Safford Council adopts General Plan, rezones parcels for housing

The Safford City Council on June 22 adopted a new long-range plan for the city and took the first step toward converting two commercial parcels into space for single-family homes. In a busy night, the council also backed the local hospital’s ambulance request, set a pay differential for a police accreditation manager, and passed several budget amendments — some by narrow 5-2 votes.

General Plan and Zoning

The council unanimously adopted the 2026-2036 General Plan, a document that will guide land use, transportation, and community development for the next decade. Separately, council members approved the first reading of Ordinance O26-003, which would rezone parcels 103-09-042 and 103-09-041 from commercial to R1-6 single-family residential. A second reading and final vote will be needed before the change takes effect.

Budget and Finance

Several adjustments to the tentative FY2027 budget were approved. The council passed amendments to add funds for police grants and for a mill and overlay project on 14th Avenue — both motions carried. Two other budget amendments passed 5-2: one for carryover of golf course funds and another for holiday bonuses for city employees.

The council also approved Resolution R26-020, designating bank representatives and signers, by a 5-2 vote.

Police Compensation

A 5% duty differential was established for the Police Department’s Accreditation Manager position. The motion carried, with no vote tally noted.

Other Actions

The council voted to support Mt. Graham Regional Medical Center’s application for a certificate of need (CON) to operate ambulance services. A letter of support was approved.

Library Mural Tabled

A finalist selection for a library mural was tabled by a 6-1 vote. No further details on the project or the reason for the delay were provided in the meeting summary.

Coming up

No upcoming city council or committee meetings are scheduled for the next two weeks, according to available records.

Generated from official meeting agendas and minutes — every underlying document is linked from the city page. Read the primary source before you rely on a detail.