Safford public meetings in 2023

Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee

The committee will discuss planning for a Community Clean-up Day and potential website content. Members will also discuss welcome signage, a T-shirt purchase, and updates regarding a shooting range staff project.

• Community Clean-up Day discussion
• Website content discussion
• Welcome signage discussion
• T-shirt purchase
• Staff project update regarding shooting range

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a variance request to enclose a carport at 1213 W El Paso Blvd, and will consider a second reading of an ordinance regulating short-term and vacation rentals. They will also vote on several lease renewals, a fire truck repair agreement with Pima, a sidewalk improvement bid award, and a court services contract extension. The agenda includes routine approvals of minutes and financial reports, plus an executive session on real estate and economic development.

• Public hearing and vote on William Jones variance to enclose carport at 1213 W El Paso Blvd (setback nonconforming)
• Second reading of Ordinance O23-010 amending Title 5 to adopt Section 5.05 on Vacation and Short-Term Rentals (comply with ARS §9-500-39)
• First reading of Ordinance O23-012 adopting revised Police Department Fee Schedule
• Bid award for CDBG Sidewalk Improvements Project (CIP ST2004) to Ron Cox Builders, LLC for $299,991
• Approval of lease renewals: R.G. Howard Farms (Birdno), Matthews Accessway, Robinson Ranch (Stevens Brothers Ranches)

Safford Fire Department Pension Plan Board of Trustees

The Safford Fire Department Pension Plan Board of Trustees met to discuss retirement benefits for the Fire Chief. The Board considered offering a 457B or 401A plan, which would include a city match of up to 7% of the Chief's income.

• Discussion of 457B and 401A retirement benefit options for the Fire Chief
• Review of Safford Fire Department Volunteer Article 3 LOSAP Pension Plan resolution
• Appointment of Beatrice Driver, City Clerk, as Board Secretary
• Discussion regarding a $6,000 limitation on retirement benefits

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will hold public hearings and take action on a Series 6 bar liquor license for Copper Steer Steakhouse, a variance request for a wall at 701 W 11th Street, and a first read of an ordinance to regulate short-term and vacation rentals. They will also consider resolutions, contracts, and charitable fund awards.

• Public hearing and recommendation on Series 6 Bar liquor license for Copper Steer Steakhouse, 1206 E US Hwy 70 (Blaze3 Enterprises LLC)
• Public hearing on variance request by Terrell Blake to encroach into side setback at 701 W 11th Street (R-2 zoning)
• First read of O23-010 adopting Section 5.05, Vacation and Short-Term Rentals, to comply with A.R.S. §9-500-39
• Resolution R23-027: IGA with ADOR for uniform administration of TPT, use tax, severance tax, jet fuel tax, and rental occupancy tax
• Professional services agreement with Interim Public Management for Finance Officer services

PSPRS (Public Safety Personnel Retirement System)

The Safford Police Department's Public Safety Personnel Retirement System (PSPRS) Local Board is meeting to handle routine business: approving minutes from its June 20, 2023 meetings and hearing citizen comments. The board may also enter executive session to discuss confidential records and its position in contemplated litigation regarding Officer Chris Palma's new-hire application, with possible action taken in open session afterward.

• Approve June 20, 2023 Local Board Meeting Minutes
• Approve June 20, 2023 Local Executive Board Meeting Minutes
• Possible executive session on confidential records and litigation position regarding Officer Chris Palma new-hire application
• Citizen comments on agenda and non-agenda items

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The City Council will hold a public hearing regarding a liquor license application for Matador 415 LLC. The meeting also includes discussions on landfill expansion environmental surveys and Chamber of Commerce roof repairs.

• Public hearing for Matador 415 LLC Series 6 Bar liquor license at 415 E US Hwy 70
• Resolution R23-025 to designate Matthew Hoshal as Interim Chief Fiscal Officer
• Contract for Chamber of Commerce roof repairs with Progressive Roofing
• Service contract for landfill expansion environmental assessment with EnviroSystems Management, INC
• Work session regarding the newly established Neighborhood Officer Position

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will consider approving $189,193 in contingency funds for the AZDEMA Border Security Fund Allocation, and will discuss a solar credit donation program and a second work session on short-term rental regulations. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes, a Sister Cities trip presentation, and the fire department's annual report.

• Approve $189,193 contingency funds for AZDEMA Border Security Fund Allocation
• Discuss creating a Solar Credit Donation Program for Give from the Heart recipients
• Second work session on amending Title 5 for vacation and short-term rentals (Section 5.05)
• Presentation on Sister Cities Cananea trip
• Safford Fire Department Annual Report

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will hold a work session to discuss and provide direction on the final design concept for the 8th Avenue Park and to review current water and wastewater capacity fees. The regular meeting includes a second reading of a rezoning ordinance, a contract for software services, and approval of previous meeting minutes. The agenda also includes an executive session for legal advice on a potential property lease.

• Discussion of 8th Avenue Park final design, with a proposed budget of up to $6 million from the General Fund
• Discussion of water and wastewater capacity fees, with current fees based on a 2013 study and a recommendation to continue current practices until a new rate study is completed
• Second reading of Ordinance O23-011 to rezone Graham County Assessor's Parcel #101-08-001 from R-2 to C-2
• Contract for services with Caselle for ERP software back-office support
• Approval of September 11, 2023 City Council meeting minutes

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council is meeting to conduct a performance evaluation of City Manager John Cassella in executive session, as permitted by Arizona law. The meeting includes standard procedural items such as roll call, pledge of allegiance, and citizen comments, followed by the executive session and possible action on the evaluation.

• Executive session for performance evaluation of City Manager John Cassella
• Citizen comments on agenda and non-agenda items
• Possible action on City Manager evaluation after executive session

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will hold a public hearing and consider first reading of an ordinance to rezone Graham County Parcel #101-08-001 from R-2 Multiple Family Residential to C-2 Highway Commercial District. The council will also vote on several items including a proclamation for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, an intergovernmental agreement with the Gila Valley Samaritan Home, a liquor license for Oktoberfest, library policy updates, a construction bid award, and a solar energy project letter of intent.

• Public hearing and first reading for rezoning Parcel #101-08-001 to C-2 Highway Commercial District
• Proclamation declaring September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
• IGA with Gila Valley Samaritan Home for facility at 114 W 5th Street
• Bid award to Altitude Energy, LLC for substation bus and switch gear construction
• Second reading of Ordinance O23-009 amending business license issuance

The City Council approved an amended intergovernmental agreement to provide utility support and startup funding for the Gila Valley Samaritan Home. The council also proclaimed September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and recommended a special liquor license for Oktoberfest.

• Approved proclamation of September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month (Unanimous)
• Approved August 14, 2023, City Council Meeting Minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved amended IGA for Gila Valley Samaritan Home, including a $5,000 startup payment and 42.5% share of utilities (Unanimous)
• Recommended approval of special event liquor license for Graham County Chamber of Commerce Oktoberfest (Unanimous)

Safford Fire Department Pension Plan Board of Trustees

The Safford Fire Department Pension Plan Board of Trustees will consider and vote on a resolution to adopt the Volunteer Article 3 LOSAP Pension Plan, which sets eligibility rules for retirement and death benefits, including a $300 monthly benefit and a $6,000 benefit limitation. The board will also discuss retirement benefits for the Fire Chief, including a proposal from 2006 and a 457b option, and will appoint Beatrice Driver as board secretary. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and a financial report.

• Approve February 8, 2023 board minutes
• Appoint Beatrice Driver as Fireman's Pension Board Secretary
• Adopt resolution for Volunteer Article 3 LOSAP Pension Plan (eligibility, death benefits, $6,000 benefit limit, grandfathering)
• Discuss Fire Chief retirement benefits (Proposal B from 2006, 457b option)
• Review Fireman's Financial Report

The Board of Trustees approved a resolution to adopt the Safford Fire Department Volunteer Article 3 LOSAP Pension Plan. The board also appointed the City Clerk as the board secretary and approved previous meeting minutes. Members discussed implementing a 457B retirement option for future Fire Chiefs.

• Approved February 8, 2023, board minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Beatrice Driver, City Clerk, as Fireman’s Pension Board Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to adopt the Safford Fire Department Volunteer Article 3 LOSAP Pension Plan (unanimous)

Planning and Zoning Commission Agendas

The Safford Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on a request to rezone Graham County Parcel #101-08-001 from R-2 Multiple Family Residential to C-2 Highway Commercial District. The commission will also review a draft ordinance for short-term and vacation rentals. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and public comment on non-agenda items.

• Public hearing on rezone Z-23-37 (R-2 to C-2) for Parcel #101-08-001
• Draft ordinance for Short-Term and Vacation Rentals presented for discussion
• Approval of minutes from June 19, 2023 regular meeting
• Public comment period for non-agenda items (3-minute limit)

The Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously recommended that the City Council rezone Graham County Parcel #101-08-001 from R-2 Multiple Family Residential District to C-2 Highway Commercial District. The request was made by Kimberly Prentice for Kim’s window tinting to accommodate larger vehicles. The commission also approved the June 19, 2023, meeting minutes.

• Approved June 19, 2023, meeting minutes (5-0)
• Recommended rezoning Graham County Parcel #101-08-001 from R-2 to C-2 (5-0)

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will hold a work session and regular meeting to discuss and act on several items, including amendments to employee leave and safety boot allowance policies, approval of minutes, a liquor license for SalsaFest, purchases of a street striping truck and street sweeper, a land purchase, and resolutions and an ordinance. The meeting includes both informational discussions and formal votes.

• Purchase of Arapahoe Street Striping Truck from EZ LINER via Sourcewell contract
• Purchase of A7 Tornado Street Sweeper from Schwarze Industries via Sourcewell contract
• Property purchase of 4.00 acres (APN 103-26-007) from La Tierra Development, LLC along Discovery Boulevard
• Resolution R23-020 to change purchasing limits for Mayor and City Council
• Ordinance O23-009 first reading to amend business license issuance (Title 5, Section 5.04.030 C)

The City Council approved the purchase of a street striping truck and a street sweeper, along with 4 acres of vacant land for future dam expansion and park parking. The council also approved a special event liquor license for the 2023 Salsa Fest. Staff leave and safety boot policies were discussed during a work session.

• Approved purchase of Arapahoe Street Striping Truck for $296,986.43 plus taxes/fees (Unanimous)
• Approved purchase of A7 Tornado Street Sweeper for $344,774.98 plus taxes/fees (Unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 4.00 acres of vacant land (APN 103-26-007) for $52,000 plus costs (Unanimous)
• Approved special event liquor license for 2023 Nature Sweet Tomatoes Salsa Fest (Unanimous)
• Approved July 24, 2023, and August 7, 2023, meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee is holding its first monthly meeting to discuss tasks from an August 7th work session with the City Council, plan a movie night, and receive staff project updates. They will also discuss welcome signage and future capital projects. The meeting is primarily for committee questions and suggestions.

• Approval of May 25, 2023 meeting minutes
• Discussion of tasking from August 7th City Council work session
• Movie Night planning (date, time, suggestions)
• Welcome Signage and Future Capital Project Discussion

The committee approved minutes from two May 2023 meetings and established a regular meeting schedule for the third Thursday of each month. Members discussed design suggestions for pickleball courts and potential future capital projects for city parks. Movie night planning was tabled.

• Approved May 11, 2023 special meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved May 25, 2023 regular meeting minutes (3-0)
• Decided to hold regular meetings on the third Thursday of each month
• Tabled movie night planning until September 21

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council and Parks & Recreation Committee will hold a joint work session to discuss the design plan for the Discovery Park Boulevard and 8th Avenue Park Complex. The agenda includes a project overview, community outreach results, constraints analysis, and review of three concept designs. No formal decisions are scheduled; this is an information/discussion item.

• Review of three concept designs for the 15-acre park complex
• Community outreach results on amenities (splash pad, pickleball courts, zipline, amphitheater, food truck court)
• Constraints analysis including gas easement, drainage, and cost
• Next steps: master plan development, construction cost estimate, 30% design

The City Council and Parks & Recreation Committee held a joint work session to review three design concepts for the Discovery Park Boulevard and 8th Avenue Park Complex. No formal votes were taken; the session served as a feedback loop for Kimley Horn to develop a master plan and cost estimate.

• Discussed three design concepts for a 15-acre park including an amphitheater, splash pad, pickleball courts, playground, and pinchless zip line
• Reviewed community outreach data from May 2nd and Voice of the Valley Radio Show
• Identified site constraints including a gas easement and drainage issues
• Tabled final design decision pending the development of a master plan and detailed cost estimate

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will review and potentially approve several items, including a $2,500 donation to Feed My Starving Children, a bid award for substation materials, a legal services contract, and a new policy for donating to nonprofits. They will also consider resolutions on a retirement plan and changes to purchasing limits.

• Approve $2,500 contingency fund donation to Feed My Starving Children
• Authorize bid award to Alum-Elec Structures for substation bus and switch gear steel infrastructure
• Enter into legal services contract with Edwards & Amato, P.C. for Police Department
• Adopt Resolution R23-019 for PSPRS 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan
• Adopt Resolution R23-021 creating a pilot program for nonprofit donations up to $5,000 per year

The Council approved a five-year legal services contract for the Police Department and established a pilot program for non-profit donations. A bid for substation infrastructure was awarded, and a new public safety retirement plan was adopted. A proposal to increase Mayor and Council purchasing limits was tabled.

• Approved $2,500 donation to Feed My Starving Children (unanimous)
• Authorized bid award to Alum-Elec Structures for substation bus and switch gear material (unanimous)
• Approved five-year legal services contract with Edwards & Amato, P.C. for $23,150 annually (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution R23-019 for the PSPRS 457(b) Deferred Compensation Plan (unanimous)
• Tabled Resolution R23-020 regarding Mayor and Council purchasing limits until August 14, 2023
• Approved Resolution R23-021 to implement a non-profit donation application process with an amendment to include economic and stimulus activity (unanimous)
• Approved June 26, 2023, meeting minutes (unanimous)

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will hold public hearings and vote on whether to recommend approval of new Class B Bingo licenses for Foreign Angels Charities Inc. and American Legion Chapter 32 Legion Riders to the Arizona Department of Revenue. They will also consider a second reading of an ordinance updating the city's fireworks code to comply with state law, approve the purchase of a Bobcat utility work machine for the airport, and authorize a design agreement for the Sanchez Water Line project. The meeting includes a work session on disbursing city funds to non-profits and an executive session on potential real estate purchase.

• Public hearing and recommendation on Class B Bingo license for Foreign Angels Charities Inc. (1206 E Highway 70)
• Public hearing and recommendation on Class B Bingo license for American Legion Chapter 32 Legion Riders (531 S. 11th Avenue)
• Second reading of Ordinance O23-008 amending fireworks code (Title 9, Chapter 9.16) to comply with state law
• Approval of Bobcat UW56 Utility Work Machine purchase from Bingham Equipment Company under state contract CTR062323
• Authorize design agreement with WestLand Engineering for Sanchez Water Line project (CIP#LF1706)

The City Council approved two Class B Bingo license applications and the purchase of a Bobcat utility machine for the airport. Council also updated the city fireworks code to align with state statutes and authorized a design contract for the Sanchez Water Line renewal.

• Approved Class B Bingo License for Foreign Angels Charities Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved Class B Bingo License for American Legion Chapter 32 Legion Riders (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Bobcat UW56 Utility Work Machine for $74,109.96 (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance O23-008 to update fireworks code to comply with state statutes (unanimous)
• Approved design agreement with WestLand Engineering and Environmental Services for Sanchez Water Line renewal (unanimous)
• Approved June 12, 2023, meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved motion to enter Executive Session for legal advice on bingo applications (6-1)

PSPRS (Public Safety Personnel Retirement System)

The Safford Police Department's Public Safety Personnel Retirement System Local Board is meeting to approve prior meeting minutes and discuss several items, including a possible executive session about a new hire application, the 2022 actuarial and financial reports, and a proposed deferred compensation plan. The board may take action on agenda items.

• Approve January 10, 2023, Local Board and Executive Board meeting minutes
• Possible executive session to discuss Officer William Marten's new hire application
• Review of 2022 Actuarial Report and 2022 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report
• Discussion of Nationwide PSPRS enrollment in state-sponsored ASRS SSDP Deferred Compensation 457 Plan

The board approved the addition of Officer William Masten to the PSPRS Local Pool. Members reviewed the 2022 Actuarial Report, noting the city is 92.7% funded following a bond acquisition. The board also noted a law change affecting deferred compensation plan eligibility for new members.

• Approved January 10, 2023 Minutes (unanimous)
• Approved January 10, 2023 Executive Minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted Officer William Masten into the PSPRS Local Pool (unanimous)

Planning and Zoning Commission Agendas

The Safford Planning and Zoning Commission is holding a regular meeting with a work session on development processes, along with approval of prior minutes and public comment. No major decisions or public hearings are scheduled; the agenda is largely procedural and informational.

• Approval of minutes from May 15, 2023 regular meeting
• Work session on development processes within the City of Safford
• Public comment on non-agenda items (3-minute limit)
• Next meeting scheduled for August 21, 2023

The Commission approved the minutes from the March 15, 2023, meeting. Staff presented training information regarding city development processes. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved March 15, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)

Small Business Support Program

The Safford Small Business Support Program committee will review two funding applications at its June 15, 2023 meeting. The committee will also approve minutes from the February 21, 2023 meeting. The applicants are The Nook Learning Center and Protein and Coffee Shake Shop, each requesting fee waivers and additional funds.

• The Nook Learning Center (604 Central Ave) requests $782, including waivers for business license ($50) and utility deposit/hookup ($225), plus paint costs
• Protein and Coffee Shake Shop (800 W Thatcher Blvd) requests $10,000, including waivers for building permit ($167) and utility deposit/hookup ($410), plus funds for construction and remodeling
• Review and approval of minutes from Feb 21, 2023 regular meeting

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The City Council adopted a property tax levy for the 2024 fiscal year and approved two FAA grants for airport signage and lighting. The Council also established a facility naming policy and designated the Chief Fiscal Officer for 2023 and 2024. Public hearings for two bingo license applications were postponed to June 26, 2023.

• Adopted Resolution R23-013 setting property tax levy at $0.5135 per $100 of assessed valuation (Unanimous)
• Approved Resolution R23-014 designating Keenan Lazenby as Chief Fiscal Officer for FY2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved Resolution R23-015 designating Keenan Lazenby as Chief Fiscal Officer for FY2024 (Unanimous)
• Approved Resolution R23-016 establishing an official facility naming policy (Unanimous)
• Approved Resolution R23-017 accepting FAA BIL grant for Taxiway A Signage project (Unanimous)
• Approved Resolution R23-018 accepting FAA grant for Runway 12-30 Lighting and Signage project (Unanimous)
• Approved May 22, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Postponed bingo license applications for Foreign Angels Charities Inc. and American Legion Chapter 32 to June 26, 2023

Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee

The Safford Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee is meeting to approve minutes from two prior meetings and discuss two main topics: beautification efforts related to monument signage and planning for a movie night event. The agenda is otherwise routine and contains no major financial or policy decisions.

• Approval of March 22, 2023, and May 11, 2023, meeting minutes
• Discussion of monument signage for beautification
• Planning for a movie night event

The committee approved the minutes from the March 22, 2023, meeting. Members discussed preferences for highway welcome signage and planned a movie night for June 17 at Glenn Meadows Park.

• Approved March 22, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0)

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed FY 2023-2024 budget and a 4.86% primary property tax levy increase, then adopt the final $78,880,737 budget. The council will also consider several contracts, including a police station renovation and an airport water tank installation, plus a first reading of a municipal code amendment.

• Public hearing on FY 2023-2024 budget and tax levy; proposed primary property tax increase of $14,116 (4.86%)
• Resolution R23-012 adopting final FY 2023-2024 budget of $78,880,737
• Council approval of Brian Avila as Chief of Police
• Police station renovation cooperative bid award to Danson Construction LLC
• Airport water storage tank construction bid award to Revolution Industrial

The City Council unanimously approved the final budget for the upcoming fiscal year and appointed a new Chief of Police. The council also awarded several infrastructure contracts and approved a housing inspection agreement with Graham County.

• Approved Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Final Budget of $78,880,737 (Unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Brian Avila as Chief of Police (Unanimous)
• Awarded police station renovation contract to Danson Construction LLC (Unanimous)
• Approved $543,893 bid award to Revolution Industrial for airport water storage tank (Unanimous)
• Approved addendum to inspection services agreement with Arizona Department of Housing and Graham County (Unanimous)
• Approved May 8, 2023, meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Planning and Zoning Commission Agendas

The Safford Planning and Zoning Commission is holding a regular meeting with a work session on Arizona Open Meetings Law training. The agenda includes public comment on non-agenda items, project updates, and scheduling of the next meeting. No formal actions or specific project decisions are listed.

• Work session: training on Arizona Open Meetings Law
• Public comment period for non-agenda items (3-minute limit)
• Project updates and announcements
• Next meeting date to be announced

The commission approved the minutes from the March 20, 2023, meeting. Staff provided training on the State of Arizona Open Meetings Law. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved March 20, 2023, meeting minutes (6-0)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss community outreach ideas and timelines for public participation regarding the 8th and Discovery Park project. No formal decisions are on the agenda; the meeting focuses on planning engagement efforts.

• Discussion of community outreach ideas for 8th and Discovery Park
• Timelines for community participation in the park project

No formal votes were taken because a quorum of the committee was not present. Members and staff discussed outreach ideas and timelines for a park project being designed for 8th and Discovery.

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will hold public hearings and vote on recommending approval or denial of new bingo licenses for Outreach Arizona Inc. and the Graham County Senior Center. The Council will also consider approving the FY 2023-2024 tentative budget, a Chamber of Commerce contract renewal, and the appointment of Beatrice Driver as City Clerk.

• Public hearing and recommendation on Class B Bingo License for Outreach Arizona Inc. (1206 E US Hwy 70)
• Public hearing and recommendation on Class A Bingo License for Graham County Senior Center (822 W Main St)
• Adoption of resolution R23-011 for FY 2023-2024 Tentative Budget
• Approval of Graham County Chamber of Commerce contract (July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2028)
• Council approval of City Manager's appointment of Beatrice Driver as City Clerk

The City Council approved a five-year contract with the Graham County Chamber of Commerce for $160,000 after a higher funding request failed. The Council also recommended approval for two bingo licenses and appointed a new City Clerk.

• Approved recommendation for Outreach Arizona Inc. Class B Bingo License (unanimous)
• Approved recommendation for Graham County Senior Center Class A Bingo License (unanimous)
• Approved April 3, 10, and 24, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Denied $180,000 Graham County Chamber of Commerce contract (3-4)
• Approved amended $160,000 five-year contract for Graham County Chamber of Commerce (5-2)
• Approved appointment of Beatrice Driver as City Clerk (unanimous)

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will consider authorizing $600,000 from General Fund contingency for an additional Public Safety Personnel Retirement System (PSPRS) payment, and approve Resolution R23-010 adopting the FY2023-2024 PSPRS Pension Funding Policy. They will also review and approve minutes from three March meetings, hear finance reports, and discuss the Graham County Chamber of Commerce contract renewal. An ordinance (O23-006) on city official appointment procedures will have its second reading and vote.

• Authorize $600K from General Fund contingency for PSPRS payment
• Adopt Resolution R23-010 PSPRS Pension Funding Policy
• Approve minutes from March 6, 13, and 27 meetings
• Discuss Graham County Chamber of Commerce contract renewal
• Second reading of Ordinance O23-006 on city official appointment

The City Council authorized the use of $600,000 from the General Fund contingency for an additional payment to the Public Safety Personnel Retirement System. Council also adopted the FY2023-2024 pension funding policy and approved previous meeting minutes.

• Approved $600K budget change for Public Safety Personnel Retirement System contribution (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution R23-010 adopting the FY2023-2024 PSPRS Pension Funding Policy (unanimous)
• Approved City Council Meeting Minutes for March 6, March 13, and March 27, 2023 (unanimous)

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will hold its regular meeting on April 10, 2023, to consider several items including a second reading of a rezoning ordinance, participation in national opioid settlements, and approval of preliminary budget items for FY 2023-2024. The council will also discuss a compensation plan revision and enter executive session to discuss a grievance and appeals process and Ordinance O23-006.

• Second reading of Ordinance O23-005 to rezone parcels 103-09-005J, 103-09-005H, and 103-09-005K from A-R Agricultural Residential to C-2 Highway Commercial
• Resolution R23-009 to participate in New National Opioid Settlement Agreement against Teva, Allergan, Walmart, CVS, and Walgreens
• Resolution R23-001 approving revisions to the City's Compensation Plan including performance evaluation, probationary period, promotions & transfers, and HSA policies
• Approval of FY 2023-2024 preliminary budget items including salary survey adjustments and health insurance premium split options
• Adoption of FY 2024-2028 Capital Improvement Plan

The City Council adopted a five-year Capital Improvement Plan totaling $85 million and a formal Human Resources Compensation Plan. Council also approved a $1.2 million budget adjustment for salary survey increases and a 90/10 health insurance premium split. Additionally, the city agreed to participate in a national opioid settlement.

• Approved FY 2024-2028 Capital Improvement Plan totaling $85M (Unanimous)
• Approved amended Resolution R23-001 establishing a formal HR Compensation Plan to be reviewed annually (Unanimous)
• Approved $1,199,650 in preliminary budget adjustments for salary survey results (Unanimous)
• Approved 90/10 health insurance premium split (5-1)
• Denied 95/5 health insurance premium split (2-4)
• Approved Resolution R23-009 to participate in National Opioid Settlement against Teva, Allergan, Walmart, CVS, and Walgreens (Unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance O23-005 rezoning parcels 103-09-005J, 103-09-005H, and 103-09-005K to C-2 Highway Commercial District (Unanimous)
• Proclaimed April as Fair Housing Month 2023 (Unanimous)

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council is holding a work session to discuss and provide direction on the FY 2023-2024 revenue and fund balance projections, including proposed uses of fund balance for capital projects and other expenses. They will also review compensation and benefits, including a market salary survey, HSA changes, and insurance premium subsidies. No formal votes are scheduled; staff will bring final recommendations to the May 8 meeting.

• General Fund balance projected at $18.2M; $7.4M available after reserves and CIP
• Proposed $3.546M for 8th and Discovery Park, $700K for El Paso Park
• $600K payment to Public Safety Personnel Retirement System
• $500K combined for financial/payroll system replacement
• Compensation market review and HSA policy changes discussed

The City Council held a work session to review revenue projections and proposed employee compensation and benefit changes. No final decisions were made during the session, as the City Manager requested the Mayor's presence for final approvals. Final budget recommendations are expected at the May 8 meeting.

• No substantive decisions made; items were for discussion and direction only

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will hold a public hearing and first reading on a request to rezone three Graham County parcels (totaling about 9.7 acres) from Agricultural Residential to Highway Commercial for an automobile body shop. The council will also vote on several contracts, including a $574,562 traffic signal installation and a $112,250 substation design, plus liquor licenses for the Safford Spring Festival. A work session will review preliminary FY 2023-2024 departmental budgets.

• Public hearing and first reading of Ordinance O23-005 to rezone parcels 103-09-005J, 103-09-005H, 103-09-005K to C-2 Highway Commercial
• Resolution R23-008 designating Rob Sweeney as Chief Fiscal Officer for FY2023
• Approval of five liquor licenses for Safford Spring Festival (April 21-22, 2023)
• $112,250 contract with T&D Engineering for substation bus upgrade design
• $574,562 bid award to AJP Electric, Inc. for 20th Avenue traffic signals, including $332,902 contingency

The City Council approved ordinances establishing standards for donation collection bins and changing the date for seating new Council members. A rezoning request for the Names property received a first reading, while a rezoning request for Kempton was tabled.

• Approved Ordinance O23-002 regarding donation collection bin standards (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved Ordinance O23-003 to seat Council at the first meeting in December (unanimous voice vote)
• First reading of Ordinance O23-004 for Names rezoning to Agricultural Residential
• Tabled Ordinance O23-005 for Kempton rezoning to March 27, 2023
• First reading of Ordinance O23-006 regarding city officials appointment and supervision
• Approved January 9, 2023, City Council Meeting Minutes (unanimous voice vote)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee

The Safford Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee is meeting to approve minutes from March 1 and finalize preparations for upcoming Movie Night and Earth Day events. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no major policy or budget decisions listed.

• Final preparations for Movie Night
• Final preparations for Earth Day
• Approval of March 1, 2023 minutes

Planning and Zoning Commission Agendas

The Safford Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing and make a recommendation on rezone request Z-23-06, which would change a parcel from R-2 Multiple Family Residential and C-2 Highway Commercial to only C-2 Highway Commercial. The commission will also review minutes from January 17, 2023, and receive training from the Arizona Chapter of the American Planning Association.

• Rezone request Z-23-06 by Chris Gibbs for Graham County Parcel # 101-07-092
• Public hearing for rezone from R-2 and C-2 to C-2 only
• Review and approval of January 17, 2023 meeting minutes
• Work session on training from Arizona Chapter of the American Planning Association

The Planning and Zoning Commission voted to recommend approval of a rezone request for parcel 101-07-092 to the City Council. The proposed development includes a laundromat, indoor storage, and five apartments. The commission also approved the January 17, 2023, meeting minutes.

• Recommended approval of rezone request for parcel 101-07-092 (4-0)
• Approved January 17, 2023, meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Postponed training work session until all members are present (unanimous voice vote)

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will review and potentially approve several items, including the purchase of vacant land for a future right-of-way, a rezoning ordinance, a contract for engineering services, an intergovernmental agreement for traffic lights, a property sale, and the reappointment of the city prosecutor. The agenda also includes approval of prior meeting minutes and reports on the water system and PPA adjustment.

• Purchase of 12,000 sq ft vacant land at 1820 S 14th Ave for 18th St ROW
• Second reading of Ordinance O23-004 to rezone Graham County Parcel #102-01-008 to A-R
• Authorize engineering service agreement with Kimley Horn for 8th Avenue Park Complex
• Approve IGA with Maricopa County for traffic lights on 20th Avenue
• Accept $70,000 offer for Sanchez Road Property

The City Council authorized a professional service agreement with Kimley Horn for the 8th Avenue Park Complex design. Other key actions included purchasing land for a future right-of-way and approving a rezoning ordinance.

• Approved $332,143 engineering contract with Kimley Horn for 8th Avenue Park Complex (4-3)
• Approved purchase of ~12,000 sq ft of land at 1820 South 14th Avenue for $16,299 (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance O23-004 to rezone Parcel #102-01-008 to Agricultural Residential (unanimous)
• Approved $78,320 IGA with Maricopa County for 20th Avenue traffic poles (unanimous)
• Approved sale of Sanchez Road property at 10335 Sanchez Road for $70,000 (unanimous)
• Approved renewal of City Prosecutor contract for Matt M. Clifford, P.C. (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes for January 20 and January 23, 2023 (unanimous)

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council is holding a work session to review and discuss the preliminary FY 2023-2024 budgets for general government departments, including City Council, City Manager, Legal, Court, Clerk, and others. Staff will present each department's budget, and the Council will provide input and direction. The final budget is scheduled for approval on May 22, 2023.

• City Council budget decreases by $144,693 due to moving community donations to Planning and Community Development
• Legal Services budget increases by $25,200 (18%) for a real estate attorney
• City Court budget increases by $71,870 (31%) due to caseload and equipment replacement
• City Clerk budget increases by $25,408 (10%) due to insurance coverage changes
• City Manager budget increases by $16,444 (5%) due to personnel salaries and benefits

The City Council held a work session to review preliminary departmental budget estimates for FY 2023-2024. The session focused on personnel costs, inflationary pressures, and the movement of specific programs between departments. No final budget was adopted during this meeting.

• Reviewed preliminary FY 2023-2024 departmental budget estimates
• Proposed moving community donations, including Jr. Basketball, from Council budget to Planning and Community Development
• Proposed adding a new full-time Code Enforcement Officer position in Building Safety
• Proposed increasing Fire Department callout pay to $30 for making the truck and $20 for arriving at the scene
• Proposed adding a Parks Maintenance Worker position
• Proposed $10,000 for a citywide street pavement survey

Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the January 30, 2023, meeting. Members discussed planning for movie nights and Earth Day tree planting at City Hall.

• Approved January 30, 2023, meeting minutes (unanimous)

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Council approved ordinances regarding donation collection bin standards and the timing for seating new Council members. A request to rezone a property to Agricultural Residential was read for the first time, while another rezoning request was tabled. The Council also discussed a proposed ordinance to give the City Manager authority over the appointment and dismissal of most city officials.

• Approved Ordinance O23-002 regarding donation collection bin standards (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved Ordinance O23-003 to seat Council at the first meeting in December (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved January 9, 2023, meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Tabled Kempton rezoning public hearing and first read of Ordinance O23-005 to March 27, 2023 (unanimous voice vote)
• First reading of Ordinance O23-004 for Names rezoning to Agricultural Residential completed
• First reading of Ordinance O23-006 regarding city official appointments completed

Small Business Support Program

The Small Business Support Program Committee approved two funding requests for building remodels at 514 and 516 W Main St. The funds will support window replacement, awning removal, and wall repairs for an adult training program.

• Approved $7,765 for 514 W Main St (4-0)
• Approved $8,750 for 516 W Main St (4-0)
• Approved January 18, 2022 minutes (4-0)

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will review and potentially approve the November 14, 2022 meeting minutes, adopt financial policies for FY 2023-2024, and appoint Clark Bingham as Fire Chief for 2023. They will also hold a second reading and vote on a rezoning ordinance (O23-001) for Graham County Parcel #102-19-012, and have first readings on ordinances regulating donation bins (O23-002) and election procedures (O23-003). A work session will discuss potential changes to city code regarding appointment and dismissal of city officials, followed by an executive session on the Sanchez Road Property.

• Appointment of Clark Bingham as Fire Chief for 2023
• Second reading and adoption of Ordinance O23-001 (rezoning of Graham County Parcel #102-19-012)
• First reading of Ordinance O23-002 (standards for donation collection bins)
• First reading of Ordinance O23-003 (amendments to election to office procedures)
• Approval of FY 2023-2024 Financial Policies

The City Council adopted financial policies for the 2023-2024 fiscal year and appointed Clark Bingham as Fire Chief. The council also approved a property rezone and held first readings for ordinances regarding donation bins and election seating dates.

• Approved FY 2023-2024 Financial Policies (unanimous voice vote)
• Appointed Clark Bingham as Fire Chief for calendar year 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance O23-001 rezoning parcel #102-19-012 to R2 Multiple Family Residential (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved November 14, 2022, meeting minutes (unanimous)
• First reading of Ordinance O23-002 regarding donation collection bin standards
• First reading of Ordinance O23-003 to codify Council seating dates in December

Safford Fire Department Pension Plan Board of Trustees

The Safford Fire Department Pension Plan Board of Trustees is meeting to approve minutes, consider a resolution memorializing the plan's terms and legal status, and review the fireman's financial report. The agenda includes routine items and a resolution that confirms eligibility rules, benefit amounts, and the plan's classification under state and federal law.

• Resolution to memorialize plan terms: eligibility at 20 years service and age 60, or 25 years service and retirement/age 60; monthly benefit $300 effective Aug 1, 2022; death benefits up to 60 months
• Financial report: total cash and investments $992,043.12 as of Dec 31, 2021
• Approval of January 26, 2022 board minutes
• Operational items report (no discussion except clarification)

The Board of Trustees approved the January 26, 2022 minutes and the Fireman’s Financial Report. A resolution regarding the Safford Fire Department Volunteer Pension Plan was tabled.

• Approved January 26, 2022 Board Minutes
• Approved Fireman’s Financial Report
• Tabled Resolution of the Safford Fire Department Volunteer Pension Plan

Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee

The Safford Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee is meeting to plan movie nights, discuss a vision statement, and talk about beautifying Firth Park. They will also approve minutes from the November 7, 2022 meeting. The agenda is mostly discussion items with no formal votes or contracts listed.

• Movie Night Planning
• Vision Statement Discussion
• Firth Park Beautification Discussion
• Approval of November 7, 2022 minutes

The committee approved the November 7, 2022, meeting minutes and set the date and location for a movie night event. Members discussed beautification requests for Firth Park and reviewed the committee's 2022 vision statement.

• Approved November 7, 2022, meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved staff recommendation to prioritize City Engineer and Assistant Engineer items (unanimous)
• Selected April 1, 2023, at 7pm at Glen Meadows Park for first movie night
• Agreed that the 2022 vision statement remains valid

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Council adopted the FY2024 Budget Guidance document with an amendment to include annexation. They also approved a 10-year operations plan with the BLM and a grant-funded engineering contract for the Lebanon Loop water project.

• Approved FY2024 Budget Guidance document as amended to include annexation (unanimous)
• Approved BLM Memorandum of Understanding and 10 Year Operations Plan (unanimous)
• Authorized $336,932 professional service agreement with Westland Resources for Lebanon Loop water project (unanimous)
• Approved December 12, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will hold a work session to discuss the proposed Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for fiscal years 2024-2028. The plan outlines a five-year budget of $78,870,536, with $23,523,951 proposed for the first year (2023-2024), 61% of which would be grant-funded. The discussion will cover project priorities, funding, and process improvements, but no formal action is scheduled.

• Five-year CIP budget proposal: $78,870,536; first-year proposal: $23,523,951 (61% grant-funded)
• Largest projects include: EL2501 Substation ($11.3M, 2027), WA1706 Sanchez Rd ($11.0M, 2025), FD2401 Fire Station ($5.0M, 2028)
• Projects moved to 6-10 year list: ST2304 Sidewalks 10th Ave/10th St, ST2003 Discovery Park Blvd Widening, ST2103 Extension of 10th St, PK2302 10th Ave Park, PK2004 Shared Use Path 8th St
• Projects removed: GC1904 Restaurant Freezers, AP2106 Mower Purchase, WA2101 Swift Trail Extension Phase II, WA2301 14th Avenue Booster, GA2502 Equipment Storage Building, AP2301 AWOS upgrade
• Completed 2022-2023 projects total $11,861,076, including EL2101 Copper Replacement, ST2002 20th Ave Widening, AP1801 RWY 8/26 Reconstruct

The Council held a work session to discuss the proposed 2024-2028 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). Staff presented a new project ranking system and procurement approach to address inflation. No formal votes were taken; the full five-year plan will be brought back for future adoption.

• Discussed 2024-2028 CIP budget proposal totaling approximately $79 million
• Reviewed 2023-2024 budget request of approximately $24 million (61% grant funded)
• Proposed 2024 funding for Water projects at $7.3 million
• Proposed 2024 funding for Airport requirements at $5.4 million
• Proposed 2024 funding for Streets at $2.5 million
• Proposed 2024 funding for Wastewater projects at $1.3 million
• Proposed 2024 funding for Electrical projects at $2 million
• Proposed 2024 funding for Gas projects at $159,000

Small Business Support Program

The Small Business Support Program Committee will review two applications from Lane Hegel of GCRC for facade and infrastructure work at 514 and 516 W Main St., requesting $7,765 and $8,750 respectively. The committee will discuss and take action on these requests. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from the January 18, 2023 meeting.

• $8,750 request for 516 W Main St. facade removal, new glass/door, wall repairs
• $7,765 request for 514 W Main St. facade removal, new glass/door, wall repairs
• Review and approve minutes from Jan 18, 2023 meeting
• Applications under Assistance with on/off site infrastructure program area

The committee approved a funding request for business improvements at The Shelf. The meeting also included the approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Approved $1,010.50 for Ashley Free (The Shelf) for trim, signage, shelving, and carpet (3-0)
• Approved November 30, 2022 minutes (4-0)

Planning and Zoning Commission Agendas

The Planning and Zoning Commission will hold public hearings and vote on two rezone requests: one to change three parcels from Agricultural Residential to Highway Commercial, and another to assign Agricultural Residential zoning to an annexed but unzoned parcel. The commission will also discuss a draft ordinance regulating donation collection areas and elect a chair and vice chair.

• Rezone request Z-62-22 from Kip Kempton for Graham County parcels 103-09-005, 103-09-005K, and 103-09-005H from A-R Agricultural Residential to C-2 Highway Commercial
• Rezone request Z-13-22 from Joseph and Janet Names for Graham County parcel 102-01-008 to assign A-R Agricultural Residential zoning after annexation
• Draft ordinance regarding donation collection areas within the city
• Election of a Chair and Vice Chair for the commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission approved recommendations to the City Council for two rezone requests. One request involves changing agricultural residential land to highway commercial, and another seeks to establish agricultural residential zoning for an undeveloped annexed property.

• Approved minutes from December 19, 2022 meeting
• Recommended rezone request Z-62-22 (A-R to C-2 Highway Commercial) to City Council
• Recommended rezone request Z-57-22 (A-R Agricultural Residential) to City Council

PSPRS (Public Safety Personnel Retirement System)

The Safford Police Department's Public Safety Personnel Retirement System (PSPRS) Local Board is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes from August 2022 and welcoming a new board member. The board may also enter executive session to discuss confidential records and litigation related to new hire applications for Officers Jesse Burkett and Kyle Cocke, with possible action in open session.

• Approve August 12, 2022, Local Board Meeting Minutes
• Approve August 12, 2022, Local Executive Board Meeting Minutes
• New Board Member John Cassella
• Executive session on confidential records and litigation regarding Officers Jesse Burkett and Kyle Cocke new hire applications

The Public Safety Personnel Retirement System Local Board approved the addition of two new hires to the PSPRS program. The board also approved minutes from the August 12, 2022, meetings.

• Approved August 12, 2022 Local Board meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved August 12, 2022 Executive meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted Officer Jesse Burkett into PSPRS Program without pre-existing conditions (unanimous)
• Accepted Officer Kyle Cocke into PSPRS Program without pre-existing conditions (unanimous)

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will consider resolutions accepting a $571,488 ADOT grant for Taxiway A mill and overlay at Safford Regional Airport, adopting an airport leasing policy, and amending the staff gifts and solicitation policy. They will also hear the independent auditors' report for fiscal year 2022, select a vice mayor and board liaisons, and discuss solar power and budget guidance in work session.

• Resolution R23-005: Accept $571,488 ADOT grant for Taxiway A mill and overlay at Safford Regional Airport
• Resolution R23-006: Adopt Safford Regional Airport Leasing Policy
• Resolution R23-007: Amend Staff Gifts and Solicitation Policy
• Independent Auditors' Report: FY2022 unmodified opinion, $4,760,191 federal funds expended
• Selection of Vice Mayor and community board liaisons

The City Council accepted a grant for airport taxiway improvements and adopted a new airport leasing policy. The council also approved an amended staff gifts and solicitation policy and elected Richard Ortega as Vice Mayor.

• Elected Richard Ortega as Vice Mayor (4-3)
• Approved November 7, 2022 Council Work Session minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution R23-005 accepting ADOT grant for Taxiway A mill and overlay with a $57,148.80 city match (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution R23-006 adopting the Safford Regional Airport Leasing Policy (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution R23-007 amending the Staff Gifts and Solicitation Policy (unanimous)
• Directed City Manager to start the process to hire a new Police Chief