Public Meetings - Phoenix, Arizona

The Phoenix City Council held a formal meeting on August 26, 2024, addressing a range of items including liquor license applications, consent agenda approvals, grant proposals for eviction prevention and community wireless networks, and public comments on police reform and community concerns. The meeting opened with remarks highlighting the economic impact of the 2024 NCAA Men's Final Four, noting that nearly 115,000 out-of-state visitors came to Arizona primarily for the event, spending an average of $482 per day over 3.9 nights, reaching over 40 million viewers. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: Approved minutes from multiple prior meetings (July 1, 2022; August 31, 2022; September 7, 2022; September 21, 2022; June 26, 2024; July 1, 2024; April 19, 2023; May 31, 2023). All passed unanimously. - Boards and Commissions: Approved nominations and conducted a swearing-in ceremony for new commissioners, including Samuel Woolworth. - Liquor Licenses (Items 16–43): Approved items 16 through 43 with the exception of items 30 and 43, which were pulled for separate discussion. The motion passed unanimously (8-0). - Consent Agenda (Items 44–117): Approved with exceptions of items 53, 54, 75, and 78 (pulled for discussion), noting item 114 as corrected. Passed unanimously (8-0). Discussion Items - Item 30 – Sugar Cane Liquor License (District 4): Staff presented a new liquor license for a restaurant previously licensed. The 60-day processing deadline had passed but a time extension was requested. A neighbor, Leslie Sorens, spoke on behalf of residents expressing support for the business but requesting restrictions: earlier closing hours, DJ music ending by 8 p.m., closed doors/windows during DJ, no amplified music on the patio, and street parking enforcement. Staff clarified that liquor license stipulations cannot bind these conditions; zoning permits would be the appropriate avenue. Council voted no recommendation (8-0) to allow additional time for district staff and the applicant to address neighborhood concerns. - Item 43 – Warehouse 215 Liquor License (District 8): Staff reported the location already has a Series 6 license and a new lottery license would be parked and later transferred. One protest letter was received regarding traffic, safety, and noise. Councilwoman Hodge Washington noted that denying the license would not prevent current operations and urged the applicant to work with her office and the neighborhood. Council approved the license (8-0). - Item 75 – Eviction Prevention Grant Application to HUD: Councilwoman Hodge Washington and Councilwoman Guardado expressed strong support for the grant, emphasizing its goal to reduce eviction complaints, improve outcomes for tenants, and increase housing stability. They thanked deputy city manager Gina Montes and staff for pursuing the grant. The item passed unanimously (8-0). - Item 78 – Community Wireless Network Amendment: Councilwoman Hodge Washington highlighted that 25% of students lack internet access, calling the expansion critical. Councilwoman Guardado praised the proof-of-concept success in District 5 and thanked Councilwoman Pastor for leadership. The item passed unanimously (8-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Julia Taggart raised concerns about the North Mountain Visitor Center, noting sun-damaged exhibits and lack of a crosswalk for safety. She also announced a celebration of life for Weba Wells Grandmude (September 28). - Elsa (Black Lives Matter Phoenix Metro) called for accountability for Phoenix Police, citing the DOJ report and demanding justice for Jacob Harris and his friends, budget reallocation from police to community, and policy changes including ending youth enhancements and qualified immunity. - Carolina Hernandez (not present? Actually Elsa spoke; Carolina listed but not transcribed). - Armand spoke as a Black man feeling unsafe due to Phoenix PD harassment and beating, referencing the DOJ report and urging reform after 10 years of Mayor Gallego's tenure. - Kathy expressed concern for police morale and recruiting, opposing DOJ consent decree as harmful to public safety. - Reverend P.J. Boone emphasized need for accountability and data to hold city officials responsible. - James Wright spoke about the Myrtle Wash area destruction by a city contractor, requesting restoration of the nature trail after 66 trees were cut down, and noting property value loss of 10-15%. - Denise supported police based on positive experiences with her youth program, but acknowledged bad apples and urged fairness. - Roland (Jacob Harris’s father) detailed his son's killing by police, criticized lack of accountability, and called for removal of bad officers, stating he fears for his children daily. - Christina Narcy (Independent Women's Network) urged council to reject a DOJ consent decree, arguing it would increase crime and costs (citing Maricopa County Sheriff's Office $300 million), and praised Phoenix PD's existing reforms. - Paul Parisi (Our America) opposed federal oversight, advocating local control and community-based policing. - Mimi was called but no comment transcribed; meeting then adjourned. Key Outcomes - Item 30: No recommendation vote (8-0) to allow continued engagement between district staff, applicant, and neighbors. - Item 43: Approved liquor license (8-0). - Item 75: Approved eviction prevention grant application (8-0). - Item 78: Approved community wireless network IGA amendment (8-0). - Consent Calendar items: All approved unanimously. - Public comments: No council action taken; comments were received for the record.

The Phoenix City Council convened on July 1, 2024, for a formal meeting preceded by a separate meeting of the Verdin Community Facilities District Board of Directors. The council addressed a consent calendar covering routine approvals, public hearings on the property tax levy and several development proposals, and discussion items including the South Mountain Activity Complex renovation and a zoning appeal at 24th Street and Camelback Road. All votes on consent items and the tax levy were unanimous (9-0). The meeting included a swearing-in of commissioners and recognition of the Mandela Fellows delegation. Preliminary: Verdin Community Facilities District Board of Directors - The board approved Resolution B-0-4 adopting the final district budget for fiscal year 2024-2025 (vote 9-0). - The board approved Resolution B-0-6 for the proposed tax levy for fiscal year 2024-2025 (vote 9-0). No public comments were received. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved meeting minutes for previous dates (items 1-4), boards and commission nominations (item 5), liquor license applications (items 6-22), and ordinances/resolutions (items 23-69, with exceptions: items 25, 26, 35, 45, 54, 65-68 were excluded for separate consideration; item 41 was continued to August 26, 2024; item 69 was continued to September 4, 2024). All consent items passed 9-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 45 – South Mountain Activity Complex Renovation (Amendment): Two residents, Jerry Van Gast and Tim, spoke in opposition. They alleged the project is behind schedule (60% complete after seven years of a five-year plan), lacks public input, and involves questionable allocation of funds. They raised concerns about transparency and stated their attorneys are investigating. - Item 67 – Downtown Code Text Amendment: Joan, a former planning commissioner, spoke in support of the reduced area approved by the Central City Village Planning Committee and Planning Commission. She noted the original applicant's request for a zoning variance could have been appropriate, but the text amendment was unnecessary and generated opposition. She expressed hope for future downtown code improvements. - Item 68 – 24th Street and Camelback Road (Appeal): The applicant (Red Development, represented by Ed Bull) supported the approval, citing 18 years of established zoning and numerous public hearings. The appellant (Robert Marino, representing the Esplanade) did not oppose development but requested the project be sent back to the Village Planning Committee (VPC) for review, arguing the VPC chair’s decision to bypass a hearing was a “dereliction of duty.” The council did not support the request. Discussion Items - Item 26 – Property Tax Levy 2024-2025: The council opened a public hearing; no residents commented. The proposed levy reduces the tax rate. The council approved it 9-0. - Item 35 – Wireless Communication Service, Accessory and Equipment: The motion to approve was made. The mayor noted that the city’s ITS department, with Bloomberg Associates, achieved a 42% reduction in wireless spending year-over-year in the fire department, and savings will be applied citywide. Approved 9-0. - Item 45 – South Mountain Activity Complex Renovation (Amendment): Despite public opposition, the council approved the amendment 9-0. Staff had allocated additional funds for the activity center and other improvements. Project is in its seventh year of a five-year plan. - Item 54 – Rezoning at Cave Creek Road and Quail Avenue (District 2): A resident (Spencer Freeman) asked about the zoning change. The council approved the rezoning 9-0. - Items 65 & 66 – 19th Avenue and Baseline Road Rezoning: Both items were approved per the planning commission recommendation (votes 9-0). - Item 67 – Downtown Code Text Amendment: Approved per the planning commission recommendation 9-0. - Item 68 – 24th Street and Camelback Road (Tower Height Approval): The request was to approve a new tower (Building P) at the southeast portion of the Biltmore Fashion Park property, up to 140 feet (Option 1) or 165 feet (Option 2), per the 2006 zoning. The Planning Hearing Officer and Planning Commission recommended approval. The council approved unanimously 9-0 after a discussion on the review process and the VPC’s role. Key Outcomes - All substantive votes were unanimous (9-0) except where noted (none). - The property tax levy for FY 2024-2025 was adopted with a reduced rate. - Multiple housing and development approvals were granted, including 522 new units of housing citywide (mentioned by mayor). - The South Mountain Activity Complex renovation amendment was approved despite unresolved public concerns. - The appeal on item 68 was rejected; the tower height approval was confirmed. - The council recognized the Mandela Fellows delegation and commissioned new board members to the Human Trafficking Task Force.

The Phoenix City Council met on June 26, 2024, at 10:30 AM (local time) in a formal meeting that included approvals of consent items, several ordinance and resolution votes, and significant public comment. The meeting began with a short assisted housing governing board session that approved project-based vouchers (item 5) and the budget (item 4). The council then proceeded with its agenda, covering public safety infrastructure, sustainability projects, economic development, and a transit center naming. All action items passed with strong majority support, many unanimously. Consent Calendar - The council approved the February 15, 2023, June 28, 2023, and March 2024 board meeting minutes (item 3). - The budget for the assisted housing governing board (item 4) passed with a roll call of 9-0. - Project-based vouchers for affordable housing (item 5) passed 10-0. - The council approved items 1-4 (minutes, etc.) and items 6-12 (liquor licenses) without dissent. - A block of 127 ordinances and resolutions (items 13-139) was approved via a single motion, with specific items excluded for separate consideration: 51, 71, 72, 91, 94, 95, 103, and 130. Items 20 and 94 were noted as revised; item 34 withdrawn; items 110 and 138 continued to later dates. Public Comments & Testimony - Cactus Park Precinct (Item 51): Stan Bates, a resident and block watch leader, spoke in strong support, noting the precinct’s outdated facilities (e.g., no women’s locker room, undersized for the number of officers). He thanked Councilwoman O’Brien for advocacy. The United Phoenix Firefighters Association submitted a statement of gratitude for the city’s active approach to public safety real estate. - Container Vertical Farm (Item 71): No public speaker recorded, but Councilwoman Guardado praised the project as a sustainability model and noted community excitement from neighbors near North Glen Square. - Electric Vehicle Partnership (Item 83): Diane Barker (District 7 resident) supported the application, but urged inclusion of infrastructure for electric bicycles and bike racks. She referenced the MAG $30 million grant opportunity. - Innovation 27 (Item 91): Councilwoman Guardado highlighted the partnership with ASU, community colleges, and school districts; no public speakers besides staff. - Gila Foothills Development (Item 94): Dan Penton (Laveen resident) expressed concern about the lack of a fire station in the first phase of development, citing wildland fire risks. Linda Abegan (chair of Laveen Village Planning Committee) spoke in strong support, saying the development agreement responsibly addresses infrastructure and public safety. Councilwoman Hodge Washington committed to prioritizing a fire station. - Central Business District Boundary (Item 95): Susan Edwards (Arizona Neighborhood Alliance president) urged caution regarding South Phoenix due to HB 2721 (multiplex bill) and potential displacement. Councilman Galindo Elvida responded that historic preservation overlay likely provides protection. - Interim Police Chief Contract (Item 103): Councilwoman Pastor asked for clarification; staff explained the extension to August 31, 2025, with a permanent chief search to occur during that period. No public speakers. - Naming Central Station for Greg Stanton (Item 130): Numerous speakers testified in favor: Abby (constituent and daily transit user), Ling Ling Li (40-year resident), Stephanie (community advocate), Wenji, Yusuf Robb (United for Infrastructure), Gail Knight, Lori (District 3 resident), TC Chu, Wen Shwen, and Nadia Khaligi (Arizona Fair Housing Center). All praised Congressman Stanton’s leadership on transit, especially Proposition 104 (Transportation 2050) and his work securing federal funds. Vice Mayor Stark read a letter from former Councilwoman Peggy Billstein, who suggested protecting the Ed Pastor Transit Center on Central and Broadway while naming the new center for Stanton. Discussion Items - Cactus Park Precinct (Item 51): Councilwoman O’Brien expressed excitement about the new police and fire station, noting the existing precinct was built before women served on the force. Fire Station 62 in District 7 will open in September, and Station 74 at 19th Ave & Chandler Blvd will break ground soon. The item passed 9-0. - Phoenix Resilient Food Systems Program/Container Vertical Farm (Item 71): Councilwoman Guardado highlighted partnerships with Salt River Project and ASU, and noted the farm at 2644 West Bellman Avenue will provide fresh produce and workforce training. Passed 9-0. - EPA Environmental and Climate Justice Grant (Item 72): Councilwoman Pastor recused herself. The item passed 9-0 (roll call showed 7 yes and 1 no? Transcript reads “7-1” but no opposition was recorded; it may have been a miscount. The result was approval.) - Electric Vehicle Partnership (Item 83): The council approved the grant application to MAG for EV infrastructure. Passed 9-0. - Innovation 27 (Item 91): Councilwoman Guardado thanked Maricopa County for a $1 million grant. Councilwoman Pastor recused herself. Passed 9-0 (roll call showed 8 yes, with Pastor not participating). - Gila Foothills Development (Item 94): Councilwoman Hodge Washington said the agreement funds trailhead improvements at South Mountain Park and a combined fire/police station in Laveen. Councilman Galindo Elvida commended the community-driven process. Passed 9-0. - Central Business District Boundary Update (Item 95): Approved without debate after public concern noted. Passed 9-0. - Interim Police Chief Contract (Item 103): Staff confirmed the contract extension for Interim Chief Sullivan to August 31, 2025, and a permanent recruitment effort will occur during that period. Passed 9-0. - Naming Central Station for Greg Stanton (Item 130): Councilman Waring (Republican) noted his cross-party support, emphasizing Stanton’s dedication. Councilwoman Pastor voted yes, but urged better community engagement processes. Councilman Galindo Elvida abstained, citing consistency with a prior vote. The motion passed 9-0 (with one abstention). Key Outcomes - Approved a contract for container vertical farm (Item 71) as part of the Resilient Food Systems Program. - Approved application for an EPA Environmental and Climate Justice Grant (Item 72). - Approved an electric vehicle infrastructure grant application (Item 83). - Approved a $1 million Maricopa County sub-recipient grant for Innovation 27 (Item 91). - Approved a development agreement with Lions Family Entities (Item 94) for public improvements, including a future fire station and trailhead. - Approved the central business district boundary update (Item 95). - Approved extension of the interim police chief contract through August 31, 2025 (Item 103), with a permanent search to be conducted. - Approved naming the Central Station Transit Center as “Greg Stanton Central Station” (Item 130). The council also acknowledged the need to strengthen and preserve the Ed Pastor Transit Center. - All votes were decisive; most passed 9-0, with the exception of item 72 (recorded as 7-1 but with no opposing voices in transcript) and item 130 (one abstention).

The Transportation, Infrastructure, and Planning (TIP) Subcommittee of the Phoenix City Council met on June 20, 2024, at 10:05 AM to discuss consent agenda items, a financial update on the solid waste utility, and a proposed fiber-to-home licensing framework. The subcommittee also heard public comments on illegal dumping at South Mountain Park and police consent decree negotiations. Consent Calendar - Items 2 and 4: Approved unanimously via a motion and second. No speakers or opposition. - Item 3: Also approved unanimously. A member of the public, Eric Nielsen, commented before the vote, expressing support for preserving historic buildings via partial demolition and facade retention. His comments did not pertain to item 3 but were heard as public input. Public Comments & Testimony - Jessica Dobbs (first speaker) raised concerns about an unauthorized dumping of approximately 150 loads of unfiltered rock and debris at South Mountain Park in March 2020 by homebuilder Meritage. She stated that testing by the city’s Office of Environmental Programs was conducted after the dumping and on material not representative of what was deposited. She called the process “sloppy or criminal” and urged the subcommittee to investigate. - Tim Sirikowski (second speaker) continued on the same issue, demanding records of who authorized the gate opening and communications between Meritage and the Parks Department. He warned that illegal dumping in a preserve could lead to EPA involvement and fines assessed per dump truck load over four years. - Eric Nielsen (third speaker, different from earlier Eric Nielsen) addressed police department negotiations, recommending that Councilwoman O’Brien lead consent decree negotiations with the federal government. He advised the city to “take its chance with the justices” rather than show weakness. Discussion Items - Solid Waste Financial Update (Item 5): Presented by Director Felipe Mot. Moreno and Deputy Director Brandy Barrett. The utility serves over 420,000 residential customers, processes over a million tons of material annually, and faces rising costs. Key financial data: - Current fiscal year revenues estimated at $204 million; expenses at $173.8 million (O&M). - Six-year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP): $202.1 million, with $134.9 million currently unfunded. - A structural imbalance begins in FY 2025-26, with projected deficits of $81 million, leading to a negative fund balance of $61.6 million and depletion of operating reserves. - Cost drivers: 32% labor increase (class/comp adjustments), 49% increase in truck costs, 20% infrastructure inflation, 24% equipment maintenance increase, and a 132% ADEQ permit fee hike. - Mitigations to date: deferred vehicle purchases (leading to fleet health decline from 66% to projected 31% by 2026), deferred capital projects, increased commercial gate rate ($44 to $55/ton), and renewable natural gas partnership yielding $2 million over five years. - Next step: Work with finance and a rate advisory committee to present strategies to council next fiscal year. - Councilwoman O’Brien and Councilwoman Hodge Washington asked clarifying questions about reserve policies and consequences of unfunded CIP projects (closure of landfill/transfer stations). - Fiber-to-Home Network Infrastructure (Item 6): Presented by Deputy City Manager Alan Stevenson, Street Transportation Director Joe Brown, and Special Projects Administrator Kevin Sonoda. Proposed new city code chapter for fiber optic cable installation by “overbuilder” companies (e.g., Google Fiber, GigaPower). Key issues discussed: - Microtrenching: Companies want to use a 2-inch-wide, 10-inch-deep saw cut every 200-300 feet across local streets. Staff expressed concerns about pavement integrity, water intrusion, and bicycle safety. The city’s standard restoration (slurry seal and 24-inch mill/inlay) is opposed by industry due to cost. - Alternative methods: Horizontal directional drilling and aerial fiber are currently allowed and preferred by staff. - License fee structure: Proposed 3% of gross revenues or $9 per residential unit passed (annual minimum) for retail providers; 6% for wholesale. Comparable to Cox’s current 5% of cable TV revenue, but other telecoms (Lumen) are exempt by state law. - Joint trenching: Not feasible as companies do not wish to share conduits. In Mesa, multiple microtrenches require 3-foot separation. - Council members expressed strong support for preserving street quality given the city’s $200 million accelerated pavement program. They requested staff work with industry over summer on joint trenching and new development coordination, and return with a final proposal in September. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda items 2, 3, and 4 were approved unanimously (3-0). - No votes were taken on items 5 and 6; they were presented for information and discussion. - Staff will continue stakeholder engagement on fiber-to-home (including meeting with all council members) and plan to present a revised ordinance to TIP in September, then to full council. - Councilwoman O’Brien requested a future agenda item on infrastructure for state land areas for the September meeting.

The Economic Development and Housing Subcommittee of the Phoenix City Council met on June 12, 2024, to discuss and vote on items including the city's homelessness strategy, a major biosciences project, a historic firehouse lease, a development agreement in Laveen, and the creation of a Sports and Events Commission. The subcommittee unanimously approved all action items. Note: The raw transcript repeatedly identifies the meeting date as January 12, 2024, which conflicts with the provided date of June 12, 2024. Consent Calendar - The subcommittee approved the minutes from May 8, 2024, unanimously. - Consent agenda items 2 through 7 were approved unanimously without questions. Public Comments & Testimony - Take Back Our Homes campaign speakers (Avalon/Evelyn Castillo, Andrea Luna, and Sebastian del Portillo) urged the subcommittee to fund and implement a right-to-counsel program for renters facing eviction. They cited successful models in Tucson and Cleveland, noting improved outcomes for tenants and cost savings for cities, and requested a cost-benefit analysis for Phoenix. They also called for eviction prevention funding in the next budget cycle. - Rick Naymark, president of the Hance Park Conservancy, expressed support for the proposed restaurant lease at the former firehouse, saying the city's investment would make the adaptive reuse possible. - Linda Abeg, chair of the Laveen Village Planning Committee, spoke in favor of the Gila Foothills Development Agreement, highlighting the balance of housing, employment, and infrastructure needs. Discussion Items - Homelessness Strategy Update (Item 11): Deputy City Manager Gina Montez, Homeless Solutions Director Rachel Milney, Housing Director Titus Matthew, and Neighborhood Services Director Spencer Self presented progress under the 2020 Strategies to Address Homelessness plan. Key data included: HMIS quarterly data showing 12,472 unduplicated people served (8,854 single adults and 3,618 in family units), and 31,071 people served over the last year. During encampment closures around the Key Campus, 718 people were engaged and 590 (82%) accepted indoor shelter or alternative placement; of those, 17% were in housing by late March. New shelters include the 280-bed navigation center at 71st Avenue and Bamburen, DePaul Manor (100 beds for seniors/disabled), North Mountain Healing Center (100 beds), and CASS Haven (170 senior beds). Housing programs preserved over 5,200 affordable units, received over 43,000 Section 8 waitlist applications, and made over 4,500 landlord incentive payments. Councilmembers asked about hotspot response, shelter safety and oversight, and the navigation center's referral process and safeguards. - CAMI Biosciences Project (Item 12): Community and Economic Development Director Chris Mackey and Deputy Director Zandon Keating presented the University of Arizona's Center for Advanced Molecular Immunological Therapies (CAMI) on the Phoenix Bioscience Core. The project is a two-phase, approximately 450,000-square-foot research and education hub. Phase one is about 200,000 square feet with an estimated 500 jobs and a $290 million capital investment. The city's proposed contribution includes a 30-year ground lease with rent abatement, $1.5 million from the Downtown Reinvestment Fund at construction completion, and $1.5 million annually for 10 years beginning in FY2029. Councilmembers voiced strong support. - Former Firehouse at Hance Park (Item 13): Staff presented a proposal to lease the 4,700-square-foot former Fire Station No. 4 at 1130 N. First Street to Pool House Group for a full-service restaurant. The 2022 RFP received one proposal. Lease terms include an annual rent of approximately $129,000 with a 3% annual escalator, and city reimbursement for core building infrastructure. The Parks Board approved the terms on May 23. Councilmembers praised the project's community engagement and historic preservation. - Gila Foothills Development Agreement (Item 14): Staff presented a development agreement for a 290-acre PUD near South Mountain, including streets, water/wastewater lines, a future fire/police station site, and a trailhead for South Mountain Park. The developer agreed to donate $500,000 from a billboard installation to fund a Laveen park. The city will reimburse infrastructure costs through TPT sales tax and impact fees over a term of not more than 25 years. Councilmember Hodge Washington and the Laveen Village Planning Committee chair praised the collaborative process. - Phoenix Sports and Events Commission (Item 15): Jerry Harper, Ron Price (Visit Phoenix), and Mike Hopper (Bloomberg Associates) proposed creating a commission under Visit Phoenix to attract youth/amateur sports and major events. They cited $52 billion in direct sports-related travel spending and $128 billion in economic impact nationally, and noted Phoenix is the only major city without such a commission. The city's requested commitment was $80,000 per year for three years ($50,000 from non-general funds and $30,000 from the tourism hospitality fund), with Visit Phoenix contributing $250,000. The commission would hire an executive director and aim to host at least two major events by year three. Key Outcomes - The subcommittee unanimously approved the May 8, 2024 minutes and the consent agenda. - The subcommittee unanimously approved the CAMI IGA modifications, forwarding them to the full city council. - The subcommittee unanimously approved the Hance Park firehouse lease and infrastructure agreement with Pool House Group. - The subcommittee unanimously approved the Gila Foothills Development Agreement. - The subcommittee unanimously approved the Phoenix Sports and Events Commission funding commitment. - Councilmember Hodge Washington requested continued exploration of a right-to-counsel cost-benefit analysis, including county and legislative involvement and attention to linguistic and cultural accessibility. The chair acknowledged the request for future agenda items.

The meeting on June 12, 2024, began with two Community Facilities District (CFD) boards—Park Central and Verdin—before convening the regular Phoenix City Council meeting. The council addressed a wide range of items including budget adoption, liquor licenses, zoning, pension funding, and public comments. The budget was adopted unanimously for the first time since 2009. Consent Calendar - Park Central CFD Board (Items 3-8, 10-11): Approved minutes, adopted final FY2024-25 budget (Resolution PC19, 10-0), and authorized amendment of development financing agreement (Resolution PC20, 10-0). - Verdin CFD Board (Item 3): Approved proposed district budget for FY2024-25 (Resolution V-03, 8-0). - City Council Minutes (Items 1-4): Approved minutes from February 2, 16, and March 2, 2022, all unanimously. - Item 5: Continued to next council meeting. - Item 6: Approved Mayor and City Council boards and commissions nominations unanimously; followed by a swearing-in ceremony. - Items 7-17: Liquor license approvals passed unanimously. - Items 18-146 (exceptions): Approved in a block with roll call 9-0, excluding specific items for public comment (Items 35, 44, 65, 68, 71, 93, 94, 99). Public Comments & Testimony - Item 35 (Ballot Language): Leonard Clark expressed support for council pay raises, citing inflation and the full-time nature of the role. - Item 44 (CleanSign RFP Protest): Francis Veercutter, representing CleanSign, requested the RFP be rebid, alleging inaccurate review process, poor communication, and insufficient diversity adherence. He stated CleanSign was the lowest bidder and a certified SBE/DBE company. - Item 65 (Funding for Homeless Services): Two speakers opposed the $250,000 allocation for community court and navigation services, arguing it criminalizes mental health and addiction instead of providing medical solutions. - Item 68 (Human Services Assessment): Diane Barker spoke in support, noting the importance of cooling centers and hydration, and suggested providing water bottles at libraries. - Item 71 (Code Enforcement Policy): Multiple residents from Grand Families Apartments and Matthew Henderson Senior Apartments reported maintenance issues, rent increases, lack of security, and inadequate staffing. Councilwoman Hodge Washington connected them with staff for follow-up. - Item 94 (Budget Disbursement for Police): Jessica opposed embedding crisis intervention teams within police, advocating instead for water stations, extended heat relief hours, and eviction legal assistance. - Citizen Comment: Several speakers addressed ongoing concerns: - Dana Burns and others from Grand Families and Matthew Henson Senior Living highlighted unsafe conditions, rent burdens, and a suicide linked to eviction. - Ann Ender (Operation Blue Ribbon) criticized the police staffing report for lacking key hiring data and urged transparency. - Tim Sarkowski and Elizabeth Venable alleged illegal dumping in South Mountain Park, requesting investigation and accountability. - Tony and Carol Moore detailed poor lighting, lack of security, and maintenance at Grand Families Place. - A speaker urged more housing and services for homeless individuals. - Another speaker raised concerns about moral mandates and compliance with federal injunctions. Discussion Items - Budget Adoption (Items 27-31): The council held a public hearing (no comments) and then adopted the final FY2024-25 operating ($50949), capital ($50985), and reappropriated ($50950) budgets, all 9-0. The budget was described as investing in city employees and services, with Councilwoman Guardado noting it reflects community values. This was the first unanimous budget adoption since 2009. - Item 32 (Amendment to Current Budget): Adopted 9-0 to close out FY2023-24 and proceed with annual audit. - Item 35 (Ballot Language): Procedural vote (9-0) to approve the form of the ballot for three November 2024 measures: General Plan update, Home Rule adoption, and an automatic referral of a salary commission recommendation for council pay increases. Councilwoman O'Brien voted yes but stated she does not support the salary increase. - Item 44 (CleanSign RFP): Motion to approve passed 8-1 (Councilwoman Pastor voted no). - Item 52 (Pension Funding Policies): Two separate votes: COPRS pension funding policy passed 8-0 (Councilman Robinson declared conflict), and PSPRS pension funding policy passed 8-0 (Robinson declared conflict on this as well). - Item 65 (Funding for Homeless Services): Approved 9-0. The $250,000 allocation supports services for people exiting jail and experiencing homelessness, part of broader efforts including $10 million for Mercy Care behavioral health units. - Item 68 (Human Services Assessment): Approved 9-0 for $152,000 competitive consultant contract. - Item 71 (Code Enforcement Policy): Approved 9-0 after public testimony. Council directed staff to follow up on resident complaints. - Item 93 (School Resource Officers): Approved 8-0 (Councilman Waring did not participate). - Item 94 (Crisis Intervention Teams): Approved 9-0. - Item 99 (Budget Disbursement): Approved 9-0. - Planning and Zoning Items: - Item 143 (Street abandonment in District 7): Approved 9-0 per abandonment hearing officer's decision. - Item 144 (26th Street and Camelback Road, District 6): Approved 9-0 per June 7, 2024 planning memo. Key Outcomes - Final FY2024-25 budgets (operating, capital, reappropriated) adopted unanimously (9-0). - FY2023-24 budget amendment adopted (9-0) to enable audit. - Ballot language for three November measures approved (9-0). - CleanSign RFP protest denied; item approved 8-1. - Pension funding policies (COPRS and PSPRS) adopted 8-0 each. - Funding for homeless services ($250,000), human services assessment ($152,000), code enforcement policy, school resource officers, and crisis intervention teams all approved 9-0 or 8-0 as noted. - Two zoning items approved 9-0. - Council directed staff to connect with residents of Grand Families Apartments and Matthew Henderson Senior Apartments to address maintenance, security, and rent concerns. - Citizen comments on South Mountain dumping and police staffing were noted for potential follow-up.

On June 11, 2024, the Phoenix City Council convened to receive presentations on two major initiatives: a comprehensive process improvement plan for the Planning and Development Department (PDD) and the draft Shade Phoenix plan, a comprehensive tree and shade master plan. Council members expressed strong support for both efforts, highlighted the importance of interdepartmental collaboration, and directed staff to continue refining the plans with ongoing community engagement. Discussion Items 1. Planning and Development Department Process Improvements - Vice Mayor Deborah Stark, a former PDD director, introduced the item, noting that a wave of retirements and the pandemic had strained the department, leading to service complaints. She praised PDD Director Josh Bedenaric and his team for initiating a process improvement effort that included customer and staff listening sessions. - Deputy City Manager Alan Stevenson and Director Bedenaric presented the improvements, emphasizing a culture of service with three core tenants: personal, seamless, and innovative. Key initiatives include reorganization of plan review functions, creation of photo-based org charts for all partner departments (streets, water, fire), and a commitment to annual customer listening sessions and an annual progress report. - Josh Bedenaric reported that the department has 488 team members and supplements with $8 million in on-call contracts. Statistics: In FY21-22, record permit valuations reached nearly $20 billion; last year, staff served 39,000 customers, issued 14,000 residential permits, and conducted 280,000 inspections (97% within 24 hours). The self-certification program has 241 registered professionals and issued 374 permits last year. - Council members unanimously praised the plan. Councilwoman Ann O'Brien asked about expanding self-certification and exploring private vendor options for permits. Vice Mayor Stark urged quarterly meetings with industry, better interdepartmental coordination for appointments, and attention to water meter timelines. Council members also emphasized the need for dedicated staff training time. - Mayor Kate Gallego noted that Bloomberg Philanthropies assisted with the update and that the council would vote the next day on on-call assistance to amplify staff efforts. She also highlighted the successful SolarApp partnership, which has drawn national attention. 2. Tree and Shade Plan Update – Shade Phoenix - Mayor Gallego introduced the draft plan, developed by the Office of Heat Response and Mitigation with support from Bloomberg Associates, American Forests, and numerous city departments. The plan builds on the 2010 Tree and Shade Master Plan and the 2021 Tree Equity Pledge. - Dr. David Hondula, Director of Heat Response and Mitigation, presented. He noted that shade reduces the net heat load on the human body by approximately 30°F on a hot day. Key data: median tree canopy cover in Phoenix is 10.9%, with a tenfold variation across census tracts; 75% of residents live in tracts with less than 15% canopy (American Forests recommends 15% for desert cities). The plan includes 37 actionable strategies under four broad areas: community education, adding shade, maintaining existing shade, and institutionalizing progress. - The plan represents at least $50 million in already allocated funding, including $3 million for 25 shade structures with local art (Sombra project), and aims to plant 25,000 new trees and build 500 shade structures. Department leaders from Parks (Scott Coughlin) and Streets (Jesse Duarte) detailed current efforts: Parks has planted 15,000 trees in the last decade; Streets maintains 30 million sq ft of landscape with a $3.2 million annual budget, and the Cool Corridors program has planted 2,945 trees since 2021. Public Transit has added 1,800 bus stop shelters (now 75% of stops) and will continue at 80 per year. - Council members expressed strong support. Councilwoman Ann O'Brien emphasized the need for tree maintenance and water costs. Councilwoman Yassamin Ansari noted a desire to consolidate landscaping responsibilities under one department. Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington stressed ensuring lower-income communities benefit. Councilwoman Laura Pastor highlighted community engagement and tree survival tracking. - The plan will undergo further community engagement this summer, with performance indicators and site-specific targets to be added before a final fall 2024 presentation. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; both items were presented for discussion and direction. - Council directed PDD to continue implementing process improvements, explore private vendor options, and report back annually. - Council directed the Heat Response Office to finalize performance metrics, conduct additional community outreach, and return with a final Shade Phoenix plan in fall 2024. - The council will vote on on-call assistance for PDD the following day (June 12, 2024).