Public Meetings - Phoenix, Arizona

The Phoenix City Council convened on February 19, 2025, at 9:45 AM for a formal meeting. The agenda included consent agenda approvals, a public hearing on development impact fees, discussion of employee compensation, affordable housing for veterans, land sales, and workforce development. Public comment sessions addressed homelessness, heat relief, and community cat overpopulation. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the formal meeting of September 18, 2024 (Item 1) were approved unanimously. - Minutes of October 2, 2024 were continued to March 5, 2025 (Item 2). - Boards and commissions nominations (Item 3) were approved unanimously. - Liquor license items 4–18 were approved unanimously. - A large consent agenda covering items 19–82 (excluding items 37, 39, 41, 42, 51, 64, 65, 66, 70, 73, 79, 80, 81) was approved unanimously by a roll call vote of 9–0. Discussion Items Item 39: Class and Compensation Process Update - Scott Kirk (testifying) raised concerns that a report justifying pay grade adjustments had not been made available, and questioned why plumbing/mechanical inspectors are one pay grade higher than building inspectors. He noted a website link was broken and requested transparency. - Council approved the item unanimously (9–0) after acknowledging ongoing efforts to improve compensation and communication. Item 41: Federal Home Loan ARP Funds for Tanner Thomas Village Affordable Housing Development - This item was continued from December 4, 2024, due to an incomplete application and lack of community input. - Supporters: Kerwin Brown (Tanner CDC) stated that over 200 residents were surveyed with over 90% favorable response; community meetings and door-to-door surveys were conducted. Rev. Dr. Benjamin Thomas Sr., Chuck Byers (Arizona Dept. of Veterans Services), Cleo Lewis, and Ben Jeffrey (Navy veteran) spoke in favor, emphasizing the need for permanent supportive housing for veterans and the success of similar models. - Opponents: Hubert Ross (neighbor) and Paul Bowles (president of United Fight Bank) opposed the location, citing crime and management issues at other Tanner properties. They argued the community was not properly informed and that nearby existing facilities have caused problems. - Councilwoman Hodge Washington moved to approve with conditions (24/7 security, on-site case management, a community complaint hotline, and an operational plan shared with neighbors). Developer Kerwin Brown expressed concern about the cost of 24/7 security and requested a continuance. - The motion was withdrawn, and a continuance to March 5, 2025, was approved unanimously. Item 42: Purchase and Sale Agreement with Isaac School District - Council approved the purchase of 4.56 acres of land from Isaac School District to be used for 72 affordable multifamily housing units. The sale helps the district address its budget deficit. Approved 9–0. Item 51: Elevate Education Workforce Development Program - Contract with the Greater Phoenix Chamber Foundation to support over 1,400 students. Councilman Waring recused himself due to a potential conflict. Approved 8–0. Items 64–73: Fire Apparatus and Ambulance Equipment - Zachary Hobbs testified virtually in opposition to items 64 ($125 million), 65 ($3 million), and others, citing a lack of itemized budgets and questioning transparency. - Council approved items 65, 66, 70, and 73 individually by 9–0 votes after testimony (item 64 had already been voted on earlier). Item 80: Development Impact Fee Update (Public Hearing) - Public hearing opened. Matthew Klein (Lincoln Avenue Communities) urged an extension of grandfathering for affordable housing projects already in process, noting that impact fees for his north Phoenix project doubled from $3.5 million to over $7.5 million. Council members discussed state law, fee equity, and the need for infrastructure. Staff clarified that fees cannot be reduced further without removing critical infrastructure projects or seeking alternative funding. The vote was deferred to a later date. Item 81: Multifamily Conversion and Adaptive Use Ordinance - Approved unanimously 9–0. Public Comments & Testimony - Elizabeth (advocate): Urged the council to retain $15.3 million in shelter and heat relief funding, emphasizing the return on investment and the critical need to prevent heat-related deaths. - Mark: Supported heat relief, specifically citing the 24-hour cooling center at Burton Barr Library last year. - Linda Pudlo (first-time attendee): Requested city assistance for Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs for community cats, noting out-of-pocket expenses for volunteers. - Frank Urban: Encouraged keeping shelter allocations open and making affordable housing affordable for all. - Missy: Criticized council members for perceived inattention and urged support for local cat rescue groups, citing over 1 million homeless cats in Phoenix. - Luann Arrington (District 6 resident): Highlighted the cat overpopulation crisis, linking it to evictions and demolitions. Estimated that one unspayed female can produce up to 420,000 cats. Stressed the need for a city program. Key Outcomes - Item 41 (Tanner Thomas Village) continued to March 5, 2025, for further negotiation. - Items 39, 42, 51, 65, 66, 70, 73, 81 were all approved as described. - The vote on Item 80 (development impact fees) was postponed to a later date. - Consent agenda and other routine items passed unanimously.

This meeting of the City of Phoenix Economic Development and Housing Subcommittee covered updates on the chilled drinking water initiative, the downtown parking master plan, convention center bookings, and a proposal to issue a request for proposals (RFP) for redevelopment of the Regency Garage site. All agenda items were approved or received as information. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The subcommittee unanimously approved the minutes of the previous meeting. - Consent Items (2–5): Approved unanimously without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Margaret Schultz (representing Worker Power, a nonprofit focused on developer accountability) commented on the Regency Garage RFP item. She recommended that the city explore leasing the site rather than selling it outright, arguing that leasing would allow long-term community benefit, ongoing revenue, and greater city control over the property’s future. She cited past development delays at other city-owned sites as a caution. Discussion Items - Chilled Drinking Water Initiative Update (presented by Michael Hammett and Danielle Vermeer): The city launched a pilot with three custom-designed chilled water units in partnership with Downtown Phoenix Inc. and Hands on Greater Phoenix. Key outcomes: 14,000 gallons of water dispensed over one year (equivalent to 106,000 single-use plastic bottles); water temperatures of 65–73°F (vs. 103°F without chilling); surface temperature reduced by 6°F using cooling paint. A community survey has received over 200 responses. Six additional units are in development, funded by grants ($154,000 from Gila River Indian Community, Arizona Community Foundation support, and council district funds). Future expansion includes integration with transit, parks, and cool corridor projects. No formal action was taken. - Downtown Phoenix Parking Master Plan (presented by Jeff Stapleton, April Truncelito, Brianna Villas): Staff outlined seven recommendations for a 10-year master plan: updating on-street parking rate authority and zones; improving wayfinding signage with consistent branding; launching a web-based ParkPHX (parkphx.com) platform with three tiers of information; piloting dynamic curb spaces and contactless payments; investing 15% of annual meter revenue into system management; updating the Sunburst plan for event ingress/egress; and creating a parking facility investment scorecard for evaluating private partnership proposals. Councilmember Robinson raised concerns about QR code scams; staff committed to working with police on security. Councilmember Stark asked about enforcement by police aides vs. sworn officers. No vote was taken; staff will bring individual components for future council approval. - Phoenix Convention Center Booking Update (presented by Jerry Harper, Sarah Field, Ron Price, Lauren Edwards): 2024 results: 62 conventions with an estimated $488 million economic impact. 2025 already has 64 conventions booked, on par with pre-pandemic levels. Notable future bookings include Semicon West (first time outside San Francisco), NBA All-Star events (2027), and National League of Cities (2030). Meeting planner sentiment studies (400+ planners) ranked Phoenix high for safety (6) and convention center quality (8), but low for convention-quality hotel rooms (19). Staff updated on three recommendations from the 2022 Convention Sports & Leisure study: continue exploring an entertainment district (report expected April 2025); increase convention hotel rooms (800–1,200 needed); and expand the convention center (South Building redevelopment). Competitive cities (Denver, Austin, Dallas, Fort Lauderdale) are expanding; Phoenix risks losing market share without similar investments. Discussion included marketing outdoor lifestyle alongside downtown amenities. No vote was taken. - Request for Authorization to Issue RFP for Regency Garage (presented by Christine Mackey, Eric Kerr, Eric Prachnow, Gretchen Wolf): The site at 2nd Street and Adams (currently a parking garage with ground-floor commercial tenant Arizona Latino Arts and Cultural Center) would be offered for redevelopment as a mixed-use project with a full-service hotel of at least 400 guest rooms. The RFP would follow standard city process with multiple community meetings; staff expects to return to council with a recommended proposer in fall 2026. Staff emphasized safeguards: the city does not transfer property until a developer has secured permits. Councilmembers supported the timeline and transparency. Public comment from Margaret Schultz earlier urged leasing instead of sale; staff noted that lease or sale terms would be evaluated in the RFP process. Key Outcomes - Approval of Minutes and Consent Items: Passed unanimously. - Motion to Issue RFP for Regency Garage: Moved and seconded; passed unanimously. The item will go to the full City Council on March 5, 2025. - Information Only items (6, 7): Received without action. - No formal votes were taken on the chilled water update, parking master plan, or convention center update.

The Phoenix City Council held a work study session on February 11, 2025, beginning with a special recognition of Mo Stein for his leadership on the city's three most recent general plans (2002, 2015, and the 2024 Plan passed as Proposition 488 with 79% voter support). The council then received an update from Deputy City Manager Mario Paniagua and Infrastructure Implementation Manager Larry Smallwood on the city's success in securing federal grants under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) and Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Special Recognition: Mo Stein - Mayor Gallego led the recognition, noting that Stein chaired the 2002, 2015, and 2024 general plan updates and that the 2024 plan received 79% of the vote – described as an incredible consensus. - Councilwoman Stark (formerly Planning Director) praised Stein as a champion for planners and the planning department. - Councilman Robinson said Stein provides invaluable education on Phoenix's layout and history. - Councilwoman Pastor expressed gratitude for Stein's hands-on contributions to the city. - Mayor Gallego presented Stein with signed copies of the general plan covers from the three mayors under whom he served. - Stein was also asked to help with the downtown strategic plan going forward. Federal Infrastructure Law (BIL/IRA) Update - Mario Paniagua and Larry Smallwood presented the city's achievements: to date, Phoenix has been awarded nearly $750 million in federal dollars for 30 grants. - Key projects highlighted: - Third Street Rio Salado Bike and Pedestrian Bridge and Pathway ($25 million) – connecting South Central and Midtown Phoenix, with a design selected by community vote. - Indian School Road Corridor safety improvements ($16.4 million) – enhancing lighting, medians, sidewalks, and bike lanes from 39th to 91st Avenues; the corridor sees 30,000–50,000 vehicles daily and has been a high-crash area. - 35th Avenue and Grand Avenue intersection reconstruction ($146.6 million, the largest discretionary grant in region's history) – replacing a dangerous six-legged intersection with a safer four-legged design, eliminating two at-grade rail crossings and serving 140,000 daily travelers. - Sky Harbor Airport Crossfield Taxiway U project (cumulative $156.3 million from three grant awards) – improving efficiency and accommodating future growth. - Transit electrification: funding for zero-emission buses (battery electric and hydrogen fuel cell) as part of a goal to convert the heavy-duty fleet to 100% zero emission by 2040. - Pending applications: 12 additional applications for projects including Deer Valley Airport taxiway, 64th Street extension, Levine area conveyance channel, stormwater improvements, solar projects, recycling facilities, smart irrigation controllers, quick-build active neighborhoods, Rio Corridor vision planning, sustainable road materials, and advanced water purification at the North Gateway Water Reclamation Facility. - Challenges: uncertainty due to recent federal executive orders and a temporary freeze on federal funds (two temporary restraining orders issued). Staff acknowledged questions about the impact on awarded grants but noted there are more questions than answers. - Council members expressed strong support for the grant programs, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure for safety, water security, economic development, and quality of life. Several noted the projects' bipartisan nature and urged continued federal partnership. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; the session was informational. - Council unanimously expressed appreciation for the staff's work and directed continued pursuit of federal grants. - Mayor Gallego highlighted the 35th Avenue/Indian School project as the region's largest-ever discretionary grant and stressed the need to avoid politicizing infrastructure. - The meeting concluded with the mayor thanking all staff involved and adjourning the work study.

The Phoenix City Council met on February 5, 2025, beginning in the afternoon, to consider consent agenda items, liquor licenses, an airport ordinance amendment, rezoning requests, and a citizen comment. All nine council members were present. The council approved the meeting minutes, board nominations, consent calendar items, and most of the planning and zoning agenda, and continued one zoning case to March 5, 2025. Consent Calendar - Motion to approve meeting minutes from September 4, 2024 passed unanimously. - Boards and commissions nominations approved; new commissioners were sworn in. - Items 3–16 (liquor licenses) approved, including item 16 which was initially submitted for disapproval but the finance department now recommends approval. - Items 17–46 (ordinances, resolutions, new business, planning/zoning) approved 9-0, excluding items 25, 44, and 46. The mayor noted the total agendized housing units amounted to 992. Public Comments & Testimony - Armando Felix, owner/operator of Felix Plaza for 30 years, opposed item 44 due to dangerous conditions at 39th Avenue and Grand, citing a 135-degree angle, frequent speeding tickets, and past deaths/injuries. He expressed support for affordable housing but not at the expense of safety. - Ben Graf, representing UMOM, stated the developer is fully committed to safety, with no direct site access from Grand Avenue, and will comply with traffic impact assessment stipulations. - On item 46: Monica Brooks, a nearby property owner, opposed the proposal, citing traffic dangers and its proximity to a school crossing; she asked for a deferral. Richard Pasquale said he no longer opposes the request after agreeing to a strong sign stipulation. Rika Caracenudo, a Shea Boulevard resident, opposed commercialization and said residents have been ignored. Lauren, a local developer and resident, supported the project for providing medical services. - Missy Pruitt, founder of She's All Cat, during citizen comment, stated Phoenix has an estimated 500,000 to 1 million homeless cats and criticized the mayor's office for not responding to her meeting requests for two months. Discussion Items - Item 25: Ordinance G7358 amending Phoenix City Code Section 4-114 regarding fueling/defueling of aircraft at city airports was approved 9-0 after a roll call vote. - Item 44 (District 5): A rezoning/project on Grand Avenue. Councilwoman Guardado moved approval. Testimony highlighted intersection safety concerns. Councilmembers noted stipulations requiring a traffic impact assessment and coordination with ADOT before site plan approval. The item passed 9-0. - Item 46 (District 2): Rezoning at 56th Street and Shea Boulevard from RA-43 to CO for two medical office buildings. Staff recommended approval. Councilman Waring expressed concern that residents only learned of the case recently and were confusing it with a 2023 case. Applicant Jason Morris described the site as surrounded by non-residential uses, with residential-scale design and deed restrictions. Waring moved to continue the item to March 5, 2025; the motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All council members present: Galindo Elvira, Guardado, Hodge Washington, Pastor, Robinson, Stark, Waring, O'Brien, Gallego. - Approved meeting minutes, board nominations, consent calendar items 3–16, items 17–46 (with exclusions), and ordinance G7358 (item 25). - Approved item 44 (9-0) with traffic study stipulations. - Continued item 46 to March 5, 2025 to allow the applicant to meet with concerned residents. The 24-hour rule was read for ordinances G7351–7359 and S51616–51635. The meeting adjourned after the citizen comment session.

The meeting began with an invocation, pledge of allegiance, and roll call. The council approved consent items, liquor licenses, and a package of planning and zoning cases. Key discussions focused on eviction legal services, the Phoenix Children's Museum expansion, and a contested rezoning at 21st Street and Turney. The public comment period covered transit, parks, homelessness, and animal welfare. Consent Calendar - Item 1: Meeting minutes from August 26, 2024, approved unanimously. - Item 2: Boards and commissions nominations approved unanimously; new commissioners sworn in. - Items 3–17: Liquor license items approved unanimously. - Items 18–39 (except 27 and 39): Omnibus vote on planning and zoning cases approved 9–0. Item 26 (eviction legal services) and item 27 (Children's Museum) were pulled for separate votes; item 39 (21st Street/Turney rezoning) went to a public hearing. Public Comments & Testimony - Eviction Legal Services (Item 26): Teresa Hill spoke to ask whether the contractors provide no-cost eviction services and questioned the ease of access for residents in crisis. She thanked the council for posting materials. - Rezoning at 21st Street/Turney (Item 39): Multiple speakers testified. Lee Busenbark (opposition) argued the project undermines neighborhood character, traffic capacity, and affordability, and accused the applicant of manipulating traffic counts and the public process. Roberta Candelaria (support) stated she owns property adjacent to the site and that the development would improve a troubled area. Chad Lafferty (support) said traffic concerns are exaggerated and that the project contributes to solving the housing shortage. Jackie Rich (opposition, representing neighborhood association) requested R4 zoning with specific stipulations, including workforce housing pricing. Steve (opposition) criticized the process and vowed to scrutinize construction. John Paletta (opposition) recounted past successful community opposition to high-density projects. Robert Greenberg (opposition) stated the developer admitted he could profit under R3, and called the request for R5 disrespectful. Kathy Delorie (opposition) asked to deny R5 to protect neighborhood character. Ashley Marsh (applicant) rebutted, noting over 170 letters of support, multiple meetings, revisions to height and density, and traffic studies showing sufficient capacity. - Citizen Comment Session: Diane Barker praised transit and urged attention to air quality and homelessness. Jerry Van Ghess criticized the Parks Board for lack of public notification on South Mountain heat closures. Cappy Matt urged keeping shelters open using general funds for the elderly homeless. Jarrett, Wendy Morris, Christy Margaret, Missy Pruitt, and Linda spoke about the feral cat overpopulation crisis, lack of funding for trap-neuter-return (TNR), need for police training on animal cruelty laws, and the connection between animal abuse and violence against humans. Michael Norton asked for tree planting on dormant park parcels and fire prevention on city-owned land. Elizabeth Venable urged funding shelters from the general fund given the expiration of ARPA money, highlighting cost savings. Tim Surikowski called for Parks Board meetings to be televised. Discussion Items - Item 26 - Eviction Legal Services: Staff explained the program adds two new providers (total of three) for no-cost legal mediation, representation, and post-eviction sealing of records. Eligibility requires Phoenix residency or city water service, eviction risk, and income at or below 80% of area median income (approx. $54,000 for a family of four). Referrals come through the Human Services Department. Council members expressed support, emphasized data tracking (monthly reporting on cases and outcomes, client satisfaction surveys at 30 days and housing stability checks at 6 months), and noted the program is funded through federal, state, and local partnerships. The item passed 9–0. - Item 27 - Phoenix Children's Museum Expansion: Council praised the project as a bond-funded investment in youth and historic preservation. Passed 9–0. - Item 39 - Rezoning at 21st Street and Turney: The applicant requested a change from R3 to R5 for a 64-unit, four-story apartment building on 1.8 acres (1.5 developable). After opposition and a motion by Councilman Robinson, the council rejected the R5 request and approved R4A with modifications. The approved R4A zoning includes stipulations: a 40-foot building setback along north and east property lines, no rooftop decks along the north and east perimeter, notifications to neighborhood associations for any future modification requests, and the developer working with the city on speed hump petitions along 21st Street and Turney Avenue (funded by the developer). The motion passed 9–0. Key Outcomes - Item 26: Approved 9–0 to add two legal service providers for eviction assistance. - Item 27: Approved 9–0 for Phoenix Children's Museum expansion. - Item 39: Motion passed 9–0 to deny R5 and approve R4A with additional stipulations (40-foot setback, no rooftop decks, notification requirements, speed hump improvements). - Boards and Commissions: Unanimous approval and swearing-in of new commissioners. - Liquor Licenses: Unanimous approval. - Consent Agenda (excluding items 27 and 39): Passed 9–0.

The Phoenix City Council convened on January 15, 2025, at 9:45 AM for a regular meeting. The agenda included approval of minutes, consent agenda items, public hearings, and citizen comments. Key actions included the election of a new Vice Mayor, approval of park improvements, a sidewalk shade structure project, and two rezoning items. The meeting lasted approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Consent Calendar - Approved the formal meeting minutes from May 29, 2024 (unanimous). - Approved mayor and city council boards and commission nominations, followed by a swearing-in ceremony for Sharon Hong (Phoenix Women's Commission) and Jessica Plotino (Phoenix Aviation Board). - Approved liquor license items 3 through 17, except item 5, noting that item 3 was originally submitted for disapproval but the finance department now recommends approval (unanimous). Item 5 (candy store, district 2) was approved with a motion of no recommendation (8-0). - Approved items 18 through 78 (ordinances, resolutions, new business, planning and zoning) with the following exceptions: items 30, 46, 63, 77, 78 were pulled for separate discussion; item 53 was withdrawn; item 54 was continued to March 26, 2025. The consent agenda enabled 306 units of housing (unanimous). Public Comments & Testimony - Missy Pruitt (founder of She's All Cat, Arizona's first cat cafe, recognized as a Great 48 by Phoenix Magazine) spoke about animal welfare. She reported a recent incident in the Garfield neighborhood where a cat was strangled and killed; responding police officers did not know animal cruelty is a felony. She offered to train officers and requested a meeting with the Mayor scheduled since November 6, 2024, which had not been answered. She warned that if no action is taken, she would rally supporters to fill future meetings. - Ann Ender (president of Operation Blue Ribbon) expressed concern about the Los Angeles fires and asked about Phoenix's disaster recovery plan, given the dry conditions. She requested that the council review or present the plan. Discussion Items - Selection of Vice Mayor (Item 30): Outgoing Vice Mayor Stark nominated Councilwoman Anne O'Brien. Council members praised Stark's leadership on safe streets, the TIP subcommittee, accessibility strategic framework, and constituent service. Councilwoman Guardado explained her no vote, stating she was concerned that O'Brien may not be adequately prepared to serve all communities. The vote was 7-1 in favor of O'Brien. Vice Mayor Stark will continue in the role through the meeting; O'Brien will assume the position the following week. - La Pradera Park Improvements (Item 46): Councilwoman Guardado moved approval, noting the project is part of the 2023-28 capital improvement program. She thanked partners including SRP, Block Watch, and city departments. Approved unanimously (8-0). - Phoenix Sidewalk Shade Structures (Item 63) – ARPA Design Bid Build Services: Dr. Andula explained the selection process: eligible areas were limited to 25% of the city meeting ARPA requirements; locations were prioritized based on pedestrian/bicycle activity, low tree canopy, and heat-related health issues. Candidate sites were shared with council staff and at a public meeting. Councilwoman Guardado expressed frustration that District 5, one of the hottest districts, received only one of 19 structures, and criticized the lack of direct communication and briefing. Councilwoman Hodge Washington also noted insufficient community feedback and design renderings not shared. The motion to approve passed 8-0. - Items 77 and 78 – Rezoning at 69th Avenue and Thomas Road: Councilman Galindo Elvira moved approval per the planning commission recommendation. Both items passed unanimously (8-0 each). Key Outcomes - Approved minutes, boards/commissions, and consent agenda items (all unanimous). - Elected Councilwoman Anne O'Brien as Vice Mayor (7-1). - Approved La Pradera Park improvements (8-0). - Approved Phoenix Sidewalk Shade Structures contract (8-0) with noted communication concerns. - Approved rezoning at 69th Avenue and Thomas Road (8-0 for both items). - No action taken on citizen comments due to Open Meeting Law restrictions.

The Public Safety and Justice Subcommittee met on January 8, 2025, from approximately 10:15 AM to 12:10 PM (MST) to discuss several public safety items, including a new community survey tool for police, the 2024 Domestic Violence Fatality Review Team report, updates on the Community Assistance Program (CAP), and Phoenix Fire Department staffing and response times. Public comments raised concerns about homeless encampment policies and overall public safety. The subcommittee approved consent calendar minutes and set future agenda items. Consent Calendar - Approval of PSJ minutes from December 4, 2024: Motion made, seconded, and passed unanimously (all ayes, including Chair). Public Comments & Testimony - Elizabeth Fimble: Alleged that a city of Phoenix employee told homeless individuals to camp on private property rather than offering shelter or services. She argued this practice effectively encourages crime and noted that service providers are full, making entry difficult without police involvement. - Orla Bobo: Stated that public safety is no longer a crisis but a changed quality of life. Criticized the city's $15 million Shade Phoenix project while first responders lack resources. She claimed the city's only metric for safety is response times, which are failing, and accused the city of criminal negligence. Demanded immediate action and citizen inclusion in the process. Discussion Items - BlockWise Presentation (Zen City): Dan Wilson (Communications Director), A.L. Hallamish, and Bar Asherov presented BlockWise, a tool that uses anonymous digital surveys to gauge community perceptions of trust, safety, and transparency. The system reaches over 90% of residents via digital advertising, provides real-time data by precinct, and is used by LAPD, Chicago, and others. Council members asked about anonymity, equity, and language support (cities offer up to 7 languages). Chair Robinson noted positive feedback from the Albuquerque police chief. The tool is meant to complement existing city surveys and inform police deployment and policy. - Domestic Violence Fatality Review Team (DVFRT) 2024 Report: Presented by Human Services Director Jaclyn Edwards, Deputy Director Kevin Mattingly, and Police Assistant Chief Ed DeCastro. Key statistics: 33,756 domestic violence calls in 2023, 8,533 arrests, 2,700 aggravated assault calls. The team reviewed a near-fatal case involving a married couple with children; the suspect had five police contacts in 2021 (four arrests, one psychiatric hold). Six recommendations were made: 1) Establish protocols for crisis response team (CRT) response to DV calls (due June 2025); 2) Examine CRT policies to align with behavioral health teams (due June 2025); 3) Require medical follow-up after forensic exams (provider already developing program); 4) In-service training for EMTs on strangulation (protocols in place); 5) Track strangulation cases separately (Police Department reviewing, Human Services completed in December 2024); 6) Change case management protocols for fatal/near-fatal incidents (Human Services implemented follow-up reminders at 3- and 6-month intervals). Council members expressed frustration over repeat offenders and lack of prosecution tracking, and requested data on child services and contact with schools. - Community Assistance Program (CAP) Update: Presented by Deputy City Manager Ginger Spencer, Fire Assistant Chief Raya Choa, and CAP Administrator DC Ernst. Update on hiring: a November 2024 hiring event resulted in multiple candidates in background checks; if all accept, staffing will reach 80% of target. Current status: 5 behavioral health units (BHU) operating 7 days/week, averaging 23.5 hours/day; 60% of 10 crisis response units (CRT) target; BHU dispatchers present 24/7 on Wednesdays–Saturdays, other days 7 AM–8 PM. Calls transferred from police communications increased 172% (2023 to 2024, first 11 months). BHU calls for service increased 136%. CRT calls increased 13%. Success stories highlighted. Recruitment continues with goal of 9 BHU units by Q1 2026. Council discussed retention strategies (pizza parties, debriefing, EAP, continuing education). - Phoenix Fire Department Staffing and Response Times: Councilman Waring raised concerns about response time disparities in District 2 due to longer travel distances. He noted that call volumes in District 2 are 2.5 times lower than District 8, despite equal populations. He questioned the reason for the disparity and suggested that a new fire station is needed. Councilwoman Gardado noted that District 8 has the highest concentration of homeless shelters and facilities, which likely drives higher call volumes. Deputy City Manager Spencer stated that a report addressing these questions will be included in the February meeting packet, and that the department is partnering with Maricopa County Department of Public Health to study social determinants of health and call volumes. Four fire stations are being rebuilt under the bond: Station 15 (2026), Station 7 (mid-2027), Station 13 (2028), and Station 51 (2029). Councilwoman O'Brien requested specific data on fire station rebuild timelines. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved (minutes of December 4, 2024). - No votes taken on presentations; all items were for information only. - Future agenda items: - The prosecutor's office is requested to include a discussion on domestic violence case processing (roadmap, sentencing) at the next meeting. - A progress report on DVFRT recommendations with June 2025 completion dates is expected in June. - Councilwoman O'Brien requested that the next police hiring/retention report include: response times by district, number of dropped calls, average hold times, retention rates for new hires (2020-2023), and projected sworn numbers through June 2027. - Meeting adjourned at 12:10 PM.

The Transportation Infrastructure and Planning (TIP) Subcommittee of the Phoenix City Council met on December 18, 2024, at 10:15 AM local time. The meeting covered approval of minutes and consent agenda, followed by two major discussion items: an update on the Water Services Department's Asset Management Program and a presentation on Infrastructure Funding and Financing. The subcommittee also heard public comments regarding transparency of Parks and Recreation Board meetings and directed staff to develop frameworks for leveraging capacity and parcel sequencing, as well as a scope for a fiscal impact analysis.

The Phoenix City Council held its final formal meeting of 2024 on December 18, starting at approximately 9:45 AM. The meeting included approvals of routine consent items, several significant actions on affordable housing, a public art project, and a major police equipment contract. The council also heard public comment on a range of issues and took action to set the minimum age for electric scooters and bicycles. Consent Calendar - Approved meeting minutes of June 12, 2024 (unanimous). - Approved mayor and city council boards and commissions nominations as revised (unanimous). New commissioners were sworn in for village planning, workforce investments, and the Phoenix Economy. - Approved items 3 through 27, except item 27 (continued to January 15, 2025) (unanimous). - Approved items 28 through 114, with exceptions including items continued to January 15, 2025 (items 58, 82, 89 as corrected), and excluding items for public comment (items 44, 49, 52, 60, 62, 63, 64, 66, 73, 90) (unanimous, roll call 9-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Item 49 (Classification and Pay Ordinance): Scott Kirk, a residential inspection supervisor, expressed concern that the proposed changes would result in less qualified personnel being paid more than building inspectors, creating inequity and animosity. Human Resources Director Dave Matthews explained that a second study for electricians led to the pay grade increase, and further adjustments for affected classifications would come in February. - Item 60 (Shelter and Affordable Housing Agreement): Bill Moreland (CASS) and Brittany (Steel and Spark) thanked the council for supporting the intergovernmental agreement with Maricopa County to keep 600 people off the street and fund innovative affordable housing. - Item 64 (Janitorial Services): Jerry Van Gas (public watchdog) thanked Deputy City Manager John Chan for correcting a wrongful termination of a janitorial contract for park restrooms, but demanded further investigation. - Item 73 (Police Equipment Contract - Tasers): Multiple community members spoke in opposition, arguing that the $22 million should instead fund community services, housing, lighting, parks, and education. Speakers cited police violence, the DOJ report, and the disproportionate impact on Black and Brown communities. One speaker, Ann Ender (Operation Blue Ribbon), supported the purchase, stating it provides needed resources and less-lethal options for officers. - Item 90 (Electric Scooter and Bicycle Age): No public testimony. - Citizen Comment Session: Several speakers addressed animal welfare (feral cat crisis, proposed animal welfare office), transit security and bus stop adoption, historic preservation concerns (Sunny Slope, fear that city council won't support historic overlays), park access and trail heat closures (opposition to expanded closure times at South Mountain), and the legacy of Romaine Brisbane (10-year remembrance). Discussion Items - Item 44 (Solar Container Farm): Councilwoman Guardado described a collaborative project between the city, SRP, and ASU to grow leafy greens using indoor vertical farming and solar panels in District 5. Homer Farms will donate 20% of produce and train residents. A ribbon cutting is scheduled for January 24, 2025. Approved 9-0. - Item 49 (Classification and Pay Ordinance): Council discussed equity concerns raised by the public comment. HR Director Matthews assured that a study for electricians was completed due to a 35% vacancy rate (56 vacancies), and that additional classifications affected would be reviewed by HRC and presented to council in February. Approved 9-0. - Item 52 (Habitat for Humanity Affordable Townhomes): Councilwoman Guardado highlighted the project on two vacant city-owned properties adjacent to John F. and Mary P. Long Homestead Park, providing eight owner-occupied townhomes for families at or below 80% AMI. The design was developed with community feedback and includes sustainable features. Approved 9-0. - Item 63 (55th Avenue Public Art Project): Councilwoman Guardado described three vertical shade elements made of steel and acrylic depicting the moon, monarch butterflies, and ancient/modern Phoenix. Developed in partnership with the community and students. Approved 9-0. - Item 73 (Police Equipment Contract - Tasers): The council debated the purchase of Axon Taser 10 devices at a total cost of $22 million over five years. Police representatives explained that the new taser has a 45-foot range (vs. 25 feet for current), an audible deterrent, and lower voltage. The pilot program in Maryvale (28 officers, 9 deployments, 8 effective) showed reduced deployments because of the deterrent sound. Council discussed budgeting: year one funded from current year police savings ($1.9M for half year); years 2-5 require budget increases ($5M annually). Councilwoman Pastor requested monthly data on taser use to track effectiveness and transparency. Councilwoman O'Brien noted the taser sevens are outdated and no longer supported. The item passed 9-0 despite public opposition. - Item 90 (Electric Scooter and Bicycle Minimum Age): The motion was to approve amending city code to lower the minimum age from 18 to 16. Councilwoman O'Brien moved to amend to age 14, citing school transportation and safety concerns. Councilwoman Hodge Washington and others expressed concerns about safety of younger teens on roadways. Councilwoman O'Brien's amendment failed; the original motion for age 16 was approved 8-1 (O'Brien dissenting). Councilman Robinson voted for 16 citing community reports of accidents involving 14- and 15-year-olds. Key Outcomes - New boards and commissions members sworn in. - Item 27 continued to January 15, 2025. - Items 44, 49, 52, 60, 62, 63, 64, 66, 73 approved unanimously (9-0). - Item 90 approved 8-1 (minimum age set at 16). - Council directed staff to provide monthly data on Taser 10 use and to involve community in future deployments. - Council acknowledged need for improved Spanish interpretation at meetings. - Citizen comments will be considered for future policy review (e.g., animal welfare, historic preservation, park trail closures). The meeting adjourned at approximately 12:30 PM.