Safford public meetings in 2024

Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee

The committee will meet to prepare a presentation regarding park naming. Staff will provide an update on a sewer bid awarded for 8th and Discovery.

• Park Naming Presentation Preparation
• Sewer bid award update for 8th and Discovery
• Approval of November 21, 2024, meeting minutes

The committee discussed moving forward with naming the park 'Legends Park' and selected specific amenities to name, including the amphitheater after Jason Kouts and the splash pad after the Owens family. They agreed to present a policy change request to Council as a work session, with a presentation deadline of January 9. No formal decisions were made beyond approving the previous meeting's minutes.

• Approved minutes from 11/21/2024 (6-0)
• Agreed to present Legends Park naming and policy change as a work session
• Selected amenities to name: amphitheater (Jason Kouts), playground (Barbera Haralson), splash pad (Owens family), exercise area (Paul Robinson)
• Set presentation preparation deadline for January 9

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will consider adopting an annexation strategy, a second read of a rezone for a manufactured home development, a 5-year Taser contract with Axon Enterprises, and a contract for passenger air service between Safford and Phoenix. They will also discuss holiday bonuses for city employees, award a sewer extension construction contract, and hold a work session on a signature stamp policy and conflict of interest policy.

• Adoption of Resolution R24-041 establishing an annexation strategy for the City of Safford
• Second reading of Ordinance O24-011 to rezone parcels from C-3 to MHD for a manufactured home development
• First reading of Ordinance 024-012 to update temporary use regulations to comply with state law
• Authorizing a 5-year contract with Axon Enterprises for Taser 7 devices
• Approving a contract with Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines for scheduled passenger air service between Safford and Phoenix

The council approved a contract with Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines for scheduled passenger service between Safford and Phoenix, using up to $961,000 in contingency funds. It also approved a $500 holiday bonus for all employees, including part-timers, after an amendment. A 5-year Axon Taser contract for $92,333.06 was authorized, and a construction contract for the 8th Avenue sewer extension was awarded to HT4 for $699,170.

• Approved Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines air service contract with $961,000 contingency funding (unanimous)
• Approved $500 holiday bonus for all employees including part-timers (5-1, 1 abstention)
• Rejected amendment to exclude council from holiday bonus (2-4, 1 abstention)
• Approved 5-year Axon Taser contract for $92,333.06 (unanimous)
• Awarded 8th Avenue sewer extension contract to HT4 for $699,170 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution R24-041 annexation policy (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance O24-011 Gonzalez rezone to MHD (unanimous)
• Completed first reading of Ordinance O24-012 on temporary uses, removing 250-foot food truck rule (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee will discuss a proposed renaming of La Tierra Park to Owens Park, following an outreach review. The agenda includes approval of prior meeting minutes and updates on park maintenance items such as tree trimming, basketball hoop adjustment, and gravel work. Committee members will also address issues like empty dog waste dispensers and the need for a complete park map to distinguish maintained parks from drainage easements.

• Review and analysis of renaming La Tierra Park to Owens Park (suggested by member Tim)
• Tree trimming along trails and on 14th Street
• Basketball hoop lowered at Ragland courts
• Gravel work on El Paso gas line and at La Tierra Park
• Dog waste dispensers at parks not being refilled with bags

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The City Council will review and approve the canvass of the November 5, 2024, general election results. The body will also hold a work session and executive session regarding intergovernmental agreements and not-for-profit contracts.

• Resolution R24-042: Canvass of General Election results declaring Alma Flores as Councilmember-elect
• Work session on intergovernmental agreements and not-for-profit contracts
• Executive session for legal advice regarding intergovernmental agreements and not-for-profit contracts

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The City Council will hold a public hearing and first reading of Ordinance O24-011 to rezone three parcels from C-3 Light Commercial to MHD Manufactured Home Development District for an RV park. The council will also appoint two members to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee and hold work sessions on an annexation policy and the council-related appointment process.

• Public hearing and first reading of Ordinance O24-011 to rezone Parcels 106-01-307, 106-01-002N, and 106-01-002R from C-3 to MHD for an RV park
• Appointment of two citizens to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee
• Work session to review a draft Annexation Policy for the city
• Work session to discuss the application process for council-related appointments
• Proclamation recognizing November as National Native American Heritage Month

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a Series 003 In-State Microbrewery Liquor License application for Retrograde Brew & BBQ Co. at 615 S. 5th Avenue. Other business includes approving a new backhoe for the Water Division, selecting a consultant for a utility rate study, and adopting policies on nondiscrimination, public records, and media relations. The council will also discuss a proposed amendment to municipal code Title 13.28.020 and enter executive session for legal advice on real estate and the SPAA Agreement.

• Public hearing and action on Retrograde Brew & BBQ Co. liquor license (Series 003) at 615 S. 5th Avenue
• Purchase of a new backhoe for the Water Division Department
• Authorization to contract with Willdan Financial Services for a comprehensive utility rate study
• Adoption of Resolution R24-037 Nondiscrimination/Antiharassment Policy
• Work session on proposed amendment to Title 13.28.020 of the Safford Municipal Code

Planning and Zoning Commission Agendas

The Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing and then vote on a recommendation to the City Council regarding a rezone application for Graham County Parcel #106-01-307 and portions of two adjacent parcels. The meeting also includes approval of previous meeting minutes and routine procedural items.

• Public hearing on Gonzalez rezone for parcels 106-01-307, 106-01-002N, and 106-01-002R
• Commission to provide recommendation to City Council on the rezone application
• Approval of minutes from the August 19, 2024 regular meeting

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a Series 007 Beer and Wine Liquor License for a new business at 615 S. 5th Avenue. The body is also considering several new city policies and a fleet vehicle lease agreement.

• Liquor license application for Retrograde Brew & BBQ Co. at 615 S. 5th Avenue
• 6-year lease agreement with Kempton Chevrolet for 11 fleet vehicles
• 5-year contract with Lewis Robertson and Burningham, Public Finance Advisors
• Renewal of a 5-year Valley Communications License Agreement (Resolution R24-032)
• Ordinance 024-008 to amend Title 8 (Health and Safety) and Title 17 (Zoning) of the Municipal Code

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will hold a work session to discuss the Community Facilities District (CFD) policy, then reconvene for a regular meeting. They will consider approving the September 9 meeting minutes, decide on applications for disbursement of city funds to charitable/non-profit organizations, and vote on purchasing a 2002 KME aircraft fire truck from Martha's Vineyard Airport. Also on the agenda is a first reading of Ordinance 024-008 to streamline development codes in Titles 8 and 17, and a resolution to expand the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee to seven members.

• First reading of Ordinance 024-008 amending Health & Safety and Zoning codes for development streamlining
• Discussion of Community Facilities District (CFD) policy to encourage development
• Request to approve purchase of a 2002 KME aircraft fire truck from Martha's Vineyard Airport
• Decision on applications for disbursement of city funds to charitable/non-profit organizations
• Resolution R24-033 to increase Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee membership to seven

Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee will discuss planning public outreach for naming a city park, as tasked by the City Council. The meeting also covers routine maintenance updates including tree trimming, basketball hoop adjustment, gravel placement, and park equipment. Staff and committee updates include appointments, logos, and issues such as dog waste dispensers and a need for a city parks map.

• Park naming outreach planning for public input
• Update on tree trimming along trails and basketball hoop lowered at Ragland courts
• Gravel on El Paso gas line median and La Tierra Park basketball poles/swing set
• Discussion of gravel and trees on 14th Street
• Dog waste dispensers not refilled and need for map of maintained parks vs drainage easements

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will vote to canvass the July 30 primary election results and call a runoff for the final council seat. Other decisions include approving a special event liquor license for Oktoberfest, purchasing heavy equipment (a backhoe and a vibratory compactor) via cooperative contracts, and adopting an updated airport fee schedule. Work sessions will discuss charitable fund distribution and amendments to the zoning and health and safety codes.

• Special event liquor license for OktoberFest (Oct 19, 2024) benefiting United Way and Graham County Chamber of Commerce
• Resolution R24-030 canvassing primary election results and calling a runoff for the final open City Council seat
• Resolution R24-031 adopting revised Safford Regional Airport Rates and Fee Schedule
• Purchase of Caterpillar 420 XE Backhoe Loader via OMNIA Partners cooperative contract
• Work session on amendments to Title 8 (Health & Safety) and Title 17 (Zoning) for development code streamlining

The Safford City Council approved Resolution R24-030, formally canvassing the July 30 primary election results. Richard Ortega was declared Mayor-elect, and Brad Hemphill and Dusti Brantner were declared Councilmembers-elect. Because no candidate received a majority for the third council seat, Alma Flores and Luke Chavez will advance to a runoff in the November 5 general election. The council also approved several other items, including equipment purchases, library policy updates, and a special event liquor license.

• Approved Resolution R24-030 canvassing primary election results (unanimous)
• Declared Richard Ortega Mayor-elect; Brad Hemphill and Dusti Brantner Councilmembers-elect
• Set runoff for third council seat between Alma Flores and Luke Chavez
• Approved special event liquor license for Oktoberfest (unanimous)
• Approved updated Library Electronic Resources Policy (unanimous)
• Approved updated Library Makerspace Policy (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Caterpillar 420 XE Backhoe Loader for $165,385.24 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Caterpillar CB4.4 Vibratory Utility Compactor for $102,701.93 (unanimous)

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The City Council will review two rezoning ordinances and two special event liquor license applications for the Nature Sweet Salsa Festival. The meeting includes an executive session for the City Manager's performance evaluation and a subsequent discussion on his compensation.

• Rezoning of Parcel #103-02-005A from R-2 Multiple Family Residential to C-3 Light Commercial
• Rezoning of Parcel #102-41-009 to A-R Agricultural Residential, C-2 Highway Commercial, and IND-1 Light Industrial
• Liquor license application for 2024 Nature Sweet Salsa Festival Chamber Mixer
• Liquor license application for 2024 18th Nature Sweet Salsa Festival
• Performance evaluation and compensation review for City Manager John Cassella

The Safford City Council unanimously approved two rezones (Ordinances O24-009 and O24-010), recommended approval of two special event liquor licenses for the Nature Sweet Salsa Festival events, and approved the August 12, 2024 meeting minutes. The council also entered executive session to evaluate the City Manager and later agreed to a 4.88% salary increase for him.

• Approved Ordinance O24-009 rezoning parcel #103-02-005A from R-2 to C-3 (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance O24-010 rezoning parcel #102-41-009 to include IND-1 Light Industrial (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of special event liquor license for 2024 Nature Sweet Salsa Festival Chamber Mixer (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of special event liquor license for 2024 18th Nature Sweet Salsa Festival (unanimous)
• Approved August 12, 2024 Council Meeting Minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to give City Manager John Cassella a 4.88% salary increase

Planning and Zoning Commission Agendas

The Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing for The Cottages and Villas on 14th Planned Unit Development, then vote on its preliminary plan and subdivision plat, along with The Bungalows Subdivision preliminary plat. Approval of July 15, 2024, minutes is also on the agenda.

• Public hearing for The Cottages and Villas on 14th Planned Unit Development (Graham County Parcel 101-20-020C)
• Action on Preliminary Plan of Development/Planned Unit Development for The Cottages and Villas on 14th by Stratford Properties, LLC
• Action on Preliminary Plat Application for The Cottages and Villas on 14th Subdivision by Stratford Properties, LLC
• Action on Preliminary Plat Application for The Bungalows Subdivision by EH Investments
• Approval of minutes from July 15, 2024 regular meeting

The Safford Planning and Zoning Commission approved the Preliminary Plat for The Bungalows Subdivision (7-0) and the Preliminary Plan of Development/Planned Unit Development for The Cottages and Villas on 14th (6-1, with Chairwoman O'Donnal opposing). The Commission also approved the Preliminary Plat for The Cottages and Villas on 14th Subdivision (6-1, with Chairwoman O'Donnal opposing). Chairwoman O'Donnal announced her resignation from the Commission.

• Approved The Bungalows Subdivision preliminary plat (7-0)
• Approved The Cottages and Villas on 14th PUD preliminary plan (6-1, O'Donnal opposed)
• Approved The Cottages and Villas on 14th Subdivision preliminary plat (6-1, O'Donnal opposed)
• Approved minutes of July 15, 2024 meeting (7-0)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee will consider approving July meeting minutes, discuss a park naming outreach plan, hear updates on maintenance tasks such as tree trimming, basketball hoop adjustment, and gravel work, and receive staff project updates on El Paso Park. The meeting is a routine business session with no final votes expected on major policy changes.

• Park naming outreach planning discussion
• Tree trimming on trail
• Basketball hoop lowered at Ragland courts
• Gravel work on El Paso gas line and 14th
• El Paso Park staff project updates

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The City Council will hold public hearings and vote on several rezoning requests to allow for commercial and industrial uses. The body will also consider equipment purchases for the city pool and sanitation services, as well as several five-year contracts.

• Public hearing for rezoning Parcel #103-02-005A from R-2 Multiple Family Residential to C-3 Light Commercial
• Public hearing for rezoning Parcel #102-41-009 to include IND-1 Light Industrial
• Purchase of a 2024 Peterbilt Model 548 rear loader sanitation truck from Short Equipment, Inc.
• Purchase of three 20 hp 3-phase Epoxy Coated Cast Iron Pool Pumps for Safford Swimming Pool
• Five-year contracts for a municipal advisor (Lewis Robertson and Burningham) and bond counsel (The Stratton Law Firm, PLLC)

The Safford City Council approved several expenditures and rezonings, including a $262,836 sanitation truck purchase, a $2,500 donation to Feed My Starving Children, and three pool pump replacements. They also approved a 5-year lease with Mt. Graham Safe House, a bond counsel contract, and gas detection equipment purchase. The municipal advisor contract was tabled for more information.

• Approved $262,836 purchase of 2024 Peterbilt sanitation truck (unanimous)
• Approved $2,500 donation to Feed My Starving Children (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of three pool pumps at ~$7,700 each (unanimous)
• Approved 5-year lease with Mt. Graham Safe House (unanimous)
• Approved 5-year bond counsel contract with The Stratton Law Firm (unanimous)
• Approved $171,435 gas detection equipment purchase (unanimous)
• Tabled 5-year municipal advisor contract with LRB Public Finance Advisors (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance O24-007 (Goodman Rezone) (unanimous)

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will meet July 22, 2024, to hold a public hearing and first reading of an ordinance to rezone parcel #101-09-050A from R-2 to C-MH (manufactured home district). Other items include a presentation on park design, a waiver of residency for the new assistant city manager, approval of a gas purchase contract with Twin Eagle, and resolutions on opioid settlement funds and CFO designation.

• Public hearing and first reading of Ordinance O24-007 to rezone parcel #101-09-050A (Goodman rezone)
• Request to waive residency requirement for Assistant City Manager Eric Bejarano
• Resolution R24-029 authorizing participation in the One Arizona Opioid Settlement Funds Agreement with Kroger
• Approval of exclusive gas purchase contract with Twin Eagle Resource Management
• Presentation by Kimley-Horne on 8th Avenue and Discovery Park Boulevard park design

The Safford City Council approved a 35-month natural gas purchase contract with Twin Eagle Resource Management, the lowest bidder, to manage the city's gas supply. The council also approved a first reading of an ordinance to rezone a parcel for a manufactured home, approved several resolutions including a City Hall parking lot reconfiguration, and waived the residency requirement for the new Assistant City Manager. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved 35-month gas purchase contract with Twin Eagle Resource Management (unanimous)
• Completed first reading of Ordinance O24-007 to rezone Parcel #101-09-050A to C-MH district (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution R24-027 for City Hall parking lot reconfiguration and new crosswalk (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution R24-028 designating Troy Bingham as Chief Fiscal Officer for FY2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution R24-029 for opioid settlement funds agreement with Kroger (unanimous)
• Approved waiver of residency requirement for Assistant City Manager Eric Bejarano (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from June 18 and June 24 meetings (unanimous)

Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee will consider approval of May 9, 2024 meeting minutes and discuss several infrastructure suggestions. Topics include bathroom stalls at the pool, swings and basketball poles at La Tierra Park, tree planting along 14th Avenue, and gravel on the El Paso gas line. Staff will provide updates on park naming, a new member, and a July 22nd Council presentation.

• Approval of May 9, 2024 meeting minutes
• Pool infrastructure: bathroom stall suggestions
• La Tierra Park: swings, basketball poles, speed reduction, children at play signage
• Trees on 14th Avenue suggestions
• Gravel on El Paso gas line

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee held a discussion-only meeting, making no formal decisions or votes. They discussed options for naming a new park, including public feedback and a 200-word essay process, and considered suggestions for La Tierra Park, trees on 14th, and gravel on El Paso gas line. The meeting was adjourned at 5:59 pm.

• No formal decisions or votes taken during the meeting
• Discussed park naming process with public feedback and essay requirement
• Discussed potential additions to La Tierra Park, including swing set and signage
• Discussed potential partnership with Freeport for trees on 14th
• Discussed potential changes to median on El Paso gas line

Planning and Zoning Commission Agendas

The Commission will hold public hearings and provide recommendations to the City Council regarding two property rezone applications. The body will also discuss proposed municipal code updates.

• Griffin Rezone: Request by James Faller to change Graham County Parcel #103-02-00SA from R-2 Multiple Family Residential to C-3 Light Commercial
• Barney Trucking Rezone: Request by Steve Womack to change Graham County Parcel #102-41-009 from A-R Agricultural Residential and C-2 Highway Commercial to A-R Agricultural, C-2 Highway Commercial, and IND-1 Light Industrial
• Discussion of proposed municipal code updates
• Approval of June 17, 2024, meeting minutes

Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee

The committee will review suggestions for bathroom stalls at the pool and equipment for La Tierra Park. Discussion will also cover trees on 14th Street and updates on park naming tasks from City Council.

• Pool infrastructure suggestions including bathroom stalls
• La Tierra Park suggestions for swings, basketball poles, and signage
• Discussion regarding trees on 14th Street
• Gravel on El Paso Gas line
• Staff updates on park naming tasks from Council

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will vote on setting the property tax levy at $0.5135 per $100 of assessed valuation. The meeting also includes a public hearing for a liquor license upgrade at Speedway Store #2984 and an easement agreement for the Gila River Linear Park & Trail Project.

• Property tax levy set at $0.5135 per $100 of assessed valuation
• Liquor license application for Speedway Store #2984 at 750 8th Ave
• Intergovernmental Agreement with Graham County for election services
• Easement agreement for Gila River Linear Park & Trail Project
• Ordinance amendment for street requirement updates

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council has called a special meeting to consult with legal counsel. During an executive session, the Council will discuss and provide direction regarding contracts currently under negotiation.

• Executive session for legal advice and instruction on contract negotiations

Planning and Zoning Commission Agendas

The Commission will hold a public hearing regarding rezone request Z-24-13 to change Graham County Parcel # 10 1-09-050A from R-2 Multiple Family Residential to C-MH Conventional Manufactured Home District. Staff will also present proposed municipal code updates for discussion.

• Public hearing for rezone request Z-24-13
• Discussion of proposed municipal code updates
• Approval of April 15, 2024, meeting minutes

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The City Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed fiscal year 2024-2025 budget and tax levy. The council also plans to adopt the final budget of $102,736,021 by resolution. Other items include park naming discussions and infrastructure contract awards.

• Adoption of FY 2024-2025 Final Budget totaling $102,736,021
• Rezone Palmer parcel from C-MH to C-2 Highway Commercial District
• Bid awards for water pipe materials for Hollywood Road and 8th Street
• Contract award for T-Hanger Construction with Traylor Construction LLC
• Amendment to Title 16 regarding subdivision street requirements

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will hold public hearings on a liquor license transfer for Frontier Steaks & Spirits and a rezoning request, then consider recommending the license to the state. They will also vote on buying about 30 acres for future street and cemetery expansion, adopt the FY 2024-2025 tentative budget, and take up several resolutions and ordinances.

• Public hearing and possible recommendation on Series 6 Bar liquor license transfer for T2B Enterprises LLC, Frontier Steaks & Spirits, 1206 E US Hwy 70
• Public hearing and first reading of Ordinance O24-005 to rezone Parcel #102-18-063E from C-MH to C-2 Highway Commercial
• Purchase of ~30 acres (APN 103-08-250 and 103-09-030) from La Tierra Development, LLC for future 26th Street extension and recreational/cemetery expansion
• Resolution R24-021 adopting the FY 2024-2025 Tentative Budget
• Resolution R24-015 and Ordinance O24-004 amending utility deposit policy

Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee

The Safford Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee met on May 9, 2024, to approve minutes from March 21, 2024. The agenda included a discussion on beautification efforts involving Freeport employees planting trees at El Paso Park. The committee also prepared for a Park Naming Work Session scheduled for June 10, 2024, and received staff project updates.

• Approval of March 21, 2024, meeting minutes
• Beautification: planting trees with Freeport employees at El Paso Park
• Preparation for June 10th Park Naming Work Session
• Staff Project Updates

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council is holding a public hearing on the proposed FY 2024-2025 tax levy and a Truth in Taxation hearing for a proposed 13.06% increase in primary property taxes ($36,520). The increase is due to rising assessed property values, not a rate change; the rate remains at $0.5135 per $100 of assessed value. The council will also discuss a work session item on a trail easement agreement with Graham County along the Gila River.

• Public hearing on proposed tax levy for FY ending June 30, 2025
• Truth in Taxation hearing: proposed primary property tax increase of $36,520 (13.06%)
• Proposed tax rate remains $0.5135 per $100 assessed value; example: $100,000 home would pay $51.35
• Work session: easement agreement with Graham County for Gila River Linear Park trail (parcels 102-12-002, 102-12-003, 102-14-003B, 102-14-004A)
• Council to adopt final budget on June 10, 2024

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will hold a regular meeting and work session to consider several items, including a first reading of an ordinance to modernize utility deposit language, a resolution to create an application process for city donations to nonprofits, a five-year audit services contract, and adoption of the FY 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Plan. The council will also discuss amending the municipal code regarding council meeting procedures and hold an executive session on potential real estate purchase and sale.

• First reading of Ordinance O24-004 amending Title 13 of Safford Municipal Code to change utility deposit language
• Resolution R24-016 to establish an application process for city funds to charitable or non-profit organizations
• Five-year audit services contract with Heinfield Meech and Company PC for FY2024-FY2028
• Adoption of FY 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
• Executive session to discuss potential purchase and sale of real estate

Planning and Zoning Commission Agendas

The Safford Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing and vote on rezone request Z-24-01, which seeks to change a Graham County parcel from C-MH (Conventional and Manufactured Home) to C-2 (Highway Commercial). The commission will also receive information on a separate rezone application, Z-24-04, from Mark Palmer for parcel #102-18-063E, and approve minutes from the January 16, 2024 meeting. Public comment on non-agenda items is limited to 3 minutes per speaker.

• Public hearing and vote on rezone Z-24-01 to C-2 Highway Commercial
• Staff presentation on rezone application Z-24-04 by Mark Palmer for parcel #102-18-063E
• Approval of minutes from January 16, 2024 regular meeting
• Public comment period for non-agenda items (3-minute limit)

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The City Council will review the fiscal year 2024-2025 budget highlights and fund balance projections. The agenda includes several proposed resolutions regarding health trust renewals, retirement plans, and utility deposit policies.

• Seating of Dusti Brantner to the City Council
• Liquor license applications for 2024 Cinco De Mayo Festival and Safford Spring Festival
• Resolution R24-011: Renewal of Rural Arizona Group Health Trust contract
• Resolution R24-012: Adoption of ASRS supplemental retirement savings plan effective July 1, 2024
• Resolution R24-014: Amendment to the Capital Improvement Plan for Airport Taxiway A Reconstruction

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will conduct interviews and rank the top three applicants to fill a council seat vacancy, with the highest-ranked candidate selected. The council will also review the FY 2024-2025 health insurance plan cost changes, approve funds for the 8th Street waterline project, and discuss the preliminary departmental budgets for the next fiscal year.

• Ranking ballot to select council vacancy candidate from Lee Patterson, Dusti Brantner, Corina Pino-Reyes
• FY 2024-2025 health insurance plan cost adjustment and employer/employee premium cost share approval
• Approve reappropriation and expenditures for 8th Street 12-inch waterline project
• Approve extension of School Resource Officer IGA with Safford Unified School District (July 1, 2024–June 30, 2027)
• Approve IGA with Pima for occasional commercial building inspections

Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee is meeting to approve February minutes, continue a naming discussion from February, finalize Movie Night plans, and receive staff project updates. The agenda is mostly routine business with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approval of February 15, 2024 meeting minutes
• Continued discussion on naming (from February)
• Movie Night final planning
• Staff project updates

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will hold a work session to discuss and provide direction on human resources topics for fiscal year 2024-2025, including compensation, benefits, and training. They will also review preliminary departmental budgets for the upcoming fiscal year, with final budget approval scheduled for June 24, 2024.

• Proposed 3.2% cost-of-living adjustment costing $393,920 across all funds
• Annual merit increases totaling $73,116 based on performance evaluations
• Christmas bonus proposal: $500 for full-time staff, council, and volunteer firefighters; $250 for part-time employees; estimated cost $156,685
• Health insurance premium increase of 5% for FY 24-25, costing $236,763; staff recommends keeping 90/10 employer/employee split
• New benefits proposed: employer-paid dependent life insurance ($2,300/year), air ambulance GAP coverage ($25,000/year), and management training ($8,000/year)

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will select three finalists from 11 applicants to fill a council seat vacancy, with interviews scheduled for March 25. The council will also vote on several policies, including paid holidays, invocation, residency, and library policies, plus a contract for an employee engagement survey.

• Council seat vacancy: ranking ballot to select top 3 of 11 applicants
• Resolution R24-004: Paid Holiday Policy revisions
• Resolution R24-009: New Invocation Policy
• Resolution R24-010: Residency Policy update allowing waiver by majority vote
• Professional services agreement with Quantum Workplace for $8,000 employee engagement survey

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a variance request for doors opening into the right-of-way at 520 W Main Street, and consider resolutions for airport commemorative naming and a Key to the City policy. They will also take second readings on ordinances for a Fisher rezone and an aviation code amendment, and decide on several contracts including engineering services for 8th Avenue Park and a wastewater treatment plant bid award. The meeting includes routine approvals of minutes and financial reports, plus an executive session on council vacancy applications.

• Variance request by Graham County Rehabilitation Center for doors opening into right-of-way at 520 W Main Street
• Resolution R24-005 for commemorative naming of Safford Regional Airport
• Resolution R24-008 adopting a Key to the City Policy
• Ordinance O24-001 second reading to rezone Parcel #101-20-020C from A-R to R-2 Multiple Family Residential
• Bid award to Schofield for WWTP north clarifier rehabilitation

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will hold a work session to discuss three items: the possible commemorative naming of the Safford Regional Airport, the employee residency policy for top positions, and the adoption of a city vision statement and strategic goals. These are discussion items only, with no formal votes scheduled.

• Discuss commemorative naming of Safford Regional Airport; three WWII veterans nominated
• Review residency policy for City Manager, Assistant City Manager, Police Chief, Fire Chief
• Discuss adoption of City vision statement and strategic goals for FY2024/25 budget
• Strategic goals include developing Discovery/8th and El Paso Park, utility rate studies, and annexation
• Budget calendar set for February through May 2024

Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee

The Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss routine business including approving minutes, planning for Community Clean-up Day and Spring Fest, and continuing the discussion on renaming El Paso Park. The committee will also recap a recent council meeting and consider movie night dates for 2024.

• Approval of January 18, 2024 meeting minutes
• Community Clean-up Day coordination with SEACAB
• Booth planning for Spring Fest
• Park naming options: El Paso Park or Community Partners Park, to be presented to City Council on March 11, 2024
• Movie night dates for 2024, possibly mid-March

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will hold a public hearing and first reading on rezoning Graham County Parcel #101-20-020C from agricultural to multifamily residential, discuss a new Key to the City policy, and consider resolutions on the primary election date, chief fiscal officer designation, and a reinstatement policy. The agenda also includes a presentation from the United Way, approval of prior meeting minutes, and a contract with SPPA/AEPCO for electric power.

• Public hearing and first reading of Ordinance O24-001 to rezone Parcel #101-20-020C from A-R to R-2 (multifamily)
• Work session on a new Key to the City policy, prompted by recognition of Justin Gaethje
• Resolution R24-002 designating the primary election date and candidate filing details
• Resolution R24-003 designating Troy Bingham as Chief Fiscal Officer for FY2024
• Project agreement with SPPA and AEPCO for electric power resale

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council is holding a work session to discuss and provide direction on several policy items, including selecting a vendor for an employee engagement survey, creating a Community Facilities District (CFD) policy, updating the Paid Holiday policy, and revising the employee residency policy for top positions. The council will also discuss adopting a city vision statement and strategic goals. Later, in executive session, they will address recent council vacancies, followed by possible action on the vacancy recruitment process and appointment of a Vice Mayor Pro Tem.

• Employee engagement survey vendor choice: Quantum Workplace vs. Gallup
• Community Facilities District (CFD) policy discussion for development tool
• Paid Holiday policy update: adding federal holidays (President's Day, Juneteenth, Columbus Day) and pay practices
• Residency policy discussion for City Manager, Assistant City Manager, Police Chief, Fire Chief
• Council vacancy recruitment process and appointment of Vice Mayor Pro Tem

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will hear a presentation from the Graham Economic Partnership, review and approve the January 8, 2024 meeting minutes, and discuss the FY2025-FY2029 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) in a work session. The meeting also includes routine finance reports and an executive session for legal advice on invocation options at Council meetings.

• Presentation by Graham Economic Partnership Executive Director Danny Smith
• Approval of January 8, 2024 Council Meeting Minutes
• Discussion of FY2025-FY2029 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
• Finance reports: P-Card, expenses over $5,000, revenues over $5,000
• Executive session on invocation options at Council meetings

Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee

The committee will discuss planning a date and plan for Community Clean-up Day. Members will also plan for the Spring Fest booth and receive updates on the shooting range project.

• Community Clean-up Day planning
• Spring Fest booth planning
• Staff Project Updates: shooting range
• Park naming discussion

Planning and Zoning Commission Agendas

The Safford Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing and consider a rezone request (Z-23-37) for Graham County Parcel # 101-20-020C, proposed by Jerry Fisher, to change the zoning from AR (Agricultural Residential) to R-2 (Multiple Family Residential). The commission will also receive a staff presentation on the application and may vote on a recommendation. The agenda includes routine items such as approval of minutes and public comment on non-agenda items.

• Public hearing on rezone request Z-23-37 for Graham County Parcel # 101-20-020C
• Rezone from AR (Agricultural Residential) to R-2 (Multiple Family Residential)
• Applicant: Jerry Fisher
• Approval of minutes from August 21, 2023 regular meeting
• Public comment period for non-agenda items (3-minute limit)

PSPRS (Public Safety Personnel Retirement System)

The Public Safety Personnel Retirement System Local Board will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and discuss specific personnel matters. The board may enter executive session to consider confidential records and litigation regarding new hire applications.

• Approval of November 2, 2023, Local Board Meeting Minutes
• Approval of November 2, 2023, Local Executive Board Meeting Minutes
• Executive session regarding new hire applications for Officers Noah Bevens and Emilio Molinar

Council Meeting Agendas and Minutes

The Safford City Council will vote on several items, including approving Clark Bingham as Fire Chief for 2024, adopting a deferred compensation plan for the Fire Chief, and renewing three farm leases. They will also consider a revised police fee schedule and an alcohol/substance abuse policy. A work session will discuss a new park at 8th Avenue and Discovery Boulevard and a potential natural gas rebate program.

• Approve Clark Bingham as Fire Chief for calendar year 2024
• Adopt deferred compensation plan (457B) for Fire Chief with 7% city match
• Second reading of Ordinance O23-012 revising Police Department Fee Schedule
• Renew farm leases: Carrasco (Parcel 107-49-001 to Layton Hay LLC), Claridge Kempton Well (Parcel 102-33-005 to Kenneth Claridge), Ferguson (portion of Parcel 102-14-003B to R.G. Howard)
• Work session: direction on park amenities at 8th Avenue and Discovery Boulevard; discuss Natural Gas Rebate Program