Public Meetings - Surprise, Arizona

The Surprise City Council held a work session on January 6, 2026, to receive presentations on support for Luke Air Force Base, a proposed high water user ordinance, and a flashing yellow arrow safety campaign. No votes were taken. Discussion Items Presentation by Fighter Country Partnership - Ron Seitz, President and CEO of Fighter Country Foundation, thanked the council for 20 years of support. He described programs supporting airmen and families at Luke AFB and the 161st Air Refueling Wing, including over 70 programs annually (e.g., dorm dweller holiday party, marriage retreats, deployed family functions). He highlighted a $2.9 million, 7,000-square-foot honor guard training facility being built on the base, which could become a regional training headquarters. Seitz noted that Surprise has more airmen living in it than any other city. Councilmember Greenberg expressed support and presented a coin to Seitz. Proposed High Water User Ordinance (Chapter 58) - Staff (Mr. Bouley and Amy) presented a new article defining a high water user as any commercial or industrial customer using more than 100,000 gallons per day. The ordinance would require an application and a Sustainable Water Service Agreement with a 15-year term, including a water conservation plan, water allocation (base 100,000 gal/day; council may allocate an additional 100,000 gal/day; beyond that, user must purchase water credits or surface water rights), off-site infrastructure cost responsibility, and penalties for overuse. The ordinance applies only to city-served water, not Epcor. Examples included a microbrewery (75,000 gal/day – not a high user), a bottling plant (150,000 gal/day – allocation with council discretion), and a data center (250,000 gal/day – requires purchasing 50,000 gal/day). Council discussed property rights, council discretion, and annual average calculation. No vote; staff plans to bring the ordinance for adoption later in January. Flashing Yellow Arrow Safety Campaign - Councilmember Greenberg initiated a campaign to improve driver awareness of flashing yellow arrow left-turn signals. Staff presented background: flashing yellow arrows implemented since 2018; a 2024 left-turn phasing study that tested fully protected turns at three Waddell Road intersections; and a 2025 Bell & Lichfield safety study recommending fully protected left turns during peak times (Monday–Friday, 5 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.) starting January 12, 2026, with dual left-turn lanes recommended by 2030 pending grant funding. A new informational sign (36" x 36") will be placed in medians at 10 high-crash intersections (eight on Bell Road). A public service announcement video, produced with city staff, will be released. Councilmembers discussed crash statistics: Bell & Lichfield had one fatal accident (2024), about 30 possible injuries (2020-2024), and is among the city's most crash-prone intersections. Councilmember Greenberg described a near-miss at Bell & Sunrise. The campaign includes outreach to schools via the superintendent. Key Outcomes - No votes taken. - Staff will incorporate feedback and bring the Chapter 58 utility code amendments for a vote later in January. - The flashing yellow arrow safety campaign launches on January 6 (PSA video and social media) and January 12 (fully protected left-turn signal change at Bell & Lichfield). - Staff will provide council with detailed crash statistics for the city's top intersections.

Note: The transcript indicates the meeting was held on December 18, 2025, but the provided instruction specifies the date as December 19, 2025. This summary uses the instructed date. The Planning and Zoning Commission convened on December 19, 2025, to approve consent items, consider a conditional use permit for a McDonald's drive-thru, and receive presentations on citywide transportation and community development activity. The meeting began with a recognition of Lloyd Abrams on his promotion to Assistant City Manager. Consent Calendar - Item 1 – Minutes of November 6, 2025: Approved with 5 votes in favor. - Item 2 – Minutes of December 4, 2025: Approved with 4 votes in favor. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public hearing for non-agenda items or during the public hearing for the McDonald's conditional use permit. Discussion Items - Item 3 – Conditional Use Permit (CUP) with Site Plan for McDonald's at Sycamore Farms (Case FS 250515): The project proposes a 3,843-square-foot drive-thru restaurant on a 0.85-acre site located west of Cereval Avenue and south of Cactus Road. Staff reported that the site meets all applicable requirements, including 27 parking spaces (25 regular + 2 ADA) and drive-thru stacking distances exceeding minimums. An in-person neighborhood meeting on September 30, 2025, had one attendee with general questions. Staff recommended approval subject to stipulations A–E. The commission voted 6–0 to approve the CUP with those stipulations. - Item 4 – Fiscal Year 2025 Citywide Transportation Update: Eric Boyles, Transportation Director, presented an overview of ongoing and planned projects. Key statistics include over $100 million in roadway improvements under construction, over $100 million in design, and $7.5 million in signal projects. Completed projects: 163rd Avenue widening (US 60 to Happy Valley, first phase done), Cactus Road phases (Little Cactus completed August 2025, Big Cactus completed November 2025). Future designs: Cactus Road (175th Ave to Beardsley Canal), Happy Valley Road widening (163rd to eastern city limits), Waddell Road widening, and JoMax Road extension (with Peoria). Regional improvements: near-term upgrades at US 60/303 (e.g., additional turn lanes), a new interchange at 303 and 155th Avenue (planned for construction in 2028), and a full system interchange at 303/US 60 (construction targeted for 2033). Commissioner Perry asked about access points and possible rerouting of 163rd Avenue; Boyles noted that design details are still being developed and emphasized the city's goal to minimize impacts during construction. - Item 5 – Fiscal Year 2025 Community Development Department and Planning and Zoning Commission Activity: Tiffany, Mindy, and Trevor presented an overview of departmental operations. The PZC reviewed 65 cases (mostly site plans and final plats), approved 4 preliminary plats (1,300 lots), and 29 final plats (914 lots). The department processed 2,711 residential permits, 305 commercial permits (over 1 million square feet), and 223 tenant improvement permits. Building plan reviews were 97.3% on time. Code enforcement opened 5,300 cases and closed 4,100. Major development projects highlighted include Sycamore Farms, City Center, Asante Trails, Prasada North, and multifamily communities. The department is also undertaking Project Utopia, a software replacement initiative, and has completed a general plan update. Key Outcomes - Votes: - Consent minutes approved (November 6: 5–0; December 4: 4–0). - McDonald's conditional use permit approved (6–0) with stipulations. - Referrals/Next Steps: - Transportation staff will continue advancing design and construction of road projects, with many expected to begin in FY2027. - The community development department will proceed with external requirements gathering for Project Utopia and continue code enforcement and development review. - Recognition: The commission congratulated Lloyd Abrams (promotion to Assistant City Manager) and Trevor (new Assistant Director).

The Surprise City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, December 17, 2025, covering a wide range of topics including holiday celebrations, city milestones, strategic plans, legislative priorities, development agreements, and financial updates. The meeting featured special presentations from the Valley Vista Choir, the Arizona Rangers, and the Surprise Youth Council, along with public comments on several community concerns. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included five routine items. No items were pulled for discussion. Public Hearing – Liquor License - The council held a public hearing for a new Series 9 liquor license (application 365730) for Circle K Store 9626 at 16256 West Joe Max Road. No public speakers requested to comment. Councilmember Haney confirmed the application number was correct. The council voted unanimously to recommend approval to the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control. Presentations & Reports - Employee Dependent Scholarships: HR Director Josette presented the 2025 Employee Dependent Scholarship winners: Emma Hudson (first place, $5,000), Claire Avilos (second place, $3,000), and Finn Bush (third place, $2,000). The program, established in 1999, has awarded over $70,000 to 33 dependents. - Youth Council Report: Youth Council members Alice Bogman (junior at Willow Canyon High School) and Cadence Starter (sophomore at Shadow Ridge High School) reported on their activities, including surveys, food drives, Santa's Workshop, and kindness cards for hospitals. Upcoming events include a street cleanup and the 10th annual MLK Day of Service on January 17, 2026. - City Clerk Historical Facts: The city clerk highlighted Surprise's 65th incorporation anniversary. On December 6, 1960, 113 of 153 ballots approved incorporation. The town became a city on March 19, 1991. The population was 1,574 in 1961; by 1991 it had grown to over 3,500. - City Court Strategic Plan: Presiding Judge Louis Frank Dominguez and Court Administrator Elena Cano presented the court's strategic plan, aligned with Arizona Supreme Court goals and city council pillars. Key initiatives include a firearms transfer program, virtual hearing expansion, electronic kiosks for self-service, and a Justice for All Financial Relief Fair to help residents comply with court orders. The court aims to improve efficiency and access to justice. - 2026 Legislative Agenda: Government Relations Director Jody presented the 2026 legislative agenda and a recap of the 2025 session. Key wins included sober living home reform (SB 1308), a $3.2 million appropriation for Loop 303 and 155th Avenue design, Luke Air Force Base measures on driver's license reciprocity and foreign landownership. The 2026 agenda prioritizes maintaining quality of life, transportation infrastructure, land use planning, public safety, economic development, water sustainability, and protecting Luke Air Force Base. Councilmember Haney emphasized the importance of resident engagement and the need to address transportation challenges, especially for state-owned infrastructure like Grand Avenue and US 60. The council approved the agenda unanimously. - Surprise 120 Development Agreement: Lloyd Abrams presented Resolution 2025-136 for a 120-acre development east of 225th Avenue, west of 227th Avenue, north of Deer Valley Road. The developer must contribute to traffic signals at 227th and 219th, water resource impact fees, and wastewater improvements. A resident, Kimberly Varostek, expressed concerns about Deer Valley Parkway becoming a six-lane arterial adjacent to rural homes and the need for formalized road shifting and buffers. The council approved the resolution unanimously. - FY 2026 Financial Status Report (First Quarter): Finance Director Sandy reported that through September 2025, revenues exceeded budget by 1.3% due to higher state shared sales tax and franchise fees. Expenditures were 2.4% over budget primarily due to timing of personnel onboarding. The council discussed the city's ability to handle potential economic downturns, noting that the city can scale back budgets if needed. Public Comments on Non-Agenda Items - Michelle Heineke (topic: music at the park) – not present. - April Butler (resident near Reims and Peoria) – spoke in opposition to the proposed Tecanox Project Becara (a data center near Copper Canyon), noting it would be only 2,000 feet from the nearest home and presented a petition with 4,500 signatures. She urged the council to use their voice against the project, which is outside city limits but affects Surprise residents. - Hillary Weber (Kingswood Park) – also opposed to Project Becara, citing community-led coalition efforts, lack of informed consent, and potential health risks (e.g., rare cancer spikes from similar data centers in Ohio). She called for transparency and collaboration. - Alex Chris (175th and Waddell) – offered holiday greetings and expressed appreciation for the council's community engagement, including first Saturday meetings. - Alisa Everett (163rd and Grand) – thanked the Parks and Recreation Department (Holly Hall) for successful Christmas events, noting the tree lighting at Mark Coronado Park drew thousands. Council Reports & Announcements - Mayor Sarter recognized the Arizona Rangers for providing security at the menorah lighting. He also thanked the city staff and praised the community's holiday spirit. - Councilmembers expressed gratitude for the year's accomplishments, including the opening of a new park, strong collaboration, and successful events. They wished everyone a safe and happy holiday season. Councilman Melton participated by phone from a work assignment. The meeting adjourned with a motion from a Youth Council member. Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda (unanimous). - Recommended approval of liquor license for Circle K (unanimous). - Approved 2026 legislative agenda (unanimous). - Approved Surprise 120 development agreement, Resolution 2025-136 (unanimous). - Received presentations on city court strategic plan and first quarter financial report with discussion. - Heard public comments on the proposed Tecanox Project Becara; no council action taken as the project is outside city jurisdiction.

The Planning and Zoning Commission met on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at a regular meeting. Commissioners Perry, Holland, and Bash were present, along with Chair Chapman. Commissioners Leonard and Vice Chair Spotted had excused absences, leaving a quorum of four members. The meeting included approval of the 2026 meeting calendar, tabling of the previous meeting's minutes, and a public hearing on a rezone request. Consent Calendar - The Commission approved the 2026 Planning and Zoning Commission meeting calendar (motion passed 4-0). Chair noted that January and April meetings would shift due to holidays. - The minutes from the November 6, 2025 meeting were tabled until the next meeting because the commission lacked a quorum to approve them (Commissioner Holland had been absent at that prior meeting). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the call to the public on non-agenda items. - No public testimony was given during the public hearing for the rezone case. Discussion Items Rezone Case FS25-0420 - Mandu Ranch (southeast corner of 147th Avenue and Beardsley Canal): - Staff presented the request to rezone a 14.88-acre vacant site from Residential High (RH-15 with PUD) to Residential Medium (R2 with PUD). Staff noted the recommendation language in the written report was incorrect but the presentation slide contained the correct language. - The property currently allows up to 115 multifamily units. The applicant, Oakwood Homes (represented by attorney Andrew Yancey), proposed a downzone to approximately 92 single-family lots (92 units), reducing density. The R2 zone with a PUD overlay was requested to allow a reduced garage setback from the drive aisle (3 feet instead of 9), consistent with a recently approved zone text amendment (Case 241275). - Key features: two access points (full access on 147th Avenue and a local street connecting to the east), a bridge over a natural wash providing connectivity, and amenities including a multi-use sport court, tot lot, cornhole court, ramada, and a trail. The applicant noted the project exceeds the city's PEDs requirement by providing four amenities instead of the required three. - Commissioner Perry inquired about traffic: a study showed 60% of trips go north on 147th Avenue to Happy Valley Road and 40% east via McMicken Way. The applicant will add a southbound left-turn lane on 147th Avenue. Commissioner Holland asked about ownership; the attorney confirmed homes will be fee-simple ownership (build-to-sell, not build-to-rent). Commissioner Holland expressed support for the project but suggested a splash pad; the attorney cited high costs due to required bathroom facilities. Commissioner Perry asked about timeline; the applicant hopes to start construction in 2026 and have move-ins in 2027. - No members of the public spoke during the hearing. Key Outcomes - Motion to recommend approval of the rezone (Mandu Ranch, Case FS25-0420) subject to stipulations A and B as outlined in the staff report. The motion passed 4-0. The recommendation will go to the Mayor and City Council for final action. - The meeting was adjourned.

The Surprise City Council held a regular meeting on December 2, 2025, at City Hall. Councilmembers present: Mayor Sarder, Vice Mayor, Councilmember Haney, Councilmember Duffy, Councilmember Judd. Councilmembers Greenberg and Melton had excused absences. The meeting included appointments to two commissions, approval of a new liquor license, adoption of the 2024 International Codes and 2023 National Electrical Code, and reports from the Youth Council and councilmembers. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda (three items) was approved unanimously without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - James Ashley, representing the Home Builders Association of Central Arizona, spoke in support of the building code adoption package. He thanked the city for proactive, early stakeholder outreach and noted that the proposed amendments would mitigate unnecessary regulations and cost increases while maintaining safety standards. Discussion Items - Appointment to Audit Committee: Councilmember Haney, Chair of the Nominations Committee, recommended appointing Gloria Bianco Daly to the Audit Committee for a term expiring June 30, 2027. The motion was made, seconded, and passed unanimously. Ms. Daly was sworn in. - Appointment to Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission: Councilmember Haney recommended appointing Kimberly Hale to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission for a term expiring June 30, 2029. The motion passed unanimously. - Liquor License – Tacos Chilango: The council considered a recommendation to the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control for a new Series 12 liquor license for Tacos Chilango, located at 14420 West Elm Street. Councilmember Haney expressed excitement about the new restaurant and moved to recommend approval. The motion passed unanimously. - Adoption of 2024 International Codes and 2023 National Electrical Code: Staff presented an overview of the code adoption process, including public outreach, stakeholder engagement, and the Planning and Zoning Commission’s recommendation for approval. No opposition was received during outreach. The council discussed the process briefly, and Councilmember Haney thanked staff. A motion to approve Ordinance 2025-14 was made by Councilmember Haney, seconded, and passed unanimously. - Youth Council Report: Youth Council members Kate Donick and Kenzie Mies reported on recent volunteer activities (SciTech Festival, Veterans Day Parade, Nerf Battle) and upcoming events (Surprise Party, Teen Summit on February 25). They also welcomed new City Manager Andrea Davis. Key Outcomes - Appointments: Gloria Bianco Daly appointed to Audit Committee (term to 2027); Kimberly Hale appointed to Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission (term to 2029). - Liquor License: Recommended approval for Tacos Chilango’s Series 12 license. - Building Codes: Ordinance 2025-14 adopted, updating the city’s building codes to the 2024 International Codes and 2023 National Electrical Code, with local amendments. - Council Reports: Councilmembers announced upcoming community meetings (December 9 at Asante Library, December 6 meet-and-greet at Rec Center), thanked staff for events like SciTech Festival and for prompt response to pothole repairs, and noted the December 5 tree lighting ceremony. Other Business - The meeting adjourned without further business.

The Surprise City Council met on November 19, 2025 (the meeting began the evening of November 18, 2025) to approve a budget amendment for the U.S. 250th anniversary, a facility use agreement with Dysart Unified School District for the Vista Center for the Arts, and to honor outgoing City Manager Bob Wingenroth. Recognitions and Proclamations - Special Olympics Arizona: Adaptive Recreation Coordinator Ashley Stevens reported that the city hosted the Fall Games in Bocce and Swimming with over 1,000 athletes. Surprise athletes brought home medals, and two new Special Olympics softball teams were formed, with one taking first place and the other third at a recent area tournament. - JustServe.org: The city presented a proclamation recognizing JustServe.org for its volunteer platform, noting an 80% year-over-year increase in days of service and a 116% increase in volunteer hours in Surprise. - Sounds of Autism: Executive Director Jamie Aldama presented the City of Surprise with a Unified Responder Community Certificate, praising the police, fire, courts, and human services departments for their work serving families affected by autism. - Youth Council: Members Desmond Robert and Grace DeSotel reported on the Veterans Day Parade and a Nerf battle event that attracted about 30 youth, thanking the mayor and police department for their support. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda, containing two items, was approved unanimously without discussion. Public Comments - John Cavalletto (Vista Foundation) expressed gratitude to Councilmember Chris Judd, City Manager Bob Wingenroth, Mayor Kevin Sarter, and Dysart Superintendent Dr. John Croto for their collaboration on the Vista Center partnership. The foundation looks forward to supporting the city's new presenting program, Surprise Arts. - Connie Whitlock thanked outgoing City Manager Bob Wingenroth for his leadership and vision, particularly in supporting the WHAM Art Center and its mission to make art accessible to all. - Kevin James requested the council direct their Valley Metro board representative to propose reduced fares for passengers with handicapped permits on express buses, noting that express buses are the only option for residents in Surprise and El Mirage. Councilmember Greenberg acknowledged the request and said it was already on his list for the next Valley Metro meeting. Discussion Items Item 3: FY 2026 Budget Amendment for 250th Anniversary (Resolution 2025-134) City Manager Bob Wingenroth and Holly Osborne presented plans for the city's celebration of America's 250th anniversary in 2026, including promotional materials, a banner program, enhanced July 4th fireworks, and a potential lake show. The council approved a $120,000 budget amendment to support planning, programming, and activities. The resolution passed unanimously. Item 4: Facility Use Agreement with Dysart Unified School District (Resolution 2025-63) Kendra Pettis outlined a partnership for the city to operate a presenting program at the Vista Center for the Arts (a 1,300-seat theater and 200-seat lecture hall). The initial term runs through June 30, 2031, with a five-year automatic renewal option. The city will pay an all-inclusive rate of $6,830 per day or invest in mutually agreed capital improvements in lieu of rent. The district retains the facility for educational programming and third-party rentals. The council approved the resolution unanimously after recognizing the collaborative effort. Key Outcomes - Approved Resolution 2025-134 (budget amendment for 250th anniversary) - unanimous vote. - Approved Resolution 2025-63 (Vista Center facility use agreement) - unanimous vote. - Directed Councilmember Greenberg to address the issue of reduced fares for disabled riders on express buses at the next Valley Metro Board meeting. - Adjourned with farewell tributes to City Manager Bob Wingenroth, who served the city for a decade. Council members praised his leadership, mentorship, and the strong team he built.

This meeting of the Surprise Planning & Zoning Commission focused on routine approvals and a major code adoption. Commissioners approved meeting minutes and recommended adoption of the 2024 International Building and Fire Codes with local amendments to the City Council. The public hearing drew no speakers. The November 20 meeting was announced as canceled due to lack of agenda items. Consent Calendar - Approval of October 16, 2025, Meeting Minutes: Motion passed with 4 votes in favor. (One commissioner noted they were absent for that meeting but still voted; the motion carried.) - Cancellation of November 20 Meeting: Chair announced no items are scheduled, so the meeting will be canceled. Public Comments & Testimony - A public hearing was opened for the code adoption item. No members of the public signed up to speak, and no written comments were received. The hearing was closed. Discussion Items - Adoption of 2024 International Building and Fire Codes Including Local Amendments: Staff presented the transition to the 2024 International Codes, highlighting a multi‑month process of review, public outreach (two public meetings, press release, social media), and stakeholder engagement. No opposition was received. Staff recommended the Commission forward a recommendation of approval to the City Council. - Commissioners expressed appreciation for the staff's work and asked questions: - One commissioner asked about the water demand calculator (an option for more efficient plumbing fixtures). Staff explained it allows reduced pipe sizing based on efficient fixtures, and it is optional, not mandated. - Another commissioner asked about potential conflicts between federal/state regulations and adopted codes, particularly if federal rules become more permissive. Staff responded that adopted international codes would still govern on their own terms, but the city must comply with state/federal laws that exceed code minimums. - No other discussion items were raised. Key Outcomes - Recommendation to City Council for Adoption of 2024 International Codes: The Commission voted 5-0 to recommend that the City Council adopt the 2024 International Building and Fire Codes and the associated local amendments. - Consent Calendar Approved: The October 16 meeting minutes were approved (4-0). - November 20 Meeting Canceled: No future agenda items were identified, so the scheduled meeting will not be held. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned by voice vote with all in favor.

The Surprise City Council convened on Tuesday, November 4, 2025 (continuing into the early hours of November 5) to address a full agenda including consent items, liquor license recommendations, zoning text amendments, a presentation on the Grand Avenue Corridor study, and the appointment of a new city manager. The meeting also featured a public comment period where a resident voiced strong opposition to a proposed industrial project near residential neighborhoods. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously: All 10 consent agenda items (routine approvals and actions). Proclamations & Recognitions - Epcor Water Proclamation: The city recognized Epcor Water for obtaining a 100-year assured water supply designation for its Agua Fria district, the first new 100-year designation in the Phoenix Active Management Area in 25 years. The proclamation highlighted Epcor's partnership with the city and its commitment to sustainable water management. - Youth Council Introductions: Brayden Aftanski (Paradise Honors junior) and Emma Chan (Paradise Honors freshman) spoke about the Surprise Youth Council's activities, including planning events at the senior center, an open invitation for youth to attend meetings, and participation in Veterans Day festivities. They also mentioned a November 14 event with the police department. Public Comments & Testimony - Roy Dunbar (Project Bacara opposition group member): On behalf of over 1,200 members and 2,800 petition signers, Dunbar expressed strong opposition to Project Bacara—a proposed 160-acre industrial complex including a 2 million square foot data center and a 760 MW power generation facility with 18 natural gas turbines. He noted the site is within 0.5 miles of Surprise neighborhoods (Rancho Gabriela, Greer Farms, Marley Park, Copper Canyon, etc.) and requested the city: (1) submit a notice of intent to become a party to Arizona Corporation Commission proceedings by November 20; (2) have city engineers review the applicant's environmental compatibility study; (3) send letters to affected constituents; (4) appoint a point of contact for the opposition group; and (5) issue a resolution opposing the project. He emphasized that the project would have detrimental environmental impacts and reduce property values. Discussion Items - Liquor License Applications (Items 11-12): Both applications (Headwright Brewing Co. and El Red de los Postionis) were approved unanimously after brief public hearings. The applicant for El Red de los Postionis stated it is a family-owned business with 18 years of operation, seeking to create a family-friendly environment at a new location. - Zoning Text Amendments (Items 13-15): City staff (Trevor) presented three amendments to comply with recent state legislation: - HB 2447 (Administrative Approvals): Updates to streamline plan review, including mandatory expedited plan review for compliant applicants. Staff proposed doubling the standard plan review fee ($1,000 minimum) and an additional 20% fee for reviews beyond the third. - HB 2721 (Middle Housing): Requires cities to allow duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and townhomes as permitted uses on specified lots. Since Surprise lacks a central business district, the amendment applies only to areas outside the vicinity of Luke Air Force Base (approximately 22% of the city). Restrictions include no more than one off-street parking space per unit and no requirement for owner occupancy. - SB 1182 (Construction Times): Prohibits cities from restricting construction between 5 a.m. and 7 p.m. from May 1 to October 15, and allows concrete pouring one hour earlier. Surprise's code already permits construction from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.; the amendment aligns noise standards with state language. - Councilmembers expressed support, noting that the city works well with the community on construction notifications. All three amendments were approved unanimously. - Applicant-Driven Zoning Text Amendment (Item 16): Presented by Trevor and applicant Jeff Blyley. This amendment modifies residential development standards in R1, R2, R3, Surprise Heritage District overlay, and TND to increase housing variety (townhomes, cluster homes, alley-loaded products). Key changes include: - Clarifying definitions and use categories for townhomes. - In R1, allowing increased lot coverage (from 45% to 55%) if an RV garage is provided. - In R2, reducing side setbacks from 5+7 feet to 5+5 feet on the smallest lots to accommodate narrower home products. - Allowing for-sale townhomes (previously only rental was possible). - Councilmembers praised the amendment for promoting homeownership and affordability. Approved unanimously. - Grand Avenue Corridor Study (Item 17): Presentation by John Bullen (MAG interim executive director) and Bradley Williams (principal planner). Key findings: - Population in the study area expected to increase from 47,000 (2023) to over 200,000 by 2050. - Severe congestion at the Loop 303/US 60 interchange due to limited access; only one interchange (US 60) serves a 9-mile stretch of the 303. - Recommended three-phase plan: (1) small improvements (many completed or underway); (2) construction of a new interchange at 155th Avenue (design start early 2026, construction 2028); (3) major upgrades at the 303/163rd Ave interchange and 163rd Ave intersection with elevated flyovers and traffic signals to separate key movements. - 155th Ave interchange will provide alternative access and remove thousands of cars from 163rd Ave. - Calls for protecting eight corridor crossing opportunities and implementing an access management plan on US 60 north of Patton Road to maintain rural highway speeds (65 mph) and address safety issues from growing truck traffic. - Funding dependent on Prop 479; major upgrades programmed for 2031-2035, but staff will seek to accelerate. - Councilmembers expressed urgency, with several noting the need for immediate policy actions to protect planned improvements and address constituent concerns about traffic and safety. - Drainage Easements and Warranty Deed (Items 18-20): Three items related to 163rd Avenue and Joe Max Road improvements (drainage easements and a deed) were approved unanimously. - Appointment of City Manager (Item 21): The council unanimously approved an employment agreement with Andrea Davis, appointing her city manager effective November 29, 2025. Councilmembers praised her long tenure, institutional knowledge, and leadership. Davis expressed gratitude and commitment to serving residents and city staff. Key Outcomes - Approvals: - Consent agenda (10 items) – unanimous. - Liquor licenses for Headwright Brewing Co. (Item 11) and El Red de los Postionis (Item 12) – unanimous recommendations to the state. - Zoning text amendments for administrative approvals (Ordinance 2025-21), middle housing (Ordinance 2025-18), and construction start times (Ordinance 2025-17) – unanimous. - Residential development standards amendment (Ordinance 2025-19) – unanimous. - Drainage easements and warranty deed (Items 18-20) – unanimous. - City manager employment agreement for Andrea Davis (Item 21) – unanimous. - Public Input: Roy Dunbar formally requested city action on Project Bacara. The mayor directed staff to follow up with him. - Future Agenda Items: Councilmember discussed aligning the process for adding items to the agenda and requested research on an existing policy for awards and recognitions. - Next Steps on Grand Avenue: The final public meeting for the corridor study is scheduled for November 13, 2025, at Asante Preparatory School. The final report is expected in January/February 2026. Councilmembers emphasized protecting corridor crossing opportunities and exploring ways to accelerate funding for major upgrades.

The Surprise City Council held a regular work session on November 4, 2025, with all members present. The session featured three presentations and discussions: city field usage and allocation, the Parks and Recreation strategic plan, and the Sports, Entertainment and Culture strategic plan. Key topics included field capacity constraints, facility maintenance, upcoming programming, and strategic partnerships. Discussion Items - Field Usage Presentation: Holly Osborne (Parks & Recreation) and Kendra Pettis (Sports, Entertainment and Culture) presented data on field allocation and usage. Current inventory includes 12 diamonds against a national benchmark of 24 for the population of 165,000. In fiscal year 2025, there were 13,000 hours of reserved sports fields, with 62% dedicated to youth sports, 17% to field rentals, and the rest to maintenance and special interest classes. Fall youth sports enrollment exceeded 3,500 children. The rental process operates on a first-come, first-served basis with resident priority, and seasonal overseeding reduces field availability. Councilmember Judd inquired about artificial turf vs. grass cost-benefit, noting that overseeding consumes 25% of available time. Staff explained that turf requires irrigation and replacement every 5–10 years, while natural grass with sand infrastructure cost under $500,000. Councilmember Greenberg noted that turf can be 30–50°F hotter than grass in summer. Councilmember Duffy highlighted that Rangers fields are now used nearly year-round due to expanded minor league activities. Councilmember Haney asked about challenges to building more fields; Osborne cited land, funding, and prioritization issues, but noted the city now has 3,500 acres of land through the McMicken Dam acquisition. - Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan: Holly Osborne presented the department’s strategic priorities aligning with council goals: community experience, public safety, and fiscal responsibility. Key initiatives include updating the Parks and Recreation Master Plan with public outreach (website, survey), preserving McMicken Dam land, increasing programmability at Vera Monte Park (adding parking and lights), constructing a splash pad at Luke Air Force Base tribute, and asset replacement projects at Gaines Park and Surprise Aquatic Center. The department now oversees 3,750 acres of developed parks, up from under 300 acres six months prior. Vice Mayor Hastings asked about a masters swim program; staff confirmed a fee structure is in development for a January 2026 launch at Oasis Swim Center. Councilmember Judd requested data-driven analysis on building one large park versus multiple smaller parks to maximize impact. He also encouraged incorporating outdoor skills programming and working with the development community to activate park space. Councilmember Haney supported the master plan and resident engagement. Councilmember Melton asked about Gaines Park improvements; Osborne noted they are coordinated with the community resource center project. - Sports, Entertainment and Culture Strategic Plan: Kendra Pettis presented departmental overview highlighting core services: major league baseball operations (spring training and year-round activities), sports tourism, events and entertainment, arts and culture, and economic impact generation. Strategic priorities include enhancing community experience, driving economic development through tourism and public-private partnerships, and ensuring safety. Key projects: spring training renovation and lease extensions, a presenting program at Vista Center for the Arts in partnership with DICE Art, growing the Out of the Park Music Fest (headliner Russell Dickerson announced), hosting the Big 12 Baseball Championships in May 2026, and hosting NCAA Division II tennis championships. Public art initiatives include the Bounce and Swing ribbon cutting and traffic cabinet art on Cactus Roads. Challenges include limited field capacity and increasing demand from all partners (Parks & Rec, Ottawa University, Rangers/Royals). Councilmembers expressed strong support for the department’s work, noting the positive transformation of Surprise into a destination for sports and culture. Councilmember Duffy lauded the Big 12 championship acquisition. Councilmember Melton confirmed it would be the first collegiate conference championship hosted. Councilmember Judd praised Kendra and her team for their adaptability and success. Key Outcomes - Staff will provide a full cost-benefit comparison between natural grass and artificial turf for future fields, including water infrastructure costs and maintenance implications. - Parks and Recreation will proceed with the Master Plan update, incorporating public survey and stakeholder input, and return to council with data on park size and location optimization. - Vera Monte Park will receive parking expansion and field lighting improvements to increase programmability. - A masters swim program is targeted to launch in January 2026 at Oasis Swim Center. - The Sports, Entertainment and Culture department will continue negotiations with MLB teams for spring training renovation and lease extensions, and will bring an agreement for the Vista Center presenting program to the next council agenda. - The city will host the Big 12 Baseball Championships in May 2026 at Surprise Stadium, in partnership with Rev Entertainment and the NCAA. - Council directed staff to explore public-private partnerships for new facilities, utilizing the city’s newly acquired land while respecting federal restrictions on land use.