Public Meetings - Tempe, Arizona

The Rio Salado Community Facilities District Board met on Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 4:30 PM (local time) to approve previous meeting minutes, hold a public hearing on a resolution to levy the annual assessment for Improvement Project Number 1, adopt a tentative budget for FY 2026/2027, and set the date for a subsequent public hearing on objections. The meeting adjourned at 8:32 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (November 6, 2025): Moved by Board Member Garva, seconded by Board Member Chin. Passed 5–0 (Board Members Adams and Keating absent). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the board during the call to the audience or the public hearing. Discussion Items - Public Hearing Item 4A – Resolution Levying Annual Assessment & Tentative Budget: The board held a public hearing on a resolution to levy the annual assessment for the Rio Salado Community Facilities District Improvement Project Number 1, which covers acquisition, construction, and annual maintenance of improvements within the district. The resolution also approved the tentative budget for FY 2026/2027 and ordered notice of a public hearing on June 25, 2026, to receive objections on the assessments and budget. Board members had no questions for staff; no public testimony was offered. The motion was made by Board Member Hodge, seconded by Board Member Garland, and passed 5–0 (Board Members Adams and Keating absent). Key Outcomes - The board unanimously (5–0) approved the November 6, 2025, meeting minutes. - The board unanimously (5–0) adopted Resolution No. CFD R2026.01, levying the annual assessment for Improvement Project Number 1, approving the tentative FY 2026/2027 budget, and scheduling a public hearing for June 25, 2026, to consider objections. - The next scheduled board meeting is June 25, 2026, at which the public hearing on objections and the final adoption of the assessment and budget will occur.

The Tempe City Council held a special budget meeting on June 4, 2026, to adopt the Capital Improvements Program (CIP) for fiscal years 2026-27 through 2030-31, a resolution regarding the primary property tax levy, hold the first public hearing on the property tax ordinance, and adopt the final budget for FY 2026-27. Two council members (Adams and Keating) were absent. The meeting included public comment and staff explanations. Public Comments & Testimony - Mario Martinez (Tempe resident) spoke in opposition to the proposed property tax increase, citing allegations of fiscal waste including a controversial sign, the city manager's salary, police settlements, and costs related to the Coyote proposal and a special election. He argued the council had violated public trust and did not deserve a tax increase. - Darlene Justice (Tempe resident, 65-year resident) spoke in support of the tax increase, stating she was willing to pay more to preserve programs such as preschool, transportation, police, and fire services. She noted state-imposed reductions in rental taxes as a factor. Discussion Items - Item 2B – Primary Property Tax Levy Resolution: Mayor explained that the primary levy (used for day-to-day operations) is distinct from the secondary levy (for bond repayment). Staff member Robert confirmed the city is proposing a 2% increase on existing properties, consistent with past practice. The increase would add $462,000 to the general fund; failure to approve would require other budget balancing measures. The mayor also referenced the November 2024 bond package ($581 million, with 77% voter approval for streets/public safety, 72% for historic preservation, 69% for affordable housing) as a reason for the levy adjustment. - Item 2C – First Public Hearing on Property Tax Ordinance: No vote was taken at this hearing. A second and final public hearing is scheduled for June 25, 2026. Key Outcomes - Item 2A (CIP Adoption): Motion passed 5-0 (Adams and Keating absent). - Item 2B (Primary Property Tax Levy): Resolution passed 5-0 on a roll call vote (Vice Mayor Garland, Councilmembers Hodge, Chin, Amberg, and the Mayor voting aye). - Item 2C (Property Tax Ordinance – First Hearing): No vote; second hearing set for June 25, 2026. - Item 2D (Final Budget Adoption): Motion passed 5-0. - Adjournment: The next special budget meeting is scheduled for June 25, 2026.

The Tempe City Council held its regular meeting on June 4, 2026, at approximately 6:15 PM. The meeting included routine approvals, proclamations, a bike hero award, public appearances, and a contentious second public hearing on the Marshall on Spence development, which was ultimately continued for six months. Councilmember Adams was initially absent but later returned; Councilmember Hodge arrived late. The meeting adjourned at 8:12 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved meeting minutes (4A1) and board/commission minutes (4B1–4B11) unanimously (6-0, Hodge absent). - Approved the consent agenda (items 7A1–7A2, 7B1–7B14, 7C2–7C10) 6-0, with item 7C1 pulled for separate consideration. Public Comments & Testimony First Public Appearances (Item 6): - Mario Martinez (Tempe resident) criticized Mayor Woods for alleged failure to uphold civil rights, referencing the "Queen Circe" bomb threat incident and council's approval of a raise for the city manager. He claimed political retaliation and stated that the council's actions were a reason two members would not return after July 1. - Carl Strife (Tempe, president of Shalomar Association) thanked the council for supporting the Shalomar neighborhood in a rezoning fight against developer BB Living. He warned that the developer intends to use a new ADU law (SB 2720) to build 160 rental homes on the property, which the neighborhood opposes. He expressed willingness to collaborate but stated they would fight if the developer proceeds. - Noah James Markham (Tempe resident) advocated for mental health care, support for Flock cameras, concern over fish deaths at Shalomar golf course, opposition to transgender women in women's sports, support for both Israel and Palestine, and requested removal of smoke shops downtown and restoration of a New Year's Eve party. - Hugh Hallman (former Tempe mayor) recited a quote from Theodore Roosevelt about the value of striving and serving, praising the council and staff for their work. - Chris Plitt (Chandler resident, business owner on Mill Ave) expressed strong support for the Marshall on Spence project, calling it responsible infill growth that addresses housing demand. Second Public Appearances (Item 10): No speakers. Discussion Items Marshall on Spence (Item 8C1) – Second Public Hearing The applicant (Aptitude Development) presented a revised plan for a seven-story, 105-unit student housing building at 1026 East Spence Avenue, with 269 bedrooms and 89 parking spaces (0.31 spaces per bed). Key changes since the last meeting included: a seventh-floor stepback, restricting the Spence driveway to entrance-only (all exit traffic routed through the adjacent phase one to Apache Boulevard), two short-term pullover spaces, a bus waiting area, and improved architecture. The Development Review Commission and city staff recommended approval. Public Testimony: - William Rodriguez (Phoenix, nearby property owner) supported the project, citing its alignment with Tempe's growth and the quality of the developer's previous work. - Peter Maines (Tempe) supported the project, praising density and low parking ratios. - Phil Amarosi (50-year Tempe resident) opposed, calling the building too tall (90 ft) for a narrow residential street, criticizing the 120 sq ft ATM as a mockery of the retail requirement, and arguing the traffic and density are incompatible with the neighborhood. - Christian Curry (former Tempe Micro Estates resident) opposed, stating the developer did not meaningfully engage with residents (only collected signatures from tenants), and that the traffic and density remain problematic. - Noah James Markham (Tempe) expressed support, highlighting proximity to transit and desire for affordable housing. Council Deliberation: - Councilmember Chin questioned the retail component (120 sq ft ATM) and criticized it as insufficient and disrespectful of zoning intent. The applicant explained the space could be used for a canteen store but defended the small footprint. - Vice Mayor Garland and Councilmember Amberg expressed concerns about the building's stepbacks (limited by fire code) and the potential for traffic and ride-share congestion on Spence, despite the revised traffic plan. Both stated they would vote no. - Councilmember Keating argued forcefully for approval, citing the housing crisis and the project's alignment with the city's transit-oriented development vision along Apache Boulevard. He moved for a six-month continuance to allow the applicant to address concerns after new council members take office, given that the vote appeared likely to fail. - Councilmember Adams seconded the continuance motion. Several other members (Chin, Amberg, Garland) indicated they would vote no on the project as proposed. Councilmember Hodge noted she was on the fence but saw the writing on the wall. - The mayor noted that at the previous meeting, the council had agreed this would be the final hearing with no further continuances. However, a motion to continue is procedurally allowed. Other Discussion Items (First Hearings and Routine Approvals): - Item 8B3 (First and Farmer LLC, Gonzalez Martinez House) – First public hearing. Speaker Darlene Justice (Tempe) expressed strong support for the transfer and historic preservation. No council discussion. Second hearing set for June 11, 2026. - Item 8B2 (TOD Parking Update) – First public hearing. Speaker Peter Maines supported the parking reduction as a tax on housing and urged commitment to transit. Second hearing set for June 25, 2026. - Item 8A1 (Downtown Enhanced Services Improvement District assessment) – No public testimony. Approved 6-0. - Item 882 (Armed/unarmed security contracts) – No discussion. Approved 6-0. - Item 8B1 (Code amendments – Violations) – First hearing, no testimony. Second hearing June 25. - Item 8B4 (Easement abandonment at Sky Harbor Innovation Park) – First hearing, no testimony. Second hearing June 25. - Item 8C2 (Legend City District at Papago Park Center) – Second hearing. No public testimony. General Plan amendment passed 5-0-1? Actually required two-thirds of total council (5 of 7); all present (6) voted yes, so passed. Zoning amendment passed 7-0 (with Adams returned). - Item 8C3 (Zoning and development code updates) – Second hearing, no testimony. Passed 6-0 (Adams absent). - Item 8C4 (Tempe Construction Code adoption) – Second hearing, no testimony. Passed 7-0. - Item 8C5 (Easement abandonment at OMP Tempe Industrial Park) – Second hearing, no testimony. Passed 7-0. Key Outcomes - Marshall on Spence (Item 8C1): Motion to continue for six months (made by Councilmember Keating, seconded by Councilmember Adams) passed 6-1, with Mayor Woods voting no. The applicant will have the opportunity to revise the project and present to the new council after July 1, 2026. - Election Canvass (Item 7C1): Resolution declaring results of the May 19, 2026 general election adopted 6-0, with congratulations to councilmembers-elect Brooke St. George and Bobby Nichols. - Legend City District (Item 8C2): General Plan amendment (land use to mixed-use high) approved with the required two-thirds supermajority (7-0? Actually 5 of 6 present? Record shows 7-0, so Adams likely present). Zoning map amendment and amended PAD approved 7-0. - All other second-reading items (8C3, 8C4, 8C5) and first-reading introductions passed without objection, scheduled for final hearings on June 11 and June 25, 2026. - Proclamations declared June 2026 as Pride Month and June 19, 2026 as Juneteenth in Tempe. - Bike Hero Award presented to Nancy Puffer for her volunteer work with Bike Saviors and Third Wheel Bike Art.

The City of Tempe hearing officer, Vanessa McDonald, conducted a public hearing on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, to address code violation abatement requests for two properties. The hearing began in the afternoon. The officer approved minutes from the May 5, 2026 hearing and granted 180-day open abatement orders for both properties under consideration. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the May 5, 2026 hearing. The hearing officer determined the minutes accurately reflected proceedings and approved them. Discussion Items Garcia Perez Property – 1523 East Stevens Drive - Code Compliance Inspector Melissa Ensing presented a request for a 180-day open abatement due to deteriorated landscape, uncultivated vegetation in the alley, and dead trees. Violations initiated September 11, 2025; one citation issued January 30, 2026. The owner had made significant progress: removed a dead tree and maintained front landscaping, but two dead palm trees remained in the backyard. Ensing noted ongoing contact with the owner. The hearing officer approved the abatement order to provide a tool to ensure compliance, noting the owner had 14 days to either appeal or complete corrections. Hall Property – 1314 South Martin Lane - Code Compliance Inspector Michael Moreno requested a 180-day open abatement for deteriorated landscaping, trash and debris, and a homeless encampment. Case initiated December 17, 2025. After multiple notices and a citation, owner Daniel Hall pled responsible on March 25, 2026, and fines were paid. Weekly meetings involving Tempe PD, Care 7, Adult Protective Services, and an APS-referred realtor helped make progress. Photos showed remaining trash, appliances, overgrown vegetation, and miscellaneous junk. The homeless encampment had been reduced from three individuals to one person in an accessory dwelling unit pending eviction (next court date June 8). The hearing officer approved the abatement order. Public Comments & Testimony - Daniel Hall (property owner) testified that he allowed a tenant couple who collected excessive junk onto the property. At 88 years old, he struggled to evict them. He acknowledged the city's help (especially Michael Moreno and Andrea Francis) and said progress was made. The tenant Torby Worthin had a parole order to stay off property but occasionally visited. - Andrea Francis (Queen Creek) stated she attended court with Mr. Hall that day for eviction of Lorena Osinko. A restitution order is expected June 8, after which a constable can remove her. Mr. Hall would need to hold her belongings for 21 days. Francis noted that much of the debris is landscaping and not related to the tenant. Key Outcomes - Approved the minutes from May 5, 2026 hearing. - Approved a 180-day open abatement for 1523 East Stevens Drive (Case CE255454) – Garcia Perez property. - Approved a 180-day open abatement for 1314 South Martin Lane (Case CE257949) – Hall property. - Property owners have 14 calendar days (by June 16, 2026) to either appeal or bring properties into compliance; otherwise, the city will abate.

The Tempe City Council held a work study session on May 18, 2026, from 12:15 PM to 4:56 PM. The agenda included a proclamation for the AARP Experience Corps 20th anniversary, a presentation on the 2026 community survey, updates from the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Commission, the Tempe Community Council’s human services funding recommendations for fiscal year 2026-27, and an informational briefing on Tempe’s water resources. Council also received status reports from eight subcommittees. No public comments were made at either public comment period. Proclamations & Announcements - Mayor Corey Woods read a proclamation declaring May 4, 2026 as Tempe Experience Corps 20th Anniversary. The program has served more than 5,700 students with over 450 volunteers; currently 130 volunteers serve about 400 students at 16 schools. - The Mayor encouraged residents to participate in the 2026 Community Survey, mailed to Tempe households June 1–August 1, 2026, with results guiding council decisions on public safety, parks, economic development, code enforcement, and other services. - The Mayor reminded all attendees, including candidates, to refrain from electioneering or campaign activity during the meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak at either public comment period. Discussion Items Mayor’s Youth Advisory Commission (MIAC) Update and Recommendations - MIAC Chair Tal Al Shatri, Vice Chair Glossal Matt Lim, and member Braden Casneda presented the commission’s annual report. MIAC, established in 1980, includes up to 30 high school students from Tempe. They highlighted activities: participation in ASU Project Cities on Tempe’s 2050 vision, Tempe Youth Talks, a Youth Resource Fair, and a mental health resource fair in collaboration with Councilmember Hodge. - Survey results from four subcommittees: - Mental Health: 46% of respondents perceive a stigma around mental health (down from 87% last year). Recommendation: provide more youth mental health training for adults and parents. - Civic Engagement & Social Justice: 93% of respondents experienced discrimination (most often in schools). Recommendation: provide DEI education sessions and sensitivity training for youth. - Community Safety & Social Justice: 46% reported unsafe driving affected their lives. Recommendation: implement accessible driver education programs in all Tempe high schools. - Sustainability & Environmental Justice: Respondents most concerned about climate change; want more accessible information on community sustainability efforts. - Council members praised the commission’s work, noting the students brought solutions along with concerns. Councilmember Baraj offered to help strengthen collaboration with Tempe Elementary and Kyrene school districts. Tempe Community Council (TCC) – Human Services Funding Recommendations for FY 2026-27 - Tim Birch (interim executive director) and Jacob Butchery (Community Impact Committee chair) presented the annual agency review process. The process aligns with council priority 3.10 and uses a community needs assessment conducted by ASU’s Southwest Interdisciplinary Research Center. - Key process changes: Agencies applied directly to address prioritized needs (e.g., food pantries, vouchers). Unified outcome, efficiency, and quality measures were adopted. Extra points given for deep collaborations and for addressing high-priority needs. - Budget: $1,136,000 allocated ($1,100,000 from general fund, $30,000 from Together Tempe water bill donations, $3,500 from direct donations, $2,500 from healthy giving campaign). - Applications: 71 applications from 63 agencies totaling nearly $2.9 million requested (highest ever). After blind scoring and consensus meetings, 35 programs across 27 agencies are recommended for funding. Agencies scoring above 90 were fully funded; those scoring 75–90 received partial funding (72–83% of requested amount). Three first-time programs and two collaborative projects were funded. - The Community Impact Committee will conduct site visits and quarterly reviews. Councilmember Bramberg noted she missed participating in agency review; the presenters explained that written Q&A replaced interviews to improve equity. Tempe Water Resources Presentation - Public Works Director Tara Ford and Deputy Director Craig Caggiano presented an overview of Tempe’s water portfolio and the impact of Colorado River shortages. - Tempe’s water supply is 90% renewable surface water from Salt River Project (SRP). Population has increased 12% since 2015, but water demand decreased 20% due to conservation and land-use changes. - For non-SRP demands (pink areas on map), Tempe relies on Central Arizona Project (CAP) water, long-term storage credits, and Roosevelt Dam New Conservation Space (NCS). The Kyrene Water Reclamation Facility rehabilitation (completing late 2027) will produce reclaimed water for storage or exchange. - Under three planning scenarios for 2027 (from status quo to zero CAP supplies), Tempe maintains sufficient supplies to meet demands. Current drought stage is 0 (Watch). - Councilmember Adams asked how many years of supply Tempe has; staff confirmed a 100-year supply. Councilmember Bramberg emphasized the regional importance of the Colorado River issue even though Tempe is well-positioned. Subcommittee Status Updates Council received updates from eight subcommittees (details provided for upcoming meetings): - Animal Welfare & Cruelty: reviewing contracts; next meeting in a few weeks. - Community Engagement & Connection: next meeting May 21, 4 PM at Tempe Public Library. - Drink Spiking Education & Prevention: no update. - Federal & State Advocacy Review: next meeting May 22, 11 AM at City Hall. - Mixed Use Space: next meeting June 8, 1 PM at City Hall. - Motorized & Electric Mobility Device: meeting to be scheduled next week. - Revitalization of Tempe Town Lake: meeting likely late June. - Tempe Term Limits Policy Review: no update. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; all items were informational or received for consideration. - The MIAC annual report and recommendations were acknowledged; council expressed support and will use the findings to guide future youth-related policies. - The TCC funding recommendations were presented; council thanked the volunteers and staff. The recommendations will be acted upon at a future regular meeting to authorize funding distribution. - The water resources briefing was received; council noted the proactive planning and encouraged continued communication with residents. - The next scheduled work study session will be Thursday, June 11, 2026.

The Tempe City Council held a special budget meeting on May 15, 2026, at approximately 8:00 PM (local time). The primary agenda item was a public hearing to adopt the fiscal year 2026-27 tentative budget and to set subsequent public hearings for June 4, 2026 (capital improvements program, truth in taxation, property tax levy, and final budget) and June 25, 2026 (final adoption of the property tax levy rate). The meeting concluded at 12:02 AM on May 16, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - A single public speaker, Ms. Justice, expressed her approval of the budget, stating that she had reviewed the materials and thought it was "great." She offered no specific criticisms or requests. Discussion Items - Fiscal Year 2026-27 Tentative Budget and Associated Hearings: City staff presented the proposed tentative budget and the required schedule for adoption. Councilmembers briefly discussed the item. No substantive debate or questions were recorded. Key Outcomes - Councilmember Hodge moved to approve the item, seconded by Councilmember Adams. The motion passed unanimously, 6-0, with Councilmember Keating absent. - The resolution adopts the fiscal year 2026-27 tentative budget and sets the following public hearings for June 4, 2026 (to adopt the capital improvements program for FY 2026-27 through 2030-31, hold a truth in taxation hearing, approve the property tax levy, and adopt the final budget) and June 25, 2026 (final adoption of the property tax levy rate).

The Tempe City Council held a regular meeting on May 14, 2026, starting at approximately 2:15 PM and adjourning at 11:54 PM. The meeting included proclamations, public comments, a consent agenda, a public hearing on a nuisance ordinance, a resolution to place a sales tax measure on the November 2026 ballot, and several other items. Key decisions included approval of the nuisance ordinance (7-0), approval of the ballot language for a half-cent sales tax (6-1), and approval of a contract for a bridge shelter (6-0). Consent Calendar - Approved meeting minutes (4A1 and 4A2) and board/commission minutes (4B1-4B6) unanimously (7-0). - Approved the consent agenda (items 7A1-7A2, 7B1-7B7, 7C1-7C3) 6-0 with Councilmember Keating absent. Public Comments & Testimony - Diane Melrose (Tempe resident) criticized Councilmember Adams for unresponsiveness and alleged toxic behavior, citing an Arizona Republic article and code of conduct violations. She asked Mayor Woods to investigate. - Jim Phipps (Tempe, Optimist Park) thanked the council for street resurfacing, pedestrian pathway improvements, and park upgrades in his neighborhood. - Mario Martinez (Tempe) requested access to a social media dashboard discussed in earlier meetings, claiming the city is withholding records. The city attorney stated all records were provided in response to a public records request in May 2025. - David Sokolowski (Tempe) expressed disappointment that the city proposed a transit tax without consulting the Transportation Commission, calling it disrespectful to the commission. - Tim Palmer (Tempe, 65-year resident) criticized council members Adams and Hodge for lack of vision, and Mayor Woods for ineffective leadership on housing, street safety, and revitalization projects. - Noah James Barkham (Tempe) commented on police cooperation with disabled individuals, Republicans in Tempe, Japanese American WWII veterans, and a smoke shop downtown. - Steve Norris (Tempe) thanked the council for supporting no rezoning in Shalomar, citing a $135,000 equity hit on his property. - Joe Forte (Tempe, DRC member) proposed a citizen budget review commission, noting a change.org petition with 238 signatures (70% Tempe residents). - Lane Caraway (North Tempe, 32 years) supported the nuisance ordinance regarding Airbnbs and homeless feeding, but expressed concern about unintended consequences. - Melinda Morrison Gullick (CEO of First Things First) urged support for including child care funding in the sales tax proposal. - Multiple speakers (Brianna Vietta, Chelsea Brugerman, Ben Paulett) shared personal stories about the high cost of child care and urged support for Tempe Pre expansion. - Henry Guerrero (Tempe, formerly homeless) described his journey from homelessness to housing with city assistance, but noted that an old warrant led to his arrest and loss of housing, questioning the city's approach. - Megan (Tempe) opposed the parks ordinance, citing 4,500 signatures against it, and argued that criminalizing homelessness deepens the problem. - Julie Buffkin (Tempe, 15 years) suggested focusing on traffic enforcement data rather than speed enforcement, and urged the council to ignore divisive language. Public Hearing on Nuisance Ordinance (8C4): - Opponents (including Catherine Kubalas Edic, Rev. Trish Winters, Melanie Bikeman, Barbara Miller, Nathan Charlton, Bianca Osorio, Austin Davis, Megan McCarrick, and others) argued the ordinance criminalizes compassion, targets churches and mutual aid groups, is constitutionally vague, and fails to address root causes of homelessness. They cited success stories and noted that the city should partner with service providers rather than penalize them. - Supporters (including Erica Cowley, Tim Appleton, Jesse Kissle, Steve Kissle, Miriam Kissle, Sherry Toom, Mike Toom, Lisa Bain, Candice Dutton, and others) cited safety concerns, drug activity, needles, assaults, and the stabbing of a mother on Mother's Day. They argued the ordinance promotes accountability and responsible humanitarianism, and urged the council to pass it. - The city clerk reported 128 signatures on a petition, 49 emails in support, and 40 emails in opposition as of 3 PM. Public Hearing on Sales Tax (8A1): - Supporters (including Rob Ferraro, Mike Scheid, Darlene Justice) emphasized the need for public safety funding, transit expansion, and early childhood education, noting the loss of rental tax revenue and increased demands. - Opponents (including Catherine Dorn, Mario Martinez, Joe Forte) argued the tax increase is too large, should be unbundled, and that the council should first find efficiencies through a citizen budget commission. Discussion Items - Nuisance Ordinance (8C4): Council discussed the ordinance, which adds a new subsection to Chapter 21 of the city code. The ordinance targets regularly scheduled activities that predictably lead to public nuisances like drug use, trespassing, and disorderly conduct. Councilmember Amberg noted that the ordinance does not ban food sharing but requires accountability for impacts on surrounding neighborhoods. Mayor Woods stated the ordinance was updated to comply with Proposition 312, which passed in 2024. After public testimony, Councilmember Adams moved to approve, seconded by Vice Mayor Garland. The motion passed 7-0. - Sales Tax Resolution (8A1): Staff presented a proposal for a half-cent sales tax increase (0.5%) to replace revenue lost from the state's elimination of the rental tax and other cuts. The tax would allocate 0.3% to public safety, 0.1% to transit, and 0.1% to early childhood education (Tempe Pre). Councilmember Keating proposed an amendment to prioritize Tempe residents, then teachers, then city employees, then non-residents employed by Tempe businesses for the early care funds. That amendment passed 7-0. Councilmember Amberg then moved to separate the three components into separate ballot questions, seconded by Vice Mayor Garland. After debate, the motion failed 3-4 (Amberg, Garland, Hodge in favor; Woods, Keating, Adams, Chin opposed). The main motion to approve the resolution with the bundled language passed 6-1 (Adams opposed). - Legend City District (8B1): First public hearing on a zoning amendment for a mixed-use development at 1600 N. Priest Drive (former SRP building). The applicant, Mitch Rosen (SRP), explained the building has deferred maintenance and the site is planned for four residential buildings (1,000 units). Public comment from Rob Moore expressed concern about density and character, and a resident asked about land patent restrictions. Rosen clarified the site is not part of Papago Park and is not encumbered. Second hearing scheduled for June 4, 2026. - North Bend 2 (8C1): Second hearing and final adoption of a PAD amendment to reduce building height from five to four stories and modify lot coverage and landscape. The applicant, Alexis Proper, presented the changes. Public comment was none. The motion to approve passed 6-0 (Keating absent). - Other Ordinances: Items 8C2 (speed limit amendments) and 8C3 (sidewalk easement abandonment) were approved 6-0. Items 8B2, 8B3, 8B4 (zoning code updates, construction codes, and waterline easement abandonment) were introduced for first hearing; second hearings set for June 4, 2026. Key Outcomes - Nuisance Ordinance (8C4): Approved 7-0. The ordinance adds a new subsection to Title 21, defining certain regularly scheduled activities that lead to public nuisances as violations. - Sales Tax Ballot Measure (8A1): Approved 6-1 (Councilmember Adams dissenting). The resolution orders a special election on November 3, 2026, for a 0.5% sales tax increase (0.3% public safety, 0.1% transit, 0.1% early childhood education). The ballot language includes an amendment giving priority to Tempe residents, then teachers, then city employees, then non-residents employed by Tempe businesses for the early care funds. - Bridge Shelter Contract (8B2): Approved 6-0, awarding a two-year contract with renewal options to Family Endeavors Incorporated for operation of a non-congregate bridge shelter. - Vehicle Purchases (8B3): Approved 6-0, authorizing purchase of 55 vehicles from various dealers. - North Bend 2 (8C1): Approved 6-0, modifying the PAD to reduce building height and adjust lot coverage and landscape. - Speed Limits (8C2): Approved 6-0, amending speed regulations. - Sidewalk Easement (8C3): Approved 6-0, authorizing abandonments of easements. - Other Items: First hearings held for Legend City District (8B1), zoning code updates (8B2), construction codes (8B3), and waterline easement abandonment (8B4). Second hearings scheduled for June 4, 2026.

The Development Review Commission met on May 12, 2026, at 7:00 PM (local time) to consider consent agenda items, a zoning text amendment, and a continuance request. Chair Andrew Johnson presided. Commissioners present: Robert Miller, Vice Chair Michelle Schwartz, Joe Forte, Linda Spears, and Barbara Lloyd. City staff were also in attendance. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The study session and regular meeting minutes from April 28, 2026, were approved unanimously. - First Consent Agenda (Items 4A–4D): Approved unanimously. Items included: - 4A: Use permit to exceed 125% of minimum required vehicle parking for a new 4,035 sq ft bank with drive-through (Mountain America Credit Union, 1220 West Elliott Road). - 4B: Use permit to allow two required parking spaces within the front yard setback (Tempe Carport office, 1336 West 13th Place). - 4C: Use permit to allow aquamation (water cremation) in the GID zoning district (Aqua Crossings, 1818 West 4th Street). - 4D: Use permit to allow a bar/tavern in the CSS zoning district (Little Quail, 764 West Broadway Road). - Second Consent Agenda (Item 6A): Approved with 5 in favor and 1 abstention (Commissioner Lloyd). The item was a request for a zoning and development code text amendment for TOD parking update (changes to Part Five, Chapter Six, Transportation Overlay District, reducing parking requirements). Discussion Items - Item 5A – Tempe Oasis Planned Area Development Overlay: The applicant was unable to present due to technical issues with the Teams connection. The property owner (not the applicant) was present. After brief discussion, a motion to continue the item to the next meeting was made and seconded. The motion passed unanimously. The item will be heard on June 9, 2026. Key Outcomes - Votes: All consent calendar items approved; first consent agenda unanimously, second consent agenda 5-1 (abstention). - Continuance: Item 5A (Tempe Oasis) continued to June 9, 2026, to allow the applicant to present. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for June 9, 2026.

On May 5, 2026, at 1:00 PM, the City of Tempe Hearing Officer, Vanessa McDonald, convened a hearing to address code violations and approve meeting minutes. The single abatement item involved a property at 1310 East Southern Avenue owned by Kenneth Kleiner (TCC Land LLC). The hearing officer granted a 180-day open abatement order to allow the city to remediate deteriorated landscape, trash and debris, concrete rubble, and graffiti. Consent Calendar - The minutes from the April 21, 2026 hearing were approved without discussion. Discussion Items - Abatement Request for 1310 East Southern Avenue (Case CE CM 241495): Code Compliance Inspector Marvin White presented a request for a 180-day open abatement. The case began on July 23, 2024, following a public complaint. Multiple notices were mailed to the out-of-state property owner (Kenneth Kleiner), and four citations were issued and paid. On March 4, 2026, the owner’s assistant, Ben Hawkins, confirmed the owner would not contest the abatement and would cover the cost via a lien. Inspector White displayed photographs taken the morning of the hearing showing dead palm fronds, concrete rubble, stumps, and graffiti. The violations cited are Tempe nuisance codes 21-3B8 (deteriorated landscape), 21-3B1 (trash and debris), and 22-105 (graffiti). Key Outcomes - The hearing officer granted the 180-day open abatement request, authorizing the city to abate the property and assess costs as a lien against the property. - The property owner has 14 days from the decision (by 3:00 PM on May 19, 2026) to either appeal to the Board of Adjustment or bring the property into compliance. - The next hearing officer meeting is scheduled for May 19, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the council chambers.