Public Meetings - Tempe, Arizona

The Tempe City Council convened on October 16, 2025, to address the aftermath of a severe microburst storm, approve routine governance items, conduct public hearings on housing and liquor licensing, and finalize zoning changes for major developments. The meeting featured significant updates from staff and emergency management regarding community recovery efforts, alongside public testimony on local neighborhood concerns and development projects. Consent Calendar - Meeting Minutes: Approved City Council meeting minutes (Item 4A1) and Board/Commission/Committee meeting minutes (Items 4B1–4B7). Passed unanimously 7-0. - Routine Items: Approved the full Consent Agenda (Items 7A1–7B12) unanimously, with the exception of Item 7A9, which was pulled for separate consideration due to protest letters. Public Comments & Testimony - Shalomar Golf Course Rezoning: - William Herman (Resident) proposed reducing the proposed housing density and pricing homes at $1.4–$1.7 million to attract high-income residents to the Shalomar area. - Sudha Doshi (Resident and retired teacher) expressed firm opposition to rezoning, citing the loss of a vital green oasis, increased pollution, noise, and heat, noting that green spaces lower ambient temperatures by up to 12.8 degrees Fahrenheit. - Noah James Markham (Resident) opposed the rezoning, urging the council to focus on new construction elsewhere rather than this specific site, and requested more accessibility features like T-coils and sign language interpreters. - Nori Muster (Resident) opposed rezoning to maintain the neighborhood's character, suggesting a limit of one house per commercial acre. - Surveillance Technology: - Bobby Nichols (Private citizen) expressed strong opposition to the contract with FLOC, arguing that AI surveillance poses unreasonable risks to Hispanic and Latino residents and should be terminated immediately. - Storm Recovery: - Philip Yates (President, Riverside Neighborhood Association) expressed gratitude for the city's response to the microburst, noting the ongoing devastation and debris removal efforts. - Liquor License (Item 7A9): - James Benjamin Herlbu and Rick Hervig (Maple Ash Neighborhood Association) strongly urged the council to deny the license for King's Liquor, citing historical issues with the previous tenant (Circle K), high crime volume, and the availability of existing liquor stores nearby. - Karen Gittless (Resident) argued that a liquor store has no community purpose and that the neighborhood has a pub, making a liquor store redundant and antithetical to community building. - Applicants (Legacy Liquor LLC) stated they are a family business, argued they are unfairly carrying the stigma of the previous business, and noted no police incidents have occurred since they opened on an interim license. - Middle Housing (Item 8B1): - Janilyn Greneo and Deon Romero expressed disappointment that the state legislation allows a "one-size-fits-all" solution, does not protect historic neighborhoods, and will likely be used by out-of-state developers rather than community residents. - Noah James Markham opposed the complaints against the legislation, urging the city to stop complaining and support the buildout. - Marshall on Spence (Item 8C1): - The item was continued by unanimous vote (7-0) at the applicant's request to the December 11, 2025 meeting; no public testimony was taken as the comment period had closed previously. - Danielle Plaza (Item 8C2): - Janilyn Greneo agreed with the mixed-use concept but opposed the 65 units per acre density, arguing it exceeds the General Plan's 45 units per acre, and called for professional facilitation in community engagement. - Robert Moore (Resident) saw the project as a "once-in-a-generation opportunity" to explore new redevelopment solutions and local business support. - Tristan Harp (Artist) expressed concern that high density might lose the unique artistic spirit of the plaza and called for more professional community meetings. - Noah James Markham expressed excitement for building and opposed complaints from long-term residents, stating the city needs to start building more. Discussion Items - Storm Recovery Update: Interim Fire Chief Daryl Duty and Interim Emergency Manager Monique Rodriguez reported that the storm occurred on Monday afternoon, triggering an emergency response. The EOC was activated virtually and then in-person. - Positions/Actions: Staff reported 170 fire/medical incidents (more than double the normal rate), with assistance from automatic aid partners (Phoenix, Chandler, Gilbert, etc.). A Red Cross shelter operated for 48 hours and is currently closed. Over 450 damage assessments were conducted, with 75 self-assessments received via a web portal. Mayor Woods and City Manager praised the "Herculean effort" and community spirit. - Liquor License (Item 7A9): Staff provided a "no recommendation" status, noting they are still waiting on fingerprinting submittals despite a conditional approval from Police. - Positions: Councilmember Amberg and Councilmember Adams moved to transmit a recommendation of denial, citing sufficient density of existing licenses (Topps, Casey Moore's) and organized community opposition. Councilmember Keating dissented, arguing the business owners are unfairly stigmatized by the Circle K history and that the high call volume at convenience stores compared to liquor stores suggests the problem was the specific business, not alcohol. The motion to deny passed 6-1. - Arizona Cycle Boats (Item 8A1): Robert Meyer presented a proposal to operate cycle boats on Tempe Town Lake, aiming to host 20,000 guests in the first year. - Positions: Councilmember Adams expressed strong support, calling it a dream realized after seven years of advocacy, and noted it would activate the lake and connect it to downtown dining and hotels. The contract was approved 7-0. - Wastewater Equipment (Item 8A2): Approval was granted to increase the contract amount for a triple quadruple liquid chromatograph mass spectrometer. Passed 7-0. - Construction Contracts (Items 8A3, 8A4): Approval was granted to Felix Construction Company for recharge wells and GMP transmission pipelines at Ken McDonald Golf Course. Passed 7-0 for both. - Middle Housing Overlay (Item 8B1): Planner Jacob Payne presented the ordinance required to comply with state House Bill 2721, limiting the affected area to a one-mile radius of the Central Business District. Failure to adopt the local ordinance by January 1, 2026, would trigger the state mandate across the entire city. - Positions: Staff clarified that the overlay allows duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and townhomes, with height and setbacks matching underlying zoning. Council members noted the urgency of the January 1st deadline. The item was introduced and first hearing held; second hearing scheduled for November 6, 2025. - Administrative Review (Item 8B2): Presentation made on changes mandated by House Bill 2447 to shift design review authority from the Development Review Commission (DRC) to the Community Development Director. - Positions: Staff and Council clarified that while design reviews become administrative, rezoning cases and appeals will still require public hearings. Councilmember Amberg expressed skepticism about the bill's long-term viability. Second hearing scheduled for November 6, 2025. - Danielle Plaza Zoning (Item 8C2): Applicant representatives explained the vision for mixed-use development including workforce housing, arts, and entertainment, with a commitment to retaining the Yucca Tap Room. - Positions: Council addressed concerns about density, with staff clarifying the density is 45 units per acre (consistent with the General Plan). The development agreement provisions for retaining Yucca Tap Room and incorporating public art were read into the record. The ordinance was adopted 7-0. - Minima Mixed-Use (Item 8C3): Approval granted for a new mixed-use development at 5454 South Beck Avenue. Passed 7-0. - Hayden Lane Townhomes (Item 8C4): Approval granted for a three-unit townhome development with three ADUs. Passed 7-0. - Land Lease (Item 8C6): Authorization granted to negotiate a lease for city-owned commercial property at 525 South Mill Avenue. Passed 7-0. - Easement Abandonment (Item 8C7): Approval granted to abandon a water line easement at the south side of University Drive. Passed 7-0. Key Outcomes - Storm Recovery: The City of Tempe declared a local disaster, and the County followed suit. The Red Cross shelter has closed, and damage assessment teams continue operations. A public portal (tempey.gov/tempe-storm) was established for residents to report damage. - Liquor License 7A9: The Council voted 6-1 to transmit a recommendation of denial for the liquor license for King's Liquor at 119 West University Drive to the Arizona Department of Liquor License Control, citing neighborhood density concerns and community opposition. - Zoning & Planning: - Approved the middle housing overlay district (first hearing only; final adoption pending Nov 6). - Approved the administrative review ordinance changes (first hearing only; final adoption pending Nov 6). - Approved zoning map amendments for Danielle Plaza (Mixed Use), Minima (Mixed Use), and Hayden Lane (Townhomes). - Continuance: Item 8C1 (Marshall on Spence) was continued to the December 11, 2025 meeting. - Adoption: All listed final adoption items (8C2, 8C3, 8C4, 8C6, 8C7) passed unanimously 7-0. - Public Comment: No discussion or action was taken on items raised during the public appearances that were not on the agenda, as per Open Meeting Law.

On September 30, 2025, Hearing Officer Vanessa McDonald convened a public hearing to address code violation abatement cases. After introductory remarks on authority and appeal rights, the officer approved the minutes from September 16, 2025, and heard two abatement requests: the Kimball property at 3911 South Alder Drive and the Rhoads property at 1212 East Greenway Drive. Both properties were found to have chronic code violations; both abatement requests were approved with 180-day open abatements. Consent Calendar - Approval of Meeting Minutes (September 16, 2025): Approved without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Claire Rhodes (property owner, Tempe resident): Spoke about the Rhoads property. She explained that health setbacks (cancer survivorship, long COVID), the death of her mother and best friend, and her volunteer work running a nonprofit that helps Tempe residents with code compliance had overwhelmed her. She stated she had been working on clearing the property, had a free garage sale planned, and had already donated many items to other Tempe residents. She requested mercy or a postponement, noting that recent rain had prevented her planned garage sale. - Nick Napolos (Tempe resident temporarily living in Phoenix due to fire damage): Questioned the abatement process, suggesting it should have gone through court first. He expressed concern about fines or liens and noted that photographs may have been taken from beyond the property line. He did not take a position on the abatement itself. Discussion Items 1. Kimball Property (3911 South Alder Drive; Case CE251429) - Presented by: Code Inspector Andres Laura Reyes. - Background: Violations (trash, litter, debris, inoperable vehicles, repairs, deteriorated landscape) first observed March 5, 2025. Multiple notices mailed, two final notices, a door hanger, and a citation issued on July 9, 2025. The owner failed to appear in court, and the case was sent to collections. No contact from owner. - Evidence: Photos from the morning of the hearing showed continued violations: an unregistered vehicle on blocks, trash, debris, vehicle parts, overgrown weeds. - Inspector’s request: 180-day open abatement for trash/debris, vehicles, and landscape violations. - Outcome: Approved. 2. Rhoads Property (1212 East Greenway Drive; Case CE248534) - Presented by: Code Inspector Supervisor John Salazar. - Background: Complaint initiated December 23, 2024. Violations included junk, trash, debris, deteriorated roof, obstructed street/sidewalk, deteriorated fence/gate, dead palm fronds. First notice mailed December 27; final notice January 13; extension granted January 27. Additional anonymous complaints in February. Multiple extensions granted as the owner worked with a roofing company. By late August, roof, gate, and palm frond violations were resolved, but junk/trash violations persisted. Notice of intent mailed August 29. - Evidence: Photos from the morning showed junk, trash, debris in front and back yards, including bags, furniture, plastic containers, tarps, etc. The front yard had worsened since the previous inspection six weeks prior. - Owner’s response: See Public Comments above. She admitted moving items from back to front for a garage sale. - Inspector’s request: 180-day open abatement for junk/trash debris violation (City Code 21-3B1). - Outcome: Approved. Key Outcomes - Minutes of September 16, 2025: Approved. - Kimball Property Abatement: Approved – 180-day open abatement (case CE251429) for trash/debris, inoperable vehicles, and landscape violations. - Rhoads Property Abatement: Approved – 180-day open abatement (case CE248534) for junk/trash debris violation. - Appeal rights: Property owners may file an appeal within 14 calendar days to the Board of Adjustment. - Next hearing: Scheduled for Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. in the Tempe Council Chambers.

The Tempe City Council convened on September 18, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included multiple proclamations, a lengthy public comment period, a quasi-judicial appeal regarding a two-story accessory dwelling unit (ADU), approval of a 26-story mixed-use development plan, first public hearings for several zoning and lease items, and final adoption of eight ordinances. Councilmember Adams participated virtually and was absent for some votes. The meeting adjourned at 9:49 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved City Council meeting minutes (April 24, 2025) and board/commission minutes (7 items) – passed 6-0 (Adams absent). - Approved consent agenda items 7A1, 7A3-7A5, 7A7-7A11, 7B1-7B11 (except 7B4), and 7C2-7C7 – passed 7-0. - Items pulled for separate consideration: - 7A2 (Open Streets Tempe 2026 sponsorship) – approved 7-0. - 7A6 (Series 6 liquor license for Castro’s on Baseline) – approved 6-0 (Councilmember Amberg recused). - 7B4 (landscaping contract renewals) – approved 7-0 after public comment. - 7C1 (Friendship Village bonds, $125M) – approved 6-0 (Mayor Woods recused). Public Comments & Testimony - General Public Appearances (Item 6): - Mario Martinez (Tempe resident) criticized Mayor Woods and city administration over the cancellation of an August 28 meeting, alleging improper targeting of those assisting unhoused individuals; stated that the administration has “incessantly weaseled” on this point. - Brian Hernandez (tempe resident) expressed support for keeping the Shalimar golf course and highlighted traffic concerns from proposed redevelopment; urged council to review the area. - Deborah Zayek (north Tempe resident) requested more transparency on city pay plans and improved recycling education; noted that salary asterisks lack a key on the city website. - Brooke St. George (Tempe resident) urged the city to better support older adults through hands-on training and improved digital accessibility; thanked Councilmembers Garland, Keating, and Amberg for creating an age-friendly subcommittee. - Bobby Nichols (Tempe resident, former arts commissioner) praised commission staffing and stressed the need for affordable housing and public spaces for artists. - Public Testimony on Specific Items: - ADU Appeal (8A1): 12 speakers (including appellant Dawn Sinclair, neighbors, and a real estate broker) opposed the two-story ADU, citing deed restrictions, neighborhood character, property values, parking, and privacy concerns. One speaker (Elizabeth Stewart) argued the city should consider deed restrictions. The applicant’s representative countered that the design meets code and does not impact privacy. - Danelle Plaza (8B1): 7 speakers (including artists, historians, neighborhood leaders) expressed cautious support, emphasizing preservation of arts and music culture, need for affordable housing, and traffic considerations. Developer Rodney Guinn (Desert Viking) pledged to prioritize local businesses and maintain the site’s cultural role. - Hayden Lane Townhomes (8B3): One speaker (James Beach, adjacent property owner) opposed increased density, citing parking shortages and loss of privacy; requested reduction from six to three units. - Minima (8B2): No public testimony. - Other Items (8B4-8B6, 8C2-8C8): No public testimony. Discussion Items - Quasi-Judicial Appeal: ADU Build – Harvey Residence (8A1) - Appellant (Dawn Sinclair): Argued she has standing (citing collateral estoppel from Board of Adjustment) and that a two-story ADU is incompatible with the single-story character of the Broadmoor/New Vista neighborhood, violating city policy and the cultural resources area designation. Proposed a single-story alternative. - Applicant (3C Contracting, LLC): Contended the 18-foot height is well under the 30-foot limit, the structure has no second-floor windows, and the ADU will house the owner’s son without adding traffic or parking. - City Attorney: Clarified that state law (ARS 9-461.18) allows one detached ADU as a permissive use, precluding a use permit requirement for the structure itself, but the second-story height may still be subject to local regulations. Standing issue remains unresolved; Board of Adjustment did not definitively rule on standing. - Council Debate: Councilmember Amberg moved to deny the appeal (citing lack of standing); motion failed 2-5. Vice Mayor Garland moved to approve the appeal; before a vote, Councilmember Keating moved to continue the item for a formal zoning administrator opinion on legal authority. Motion to continue passed 7-0. - First Public Hearing – Danelle Plaza Mixed Use (8B1) - Applicant (Gammage & Burnham) presented plans to rezone 14 acres from CSS to MU-4 to enable mixed-use with affordable housing, preservation of arts and music venues, and phased development. Community feedback was largely positive, with emphasis on cultural retention and local business support. - First Public Hearing – Minima (8B2) - Applicant described a 72-unit workforce housing project with commercial space, two stories, increased landscaping, and minor deviations. Councilmembers noted the “workforce housing” designation and praised the design. - First Public Hearing – Hayden Lane Townhomes (8B3) - Applicant proposed three townhomes with three ADUs (total 12 bedrooms), requesting reductions in landscape area, setbacks, and floor area ratio increase. Councilmember Amberg questioned parking adequacy; city staff noted code requires six spaces, applicant provides nine. Councilmembers complimented the architecture. - First Public Hearings – Leases and Easement (8B4-8B6) - Items covered lease agreements for city-owned properties at 1519 East Apache Blvd and 525 South Mill Ave, and a waterline easement abandonment on University Drive. No public testimony or council discussion. - Second Hearings & Final Adoption (8C2-8C8) - Items passed 6-0 (Adams absent): adaptive reuse code text amendment (O2025.31), floodplain management amendments (O2025.33), youth members on Human Relations Commission (O2025.34), budget transfers for solid waste (O2025.35, O2025.36), transit fund transfer (O2025.37), and waterline easement abandonment (O2025.38). - Development Plan Review – 16 East University (8A2) - Approved 7-0 for a 26-story, 373-unit mixed-use development. - Other Non-Consent Items (8A3-8A9) - Approved 7-0: contract increases for MRO supplies, data/telecom cabling contracts, Motorola radio contract, HP Enterprise contract renewal, fire engine pumper purchase, bus facility lease IGA, and bicycle/pedestrian improvements contract. Key Outcomes - Continued: The ADU appeal (item 8A1) was continued without a date certain, pending a formal opinion from the zoning administrator on the city’s legal authority to regulate second-story ADUs under state law. - Adopted (Final): Eight ordinances (O2025.30-O2025.38) were given final adoption: Revelry parking modifications, adaptive reuse code, floodplain management, youth members on Human Relations Commission, three budget transfers (water/ wastewater to solid waste, solid waste CIP, transit to transit CIP), and two easement abandonments. - First Hearings Set for Final Vote on October 16, 2025: Danelle Plaza zoning map amendment, Minima PAD overlay, Hayden Lane Townhomes PAD overlay, lease of 1519 E Apache Blvd, lease of 525 S Mill Ave, and waterline easement abandonment. - Appointments: Ratified appointments to Commission on Disability Concerns, Family Justice Commission, Historic Preservation Commission, and Human Relations Commission (item 7A1).

The Tempe Hearing Officer meeting was held on September 16, 2025, at 5:00 PM. The hearing officer, Vanessa McDonald, presided. The agenda included approval of minutes from September 2, 2025, and consideration of abatement for the Florio property. Agenda item 3 (Roe property) was continued to a future date. No public comments were made. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The hearing officer approved the minutes from the September 2, 2025, hearing, finding them accurate. Discussion Items - Florio Property Abatement (CE253021): Code compliance inspector Michael Moreno presented a request for a 180-day open abatement for 850 South River Drive, Unit 1051. The case was initiated on May 15, 2025, due to foul odors and junk, trash, and debris. Multiple notices were sent to property owner Nicholas Florio, and inspections confirmed ongoing violations. Despite an extension granted until July 2, 2025, and a citation issued on July 2, 2025, violations persisted. Photos taken on the meeting date showed continued deterioration. The hearing officer approved the 180-day open abatement. Key Outcomes - The minutes of September 2, 2025, were approved. - A 180-day open abatement was approved for the Florio property (850 South River Drive, Unit 1051) for violations of junk, trash, and debris. - The Roe property abatement (item 3) was continued to a future date for proper notification. - The deadline to appeal any decision is 3:00 PM on September 30, 2025, with appeals heard by the Board of Adjustment.

The Development Review Commission held a regular meeting on September 9, 2025, to consider several development applications. The consent agenda was approved unanimously, including five items. The main discussion focused on a zoning map amendment for Danelle Plaza, which was approved unanimously after a public hearing. Consent Calendar - Meeting Minutes: Approved unanimously from the August 26, 2025 study session and regular meeting. - Item 3A: Development Plan Review for a 98,240 sq ft industrial development at 1920 W University Drive. Approved. - Item 5A: Amended Planned Area Development Overlay and Development Plan Review for Minima Apartments, a mixed-use development with 72 dwelling units and commercial uses on 2.9 acres at 5454 S Beck Avenue. Approved. - Item 5B: Amended Planned Area Development Overlay and Development Plan Review for Hayden Lane Townhomes, a two-story residential development with three dwelling units and three accessory dwelling units on 0.18 acres at 1825 E Hayden Lane. Approved. - Item 6A: Code Text Amendment establishing the Middle Housing Overlay District, mandated by A.R.S. 9-462.13. Approved. - Item 6B: Code Text Amendment for Municipality Administrative Reviews, requiring administrative decisions without public hearings as mandated by A.R.S. 9-500.49. Approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Phil Yates (President, Riverside Neighborhood Association): Opposed the rezoning, stating the neighborhood felt unprepared and that more community input was needed. He characterized the applicant's July meeting as lacking answers and called the process disingenuous. - Robert Moore (Tempe resident): Asked for more detail on the open space component and urged the commission to view Danelle Plaza as an opportunity to set a precedent for integrating density into suburban landscapes. He emphasized the community's role (42% ownership) and the need for thoughtful engagement. - Sarah Sheila (Tempe resident, former graphic designer): Supported the rezoning, citing her work on the "Meet Danelle" project and her desire to see revitalization while preserving the art scene and Yucca Tap Room. - Joel Stern (Chair, Dromedary Neighborhood Association; Vice Chair, Neighborhood Advisory Commission): Strongly supported the project, calling it potentially transformative for the city. He highlighted the need for workforce and affordable housing and noted the long history of stagnation at the site. - Ali Barnett (Tempe resident, real estate broker, Valley Leadership Housing Committee): Supported the project but encouraged the city to create an overarching plan (like a ULI TAP study) to guide future developments. She noted the lack of a site plan and requested more transparency. - Juliet Smith (Tempe resident): Expressed cautious support, wanting more clarity on the housing plan and community engagement. She worried that high-density housing might detract from the arts and music culture. Discussion Items - Item 5C: Danelle Plaza Mixed Use – Zoning Map Amendment from CSS to MU4 - Applicant Presentation: Mondja LaVoz (Gammage & Burnham) presented on behalf of developers Desert Viking Development and Eric Greeno. The rezoning is the first step to allow mixed-use development with affordable housing, consistent with the General Plan. The applicant emphasized that no site plan exists yet; a robust community process will follow over the next few years. The Yucca Tap Room will be preserved via a cultural restrictive covenant. - Staff Presentation: Karen Stovall (Senior Planner) recommended approval subject to conditions, including that the PAD overlay must be submitted within three years of City Council approval. The applicant held a neighborhood meeting in July with about 60-70 attendees. Two phone calls and one email of support were received. - Commission Discussion: Commissioner Spears expressed concern about the timeline (up to five years) and encouraged faster progress. Commissioner Lloyd inquired about performance milestones in the development agreement; the applicant confirmed there are milestones under five years. Commissioner Richter noted the density was approved by voters in the General Plan. The chair (Andrew Johnson) expressed support for moving the project forward to gain momentum. - Vote: Motion to approve PL250205 by Commissioner Richter, seconded by Commissioner Lloyd. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously. - Danelle Plaza Rezoning (PL250205): Approved unanimously, with the condition that the PAD application must be submitted within three years of City Council approval, with possible one-year extensions. - Commissioner Announcements: Commissioners noted that the approvals for items 6A and 6B were required by state law and did not necessarily reflect personal support for the policies. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for October 28, 2025.

Vice Mayor Doreen Garland led the meeting in the absence of Mayor Woods, who attended virtually. The session included a budget update, a presentation on the Tempe Transportation Plan, a library services update, approval of two new council subcommittees, and status updates from existing subcommittees. No public comments were made. Announcements & Proclamations - Friends of the Library 60th Anniversary Proclamation: Moved to a future community event; not read at this meeting. - National Voter Registration Month/Day Proclamation: Read by Vice Mayor Garland, recognizing September 2025 as National Voter Registration Month and September 16, 2025 as National Voter Registration Day. A representative from the Citizens Clean Elections Commission attended. - Fanny McLaren Proclamation: Councilmember Hodge read a proclamation honoring Major Fanny Griffin McLaren, a 104-year-old World War II veteran and one of the last surviving members of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. She will turn 105 on September 22, 2025. Issue Review Session 4A. Budget Update Deputy City Manager Lizette Camacho and new Budget Director Robert Baer presented. Key points: - Fiscal Year 2025 (ended June 30, 2025) total taxable sales were down 2.8% and sales tax revenues down 2.6% compared to FY2024, primarily due to the loss of residential rental tax (estimated 9% revenue loss across general fund, transit fund, and arts & culture fund). - General fund sales and bed tax collections for FY2025 were $146 million, 2.5% below FY2024. - State shared revenues (25% of general fund) face a new impact: the incorporation of Santan Valley (Proposition 495 passed August 2025) will reduce Tempe’s population-based share, causing annual losses of $1.3 million in the general fund and $255,000 in the transportation fund. - All major funds ended FY2025 with fund balances above their respective council-adopted financial policies (general fund at 36% vs. policy of 20–30%). - Budget balancing measures for FY2026 include drawing down PSPRS and OPEB reserves. Staff warned that additional economic slowdown or legislative actions may require further measures (e.g., freezing vacant positions, reducing service levels). - The next long-range forecast will be presented in November 2025 with first-quarter data. 4B. Tempe Transportation Plan Transportation and Sustainability Director Eric Iverson, Principal Planner Chase Wallman, and Senior Planner Lindsay Post presented the update of the city’s comprehensive transportation plan (last updated 10 years ago). Key points: - The plan is in Phase 1 (Understanding Phase); a public meeting was held August 13, 2025, and a survey is open through September 10, 2025. - The update will include a Vision Zero Action Plan and cover all modes (pedestrian, bike, scooter, transit, vehicle). - Performance measures: Tempe has the highest per capita public transit ridership and highest bike commute mode share in Arizona; serious crashes continue to decline. - Scooter data: 2024 license fees totaled $435,000. Average scooter trip length is 1.5 miles, 15 minutes, used primarily for first-mile/last-mile connectivity. - Federal funding: Staff reported that many expected grant opportunities (SMART, TOD) have not been released, creating uncertainty for future projects. However, existing grants and the November 2024 regional transportation tax (Prop 479) provide funding for the next 1–3 years. - Photo radar enforcement began in June 2025; quarterly data on its effectiveness will be shared with council. - Councilmember Hodge requested talking points for an upcoming trip to Washington, D.C., to advocate for federal funding. Staff agreed to provide a grant status spreadsheet. 4C. Tempe Public Library Update Deputy Community Services Director for Library Services Jessica Jupitus presented. Key points: - Circulation: Physical and digital circulation reached 5.4 items per capita, exceeding the goal of 3.47 and well above the Arizona state average of 4.95 and Maricopa County average of 1.7. - Programming: Attendance fluctuated; youth programming continues to grow. The library now offers four story times per week, including a bilingual English-Spanish story time starting October 2025. - Summer Reading 2025: Participation and completion rates hit all-time highs (59% completion, up from 39% in 2021). Over 5.8 million minutes read (equivalent to 11 years of nonstop reading). - One Tempe One Book: 2025 book is “How to Tell a Story” by The Moth; 1,500 copies will be given away, funded by the Friends of the Tempe Public Library. - New initiatives: New library logo, mobile app, lower-level mural (“We All Go Where the Stories Flow”), updated mission and vision, short story machine, and adult programming such as punk paint night. Key Outcomes - Approval of New Council Subcommittees: The council approved two new subcommittees by consensus: 1. Community Engagement and Connection Council Subcommittee – proposed by Vice Mayor Garland, with members Councilmembers Amberg and Chin. 2. Motorized and Electric Mobility Device Safety Council Subcommittee – proposed by Councilmember Adams, with members Councilmembers Adams and Hodge. - Existing Subcommittee Status Updates: - Age-Friendly Tempe: Survey for residents 50+ open until September 30; next meeting September 23. - Animal Welfare and Cruelty: First meeting scheduled for September 30 (1–2 p.m., City Hall 3rd floor). - Drink Spiking Education and Prevention: Staff directed to draft an ordinance; next meeting last Friday of September at noon. - Mixed-Use Space: First meeting scheduled for September 8 (City Hall 3rd floor). - Revitalization of Tempe Town Lake: Next meeting September 5 (3 p.m., City Hall 3rd floor); staff reported strong responses to RFQ/RFP. - Next Meeting: The next work study session is scheduled for October 23, 2025.

Note: The agenda listed the meeting as September 2, 2025, but the user-provided date is September 3, 2025. This summary uses the latter for consistency with the instruction. The Tempe City Council met virtually on September 3, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. due to a credible security threat that canceled the prior in-person meeting. The meeting included a major reconsideration and rescission of Ordinance O2025.25 (amending the amusements and parks code), unanimous approval of a large consent agenda, several public hearings, and administrative actions. All votes were 6–0 with Councilmember Keating absent. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved meeting minutes (Council Special Budget Meeting June 5, July 1, 2025) and minutes from 14 boards/commissions. - Approved 10 new appointments to the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Commission (voted earlier in the meeting). - Approved appointments to the Family Justice Commission, Veterans Commission, and Public Safety Personnel Retirement System Boards. - Approved a Final Subdivision Plat for Miller Plat at 1200 North Miller Road. - Held public hearings and recommended approval of 9 liquor license transfers/new licenses (Aramark at Mountain America Stadium and Desert Financial Arena, Extra Mile, Spark by Hilton, Roll It Up 2, Carmen, Life Cafe, Night Owl, Vincitorio’s Restaurant). - Ratified or approved 37 bids/contracts covering advertising, memberships, office supplies, custodial services, signage, janitorial supplies, networking equipment, security systems, a lease for a coffee shop at City Hall, heat relief services, housing rehabilitation, theatre seating, stage equipment, firefighting equipment, bus stop solar lighting, landscape maintenance, street sweeper, bucket trucks, streetlight maintenance, traffic signal heads, truck utility bodies, water/wastewater equipment, water meters, activated carbon, AMWUA membership, disinfection system maintenance, water plant electricians, insertion flow meters, fuel system services, landscape vehicles, a telecommunications license, roundabout design (College Ave & McKellips Rd), interior space planning (BEAM), Double Butte Cemetery study, and a sewer collection system change order. - Adopted 16 resolutions: Maryanne Corder Neighborhood Grant agreements, Kyrene School District IGA for Experience Corps, Kiwanis donation, ACJC grant for CARE 7, Tempe Diablos Charities grant, LSTA library grants, arts donation policy, updated TCA rental rates, Last Call Foundation grant for Fotokite camera system, Flixbus use agreement, ASU IGA for Flash bus service, 2026 primary/general election (March 10, May 19, ballot-by-mail), opioid settlement authority, amended Personnel Rules, and amended Long-Term Disability and Disability Protection Plans. Public Comments & Testimony - On Ordinance O2025.25 (before reconsideration): Five speakers urged rescission. Bobby Nichols (Tempe resident, lawyer, referendum author) described gathering nearly 5,000 signatures and called for good-faith engagement. Mandy Everett (Tempe resident) said the July 1st vote ignored community input and that the referendum showed widespread opposition. Catherine Dorn (Tempe resident) argued the ordinance criminalizes homelessness and urged council to stop anti-homeless policies. Samuel Teidelbaum (Tempe resident, ASU faculty) thanked council for reconsidering and hoped for broader community conversation. Dylan Wilde (Tempe resident, Phoenix Metro DSA co-chair) condemned the threat against the council, supported repeal, and offered to collaborate on a new ordinance. - Public Appearances (non-agenda items): Speakers addressed: the Minneapolis and Belgaum terror attacks (Anjali Swami, Tempe resident, urged condemnation); allegations of improper campaign tactics against the petition drive (Mario Martinez, Tempe resident, criticized Mayor Corey); housing shortage and need for density bonuses (David Sokolowski, Tempe resident); city manager’s salary increase (Deborah Zayak, Tempe resident, questioned the 38% raise over two years); a comprehensive plan for areas outside downtown (Ali Barnett, Tempe resident, proposed a ULI-like study); opposition to rezoning the Shalomar golf course (Curtis Wood, Tempe resident, Shalomar Association treasurer); and support for disability awareness and parks (Noah James Markham, Tempe resident). Discussion Items - Reconsideration of Ordinance O2025.25 (Item 8A8): City Attorney Eric Anderson explained that the July 1, 2025 vote adopted the ordinance; a subsequent referendum petition was certified, placing it on the March 2026 ballot. The related lawsuit has been dismissed, removing urgency. Council could either let the referendum proceed or reconsider the vote. Mayor Corey expressed preference for rescission and a new community process. Councilmembers Chin, Garland, Amberg, and Hodge supported rescission to allow more public input. Chin moved to reconsider and vote against adoption, effectively rescinding the ordinance. The motion passed 6–0. The ordinance is now withdrawn. - Notice of Intention to Increase Water, Wastewater, and Solid Waste Rates (Item 8A1): Unanimously adopted. Public hearing set for November 6, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. - Excess Insurance Renewal (Item 8A2): Ratified unanimously. - ERP Software Project Management (Item 8A3): Ratified contract with Vertosoft LLC unanimously. - Cisco Networking Contract Renewal (Item 8A4): Approved unanimously. - Temporary Staffing Services (Item 8A5): Approved unanimously. - Furniture Products Contracts (Item 8A6): Approved unanimously. - Valley Metro Light Rail/Streetcar Funding (Item 8A7): Approved unanimously. - Lease for Facilities Services/IT Operations (Item 8A9): Approved 5-year lease at 2404 West 14th Street unanimously. - First Public Hearings (Items 8B1–8B6): Introduced ordinances on floodplain management, youth members on Human Relations Commission, budget transfers (water/wastewater to solid waste, solid waste to CIP, transit to CIP), and partial waterline easement abandonment. No public testimony. Second hearings scheduled for September 18, 2025. - Second Public Hearing and Final Adoption (Item 8C1): Approved lease of city-owned property at 34 East 7th Street unanimously. Key Outcomes - Ordinance O2025.25 (amusements and parks code amendments) was rescinded by a 6–0 vote after reconsideration. The council will develop a new ordinance with extended community input. - Notice of Intent to increase water, wastewater, and solid waste rates was adopted; a public hearing will be held November 6, 2025. - All consent agenda items (appointments, contracts, resolutions) were approved unanimously. - All non-consent routine items (insurance, contracts, lease, Valley Metro agreement) were approved unanimously. - First-read ordinances were introduced; final votes will occur on September 18, 2025. - The lease for 34 East 7th Street was finalized. - The next regular council meeting is scheduled for September 18, 2025.

The City of Tempe Hearing Officer, Vanessa McDonald, conducted a remote public hearing on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at 1:00 PM. The agenda included approval of the August 19, 2025, meeting minutes and two code compliance abatement requests. No public comments were received. The hearing officer authorized 180-day open abatement periods for both properties, allowing the city to remediate nuisance violations. Consent Calendar - Approval of August 19, 2025, Meeting Minutes: The hearing officer approved the minutes without discussion. Discussion Items - Van Egmond Property – 1620 East Williams Street (Case CE190735): The city’s code compliance representative (Hector) presented evidence that on July 17, 2025, during an ongoing abatement, access to the previously inaccessible backyard revealed junk, trash, debris, deteriorated/overgrown landscaping, and dead palm fronds. A revised final notice was issued on July 18, 2025. The hearing officer noted that the rapid timeline (from July 17 to the hearing) was due to the property being a “repeat offender” and that the new violations were a continuation of prior abatement work. The hearing officer granted the 180-day open abatement request. - Urschel Property – 3406 South Shafer Drive (Case CE241515): Code compliance supervisor Anna Churn presented the case, initiated on March 1, 2024, via a public complaint for deteriorated landscape (overheight grass/weeds, dead tree). Despite multiple notices, inspections, a citation, and the owner pleading responsible (but failing to pay fees), violations persisted for 16 months. Additional complaints in July 2024 included pooling water, mosquito infestation, junk/trash/debris, and an unregistered 1988 Dodge Ram (registration expired February 2025). As of the hearing, no progress had been made. The hearing officer approved the 180-day open abatement request. Key Outcomes - Approved 180-day open abatement for the Van Egmond property (1620 East Williams Street, Case CE190735) – Authorizes the city to abate junk, trash, debris, and overgrown landscaping. - Approved 180-day open abatement for the Urschel property (3406 South Shafer Drive, Case CE241515) – Authorizes the city to abate junk/trash/debris, unregistered vehicle, and deteriorated landscape. - Next hearing scheduled: Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at 5:00 PM in the Tempe City Council chambers and live on Tempe 11.

On Thursday, August 28, 2025, the Tempe City Council convened as the Housing Authority Governing Board at 1:30 PM local time. The meeting covered the approval of previous minutes, a quarterly update from staff on housing assistance performance, financial data, and upcoming program changes. No public comments were presented. The meeting adjourned with the next meeting scheduled for November 13, 2025. Call to Order and Approval of Minutes - Item 1: Call to order at 1:30 PM. Resident member Kaylee Moss attended virtually. - Item 3: Approval of the April 10, 2025 Housing Authority meeting minutes passed unanimously. Housing Authority Governing Board Quarterly Update – Quarter Ended June 30, 2025 Deputy Community Health and Human Services Director Irma Hollandby Kane presented the update, highlighting the following: - Housing Assistance Subsidies: Over $14 million administered last year; on track to administer over $18 million this year. - Voucher Capacity: Capacity to assist 1,256 households, all at or below 50% of area median income (very low income). Participants include essential workers (child care, health care, education, hospitality, retail, transportation, parks maintenance), seniors, veterans, disabled adults, and single households balancing part-time work and caregiving. - Budget Performance: Nearly $19 million in budget authority; utilization rate of 98.67%. Current per-unit cost (PUC) is $1,476.79 per month, an increase of nearly $77 since July 2024. - Per-Unit Cost Trends: Since 2015, per-unit costs have increased 65%, and since 2020, have nearly doubled from $850 to $1,476. Increases are driven by local rent inflation, with HUD fair market rents rising but participant incomes not keeping pace, causing the housing authority to pay a larger share of rent. As a result, serving fewer families with the same funding and increasing risk of budget shortfall. - Leasing Performance: 1,058 vouchers leased; 12-month attrition rate of 8.15%. 21 households ported in to Tempe, 60 ported out. Tempe’s leasing performance exceeds both the national average and the average of all Arizona housing authorities. - Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHVs): Funding from the American Rescue Plan will sunset; HUD has notified that EHV funding will not be renewed. Remaining funds are estimated to sustain current households through late 2026–2027. The housing authority plans to transition the 34 participating households to the Housing Choice Voucher program without interruption, starting concurrent transitions soon. - Community Development: Three three-bedroom single-family homes purchased with Community Development Block Grant funds have been transferred to the Tempe Coalition for Affordable Housing for renovation and eventual rental. - VASH Vouchers: Staff will work with the local VA to apply for additional veteran supportive housing vouchers. - Victoria Commons: A partnership among the City of Tempe, COPA Health, and Newtown CDC. The multifamily project (104 affordable units) is 60% complete, with certificate of occupancy expected in Q1 2026; 19 for-sale homes are 50% complete, with certificate of occupancy expected by April 2026. Councilmember Hodge asked about the timeline and process for transitioning the 34 EHV households. Staff responded that existing families will be placed on the wait list early and moved to the Housing Choice Voucher program as capacity allows, with no reapplication or relocation required, aiming for a seamless transition. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of April 10, 2025, meeting minutes. - No formal action taken on the quarterly update (information only). - The next Tempe Housing Authority meeting is scheduled for November 13, 2025.