Public Meetings - Phoenix, Arizona

On October 7, 2025, the Phoenix City Council convened for a policy meeting that included a budget update for fiscal year 2024-2025, approval of the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget calendar, and a presentation of the final report from the Strategic Work Group on Accessibility. The meeting featured council member updates, public testimony on transportation services, and recognition of retiring city employees. Public Comments & Testimony - Judith Clark, Secretary of the National Federation of the Blind Senior Division of Arizona and board member of the Foundation of Blind Veterans, testified about difficulties accessing the Ride Choice program. She stated that the program was expanded to all seniors on July 1, 2025, but she has been unable to access it since May 2025 due to insufficient funds and a waiting list. She noted that Dial-a-Ride requires scheduling a day in advance and is inflexible for doctor appointments or same-day needs. Discussion Items - Budget Update: City Manager Jeff Barton and Deputy City Manager Amber Williamson presented fiscal year 2024-2025 general fund results. Revenue variance was 0.7% (actuals $2,158.3 million vs. estimate $2,142.6 million), and expenditure variance was 0.2% (actuals $1,936.5 million vs. estimate $1,932.5 million). The ending fund balance was $221.8 million, $11.6 million higher than estimated. Of that, $1.6 million may be transferred to the Housing Trust Fund pending February 2026 capacity review. Key challenges discussed include economic uncertainty, a federal government shutdown (day 7 at the time), estimated revenue reductions of $56.7 million over the multi-year forecast due to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, need for $11.6 million for bond program operating costs in 2026-2027, and an estimated $22 million additional general fund need for homeless services after ARPA fund expiration. Council members raised questions about pension funding, homelessness funding, community input in the budget process, and the impact of the federal shutdown on city services. The budget calendar for fiscal year 2026-2027 was presented and approved (voice vote, one opposed). Key dates: February 24, 2026 – general fund status and multi-year forecast; March 24 – trial budget; April – community budget hearings; May 5 – city manager’s proposed budget; May 19 – final council action; June 3 – tentative adoption; June 17 – final adoption; July 1 – property tax adoption. - Strategic Work Group on Accessibility Final Report: Councilwoman Deborah Stark, chair of the work group, introduced the presentation. The work group was established in August 2024 following Mayor Gallego's State of the City address. Three subcommittees reported: - Physical Infrastructure (Daryl Christensen): Achievements include the unanimous council passage of residential building code amendments (effective August 1, 2025), identification of ADA building code gaps, a pilot for tactile directional indicators at 12th Street and Moreland, and continuation of the Save Our Space campaign for accessible parking enforcement. Long-term goals include improving ADA compliance in city inspections, standardizing tactile indicators, and formalizing enforcement of commercial accessible parking. - Digital Environment (Michael Hammett): Notable accomplishments: a hearing loop technology pilot that will be installed in council chambers within a month; an AI-powered language translation tool (Isla) deployed at 12 library branches, with over 270 sessions; the Smart Cities Roadmap (17% of survey respondents identified accessibility as important); digital kiosks from vendor Ike installed in downtown, featuring accessibility input from the National Federation of the Blind; and Innovate Phoenix Challenges focused on accessibility. - Social Awareness (Denise Resnick): The “Accessibility Inspires” / “Accessibility Thrives” multimedia campaign was launched across multiple platforms, directing to a new digital resource hub at phoenix.gov/accessibility. A community survey via ZenCity garnered over 1,100 responses, with top accessibility priorities being bus/light rail access, accessible amenities at city facilities, pedestrian pathways/sidewalks/curb ramps, street/crosswalk signals, and digital/phone/meeting/print access. - City Department Highlights (Judy Burroughs, Interim EOD Director): Parks and Recreation – Telephone Pioneer Park (first barrier-free park, District 1), Encanto Park accessible playground (District 4), Pop Go Park accessible fishing dock (District 6). Phoenix Sky Harbor – Compassion Cacti Lanyard program, sensory room, dementia-friendly travel workshop. Public Transit – Dial-a-Ride and Ride Choice services, 50th Street light rail station (over 600,000 boardings since April 2019, 8,500 monthly). ADA self-assessments underway. Citywide training for Certified Autism Center designation (2,200 employees completed training). Mobile Career Unit (MCU) – 477 contingent employment offers made as of June 2025. - Transition to Mayor’s Commission on Disability Issues (MCDI): Nicole Anderson, MCDI chair, confirmed that the commission will continue the work group’s initiatives. The MCDI’s annual Disability Awareness and Recognition Event (DARE) is scheduled for October 23, 2025, at Burton Barr Central Library (reached capacity). Key Outcomes - The budget calendar for fiscal year 2026-2027 was approved by voice vote, with one council member opposed. - The Strategic Work Group on Accessibility final report was presented and accepted. The work group’s ongoing tasks will transition to the Mayor’s Commission on Disability Issues (MCDI). Appointments of work group members as commissioners are scheduled for the second council meeting in October 2025. - Council directed staff to provide a list of current and future accessibility projects and to explore alternative funding sources for homeless services beyond the general fund. - The public hearing on the proposed budget is set for April 2026, with 12 community budget hearings planned.

The Public Safety and Justice Subcommittee convened on October 1, 2025, at 18:00 UTC (10:39 a.m. local time) to review the Fire Department's lockbox program, community assistance program (CAP) staffing expansions, and police recruitment/attrition. Key discussions included equity concerns over Spanish-language materials and a call for specialized police training on neurological disorders. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (September 3, 2025): Moved and seconded; passed unanimously by voice vote (Chair voted aye). Public Comments & Testimony - Brady Curren (Program Coordinator, Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at Barrow Neurological Institute) advocated for a 60-minute police training program on Parkinson's disease and other neurological disorders. He noted that symptoms (tremors, slow movement, cognitive impairment) can be misinterpreted as intoxication or non-compliance, leading to escalation. He requested subcommittee support to avoid misjudgments, ensure officer and community safety, build trust, and reduce unnecessary costs. He provided his email (firstname.lastname@commonspirit.org). - Diane Barker (Phoenix resident, former Board of Supervisors member) raised concerns about police overtime, citing reports that a third of the department works excessive OT. She also urged police to be more aware of surroundings (e.g., rooftop snipers, pedestrian safety) and highlighted disruptive noise from street racing and loud vehicles around Roosevelt and Central, especially during First Friday. She noted Phoenix leads Tucson in pedestrian deaths and called for greater attention to safety. Discussion Items - Presentation on Lockbox Program (Assistant Chief Justin Alexander): The program, piloted in 2023 in Council District One with the Phoenix Realtors, became permanent citywide in January 2025. It provides quick, non-destructive entry for residents aged 55+ or with mobility issues. As of two weeks before the meeting, 586 installations were completed, with 168 requests/month and 40 installs/month on average. Recent weeks saw nearly quadrupled installs. Goals for 2025: 500 installations, continued partnership with Realtors, and staffing adjustments. Councilwoman Guardado raised concerns about lack of Spanish-language materials, noting that 40% of Phoenix residents are Hispanic and that districts 4, 5, 7, 8 have low participation (60, 42, 10, and 36 lockboxes respectively). She criticized the oversight and lack of equity. Staff (Chief Alexander and Lori Bates) acknowledged the oversight, explaining the non-traditional rollout, and committed to translating materials immediately. Vice Mayor O'Brien expressed gratitude for the program's success, sharing a story of a 90-year-old woman in her district who gained independence. - Presentation on CAP Hiring and Expansion (Assistant Chief Ray Ochoa and CAP Administrator DC Ernst): CAP has reached 93% of staffing goals as of 2025. They have staffed nine behavioral health (BH) units (goal met in June 2025) and achieved 24/7 coverage for BH supervisors and dispatch. They are at 60% of the goal for 10 crisis response (CR) units, with six units providing 24/5 coverage plus 22 hours on two days; full 24/7 expected in Q1 2026. Calls transferred from police communications to BH dispatch increased 98% (Jan–Aug 2025 vs. 2024), with 417 in August 2025 (highest). BH unit call volume increased 94%; August 2025 was the highest. CAP responds as single unit (no PD/Fire) to 73% of calls. CR unit calls increased 5%. Average response times: BH 20 minutes, CR 22 minutes. CAP units respond from 11 station locations, with three future locations planned. Staff noted they comply with all traffic laws (no lights/sirens). Chair Robinson asked about outcomes for persons in crisis; Ernst explained that officers transfer care to BH units, which stabilize individuals in the community, connect to services, or initiate petitions if danger to self. - Informational Items: Police Recruitment and Attrition: Vice Mayor O'Brien requested year-over-year attrition data from 2020 to be included in future reports, noting current reports lack this information and are not available online. Chair Robinson noted 450 applications/month on average and asked about processing timelines, suggesting that delays may cause applicants to go to other agencies. Staff (Lori Bates) committed to including attrition data from 2020 in the next report (November) and to provide application process timelines in the December presentation. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved unanimously. - Lockbox program: Subcommittee directed staff to translate materials into Spanish immediately and ensure equitable outreach across districts. Staff committed to making materials available shortly. - CAP staffing: Goals for nine BH units and 24/7 coverage achieved; CR unit expansion to 10 units and full 24/7 coverage expected in Q1 2026. - Police reporting: Staff will include attrition data from 2020 in the next monthly report (November) and present application process timelines in December. - Public comment follow-up: Chair Robinson noted that police staff present were taking information on Parkinson's training; no formal action taken but indicated follow-up likely.

The Transportation Infrastructure and Planning Subcommittee met on September 17, 2025, to discuss routine approvals, receive updates on the bus rapid transit program, and hear a detailed one-year progress report on the Shade Phoenix Plan. The meeting also included public comments on park department transparency and tree maintenance concerns. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the previous meeting by a unanimous voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Jerry Van Gaz (speaking as a community coalition representative) welcomed former committee members and stated that his coalition would continue monitoring the subcommittee. He expressed frustration with the parks department's absence from recent meetings and lack of agenda items, and noted that legal action (via the Center for Law and the Public Interest) might follow if record requests remain unaddressed. - Tim Sarakowski criticized the lack of action on dumping at South Mountain, the “bridge to nowhere” at Hayestoa, a recently purchased house through the parks department, and delays in fulfilling record requests. He also questioned the number of trees that died in South Mountain and Hans Park due to watering system failures, urging the subcommittee to ensure maintenance accountability. Discussion Items - Bus Rapid Transit Program Update (Info Item): The subcommittee received a brief informational update; no comments or questions were raised. - Shade Phoenix Plan Progress Report: Presented by David Hondulo, Director of the Office of Heat Response and Mitigation. Key points include: - The plan, adopted unanimously in November 2024, represents more than $60 million in committed funding over five years (ending July 2029). - First-year evaluation (July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025) shows 31 of 36 actions fully meeting or exceeding milestones, 5 making progress, and none facing significant obstacles. - Metrics: 7,200 trees planted (net addition 5,500), 155 new shade structures, $16 million total investment, shade added at 78 schools, 130+ staff trained, and at least 4,000 residents engaged. - Highlighted actions: Canopy for Kids (1,200+ trees at 56 schools), Public Transit Department (81 shade structures at bus stops, on track for shade at all feasible bus stops by 2030), Community Canopy Program (1,900+ trees at 1,000+ homes in low-canopy neighborhoods), updated plant species guidance, green stormwater infrastructure (93 city employees trained), and the Sombra project (nine temporary shade art installations at parks funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies). - Five actions not fully meeting year-one milestones are due to staff capacity and contracting delays; specific plans for acceleration were outlined (e.g., tree code enforcement, tree steward program, public shade fund). - Priority for year two: improve tree and shade management and maintenance, informed by a new tree inventory (22,000 trees inventoried so far) that includes health assessments. - Upcoming events: Celebration of Shade (Sept. 20), sidewalk shade installations starting this fall, and community canopy planting events beginning Oct. 4. - Subcommittee Questions and Comments: - Councilman Waring expressed support for the captain's chairs at bus stops (instead of benches) to discourage encampments; Assistant Public Transit Director Juanita Carver confirmed new chairs are being used. - Chair Stark asked about including donated trees in the inventory and whether the adopt-a-street program could incorporate post-storm tree protection; Street Transportation staff agreed to explore the idea. - Councilwoman Hodge Washington asked about expanding the Community Canopy Program to districts not currently eligible (due to federal grant restrictions); David Hondulo stated the office is open to discussions on expanding eligibility. - Councilman Robinson thanked the staff for their work and indicated District 6 would reach out for collaboration. Key Outcomes - The subcommittee approved the minutes and received the Shade Phoenix Plan progress report as information; no formal votes were taken on the report itself. - Direction was given to explore including volunteer-planted trees in the city's tree inventory and to consider adding tree protection to the adopt-a-street program. - Staff committed to discussing with Councilwoman Hodge Washington ways to expand shade programs to all districts regardless of income designation. - The meeting adjourned with no future agenda items proposed.

The Phoenix City Council met on September 17, 2025, to address a wide range of agenda items, including the rehiring of former City Manager Ed Zirker, liquor license recommendations, shopping cart regulations, school resource officer classification, aviation land use, and multiple land use and rezoning cases. The meeting also featured extensive public comment on the city manager appointment and other topics. Consent Calendar - Minutes of June 4, 2025, approved. (9-0) - Boards and commissions nominations approved; new commissioners sworn in for the Human Trafficking Task Force. (9-0) - Omnibus motion (items 29-84 with exceptions) approved. (9-0) - Rules suspended to take item 83 (city manager employment agreement) out of order. (8-1) Public Comments & Testimony - Item 13 (Liquor License – Champagne Cafe & Lounge/District 4): Ann Ender, a homeowner, expressed concerns about proximity to schools, crime, and lack of windows. The applicant noted a window was added. Council made no recommendation (9-0) to the state. - Item 14 (Liquor License – District 4): No speakers; council made no recommendation (9-0). - Item 83 (Employment Agreement with Ed Zirker): - Support: Mike Huckins (Greater Phoenix Chamber), Jacques Avent (retired deputy city manager), Linda Clark (resident), Chip Malkins (Support Sky Harbor Coalition), Maria Tyne (Friends of Transit), Dominic Papa (Phoenix Community Alliance), Diane Barker (transit writer) – all praised Zirker’s experience, steady leadership, and ability to navigate challenges. - Opposition: Nancy Lamb (Both Ed in Action) – criticized the secretive process, cited 187 police shootings and 113 police killings under Zirker’s tenure, and the DOJ investigation findings (excessive force, discrimination, First Amendment violations). Luke Black – called the process shameful and accused council of forcing Zirker on the city amidst white supremacy violence. Jackie Alcaraz – condemned rehiring, citing personal arrest experience and DOJ report. Cynthia Gonzalez – opposed, citing targeting of Black, Indigenous, and people of color. Roland Harris – said Zirker failed and quit; urged consideration of Lori Bays. Jose Anka – opposed, calling for a fresh analysis. Vonnie & Karen Olsen – opposed, citing police violence and lack of accountability. - Item 40 (Classification and Pay Ordinance/SRO): No public comment. - Item 45 (Shopping Cart Ordinance): Lisa Bednar (Arizona Food Marketing Alliance) expressed appreciation for collaboration and support for the registry. - Item 53 (Homeland Security Grant): Leonard Clark supported (despite concerns about FEMA). Nancy Lamb opposed, citing terrorism liaison officer targeting of Black and Brown groups; she noted 10,092 records on Black Lives Matter vs. 2,126 on neo-Nazi groups. - Item 55 (FEMA Task Force One Agreement): Leonard Clark supported despite reservations. - Item 59 (Sky Harbor Terminal 3 Construction): Mark Cardinus, Leonard Clark, Stuart (Local 1912), Bill Ruiz spoke in support, emphasizing union labor and local investment. - Item 62 (Trago Dugan Aviation Lease): George Williams (airport cleaner) and Christopher Hall urged a $25/hour minimum wage for contract workers; Williams supported the lease. - Item 76 (Traffic Signal Optimization): Blue Crowley criticized funding priorities, arguing bus infrastructure was neglected for light rail. - Item 81/82 (Rezoning – Yardley Baseline): Brian Greathouse (applicant) presented compromises (175 units, height limits, landscaping). Brittany Conklin (appellant) opposed, citing traffic, density, and lack of community input; she requested R2 zoning, second egress, and solar. Additional speakers (Jay, Joe Melton, Twee Petarak) opposed, citing safety and Rio Montana plan violations. - Citizen Comment: Leonard Clark urged love over anger after Charlie Kirk’s murder. Blue Crowley advocated bifurcating transit funds. Noah James Marcom criticized police treatment of disabled individuals. Jarrett Maupin petitioned to rename a street “Charlie Kirk Way.” Diane Post warned about liability at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport regarding ICE transport. Discussion Items - Item 83 (City Manager Employment Agreement – Ed Zirker): The council debated the appointment for over an hour. Council Member Hernandez moved to continue to October 15, 2025; the motion failed 4-5. She then asked questions about the process (no position description, no formal interview, no community input, no internal candidates considered). She questioned Zirker on police violence (187 shootings, 113 killings under his tenure), ICE collaboration, police budget cuts, and housing. Zirker responded he would continue council direction, follow the law, and emphasized ongoing reforms. Council Members Robinson, Stark, Waring, O’Brien, and Gallego expressed support, citing stability, experience, and the need for steady leadership. Council Members Hernandez, Hodge Washington, and Pastor voted no, citing the process, lack of community input, and concerns over police violence. - Item 40 (Classification and Pay Ordinance): Created a new job title for retired police school resource officers (SROs), enhanced compensation for forensic scientists, and added legal/OAT positions. Vice Mayor O’Brien highlighted the SRO solution to meet demand. Mayor noted forensic science week and DNA evidence solving cold cases. Passed 8-1 (Waring no on SRO compensation). - Item 45 (Shopping Cart Ordinance): Requires retailers with many abandoned carts to install locking wheels or submit prevention plans. Council Member Guardado supported, citing 8,000 carts retrieved from 450 stores; most from 12 large retailers. Passed 9-0. - Item 46 (Agreement with U-Mom/Haley Women’s Center): Replaced aging chiller system with modern AC units using CDBG funds. Council Member Hodge Washington highlighted domestic violence survivors. Passed 9-0. - Item 47 (Aviation Land Reuse Strategy): Disposal of parcels acquired for aviation; community feedback led to pocket park design, community garden expansion, and rezoning transparency. Passed 9-0. - Item 51 (Venture Cafe Partnership): Supports entrepreneurial gatherings and innovation. Passed 9-0 (Pastor not participating). - Item 53 (Homeland Security Grant): Authorization to apply for funds for terrorism liaison officer program, threat mitigation, CERT, and rapid response. Council Member Guardado raised concerns about targeting of Black/Brown groups; he voted no. Chief clarified the program’s name change to “threat liaison” and focus on threat assessment. Passed 8-1 (Guardado no). - Item 55 (FEMA Task Force One Agreement): Supports urban search and rescue. Passed 9-0. - Item 59 (Sky Harbor Terminal 3 Construction): Amendment for construction manager at risk services; highlighted union labor. Passed 9-0. - Item 62 (Trago Dugan Aviation Lease): Lease for SkyCap services. Passed 9-0; workers urged $25/hour. - Item 64 (Cutter Aviation Lease – Deer Valley Airport): Second investment for corporate hangars, part of Deer Valley growth. Passed 9-0. - Item 76 (Traffic Signal Optimization): Authorization for funding from MAG to optimize signals on Broadway, 7th St, 48th St, reducing stops and emissions. Passed 9-0. - Item 79 (Rezoning – 20th Ave & South Mountain Ave): Modified stipulations from a previous approval; applicant confirmed new builder. Passed 8-0. - Item 80 (Abandonment Appeal – 817 W Madison): Council overturned hearing officer decision and approved modified abandonment for a two-story outdoor assembly space (like Crescent Ballroom); includes 75% shade coverage. Passed 8-0. - Items 81 & 82 (General Plan Amendment & Rezoning – Yardley Baseline): Approvals for 175 multifamily units (down from 188) with one-story perimeter, right-in/right-out access, enhanced landscaping. Rio Montana Plan cited. Passed 9-0 on both. - Item 84 (Pulled for Public Comment): Approved 9-0. Key Outcomes - City Manager Ed Zirker rehired (5-4) effective upon departure of current City Manager Jeff Barton. Hernandez, Hodge Washington, Pastor voted no. - Liquor Licenses (Items 13 & 14): Council made no recommendation (9-0), sending to the state. - Shopping Cart Ordinance (Item 45): Adopted (9-0), requiring locking wheels for large retailers. - SRO Classification (Item 40): Approved (8-1) to allow retired officers to serve as school resource officers without pension penalties. - Homeland Security Grant (Item 53): Approved (8-1) with Guardado opposed. - Rezoning/Final Actions (Items 79-82): All approved (8-0 or 9-0). - Pocket Park & Community Garden (Item 47): Approved (9-0) with commitment to community engagement. - Event Safety (Item 53 discussion): Chief noted plans to purchase anti-ramming vehicle barriers for large gatherings. - Citizen Comment: Received; council took no action.

This subcommittee meeting primarily focused on the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Bioscience Healthcare Strategic Initiative. Members received an update from Deputy Community Economic Director Nathan Wright and Program Manager Claudia Whitehead on the initiative's accomplishments, including significant capital investment, job creation, and international recognition. The subcommittee unanimously approved the initiative's continued implementation, including participation in the AZ Bio Industry Association and the 2026 Bio International Convention, at a cost not to exceed $130,000. The meeting also included approval of minutes, consent agenda items, and a procedural vote due to a conflict of interest. Consent Calendar - The subcommittee approved items two, three, and four (minutes of prior meetings, reports, and routine actions) unanimously as a consent agenda. - Councilwoman Pastor abstained from voting on the minutes (item one) because she was not present for that meeting. The minutes (item one) were approved with all other members voting aye. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the subcommittee. Discussion Items - Approval of Minutes (Item 1): Councilwoman Pastor recused herself because she was absent during the meeting covered by the minutes. The motion carried with all other members voting aye. - Consent Items (Items 2–4): After an initial approval, the subcommittee reconsidered the entire consent agenda when Councilwoman Pastor disclosed a conflict of interest with item four. The subcommittee voted to reconsider and then approved items two and three unanimously. Councilwoman Stark seconded the motion for item four; Councilwoman Pastor abstained. Item four passed 2-0-1. - Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Bioscience Healthcare Strategic Initiative (Item 5): Claudia Whitehead presented: - Phoenix is now ranked as a top 20 life science market in the U.S. Arizona is second in the U.S. for life science job growth and eighth for clinical trial economic impact. - Since 2019, the city has seen over $6.7 billion in new capital investment, more than 8 million square feet of new facilities, and 14,000 new high-quality jobs (average bioscience salary is $20,000 higher than other private sectors). - At the 2025 Bio International Convention in Boston, the City of Phoenix was the only city with a pavilion; the delegation of more than 60 people held over 400 meetings and identified more than 180 opportunities. - A short film highlighted the MindCrowd study by TGen (now part of City of Hope). The study has more than 800,000 participants and aims to reach 1 million by the end of 2025. Over 100,000 people have taken the test since the June 2025 trade show debut. - The estimated cost for participation in the 2026 Bio International Convention in San Diego and AZ Bio membership is $130,000. - Councilwoman Stark expressed strong support, noting Phoenix's international reputation in biosciences. Councilwoman Pastor asked about the MindCrowd study's potential to examine younger brains for ADHD, ADD, or neurodivergence. - The Chair emphasized that 80% of Arizona's clinical trials occur in Phoenix, calling the bioscience investments a success. - Future Agenda Items: Councilwoman Stark requested an update on the Phoenix Sister Cities program, noting many international activities, including potential new sister cities in Africa. The chair confirmed a Sister Cities update is scheduled for November 2025. Key Outcomes - Motion on Items 2–4 (after reconsideration): Approved unanimously for items two and three. Item four was approved 2-0-1, with Councilwoman Pastor abstaining due to a conflict. - Motion on Item 5 (Bioscience Healthcare Strategic Initiative): Approved unanimously (all members voting aye). The subcommittee recommended council approval for implementation, including AZ Bio membership and participation in the 2026 Bio International Convention, at a cost not to exceed $130,000. - Next Steps: The subcommittee will hear a presentation on Phoenix Sister Cities activities in November 2025.

The Public Safety and Justice Subcommittee of the Phoenix City Council met on September 3, 2025, to discuss emergency management code updates, the Community Safety Plan, police overtime management, and police hiring and retention. The meeting included presentations from city staff, public testimony, and council member debate. Key actions included approval of the emergency management code update and unanimous approval of minutes. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The subcommittee unanimously approved the minutes from the June 4, 2025 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Jeff Spellman: Questioned whether crime reductions were real or due to residents giving up on reporting, citing long hold times for non-emergency lines. Called for a “vision zero” approach to homelessness and criticized the categorization of prostitution as a “consensual crime.” - William Brashears (President, Glen County Vista Neighborhood Association): Described the impact of organized drugs and prostitution in neighborhoods along 27th Avenue, noting that homeless populations had taken over multiple properties. Supported continued resources for the community safety plan. - AJ Marston (19th Avenue Safety Corridor member): Expressed support for the safety corridor collaboration but noted that not all activity is documented due to long hold times and transient crime. Asked for long-term sustainable solutions including addressing vacant buildings and lots. Discussion Item: Emergency Management Code and Emergency Operations Plan Update - Presenters: Chief Christ (Fire Department) and Rudy Perez (Emergency Management Coordinator). - Recommended renaming the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management to the Office of Emergency Management to avoid confusion. - Proposed adding a definition for “great emergency” consistent with the city charter and aligning “local emergency” with state statute (ARS 26-301). - Updated the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) using an all-hazards approach, incorporating six review workshops, 27 city departments, and 15 external partners, including the American Red Cross and Maricopa County Department of Public Health. The EOP now includes the Office of Public Health, Office of Homeless Solutions, Office of Heat Response and Mitigation, and Community Assistance Program. - Outcome: The subcommittee unanimously approved the Chapter 11 updates and EOP, which will be forwarded to the formal council meeting on October 15, 2025. Discussion Item: Community Safety Plan Update - Presenters: Nick Valenzuela (Special Projects Administrator) and Assistant Police Chief Sean Kennedy. - Provided results of an Arizona State University (ASU) study assessing the five community safety plan (CSP) focus areas (27th Avenue Areas 1 and 2, Bell Road, Hatcher Road, 19th Avenue). - Key data (May 2024 – April 2025 vs. pre-intervention average): - 27th Ave Area 1: 29% reduction in overall crime (12% reduction in aggravated assaults, 30% trespassing, 31% thefts; increases in prostitution and drug offenses). - 27th Ave Area 2: 35% reduction in overall crime (26% theft, 36% trespassing, 69% shoplifting). - Bell Road: 43% reduction (17% aggravated assaults, 33% trespassing, 57% drug offenses, 80% shoplifting). - Hatcher Road: 38% reduction (68% drug offenses, 54% trespassing, 25% assaults, 17% thefts). - 19th Avenue: 17% reduction (14% aggravated assaults, 14% trespassing, 12% assaults; increases in drug offenses). - Perceptions of safety: Increased in all areas (7% to 43% depending on corridor). - ASU assessment: Success reported for most desired outcomes, but “not yet successful” for blight, encampments, illicit drug use, and prostitution on 27th Avenue and 19th Avenue. Overdose outcomes were listed as “neither” due to unavailable fatal overdose data. - Community committee feedback: 27th Avenue committee supportive of continuing the plan but noted persistent drug and prostitution issues. Bell Road committee saw positive shifts and supported quarterly meetings. Hatcher Road committee reported cleaner conditions and wanted continued involvement of Office of Homeless Solutions. 19th Avenue committee noted improvements but ongoing drug, blight, and trash concerns; requested more time to assess. - Next steps: Continue 19th and 27th Avenue plans with a more focused, data-driven approach; transition Bell Road to quarterly meetings with the business alliance; explore 24/7 real-time operations center (currently 19 hours/day); and consider using traffic cameras to expand the center. - Council discussion: Councilwoman Guardado questioned crime reduction numbers due to potential underreporting and stressed the need for more resources and a funding plan. Vice Mayor O'Brien asked about how encampment success was assessed and called for strengthening partnerships with ADOT regarding underpasses. Councilman Warren advocated for zero tolerance and criticized slow progress on quality-of-life offenses. Discussion Item: Police Overtime Usage and Management - Presenters: Assistant Police Director Jody Wolf and Deputy Budget Director Aaron Mertz. - Overtime categorized as mandatory (81%) and discretionary (19%). Mandatory overtime includes minimum staffing (largest), call-outs, holdover activities, special events, standby, and court proceedings. - Policy revisions since 2023: limiting work hours per 24-hour period and per week, prohibiting overlapping overtime, requiring one day off per week, and mandating thorough documentation with executive-level approval for exceptions. - Financial overview: For FY24-25, total overtime cost including fringe was $98.6 million. Vacancy savings from 470 vacant sworn positions ($77 million) and budgeted overtime ($45.3 million) total $122.3 million, but were offset by $150+ positions added in prior years ($33 million), specialty fund transfers ($19.4 million), hiring incentives ($1 million), resulting in a $12 million shortfall. - The department is working on a data-driven forecast model to better predict overtime needs. The city is also procuring a new time and labor system to replace the legacy system. - Council discussion: Councilman Warren emphasized the need for supervisory accountability and reducing unnecessary overtime. Vice Mayor O'Brien asked for more specific categories for discretionary overtime, particularly the “other” category (6%). Discussion Item: Police Hiring and Retention Update - Presenters: Commanders Will Joe and Leaf Myers. - Applications increased significantly in 2025 due to process improvements; January alone had 518 applications. Year-to-date applications (Jan–Jul 2025) exceeded all of 2024. - Lateral and reinstatement applications also up; hires for laterals/reinstatements in first six months of 2025 nearly double the full-year 2024 total. - Academy class sizes growing; 92% retention rate in academy (vs. 81% in 2024) and 91% in field training (vs. 69% in 2024). Current recruits in academy: 101. - Attrition: 30% of recruits lost within first year or academy. Main reasons: personal reasons (family, relocations, military), rule violations/absenteeism, firearms concerns (academy); job performance and personal reasons (field training). New strategies include pre-hire writing classes, increased ride-alongs, and slowing down personal reason resignations to allow officers to reconsider. - The department is also focusing on community-based recruitment, with applicants closely mirroring Maricopa County demographics (e.g., 10% African American recruits vs. 7% in population). - Council discussion: Councilman Warren expressed concern about the 30% attrition rate and high costs, urging more screening and retention efforts. Vice Mayor O'Brien suggested providing more real-life exposure through ride-alongs and mental health support. Staff noted that attrition at 20+ years is also a concern and will be addressed. Key Outcomes - Unanimously approved minutes of June 4, 2025. - Unanimously approved Chapter 11 updates to the City Code and the updated Emergency Operations Plan, to be forwarded to the formal council meeting on October 15, 2025. - The Community Safety Plan will continue in 19th and 27th Avenue areas with a focused, data-driven approach; Bell Road will transition to quarterly alliance meetings; Hatcher Road will continue quarterly meetings; exploration of 24/7 real-time operations center and use of traffic cameras. - The police department will improve overtime management by refining discretionary categories, enhancing supervisory accountability, and developing a data-driven forecast model. The city will proceed with procuring a new time and labor system. - Recruitment and retention efforts will intensify, including pre-hire training, ride-alongs, exit interview analysis, and targeted retention programs for officers with 20+ years of service. - The subcommittee directed staff to provide further detail on discretionary overtime categories and to study funding options for expanded real-time operations centers. - Items 6 (Community Assistance Program) and 7 (Fire Department response times) were received for information only; no action taken.

The Phoenix City Council met on September 3, 2025, at 10:45 AM to address a full agenda including boards and commissions nominations, liquor license approvals, several ordinance and resolution items, and multiple public hearings on development proposals. Key discussions centered on the Office of Accountability and Transparency (OAT) mediation program, a greenhouse gas inventory partnership with ASU, a workforce development agreement, and three rezoning cases. The meeting concluded with citizen comments on police accountability, cell phone use during meetings, and job retention for airport workers. Consent Calendar - Boards and Commissions Nominations (Item 1): Approved unanimously. New commissioners for the Military Veterans Commission were sworn in. - Liquor Licenses (Items 2–19): Approved unanimously via voice vote. - Ordinances, Resolutions, New Business, Planning & Zoning (Items 20–60, with exceptions): Approved 9-0 via roll call, excluding items 31, 38, 43, 57, 58, 59, 60 and continued item 56 to September 17, 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 38 – ASU Greenhouse Gas Inventory: Leonard Clark spoke in strong support, thanking the Walton family for donations to ASU and emphasizing that man-made climate change is a critical problem for Phoenix residents as temperatures exceed 120°F. - Item 57 – Rezoning at 21st Place: Richard Picardo, a 42-year resident, opposed the four‑story height increase (R3 to R5), citing privacy invasion, traffic, parking, and the property’s proximity (45 steps from his northeast property line to the proposed site). He noted the Village Planning Committee had denied the motion 9-1, and a petition with seven signatures was submitted. - Items 58 & 59 – Baseline Road Corridor: Brittany Conklin, the appellant, presented 31 pages of opposition letters from seven nearby communities. Key concerns included traffic congestion on Baseline Road (already over capacity, with residents reporting they avoid left turns onto Baseline), inadequate emergency services and response times, a single point of entry/egress, insufficient infrastructure and retail, loss of community character, and lack of notice. She requested denial or a continuance. - Item 60 – 17th Street/Griswold: Residents Jim Feldhan and Joanne opposed the rezoning for a 9,500 sq ft office building, arguing the application was piecemealed and that the developer was gaming the system by not including a unified plan. They requested a continuance so both adjacent properties could be reviewed together. - Citizen Comments (End of Meeting): - Juni Bradford (survivor of human trafficking) criticized the city’s handling of human trafficking, stating the new OAT mediation program lacks understanding of transformative justice and that she does not feel safe speaking with law enforcement. - John Forsyth challenged the council’s cell phone use during meetings, saying heads were down when residents spoke, which undermines democracy. He also criticized the delay in fully implementing OAT (over a year since the director resigned) and cited unresolved police misconduct cases. - Rainisha Bonds and Ursulinayunka (LSG Sky Chef workers and Unite Here Local 11 members) testified that Sky Chef lost its American Airlines contract and plans to lay off 59% of its workforce (hundreds of workers). They urged the council to pass a worker retention policy for airport contractors to protect experienced, security-cleared workers and ensure airport safety and operations. - Leonard Clark voiced solidarity with the Sky Chef workers and asked for assurances that no foreign National Guard troops would be sent to Phoenix by President Trump. Discussion Items - Item 31 – OAT Mediation Contracts: Councilwoman Hernandez questioned OAT Director Shannon and Interim Director Ginger about the mediation program, noting that 15 staff are needed for a department of thousands, but only one director of mediation currently serves. Only five department-level mediations have been completed; individual officer mediations are pending an operations order. Hernandez expressed concern about measuring success (beyond just conversation holding), lack of data on community demand, and funding from OAT’s budget rather than the police department budget. She moved to require OAT to provide data on community demand, demonstrate alignment with OAT’s mission to reduce police violence, explore alternative uses of funds, and assess shifting financial responsibility to the police department before approving the contract. Despite her concerns, the original motion to approve passed 7-2. - Item 38 – ASU Greenhouse Gas Inventory: Approved 9-0 with supportive testimony from Leonard Clark. Council emphasized the partnership with ASU helps Phoenix be a data-driven city and track accountability. - Item 43 – One-Stop System MOU: Approved 8-0 (Councilman Waring did not participate). The agreement supports resident career and job training services. - Item 57 – Rezoning at 21st Place (District 3): Councilwoman Stark noted that under existing R3 zoning, a taller building could already be built, and the rezoning to R5 allows up to four stories and 48 feet. She argued the city needs more housing stock, and that over the past eight years, multifamily approvals have contributed to a 7% decrease in rents. The motion to approve passed 9-0. - Items 58 & 59 – Baseline Road Corridor (District 8): The applicant (Taylor Morrison/Yardley) proposed a gated, single-family-for-rent community with 188 units (13.1 dwelling units per acre) on 14.37 acres. A traffic study showed Baseline Road can carry 42,000 trips per day; current volume is 30,000, and the project would add 640 trips. The appellant expressed opposition over traffic, emergency access, infrastructure, and community character. Councilwoman Hodge Washington moved for a continuance to September 17, 2025, to allow further dialogue between the appellant, opposition, and applicant. The motion passed 9-0. - Item 60 – 17th Street/Griswold Office Rezoning (District 6): The applicant (Sawyer Grace/Boxville Holmes) proposed a 9,500 sq ft, 15-foot-tall office building on a 0.9‑acre site, with no access onto Griswold (emergency only), a detached sidewalk with five feet of landscaping, native Sonoran Desert plants, low lighting, quiet HVAC units, and signage directing traffic south onto 17th Street. The Village Planning Committee voted 10-3 in favor; the Planning Commission voted 7-1 in favor. Councilman Robinson asked clarifying questions and determined the adjacent parcels are unrelated. The motion to approve per the Planning Commission recommendation passed 8-0. Key Outcomes - OAT Mediation Contracts (Item 31): Approved 7-2 after debate, with two council members expressing ongoing concerns about data and accountability measures. - ASU Greenhouse Gas Inventory (Item 38): Approved 9-0. - One-Stop System MOU (Item 43): Approved 8-0. - Rezoning at 21st Place (Item 57): Approved 9-0, allowing a four-story, 24-unit multifamily project on the southwest corner of 21st Place. - Baseline Road Rezoning (Items 58 & 59): Continued to September 17, 2025, for additional community engagement and dialogue between parties. - 17th Street/Griswold Office (Item 60): Approved 8-0, adopting the ordinance for a low-scale office (RO) district with stipulations addressing resident concerns. - Citizen Comments: The council heard concerns about police accountability, cell phone etiquette during meetings, and appeals for an airport worker retention policy. No action could be taken under Open Meeting Law, but some council members responded to criticism.

The Phoenix City Council held a formal meeting on August 27, 2025, at 10:30 AM. The meeting opened with an invocation, Pledge of Allegiance, and a moment of silence for a Maryville High School student who tragically passed away. After roll call, the council approved previous meeting minutes and boards and commissions appointments. The council then considered liquor license recommendations, ordinances, resolutions, and new business items, followed by multiple public comment sessions. Consent Calendar - Approved meeting minutes from March 26, April 9, April 23, and May 7, 2025 (unanimous). - Approved mayor and city council boards and commission nominations (unanimous). - Approved a block of liquor license items (items 6–31) except items 6 and 30, noting item 31 as revised (unanimous). - Approved a block of ordinances, resolutions, and new business items (items 32–116) except items 47, 57, 60, 72, 77, 78, 79, 81, 85, 93, and 116, with items 77 as revised and items 60 and 105 as corrected (unanimous). Public Comments & Testimony Item 6 – KZ Beer & Smoke Shop: Teresa Morse, the agent, spoke in support of the license. Vice Mayor O'Brien noted receipt of a petition signed by 300 community members opposing the location. No other speakers were registered. Item 30 – Ash Lounge: Commander Brewer and Officer Craig Mays recommended denial of the liquor license, citing numerous community complaints (drug use, prostitution, fights), nine calls for service including shots fired, a kidnapping and assault of a female performer not reported by management, and operation without a valid use permit since 2016. Ann Ender, a nearby homeowner, opposed the establishment, noting its history of crime. The applicant Hector Rivera and his attorneys argued they are operating as a bikini bar and are appealing the use permit determination. Councilwoman Pastor questioned the permit status. The council voted to deny. Item 57 – Choya Library Property: Vice Mayor O'Brien spoke in support, highlighting the library's 50-year history and its importance as a community asset, and noted the adjacent Metropolitan redevelopment project. The purchase secures the property in perpetuity. Item 72 – Vestar Development (Laveen Retail): Mayor Gallego and Councilmembers Hernandez and Hodge Washington expressed excitement about the project. Christine Mackey confirmed the agreement prohibits data centers. The development is a planned retail center. Item 77 – Community Policing Microgrant: Leonard Clark spoke in support. Councilwoman Hernandez opposed, stating it is more policing and does not address root causes. Councilwoman Hodge Washington supported as a pilot for mentorship and trust. The grant passed 8–1. Item 85 – Human Trafficking & Drug Trafficking Grant: Councilwoman Pastor asked about safeguards against immigration enforcement; police assured the grant is used solely for drug and human trafficking and does not involve immigration. Councilwoman Hernandez opposed, citing concerns about failed criminalization tactics and potential ICE involvement. The grant passed 8–1. Item 93 – Landscape Maintenance Contracts: Councilwoman Hodge Washington and Councilwoman Pastor discussed consistency and tree pruning standards. Councilman Waring noted historic staffing challenges and that some medians are privately maintained. The five-zone contracts aim to include small businesses. Item 116 – Citizen Petition for Late-Night Bus Service: Councilmember Stark requested a meeting with the petitioner. Councilwoman Hernandez asked about ridership recovery; staff reported that 97% of pre-pandemic bus routes have been restored but no late-night service has been returned. The council approved the staff recommendation to deny the petition but committed to follow-up. Citizen Comments (end of meeting): - Diane Post (Library Board member) criticized the city's draft free speech zone policy as unconstitutional, urging a small working group to revise it. - Abdul Mohammed highlighted a violent sexual assault of an 80-year-old woman in South Phoenix and called for city action. - Nicole Ray (airport passenger service agent) advocated for a $25 minimum wage for airport workers, citing poverty wages and high turnover. - Jerry Van Gas demanded removal of two illegal footbridges in the Phoenix Preserve, claiming they were built without council approval. - Virginia Edgerton and Patricia Whitehead (Matthew Henson Senior Apartments) requested fire safety window signs and reported health issues from a deceased resident. - Michael Robbins (Mount Lahanton resident) reported vehicle theft and vandalism, criticizing management response. - Helen Skinner (Matthew Henson Senior Apartments) reported drug activity near a water main and requested a cover to prevent access. - Tim Sirikowski questioned oversight of 3PI park improvement funds and criticized the Parks Board. - Maxwell Eulin (Unite Here Local 11 attorney) argued for a worker retention policy for airport contractors to protect whistleblowers. Discussion Items - Item 6: Vice Mayor O'Brien moved for no recommendation due to community opposition. The motion passed 9–0. - Item 30: Councilwoman Pastor moved to deny the liquor license. The motion passed 9–0. - Item 57: Vice Mayor O'Brien's motion to approve passed 9–0. - Item 72: Motion to approve the development agreement passed 9–0. - Item 77: Motion to approve passed 8–1 (Councilwoman Hernandez dissenting). - Item 85: Motion to approve passed 8–1 (Councilwoman Hernandez dissenting). - Item 93: Motion to approve landscape maintenance contracts passed 9–0. - Item 116: Motion to accept staff recommendation (denying petition) passed 9–0. Key Outcomes - Minutes and Nominations: Approved unanimously. - KZ Beer & Smoke Shop: Council made no recommendation (9–0). - Ash Lounge Liquor License: Denied (9–0). - Choya Library Property Purchase: Approved (9–0). - Vestar Development Agreement: Approved with data center prohibition (9–0). - Community Policing Microgrant: Approved 8–1. - Human Trafficking Grant: Approved 8–1. - Landscape Maintenance Contracts: Approved 9–0. - Late-Night Bus Service Petition: Denied per staff recommendation, with council agreeing to meet with petitioner (9–0). - Citizen Comments: Council directed follow-ups on senior building safety, park bridge issues, and requested meetings on various topics.

The Phoenix City Council held a formal meeting on July 2, 2025, starting at approximately 10:00 a.m. and ending after 4:00 p.m., following a brief recess. The agenda included routine approvals, liquor license decisions, a lawsuit settlement, property tax levy adoption, amendments to the heat safety ordinance, a contract for Keys to Change homeless services, police equipment procurement, traffic safety camera authorization, and adoption of new regulations for data centers. Extensive public testimony was heard on the heat ordinance and data center regulations. The council passed most items with near-unanimous votes, with two notable dissents on the property tax levy and police equipment. Consent Calendar - Boards and Commissions (Item 1): Approved unanimously. - Liquor Licenses (Items 2–29): Approved as a block, except Items 10 and 27 pulled for individual consideration. Items 9, 11, 21, 26, 28, and 29 were revised and approved. - Other Consent Items (Items 30–108): Adopted en bloc, excluding Items 45, 46, 47, 57, 58, 59, 60, 65, 78, 93, and 104–108 which were heard separately. Items 43 and 61 were also excluded for public comment. Item 66 was withdrawn, and Item 92 was corrected. - Valley Youth Theater (Item 59): Approved 9–0. - Senior Bridge Affordable Housing (Item 60): Approved 9–0. - Arts Grants (Item 61): Approved 9–0. - Multifamily Housing Revenue Bonds (Item 65): Approved 9–0. - Motel Conversion for Senior Housing (Item 93): Approved 9–0. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 10 – Glenrosa Beer and Wine: Zane Raman spoke against a new liquor license, stating the area already has many licenses and does not need another. - Item 27 – Grow Room: Barbara Domniani (40+ year resident) and Patrick (57-year resident, former paramedic) opposed combining a marijuana club and liquor license, citing risks of increased DUIs, traffic accidents, and proximity to schools. Applicant Matthew Davidson countered that the organization is an educational group for growing cannabis and does not allow on‑site consumption. - Item 43 – Lawsuit Settlement: Stacey and Nicole criticized the $150,000 settlement for a pedestrian fatality at 46th Avenue and Thomas, noting the city ignored prior safety recommendations (high‑visibility crosswalks) that would have cost $173,000. They called for systemic change. - Item 45–46 – Property Tax Levy: Orla Bobo opposed the increase, asserting it is deceptive about fire response times; Anne Ender supported the levy, praising the budget focus on public safety. - Item 47 – Heat Safety Ordinance: A series of airport and construction workers testified to ongoing inadequate AC, limited water access, and fear of retaliation. Speakers included Bile Bunger (climate justice director), Biniam Hailu (Sky Chefs driver), Filiberto Lares (Sky Chefs driver), Alondra Morales Sanchez (daughter of an outdoor worker), Maxwell (union rep), Trina David (American Airlines crew chief), Cecilia Ortiz (warehouse employee), and Sergio Rodriguez (EMT). They called for stronger enforcement, whistleblower protections, and expanded coverage. - Item 58 – Keys to Change: CEO Amy Schwabenlender and board chair Myron Hamas responded to financial concerns; they offered a non‑voting seat on the finance committee instead of the board. - Items 107–108 – Data Centers: Minda Abeg (Levine VPC), Chris Green (International Association of Firefighters), Christopher Murphy (Phoenix Fire), Ginger Sykes Torres (Local First Arizona), Ben Graf (American Express), Will Green (Southwest Energy Efficiency Project), Nick Wood (Menlo), Samantha Damas (Rose Law Group), Michael Duffy (fire captain), and others spoke. Firefighters detailed risks: lithium‑ion thermal runaway, toxic smoke, difficult egress, and potential for on‑site nuclear reactors. Community members urged regulation to prevent unchecked sprawl. Staff confirmed the new rules require special permits and site‑specific studies. Discussion Items - Items 10 & 27 – Liquor Licenses: Item 10 approved after staff explained no background issues. Item 27 disapproved based on Phoenix Police Department recommendation: signature dates missing, membership discrepancy (172 vs. 300+ claimed), and concerns over public alcohol sales combined with private marijuana use. Both votes were unanimous. - Item 43 – Lawsuit Settlement: Council heard criticism but approved the $150,000 settlement 9–0. - Item 45–46 – Property Tax Levy: Public hearing closed; the levy was adopted 8–1. Mayor Gallego noted the vote was actually unanimous (correcting the record), but the previous roll call showed 8–1. - Item 47 – Heat Safety Ordinance: Councilwoman Guardado led the discussion, adding a directive to bring back additional reforms (including whistleblower protections and expanded coverage) in fall 2025. Airport Services Director Chad Mikowski committed to daily checks of air conditioning in tarmac vehicles. Approved 9–0. - Item 58 – Keys to Change: Vice Mayor O'Brien raised concerns about a multi‑year deficit, unpaid vendors, and billing errors. He moved to approve the contract with four conditions: (1) a non‑voting city seat on the finance committee, (2) monthly meetings with OHS and council, (3) invitation to board meetings, and (4) a 60‑day notice to amend bylaws for a non‑voting board seat if needed. Councilwoman Hodge Washington offered a substitute: adopt conditions 1–3 and schedule a review at end of Q3 2025. Approved 9–0. - Item 72 – Police Equipment: Councilwoman Hernandez strongly opposed the $3 million contract for firearms and tactical gear, citing DOJ findings of unconstitutional violence. Motion passed 8–1 with Hernandez voting no. - Item 78 – Traffic Safety Cameras: Supporters (Vice Mayor O'Brien, Councilwoman Stark) cited data: only 28 motor officers for 5,000 miles of streets, red‑light cameras reduce fatal T‑bone crashes by 20%, and speed cameras near schools reduce speeding 70%. Councilwoman Hernandez opposed, arguing the cameras target vulnerable communities and do not fix infrastructure deficiencies. Passed 8–1 with Hernandez dissenting. - Items 107–108 – Data Center Regulations: Staff presented the urgent need due to massive power‑grid strain (15+ gigawatts in APS/SRP queues), water use (up to 1 million gallons/day per facility), and fire risks. The new rules require a special permit, performance standards, and a Prop 207 waiver process. After extensive testimony, both the general plan amendment and zoning ordinance were approved 9–0. Key Outcomes - Item 1 (Boards & Commissions): Approved unanimously. - Item 10 (Glenrosa Beer and Wine): Approval motion passed unanimously. - Item 27 (Grow Room): Motion to disapprove passed unanimously. - Consent calendar (Items 30–108, bulk): Approved unanimously. - Item 43 (Lawsuit settlement): Approved 9–0. - Item 46 (Property tax levy): Approved 8–1 (one dissenting vote; later corrected as unanimous). - Item 47 (Heat safety ordinance): Approved 9–0 with directive for fall review. - Item 58 (Keys to Change contract): Approved 9–0 with conditions (items 1–3 and Q3 2025 review). - Item 72 (Police equipment): Approved 8–1 (Councilwoman Hernandez dissenting). - Item 78 (Traffic safety cameras): Approved 8–1 (Councilwoman Hernandez dissenting). - Items 57, 59, 60, 61, 65, 93 (various unanimous approvals): Each passed 9–0. - Item 107 (Data center general plan amendment): Approved 9–0. - Item 108 (Data center zoning ordinance): Approved 9–0.