023. This second extension, if granted, would set a final expiration of December 2025 unless the final plat and civil improvement plans are approved. Staff reported the application is currently in review in community development and expects to receive its last round of comments either that afternoon or the next day. The commission approved the extension by a 4-0 vote. - D – Requests to Staff for Future Agenda Items - Commissioner Malone requested that the Water Department discuss the process for reviewing subdivisions regarding assured water supply. After brief discussion about water concerns and the town’s 3,000 acre-feet allotment, the commission agreed to place this item on the next meeting agenda, along with an update on the status of previously approved projects. - E – Information to Commission (Not for Discussion) - Zoning Administrator Nicole Adams noted that a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for 300 West Wade (a residential care facility similar to a previously approved rehabilitation center for females) will be on the October agenda. The Longhorn Ranch Planned Area Development Rezone and Minor General Plan Amendment is expected for the December agenda. Staff will provide written updates on all active projects after the meeting. Key Outcomes - Approved May 5, 2025 meeting minutes (4-0). - Approved second and final extension of the North Peak Hills Phase 3 preliminary plat (4-0), with expiration in December 2025. - Directed staff to place a discussion on water supply review processes and project status updates on the next meeting agenda.

The Payson Town Council met on August 13, 2025, at 4:02 p.m. in the Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included public comments, presentations, consent agenda approval, and new business. Key topics included domestic violence shelter funding, an off-highway trail partnership, a development update, and change orders for a replacement well. The meeting adjourned at approximately 6:10 p.m. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the Regular Meetings of June 25, 2025, and July 9, 2025, and the Special Meeting Minutes of June 25, 2025, and July 9, 2025. - Authorized Town Manager Darren Coldwell to submit the Participation Form for the Purdue Opioid Settlement Agreement, releasing claims against Purdue in exchange for opioid remediation funds. - Adopted Resolution 3459, approving changes to signatories for Town accounts at JPMorgan Chase Bank. - The consent agenda passed unanimously (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Paul Frommelt, Payson resident, welcomed the new Town Manager and urged fiscal responsibility and transparency. He opposed the roundabout, aquatic center, and grocery tax increase, and asked for focus on infrastructure. - Bob Decker (RIMWAT) requested funding for code enforcement and firewise efforts, noting RIMWAT is working with the school district and Payson Fire Department on fire prevention curriculum. - Alan McKay (RIMWAT) emphasized the importance of community firewise cooperation and described firefighting challenges. - Tom West, Payson resident and aviation professional, complained that Hangar One lease rates were unfairly set equal to larger T-hangars, risking FAA grant eligibility. He also opposed lease restrictions on multiple signatories, corporate entities, and fuel storage. - Charlie Seraphin, Payson resident, requested an independent forensic audit to address concerns with vendor relationships and contracts. - Isaac Blake (Digital Payson) requested three items for future agendas: a forensic audit, full and timely access to records for council members, and an open meeting law compliant town hall process. - Dale Mueller, airport advocate, highlighted the need for routine airport maintenance and a fixed base operator space with public Wi-Fi for flight planning. - Marie Fasano (EAA) requested a letter of support for an aircraft display in the Airport Road roundabout, noting ADOT approval and prior council approval; no Town funding needed. - Mike White, Star Valley resident, raised concerns about grading, vegetation removal, and runoff at the Juniper Pines Development, and noted he had sent videos to the Council. - Mike Quinn, Payson resident, encouraged ordinance enforcement and said he was not opposed to higher taxes if for the Town's benefit. - Chief Hilario Tanakeyoma (Tonto Apache Police Department) introduced himself, committed to strengthening relations with Payson PD, pursuing accreditation, and supporting regional law enforcement. Discussion Items - Town Manager Report: Darren Coldwell reported on individual meetings with the Mayor and Council, future monthly sales tax and financial reports in accessible format, and future agenda opportunities for department updates. He noted that SB 1737 rescinded the $1.5 million allocated for the Longhorn roundabout, redirecting funds to Highway 87 turn lane projects managed by ADOT. - Rodeo Days Proclamation (D.1): Mayor Otto proclaimed August 7–16, 2025 as Rodeo Days. Dan Wile, President of the Payson Pro Rodeo Committee, accepted and invited the community. - National Patriotism Week Proclamation (D.2): Council Member Bell proclaimed September 8–14, 2025 as National Patriotism Week. Members of the Elks accepted. - Time Out Shelter Presentation (D.3): Board President Lori Martinez described the shelter's 32-year history as the only domestic violence shelter within a 100-mile radius. Since 1993, it has served 16,816 individuals. In FY2023–2024, it provided over 5,000 bed-nights and distributed 524,851 pounds of food. The thrift store proceeds remain local. Martinez highlighted economic and facility challenges and invited the Council to the "Lanterns on the Lake" event on October 16, 2025. - Arizona Alpine Trail Presentation (D.4): Treasurer Jeff Sauer presented the 700-mile off-highway loop trail plan, funded by a $360,000 Arizona State Parks grant. The master plan is due in draft by end of 2025. Potential staging area near the Payson Event Center discussed. Presenters noted economic benefits and emphasized environmental stewardship. - Juniper Pines/Pink Door Mini Storage Update (D.5): Zoning Administrator Nicole Adams reported that the mixed-use project is in the civil improvement and final plat stage. At-risk grading completed in July 2024 under permit; two performance bonds provided; preliminary plat approved March 2025 for 24 single-family lots, one commercial lot, one multi-family lot, and four tracts. A traffic study is required but not yet submitted. Water Director Tanner Henry explained the multi-agency review process for modifying a public well. Council requested follow-up on bond amounts, drainage report results, and contact with ADOT on the traffic study timeline. - Sky Park Replacement Well Change Orders (H.1): Tanner Henry explained that drilling encountered hard rock, requiring additional air compressor rental and removal of fallen rock. The original contract was limited to $150,000; change orders total $96,100, bringing the total to $246,000, in line with the other two bids. A $25,000 contingency was added. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda approved unanimously (7-0). - Proclamations for Rodeo Days and National Patriotism Week read and accepted. - Council expressed appreciation for Time Out Shelter and encouraged continued support. - Council discussed Arizona Alpine Trail partnership opportunities; no formal action taken. - Council requested follow-up on Juniper Pines performance bond amounts, updated drainage/geotechnical report, and ADOT traffic study timeline. - Motion carried (7-0) to approve change orders for the Sky Park Replacement Well up to $96,100, funded from the Water Enterprise Fund, and authorize the Town Manager to sign documents. - Town Manager committed to providing monthly sales tax and financial reports in an accessible format.