Public Meetings - Payson, Arizona

The Payson Town Council met in a work study session on October 9, 2024, immediately following the regular council meeting in the Town Hall Council Chambers, 303 N Beeline Highway, Payson, Arizona. Mayor Chris Higgins called the meeting to order at approximately 4:43 p.m.; it adjourned at approximately 4:58 p.m. Council Members Jolynn Schinstock and Susan 'Suzy' Tubbs were absent. The purpose of the work study was to discuss proposed revisions to the Town's Procurement Policy and Financial Policy. As a work study, no formal action was taken and public comment was not taken. Dana Ohanesian, Finance Director, presented both items and sought council input. Discussion Items Procurement Policy Revisions - Dana Ohanesian presented a PowerPoint on the Town's Procurement Policy, last updated in September 2021, noting that costs had risen significantly and that new technology provided opportunities to improve procurement efficiencies. - Recommended changes included: - Clarifying grant funding language so purchases follow the granting agency's guidelines or, in the absence of such guidelines, this policy. - Increasing fixed asset and competitive bid thresholds from $5,000 to $10,000; keeping department head authorization up to just under $20,000; and increasing Town Manager authorization from $20,000 to just under $100,000. - Replacing newspaper advertising requirements with Town website advertising, while allowing newspaper advertising when beneficial. - Using the new e-procurement system (OpenGov) to maintain a vendor list and enable digital solicitations, submittals, and selections. - Adding a 'Qualified Vendor's List' so the Town can maintain pre-qualified, on-call vendors and avoid repeated solicitations. - Removing the right-to-inspect-plant and right-to-audit-records clauses from the policy and adding them to specific vendor contracts when necessary. - Council Member Joel Mona commended the bid solicitation updates, stating that digital submittals are the modern way most organizations use and can help avoid limiting the number of proposals received. Financial Policy Revisions - Dana Ohanesian presented a PowerPoint on the Town's Financial Policy, last updated in May 2009, noting the need to reflect current practices, update outdated names and reports, and align language with Arizona Revised Statutes. - Recommended changes included: - Requiring Town Council approval for new ongoing operational increases and one-time requests in the budget. - Replacing 'zero-based budget' with 'prior-year base budget.' - Changing the Capital Improvement Plan from a 5-year to a 10-year plan. - Maintaining the Council Contingency Fund at $250,000 plus prior-year encumbrances; adding a reference to the $1,000,000 Operational Contingency line item in the general fund. - Requiring all funds to be reconciled at year-end so no negative balances remain. - Replacing the term 'CAFR' with 'ACFR' in accordance with current accounting terminology. - Changing 'annual business plan' to 'corporate strategic plan'; adding an annual bond indebtedness report; clarifying the water department indirect fee calculation; and removing the revenue handbook reference. - Council Member Scott Nossek asked why language allowing Council to expend from the Council Contingency Fund was removed. Mr. Ohanesian replied that approval language already existed elsewhere in the policy for reserve funds and that the language could be added back if desired. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were made during the work study, as expected for a work session. - Council members expressed general support for the proposed updates and offered specific comments from Council Members Mona and Nossek. - Staff planned to incorporate council comments and return with resolutions approving the revised policies. Sheila DeSchaaf, Acting Town Manager, stated that a clean copy of the Financial Policy would be presented with a resolution on the Consent Agenda at the next Council meeting.

The Payson Town Council held its regular meeting on October 9, 2024, at 4:01 p.m. in the Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting lasted approximately 29 minutes and included the approval of a consent agenda, several proclamations, a presentation from Payson High School students, and the approval of a $2,500 sponsorship for the first annual Spookeyfest. Council members present: Mayor Chris Higgins, Vice Mayor Barbara Underwood, Council Members Brett Flaherty, Joel Mona, and Scott Nossek. Absent: Council Members Jolynn Schinstock and Susan "Suzy" Tubbs. All votes were unanimous (5-0). Consent Calendar - B.1: Approved the minutes of the September 25, 2024 regular meeting. - B.2: Resolution No. 3413 – Approved an intergovernmental agreement with the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT). - B.3: Resolution No. 3414 – Approved an agreement with Gila County to provide funding for Beeline Bus services and services to persons with disabilities. - All three items were approved on a single motion, carried 5-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Paul Edwards addressed the Council, expressing appreciation for the multi-generational vision for Payson and thanking the Council and town staff for their competence and hard work. He also briefly mentioned affordable housing. Discussion Items - C.1 Town Manager's Report: Acting Town Manager Sheila DeSchaaf summarized the October 9 report, highlighting successful parks and recreation events (movie night, fiddle and food truck event, 54th annual state championship, and the Honeycomb Project), 317 fall soccer participants across 18 teams, progress on Granite Dells Road improvements (expected completion before Thanksgiving), a water department communication regarding EPA lead and copper rule revisions, and a successful Project WET event with 31 volunteers. - D.1 Proclamation – Payson Days: Mayor Higgins read a proclamation declaring October 12, 2024, as Payson Days. Parks and Recreation Director Steve Richardson invited the community to the event at Green Valley Park from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., featuring food vendors, yard games, live music, and fireworks at 7:00 p.m. He thanked Sparklight for providing free Wi-Fi. - D.2 Proclamation – Payson Aerofair Day: Council Member Mona read a proclamation declaring October 19, 2024, as Payson Aerofair Day. Aerofair Chair Larry Erdman noted it is the third largest public event in Payson, with U.S. military representatives, food vendors, and a Friday night showing of Top Gun: Maverick at the airport. He thanked Parks and Recreation and the Streets Department. - D.3 Proclamation – Iron Horse Rodeo Run: Vice Mayor Underwood read a proclamation declaring October 19, 2024, as a Special Event Day for the Iron Horse Rodeo Run. Joy Mernagh of the Payson Rodeo Committee stated the event anticipates about 200 motorcycle riders starting from AJ, with stops, a dice run, bike competition, vendors, and a 50-50 drawing. Proceeds benefit veterans in Gila County. - D.4 Payson High School Spookeyfest Presentation: Taylor Murray (FFA Advisor, filling in for Student Government Advisor L.J. Trevillyan) and four student government representatives (Carson Frederick, Arlee Rogers, Jeyten Johnson, Cohen Morris) presented the first annual Spookeyfest, a collaboration with the drama department’s haunted house. The event will be held November 2, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., featuring games, food trucks, bounce houses, and activities for elementary students. They requested a $2,500 sponsorship in exchange for naming rights on games, logo placement on all advertisements, and banners at the event. Mayor Higgins noted the Student Government often works behind the scenes and that town sponsorship would encourage them. - H.1 Council Decision Request – Spookeyfest Sponsorship: Acting Town Manager DeSchaaf presented the request for $2,500 from the Council Contingency Fund. She corrected the staff report, noting the remaining fund balance after a prior transfer is approximately $48,000. The Council discussed and approved the motion. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda (B.1-B.3): Approved unanimously (5-0). - Proclamations (D.1-D.3): Read and accepted; no vote required. - Spookeyfest Sponsorship (H.1): Approved $2,500 from Council Contingency Fund, motion by Vice Mayor Underwood, second by Council Member Flaherty, carried 5-0. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 4:30 p.m.

The Payson Town Council convened a regular meeting on September 25, 2024, at 4:04 p.m. in the Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting featured a detailed presentation on pavement preservation and the Airport Road Project, approval of the consent agenda, several proclamations, and public comments. Two council members participated electronically, and two left early due to technical difficulties; the meeting adjourned at approximately 5:14 p.m. Public Comments & Testimony - Nina Grabiel questioned why the town’s main phone line and council phone numbers were not accepting messages, and urged the town to address fire hazards near cluster mailboxes. She expressed frustration with limited communication access and locked doors. Mayor Higgins offered his cellphone number to her. - Janice Chesser, president of Friends of Parks and Recreation, encouraged community membership in the organization and promoted an upcoming annual meeting with a presentation, 50/50 drawing, and free food. - Roy Sandoval praised the success of the Arizona State Fiddle Championship and Food Truck Festival coordinated by the town, noting large crowds from across the state. He commended Parks and Recreation staff, especially Kaitlin Henning, and highlighted a public art project created during the event. Discussion Items - Town Manager’s Report: Troy Smith summarized the September 25, 2024 Town Manager Report, which included a community workshop on Rumsey Park redevelopment concepts and the Payson Libraries calendar. - Proclamations: - Constitution Week (September 17-23, 2024) read by Council Member Flaherty and accepted by Marleen Jockers of the Daughters of the American Revolution. - Fire Prevention Week (October 6-12, 2024) read by Council Member Mona and accepted by Captain Anthony Michelizzi, who emphasized smoke alarm safety. - Domestic Violence Awareness Month (October 2024) read by Council Member Nossek and accepted by Michael Patch, Executive Director of Time Out, Inc., who invited the community to the Lanterns on the Lake event. The proclamation cited 123 shelter residents, 5,001 bed nights, and 11,551 volunteer hours in the prior fiscal year. - Pavement Preservation and Airport Road Project Presentation (Item D.4): Town Engineer Larry Halberstadt, at Town Manager Troy Smith’s request, presented an overview of the town’s pavement management challenges. Key points: - The 2021 Pavement Condition Index (PCI) for the overall network was 61 (scale 1-100), with a backlog (poor/very poor roads) of 11.1%. - Treatment costs: non-structural surface treatments $7–$15/sq yd; overlay $50–$60/sq yd; full-depth replacement $160–$200/sq yd. - Many streets were built before incorporation (51 years ago) with inadequate base; current standard requires a minimum of 3 inches asphalt and 6 inches gravel base. - ADOT estimates a 40% increase in construction costs since 2020; the town struggles to attract contractors due to market consolidation and lack of local capacity. - The 2011 Payson Transportation Study identified 23 short-term projects; only 3 have been completed. - The current budget includes $3,000,000 for pavement preservation. Four full-depth replacement segments planned: Manzanita St (north of 260), Bonita St (Ash to Beeline), Frontier St (in front of post office), and Airport Road (McLean to airport entrance). - Airport Road rehabilitation (including ADA improvements) is estimated at $2,000,000. Existing aggregate base is only 3–4 inches vs. the designed 12 inches. Detour routes are limited due to poor conditions of alternate roads. - Construction is expected to begin late October to November; Airport Road will be done in half-road closures with flaggers and temporary signals, causing significant inconvenience. Council Member Mona noted the disruption will be significant but agreed it is best to start before costs escalate. - Council Questions: - Granite Dells Road reopening: 80% by end of October, the last section by Thanksgiving. - Cost escalation was not factored into earlier budget projections; Council Member Mona suggested updating the long-term plan with realistic escalation. - Vice Mayor Underwood confirmed that new subdivisions are inspected to meet standards; roads are prioritized by traffic volume and budget constraints. - Council Member Nossek asked about the town acquiring its own equipment; Halberstadt noted ARS restrictions on projects over $280,000 and that equipment and staffing costs would be prohibitive. Smith added that leasing equipment would require debt. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved: Motion carried 7-0 to approve minutes of the Special Meetings on August 20, 21, and September 3, and the Regular Meeting on September 11, 2024. (Council Members Schinstock and Tubbs voted via text due to technical difficulties.) - Proclamations: All three proclamations were read and accepted; no vote required. - Presentation: No formal action was taken; the presentation was informational. The council discussed future steps, including continuing to work with ADOT on bundling projects to attract contractors and considering updated cost escalation in the pavement management plan.

The Payson Town Council held its regular meeting on September 11, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. in the Town Hall Council Chambers. Mayor Chris Higgins presided with Vice Mayor Barbara Underwood, Council Members Brett Flaherty, Joel Mona, and Scott Nossek present; Council Members Jolynn Schinstock and Susan "Suzy" Tubbs were absent. The meeting covered a consent agenda, public comments, ceremonial proclamations, presentations on fire prevention and transportation audit, a public hearing and approval of a zoning ordinance, and acceptance of an airport grant. All votes were unanimous (5–0). Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the Town Council Special Meeting on August 8, 2024, and the Regular Meeting on August 14, 2024. (Motion carried 5–0) Public Comments & Testimony - Pat Lockwood, representing over 100 neighbors, expressed concerns about the Juniper Pines development off Highway 260. She questioned the developer's disregard for Town Code regarding grading, drainage, tree removal (approximately 1,000 native Ponderosa pines), lack of landscaping plans, removal of a concrete island without permission, and insufficient performance bonds. She requested transparency and enforcement of town ordinances. - Tom Dunning, a 20-year resident, spoke in favor of attracting young families to Payson. He commended the Parks and Recreation Department and urged the Council to continue working toward the vision of affordable housing, support for schools, and public safety. Discussion Items - Fire Prevention Updates: Greg Raymond, Community Risk Reduction Specialist, presented an update on the code enforcement inspection program funded by a 2022 grant. Since its restart 14 months ago, the fire department has inspected/re-inspected over 1,200 businesses. Common violations included out-of-date fire extinguishers, non-working exit signs, and missing emergency pathway lighting. The program achieved 100% compliance through a non-punitive, educational approach. Crews are also developing relationships with business owners and gathering after-hours emergency contacts. - Gila County Transportation Excise Tax Audit: Christine Smith, Deputy Town Manager, and Melanie Chesney, Deputy Auditor General, presented the results of the performance audit. Since 2014, Payson received $9,122,051 in excise tax funds and spent an estimated $7,361,419 (91%) on street improvements and 9% on administrative uses. Based on a sample of expenditures, no inappropriate uses were found. The town has policies in place to guide spending. The next audit will be in 2029. - Zoning Ordinance No. 967 (Second Public Hearing): Nicole Adams, Zoning Administrator, presented a request to rezone approximately 9.99 acres at 1900 N. Beeline Highway from R-3 (multifamily residential) and C-2 to C-3 (general commercial) to allow indoor self-storage, outdoor covered canopy storage, and related retail sales. The property is currently undeveloped; the previous R-3 zoning was a restricted project that had not been built in nearly two decades. Staff conditions included stormwater detention buffer between residential and commercial areas. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval. No public comments were offered. - Airport Grant Resolution No. 3412: Dennis Dueker, Airport Coordinator, presented a resolution to accept an ADOT grant for the Payson Airport. The grant covers 100% of design and 90% of construction costs for a 1-inch mill, asphalt concrete overlay, and pavement markings on Runway 6/24 (the entire runway). The estimated construction cost is $1,274,286; the town's share is 10%. The grant requires opt-in by September 30, 2024. Key Outcomes - Approved Ordinance No. 967 (Rezone 1900 N. Beeline Highway from R-3/C-2 to C-3) – motion carried 5–0. - Approved Resolution No. 3412 (Accept ADOT Airport Runway Grant) – motion carried 5–0. - The invocation was given by Pastor Elizabeth Cruze of Fusion Church, differing from the agenda which listed Lois Johnson of Fusion Church. Both the minutes and transcript confirm Pastor Cruze. - Item H.1 (easement abandonment) was removed from the agenda before the meeting. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 5:06 p.m.

The Payson Planning and Zoning Commission met on September 9, 2024, at 3:00 PM in the Town Hall Council Chambers. Commissioners present: Mike Foil, Douglas Martin, Dallin Haws, and Laura Malone. Commissioners absent: Miranda Meyer and Nathan Morris. Staff and officials present included Vice-Mayor Underwood, Councilman Joel Mona, Director of Community Development Doni Wilbanks, Zoning Administrator Nicole Adams, Town Attorney Jon Paladini, Planning Specialist Becky Prock, and Administrative Assistant LeeAnn Schwartzbauer. The meeting lasted from 3:00 PM to 3:09 PM. Approval of Minutes - The minutes from the August 5, 2024, Planning and Zoning Commission meeting were approved unanimously (4–0). Discussion Items - Longhorn Ranch Preliminary Plat Extension (S23-001): The commission considered the first request to extend the preliminary plat for the Longhorn Ranch development at 1300 W Longhorn Road. Staff explained that the applicant needed additional time to meet ADA requirements and complete civil improvement plans, and is also preparing a master plan for the overall project (Phase 1). The commission unanimously approved a six-month extension (motion by Dallin Haws, second by Douglas Martin; vote 4–0). Election of Officers - Chairman: Dallin Haws nominated Doug Martin; Laura Malone seconded. The motion carried 3–0, with Doug Martin abstaining. Doug Martin was elected Chairman. - Vice Chair: Dallin Haws nominated Miranda Meyer (who was absent but had agreed to serve); Douglas Martin seconded. The motion carried 4–0. Miranda Meyer was elected Vice Chair. Commission Information and Updates - Staff provided an update on the Unified Development Code (UDC) review process, noting that several sections (definitions and beginning sections) have been received for review, with more changes expected. Future meetings will involve the commission. - Chairman Mike Foil announced his resignation from the commission, stating he felt it was time for younger voices to make decisions for the town. He thanked the commission for the opportunity to serve. - Commissioner Douglas Martin requested that staff provide a presentation at a future meeting on the role of the Planning and Zoning Commission in the planning process. Staff agreed to prepare an item for the next meeting. Adjournment - Chairman Foil adjourned the meeting at 3:09 PM.

The Payson Town Council held a special meeting on September 3, 2024, at 3:02 p.m. in the Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting focused on a public hearing for the FY24-25 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and approval of the FY23-24 budget final report with necessary fund transfers. All six present council members voted unanimously on all actions. Council Member Jolynn Schinstock was absent. Public Comments & Testimony - Charlie Bell, a Payson resident, questioned the partnership arrangement with Star Valley, asking why Payson, as the larger town, could not receive two years of funding to Star Valley's one. Angela Gotto of Central Arizona Governments (CAG) explained that CDBG allocations are equal per municipality per year, and the partnering allows each to receive double the funds every other year for larger projects. Discussion Items - CDBG Public Hearing & Resolutions 3410 and 3411 - Community Development Director Doni Wilbanks and CAG Coordinator Angela Gotto presented. Payson is expected to receive $169,215 in FY24-25 CDBG funds for ADA improvements on Main Street, addressing deficiencies identified in the 2018 ADA Self-Evaluation and Transition Plan. The project includes driveway modifications, crosswalks, and improvements at Fire Station 11. Only one project can be selected per application; the park improvements proposed in the August 5 public hearing were set aside in favor of Main Street. - Resolution 3410 approves an intergovernmental agreement with Star Valley to alternate CDBG applications. Resolution 3411 authorizes the submission of the CDBG application and certifies it meets community needs. Council Member Mona asked why Main Street was chosen over parks; staff responded that Main Street improvements align with the town’s investment and development incentives. - FY23-24 Budget Final Report and Transfers (Item C) - Finance Director Dana Ohanesian presented the year-end budget comparison. Key figures: General Fund revenues budgeted $30,139,635, actual $31,848,998 (due to higher sales tax and the new 1% sales tax). General Fund expenditures budgeted $29,933,709, actual $26,444,576 (savings in personnel). Highway User Revenue Fund (HURF) revenues budgeted $10,917,643, actual $9,091,866 (missed ADOT grant). HURF expenditures budgeted $15,868,083, actual $4,177,616 (delayed street projects). Water Enterprise Fund revenues budgeted $9,598,200, actual $11,035,785 (mid-year rate increase). Water expenditures budgeted $15,677,428, actual $10,566,086 (minimal catastrophic events). Total town-wide budget expenditures were $77,269,001, actual $47,736,435. Total fund balance at year-end: $60,351,257. - Three funds had negative balances: Library Fund (-$102,000), Airport Fund (-$38,000), and Grant Capital Project Fund (-$294,000). Staff recommended transfers: $102,000 from General Fund contingency to Library, $38,000 from General Fund contingency to Airport, and $294,000 from Council Contingency to Grant Capital Project Fund. Council Member Tubbs asked about the Library transfer shortfall; Ohanesian noted it was likely an oversight from prior fiscal year. Council Member Flaherty clarified that restricted funds (e.g., water, HURF) cannot be reallocated to other projects. Key Outcomes - Resolution 3410 (IGA with Star Valley): Approved 6–0. - Resolution 3411 (CDBG application authorization): Approved 6–0. - FY23-24 Budget Final Report and Fund Transfers: Motion to accept the report and authorize the described transfers passed 6–0. - The Procurement Policy Revisions (Item B) were deferred to the next regular council meeting. The meeting adjourned at approximately 3:31 p.m.

This special meeting was held on August 21, 2024, from approximately 4:03 p.m. to 7:18 p.m. at the Town Hall Council Chambers, 303 N. Beeline Highway, Payson, Arizona. The sole purpose was to consider and vote on Resolution 3409, authorizing the issuance of up to $70 million in excise‑tax‑backed bonds to fund a list of capital improvement projects, including an aquatic and recreation center, public safety facility maintenance, road improvements, drainage, and event center upgrades. The council heard extensive public comment, deliberated, and ultimately approved the resolution 6‑1. Public Comments & Testimony Over twenty residents spoke. Positions were sharply divided: Supporters argued that the bond would transform Payson into a more family‑oriented community, provide year‑round recreational amenities for youth and seniors, attract professionals (e.g., doctors) and visitors, and that a similar investment (Green Valley Park) had become a community jewel. Several speakers noted that more than 50% of the sales tax revenue used to pay the debt would come from non‑residents. Supporters included BJ Bollier (volunteer of the year, former chair of several town commissions), Mike Foil, Anna Van Zile, Glori Surman, Mike Quinn, Brett Hallowba, Tom Dunning, Torry Austin, and Roy Sandoval (via Zoom). Opponents raised concerns about the town’s existing debt (including PSPRS), the use of an emergency clause to bypass voter referendum, the lack of detailed operating cost projections for the proposed facility, and the potential risk of default if the economy weakens. Opposition speakers included Ken Murphy (noting Payson’s high tax rates), Charlie Bell (quoting staff reports about volatile markets and the emergency clause), Shirley Dye (favoring rehabilitation of Taylor Pool instead), Jim Ferris (warning of recession and questioning the neutrality of bond consultants), Vick Conner (lack of cost‑of‑operations plan), Deborah Rose (arguing the emergency clause was improper for financial reasons), Ann Doyle (no public vote on the tax increase), Lance Marble (a member of the CIPCAC committee who advocated competitive bidding and prioritizing public safety), and several unnamed residents (objecting to the current council committing the town to debt before leaving office). Council members also interjected with questions and clarifications during the public comment period. Town Manager Troy Smith, bond consultant Grant Hamill, Special Counsel Zach Sekas, and Town Attorney Jon Paladini responded to factual queries. Discussion Items The primary discussion revolved around Resolution 3409, which would authorize the sale of up to $70 million in excise‑tax‑backed bonds (the “Series 2024 Pledged Revenue Obligations”) to fund five select capital projects identified by the Capital Improvement Projects Citizen Advisory Committee (CIPCAC). Key points from the presentation and council deliberation: Financing structure: 25‑year amortization, annual debt service capped at $4.5 million, paid from the recently increased 1% transaction privilege tax (TPT) (now 3.88%). The bonds would have a first lien on excise taxes and state‑shared revenues, with a call date of July 1, 2034. Estimated proceeds: Under current market conditions (all‑in true interest cost 4.25%), the $4.5 million annual debt service would generate approximately $70 million in net bond proceeds for projects. An additional $1.5 million per year from the tax increase would be reserved for operations and maintenance. Market timing: The consultants (Stifel) urged adoption of the resolution with an emergency clause to lock in favorable rates before an expected influx of competing bond issuances in September‑October and ahead of uncertainty related to the November 2024 Presidential election. Historical data showed rate spikes around previous elections. Emergency clause: Multiple speakers and council members debated its appropriateness. Town Attorney Paladini and Special Counsel Sekas explained that Arizona statute and case law allow emergency clauses for measures necessary to preserve the financial stability and general welfare of the town, and that such clauses are customary in almost all municipal bond resolutions. Alternative to building new vs. rehabilitating Taylor Pool: Council Member Mona, a registered engineer, detailed structural deficiencies at the 40‑year‑old Taylor Pool, concluding that rehabilitation would be more costly and less functional than building a new facility. Other council members echoed the need for an indoor, year‑round facility. CIPCAC recommendation: Lance Marble, a CIPCAC member, stated that the committee had recommended a competitive bid solicitation and had prioritized public safety over recreation. Town Manager Smith and bond counsel Hamill responded that professional services like bond underwriting are typically not put out to bid under state law, and that the council had selected Stifel based on experience. Key Outcomes Motion: Council Member Scott Nossek moved to approve Resolution 3409, seconded by Vice Mayor Barbara Underwood. Vote: The motion carried 6‑1. - Yes: Mayor Chris Higgins, Vice Mayor Barbara Underwood, Council Members Brett Flaherty, Joel Mona, Scott Nossek, and Jolynn Schinstock. - No: Council Member Susan “Suzy” Tubbs (citing concerns about the use of the emergency clause and lack of voter referendum). Effect: The resolution authorizes the mayor, town manager, and deputy town manager to execute the necessary agreements and sell the bonds as soon as market conditions are favorable. The emergency clause allows the issuance to proceed without an automatic referendum. The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:18 p.m.

The Payson Town Council held a special work session on August 20, 2024, to receive a presentation on the proposed recreation and aquatics center. Staff and consultants presented results from eight months of community outreach, including stakeholder meetings, workshops, and a scientific survey with 519 responses (95% confidence, ±4% margin of error). The recommended conceptual design, Concept 1B, includes a multipurpose indoor gym, a recreation pool with six lanes and a slide, and an outdoor walking trail. Estimated construction costs range from $44 to $49 million. Public comment was taken, and no formal action was requested; a follow-up special meeting on August 21, 2024, was scheduled to consider bond funding. Public Comments & Testimony - Tom Dunning expressed full support, calling the project "wise" and forward-looking. - Carol Fagen questioned the survey demographics and whether it included areas outside Gila County. - Vick Conner warned about other aquatic centers closing due to operational costs and recommended delaying the decision for a week to develop a detailed operational budget. - Ann Doyle voiced concerns about insufficient community engagement, lack of operational cost projections, funding sources, median age usage, and the outdoor trail instead of an indoor track. - Kenneth Murphy expressed disappointment that Taylor Pool was not considered and questioned competing with existing gyms. - Becky (last name not given) advocated for water sports, swim lessons, youth recreation, and competitive swimming, urging the council to act without delay. - Barbara Hepburn noted that only 10% of those surveyed responded and asked for more planning before committing to a large-scale project. - Charlie Seraphin described the cost-efficient Hodag Dome in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, and encouraged exploration of alternative construction. - Steve Montgomery asked for a definition of "cost recovery." - Robert Hershberger supported the project but cautioned that planned maintenance must be included. - Dee (last name not given) pointed out that previous youth amenities (batting cages, mini golf) failed due to lack of usage. - Kathy McCulken questioned why the town was not building a smaller outdoor pool, noting that Queen Creek's aquatic center cost about $60 million. - Dave Wilkerson questioned why Taylor Pool was not repaired and suggested the recent election results reflected community opposition to the project. - Michael Wall questioned voting on bond funding the next day without answers to all questions. - Pat Gill advocated for more transparency and education, and for broadening the vision to appeal to youth. - Janell Salizar expressed concerns about escalation projections, survey outreach beyond Payson, costs for young families, and the need for more information before a budget vote. - Vick Conner (second comment) supported a pool for children but reiterated concerns about the budget and future interest payments. - Mike McCullen argued that if costs increase due to inflation, wages and tax revenue will also increase, offsetting the impact. Discussion Items - Presentation Overview: Troy Smith (Town Manager) introduced the purpose: to update council on outreach and financial projections. Rod Buchanan (PMO Director) led the presentation, covering community input from January 2024 through workshops, stakeholder meetings, focus groups, and surveys. John Courtney (LPA) described the transparent, iterative process. Winston Boa (LPA) summarized how strategies evolved into two concept families (aquatic-focused vs. hybrid with gym). - Survey Results: Kevin Lyons (FlashVote) explained the scientific survey methodology: 5,600 random text invitations, 519 responses (8–9% response rate) from a defined area including Payson and surrounding communities (Gila and part of Coconino County). Key findings: preferences split evenly between group fitness and water play; projects with a gym were preferred two-to-one over aquatics-only; top choice among large add-ons was an indoor walking track (later replaced by an outdoor trail for cost savings); 70% of households expected to use the facility, with highest usage in the 36–50 age group. Out-of-town respondents were as likely to use the facility as Payson residents. - Concept Selection: Concept 1B (multipurpose indoor court, recreation pool with 5 lanes, slide, outdoor trail) was consistently preferred in workshops, online surveys, and the scientific survey (30% chose 1B). Ken Ballard (Ballard & King) explained operational evaluation criteria: cost recovery, economic impact, optimization, constructability, and survey preference. Concept 1B scored highest. Rod Buchanan noted that six lanes (recommended additive) allow greater programmatic versatility, including competitive swim meets. - Cost and Escalation: John Courtney presented historical construction cost escalation (doubling every 15 years) and projected future escalation. Current estimate for Concept 1B with additions is $44–49 million. Time is a key cost factor; delays increase costs by roughly $100,000 per month. Cost recovery is not yet set; council will later set a target percentage (e.g., 80%). One $1.5 million annual operations and maintenance funding has been set aside from the 1% sales tax increase. - Council Questions and Comments: - Council Member Mona asked about the CMAR delivery method; Buchanan explained it guarantees a maximum price and reduces change orders. - Council Member Schinstock asked about cost reduction measures; Smith noted value engineering and pursuit of donations/grants. - Council Member Tubbs sought clarification on survey response rates; Lyons explained statistical confidence. - Council Member Nossek asked if any site work could start before design completion; Buchanan confirmed rough grading can begin after schematic design. - Vice-Mayor Underwood asked about current facility constraints; Richardson and Smith highlighted limited indoor and outdoor space shared with the school district. - Council Member Mona estimated construction timeline of 9 months to 1 year based on 2026 completion. - Mayor Higgins clarified that the outdoor trail was chosen over an indoor track to reduce costs ($6.5 million savings), and that two swim teams already exist in town. - Council Member Mona expressed confidence in the process despite personal preferences differing from survey results. - Council Member Schinstock recalled that a previous capital improvement survey showed community desire for an indoor pool over an outdoor pool due to year-round usability. - Public Comment Follow-up: Town Manager Smith addressed points: the facility will not compete with private gyms; more than 50% of excise tax comes from non-residents, and out-of-town users will pay higher fees. The $1.5 million O&M set-aside is conservative. Mayor Higgins noted that a YMCA was previously voted down and that the space dome concept warrants research, though the facility must also serve as an emergency shelter. Key Outcomes - No formal action was taken. Staff did not request a vote at this work session. - Recommended next steps: If the council approves the funding resolution at the August 21 special meeting, staff will proceed with schematic design, topographic survey, geotechnical report, renderings, CMAR solicitation, and rough grading by November 2024. - Future actions: A detailed business plan will be developed, including operating plans, fee structures, and cost recovery targets. User groups will be involved in design. Construction and operating costs will be refined during design. - Public comment period will continue at the August 21 special meeting, where council is expected to consider bond issuance.

The Payson Town Council held a regular meeting on August 14, 2024, starting at 4:00 PM and adjourning at approximately 5:15 PM. The meeting included proclamations, a presentation on broadband funding, a resolution to rename the water treatment plant, and the first public hearing on a rezoning request for self-storage and U-Haul facilities. All council members except Scott Nossek and Jolynn Schinstock were present. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the July 24, 2024 regular meeting. - Approved a six-month extension of the Final Plat approval for Timber Ridge Phase 1 subdivision (300 West Rumsey Drive). - Motion carried 5-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Tom Dunning, a 20-year resident, offered quotations on democracy, liberty, and justice, referencing Winston Churchill, Thomas Jefferson, and John Lewis. - Carol Fagen, a resident near the proposed rezoning site, expressed support for the U-Haul project over expensive housing, but voiced concerns about drainage issues and past failures at Home Depot. She urged proper water retention design. Discussion Items - Town Manager Report (C.1): Troy Smith summarized articles on the World's Oldest Continuous Rodeo, library events, water department repairs, economic development, parks and recreation activities, police school safety, street repairs, pavement projects (Grant Dell's Road completion estimated December 2024), B-line bus improvements, and the General Plan awaiting voter ratification in November. - Proclamations: Missoula Children's Theatre Week (Aug 18-24) – accepted by Kathy Siler; National Service Dog Month (September 2024) – accepted by Cris Gerard with two puppies. - Broadband Presentation (D.3): Kelly Krusee, Erin Lorandos (Digital Equity Program Manager), and Sandip Bhowmick (State Broadband Director) presented the Arizona Commerce Authority's Connecting Arizona Engagement Tour. They discussed the BEAD program, with nearly $1 billion ($993 million) allocated to connect 320,000 unserved/underserved households in Arizona. The grant application process is expected to open in November 2024 with a two-round process. They also covered the Digital Equity Act, including a $16 million capacity grant and a competitive grant program with awards starting at $5 million. Council Member Mona inquired about timelines; subgrants anticipated in fall 2024. - Resolution 3407 – Naming Water Treatment Plant (F.1): Council Member Mona and staff presented the proposal to rename the Cragin Treatment Plant the Buzz Walker Water Treatment Plant in honor of former Water Director Collin "Buzz" Walker. Speakers included Council Member Mona, Water Director Tanner Henry, Buzz's son Patrick Walker, and former Town Manager LaRon Garrett. They highlighted Walker's 40+ years of service, his role in the C.C. Cragin project (14.5-mile pipeline, 4.3 MGD microfiltration plant, hydroelectric generator), and his work on Green Valley Park and other infrastructure. The resolution was approved unanimously. - First Public Hearing – Ordinance 967 Rezoning (F.2): Zoning Administrator Nicole Adams presented the request to rezone 9.99 acres at 1900 N. Beeline Highway from R-3 and C-2 to C-3 to allow indoor self-storage, outdoor covered RV storage (112 spaces), U-Haul truck/trailer leasing, and related retail. The property had been designated for townhomes since 2006 but no development occurred. The project aligns with the General Plan and includes a stormwater detention area as a buffer. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval with a condition for a fence along the western/southwestern property line. Public comment from Carol Fagen supported the project but raised drainage concerns. No action was taken; second public hearing scheduled for September 11, 2024. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved 5-0. - Resolution 3407: Approved 5-0 to name the water treatment plant the Buzz Walker Water Treatment Plant, with installation of signage by December 31, 2024, funded from the council contingency and water enterprise fund. - First Public Hearing on Ordinance 967: No vote taken; matter continued to September 11, 2024 for second hearing and possible action.