City Council Regular Meeting on 2025-10-07 6:00 PM

City Hall City of Maricopa 39700 W. Civic Center Plaza Maricopa, AZ 85138 Meeting Minutes - Final Ph: (520) 568-9098 Fx: (520) 568-9120 City Council Regular Meeting www.maricopa-az.gov Mayor Nancy Smith Vice-Mayor Henry Wade Councilmember Eric Goettl Councilmember AnnaMarie Knorr Councilmember Amber Liermann Councilmember Vincent Manfredi Councilmember Bob Marsh Tuesday, October 7, 2025 6:00 PM Council Chambers 1. Call to Order Mayor Smith called the meeting to order at 6:10 p.m., which was followed by the invocation led by Pastor Grady from Maricopa Springs Family Church, and then the Pledge of Allegiance led by Councilmember Liermann. 2. Roll Call Present: 7 - Mayor Nancy Smith, Vice Mayor Henry Wade, Councilmember Eric Goettl, Councilmember AnnaMarie Knorr, Councilmember Amber Liermann, Councilmember Vincent Manfredi and Councilmember Bob Marsh 3. Proclamations, Acknowledgements, Awards and Presentations 3.1 PROC 25-09 Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation Mayor Smith read a proclamation declaring October 2025 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in the City of Maricopa. She shared that Arizona ranks fourth in the nation for domestic violence, with 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men experiencing physical violence from someone they trust, and every 44 minutes a child in Arizona witness domestic violence in their home. Councilmember Liermann shared statistics specific to Maricopa, stating that between February and May, the city had 10 shootings, 8 of which were related to domestic violence. She shared that there has been a 53% increase in restraining orders, averaging 6 per week. Councilmember Liermann thanked community resources including Hope Women's Center, Maricopa Police Department, and Doves Network Against Abuse for their efforts in serving those affected by domestic violence. She noted that the shelter was full that night, indicating the ongoing need for these services. Jim DeVenezia, Victim Advocate, emphasized that domestic violence is widespread, affecting thousands in Arizona and millions nationwide. He stressed the importance of openly addressing domestic violence rather than hiding it and encouraged continued awareness and support beyond October. Following the presentations, the Mayor announced a brief recess to view the lighting of the pecan tree in purple for Domestic Violence Awareness Month and invited attendees City of Maricopa Page 1 City Council Regular Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final October 7, 2025 to view artwork by domestic violence survivors displayed in the lobby. Read 3.2 PRES 25-19 The City Council shall hear a legislative update from Representative Teresa Martinez and Representative Chris Lopez. Representative Teresa Martinez shared their successful efforts to protect RICO funds from being diverted from law enforcement. She added that after learning that RICO funds had previously been taken to cover budget shortfalls, but she attempted to pass a bill prohibiting this practice. Representative Martinez mentioned that the bill was killed in committee, she managed to include language in the budget that permanently prevents the state from taking these funds from law enforcement agencies. She presented Police Chief Mark Goodman with documentation of this achievement. Lastly, Representative Martinez additionally highlighted $300,000 secured for La Frontera for suicide prevention, mentioning the emotional impact a suicide incident had on her, and $200,000 for the Boys and Girls Club at Sun Corridor. Next, Representative Chris Lopez emphasized their team's achievements by securing crucial funding, including $200,000 each for the Maricopa police and fire departments. He outlined the monetary success as a collaborative win for the community, paired with substantial financial contributions towards the significant State Route 347 improvements. He shared the need for legislative accountability and encouraged community members to engage and visit legislators at the Capitol. Representative Lopez also detailed his committee appointments, comprising key roles in Appropriations and Health and Human Services, and noted his significant position as vice chair of the Natural Resources, Energy, and Water committee, all of which contribute to addressing essential issues within the state. The Presentation was heard. 4. Report from the Mayor On September 18th, Councilmember Marsh reported attending a lunch and learn about dementia at the senior center. On September 22nd, he reported attending a meeting with the police union. He also reported attending the Planning and Zoning meeting regarding the Copper Sky hospital project. On September 23rd, Councilmember Marsh shared that he participated in the groundbreaking at Heritage Park. On September 25th, he shared that he was working with the Pinal County Board of Adjustments and Appeals in Florence. On October 2nd, Councilmember Marsh reported attending a meeting with historical society leadership. On October 3rd, he shared that he attended the Pinal Partnership breakfast meeting on water. Lastly, on October 6th, Councilmember Marsh reported that he attended the General Plan update meeting. Councilmember Knorr reported attending the groundbreaking ceremony for Heritage Park, which she expressed excitement about due to the potential benefits and opportunities it would offer the residents. She also reported attending the Maricopa Unified School District community leaders luncheon, where she received a comprehensive update on the district's efforts and initiatives within Maricopa. She expressed admiration for the insightful presentations, particularly one featuring a local youth’s achievements, which she found both touching and inspiring. Lastly, Councilmember Knorr shared that she participated in the Maricopa Unified School District Kindergarten through the 8th grade naming committee as they discussed potential names for a new school, expressing enthusiasm about the progress and upcoming decisions. City of Maricopa Page 2 City Council Regular Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final October 7, 2025 Councilmember Liermann wished the Navy a happy birthday, which will be on October 13th. She invited community participation in the Pinal County health needs survey. Councilmember Liermann announced a spooktacular wildlife event on October 30th. She shared her appreciation with city staff for their work during monsoon season and highlighted her participation with Councilmember Goettl in Operation Back on Track, a train derailment exercise. She added that the exercise included participation from Maricopa Police and Fire, the CERT program, Ak-Chin Police, Pinal County Coroner's Office, Amtrak staff, Chandler Fire Department, Pinal County Sheriff's Department, Exceptional Health, and AMR Ambulance Service. Councilmember Goettl also shared on the emergency exercise that he attended with Councilmember Liermann, stressing the critical role of these preparedness activities in enhancing community safety and emergency response readiness. He reported on his insightful tour of the Phoenix Alarm Room, a pivotal hub coordinating 9-1-1 services across the Phoenix Valley, showcasing its integral role in regional safety infrastructure. Councilmember Goettl further shared his participation in the Maricopa Police Department's inaugural Business Watch meeting, highlighting it as a significant step towards fostering secure and vibrant local business environments through community collaboration and proactive policing efforts. Mayor Smith shared her involvement in the recent Kids Day festival, which successfully attracted more than 3,000 children and their parents as it celebrated its 18th year. She expressed enthusiasm about the festival's growth and its positive impact on the community. Mayor Smith recounted her enlightening tour of the Phoenix Dispatch Center, where she observed firsthand the effectiveness of mutual aid in coordinating emergency responses across multiple jurisdictions, highlighting the importance of these collaborations in enhancing public safety. Furthermore, she attended the Maricopa Relay for Life Survivor Dinner, participating as a proud 9-year breast cancer survivor. She emphasized the significance of this annual event in supporting cancer survivors and fostering community resilience. 5. Report from the City Manager City Manager Ben Bitter shared about a new initiative called Business Watch, modeled after Neighborhood Watch. He introduced Police Chief Mark Goodman to provide details. Chief Goodman explained that the Business Watch program aims to engage local businesses in community policing efforts to create a vibrant, successful, and safe business environment. The first meeting was held at the library on September 24th with 8-10 businesses attending in person, while Councilmember Liermann's Facebook livestream reached over 1,000 participants. He reported that the department plans to engage businesses in different areas of the city, starting with the Fry's shopping center, then moving to the Bashas's side of John Wayne Parkway, and eventually to the Walmart area. Chief Goodman also noted the department's participation in Pink Patch Month to support breast cancer awareness. 6. Call to the Public Kim Morris expressed concerns about rhetoric at a Turning Point Action event held in the city, stating that events in public spaces should reflect shared values of civility, safety, and community rather than promote intimidation or hostility. She requested the Council consider creating a unity commission to bring people together from all sides of City of Maricopa Page 3 City Council Regular Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final October 7, 2025 the political spectrum. Kent O’Jon, speaking on behalf of the Black Maricopa Chamber of Commerce, expressed concerns about the same event, stating that while they respect free speech, they believe public platforms should not harm, exclude, or marginalize residents. He requested the Council create a community-informed process for reviewing speakers at city-supported venues and establish guidelines for responding when events raise concerns about racial or community harm. Terry Yoshii spoke about the E. Coli incident, requesting an independent investigation and questioning who is responsible for public health and safety. He expressed concern that the water company may have used proactive measures that prevented an accurate assessment of the initial contamination. Brad Follett addressed the Council regarding the E. Coli incident, asserting that Global Water did not adequately notify the public as required by federal regulations. He raised additional concerns about the lack of transparency concerning the specifics of the contamination. Next, Mr. Follett spoke on the pressing issues surrounding school crosswalks in Maricopa, emphasizing that many do not comply with established safety standards and require immediate attention to ensure the safety of children commuting to and from school. Chrystal O'Jon expressed her concerns regarding a Turning Point event hosted in Maricopa. While she acknowledged the importance of freedom of speech, she emphasized the need for the city to take proactive steps to ensure that events held within its boundaries do not incite fear or promote division among the community members. Ms. O'Jon suggested that the city develop and implement protocols specifically designed to address and respond when events pose potential risks of causing harm or unrest within the community. She shared the significance of maintaining a welcoming and safe environment for all residents. Teniecka Drake announced her upcoming book launch and community event summit on October 18th, inviting organizations providing services to survivors to participate so people can learn where to get help. Torri Anderson announced that the 20th annual Seeds of Change Gala was sold out, shared the history of domestic violence awareness in Maricopa, and thanked the community for its support over the years. 7. Consent Agenda Approval of the Consent Agenda A motion was made by Councilmember Manfredi, seconded by Councilmember Marsh to Adopt the Consent Agenda. The motion carried unanimously. 7.1 SUB25-11 The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action to approve Subdivision Case # SUB25-11, Moonlight Parcel A, a Re-Plat of Moonlight Parcel A, Fee No. 2023-070056. Discussion and Action. This Subdivision was Approved. 7.2 IGA 25-10 The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action to approve an City of Maricopa Page 4 City Council Regular Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final October 7, 2025 Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) between the City of Maricopa and Pinal County for participation in the Pinal County Annual Safety Roadeo. Discussion and Action. This Intergovernmental Agreement was Approved. 7.3 SUB24-17 The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action to approve Subdivision Case # SUB24-17, Final Plat for "Final Plat - Replat of Lots 16A, 17, and 18 of Maricopa Power Center The Wells," a request for final plat approval to subdivide +/- 34.987 acres of land into six (6) Lots for a commercial subdivision. Discussion and Action. This Subdivision was Approved. 7.4 IGA 25-11 The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action on approving a first amendment to IGA 25-01 with the Town of Gilbert for Fire Service trainings for the cost increase from $4,500 to $5,000 for the Recruit Training Academy. Discussion and Action. This Intergovernmental Agreement was Approved. 7.5 SPEVLIQ 25-09 The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action on recommending approval to the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control for a Special Event Liquor License application submitted by Wendy Webb for approval of an event known as Thirsty Thirdsday on January 15, February 19, March 19, and April 16, 2026 to be held at 20942 N. Province Parkway, Maricopa, Arizona 85138. Discussion and Action. This Special Event Liquor License was Approved. 7.6 ORD 25-12 An Ordinance of the Mayor and City Council of the City of Maricopa, Arizona, amending Section 2.15.150(A) of the Maricopa City Code related to the established standing Budget and Finance Council Subcommittee and providing for severability and the effective date thereof. Discussion and Action. This Ordinance was Approved. 7.7 MIN 25-60 Approval of Minutes from the September 16, 2025 City Council Regular meeting. Discussion and Action. These Minutes were Approved. 7.8 CON 25-19 The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action to ratify a Coverage Settlement Agreement with Travelers Indemnity Company related to coverage for the Settlement Agreement previously approved with Estrella Gin Business Park, LLC. Discussion and Action. This Contract was Approved. 7.9 BIN 25-01 The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action on authorizing the City Clerk to forward an Endorsement by Local Governing Body to the Arizona Department of Revenue, Bingo Section, for issuance of a Change of Location Bingo License, as requested by the Maricopa Moose Lodge 2730 for location 19395 N. John Wayne Parkway, Maricopa, AZ 85139. Discussion and Action. This Bingo License was Approved. 8. Regular Agenda and/or Public Hearings City of Maricopa Page 5 City Council Regular Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final October 7, 2025 8.1 APP 25-06 The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action on making an appointment to fill the vacancy on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee. Discussion and Action. Councilmember Manfredi nominated Kenneth Longman to fill a vacancy on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee. He was impressed with Longman's history of community service as a retired firefighter and his enthusiasm for making the position one with significant time involvement. A motion was made by Councilmember Knorr, seconded by Councilmember Liermann, that this Appointment be Appointed. The motion carried by a unanimous vote. 8.2 ORD 25-11 An Ordinance of the Mayor and City Council of the City of Maricopa, Arizona, approving and adopting an amendment to the City's Zoning Map to rezone approximately 9.33 acres of land generally located at the southeast corner of W. Bowlin Rd. and N. John Wayne Pkwy., within the City of Maricopa incorporated limits, on Pinal County Parcels 510-12-014D, and 510-12-014N, from D3 Planned Area Development (PAD) to Copper Sky Medical Campus Planned Area Development (PAD), as described in Zoning Case #PAD25-06. The parcels of land are located in a portion of Section 34, Township 4 South, Range 3 East, of the Gila and Salt River Base and Meridian, Pinal County, Arizona. Discussion and Action. Derek Scheerer, Planner II, presented a request to rezone approximately 9.33 acres at the southeast corner of John Wayne Parkway and Bowlin Road from D3 Planned Area Development to Copper Sky Medical Campus Planned Area Development. Mr. Scheerer reported that the proposal is for a smaller medical campus than a previous PAD that never came to fruition. He added that the new plan includes a hospital, either a 1-2 story 60,000 square foot or a 4-story 100,000 square foot facility with at least 25 licensed medical surgical inpatient beds, including 4 ICU-capable beds, an operating suite, 10 treatment bays, a helipad, and various imaging services. He added that the development also includes options for medical office buildings and support retail services. Councilmember Marsh asked about a small parcel located at the corner of Bowlin Road and John Wayne Parkway. Mr. Scheerer provided clarification that this parcel is owned by a Homeowner's Association and, as such, it is not included in the current rezoning initiative. He added that despite this exclusion, the developer has shown interest in acquiring or utilizing this parcel. Councilmember Knorr took a moment to thank the Planning and Zoning Commission for their meticulous and comprehensive review process. She asked Mr. Scheerer to clarify what would be the next steps upon approval from the council on the presented rezoning. Mr. Scheerer shared that this approval lays the groundwork for the subsequent process, which involves a development review permit as the next critical step in moving the project forward. Councilmember Liermann sought confirmation regarding the details of the presentation, particularly focusing on the minimum requirements set forth for the new facility. Her confirmation spotlighted the flexibility within the proposed plans, indicating that while these are the baseline requirements, the actual facility might end up being significantly larger, with more extensive features than initially outlined. Vice Mayor Wade asked about the helipad, which Mr. Scheerer confirmed would be City of Maricopa Page 6 City Council Regular Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final October 7, 2025 used to transport patients to higher-level trauma centers when needed. A motion was made by Councilmember Goettl, seconded by Vice Mayor Wade, that this Ordinance be Approved. The motion carried by a unanimous vote. 8.3 PRES 25-18 The Mayor and Council shall hear a presentation from the Communications and Cultural Services Department on event activations and opportunities for community engagement during the Maricopa Stagecoach Days event, to be held from October 15-26, 2025. Quinn Konold, Community Enrichment Director, provided an overview of the upcoming Stagecoach Days event, from October 15 to October 26, 2025, aimed to celebrate the city's incorporation and become an annual tradition. He said that the event will feature a variety of activities, including the Pecan Pride food competition showcasing local dishes and the Shuttershots photo competition highlighting the city. Mr. Quinn added that library activities include an art reception and a western-themed mini book sale. He shared that outdoor events such as movies at Copper Sky, a fishing derby with free fishing poles for participants, and a multi-generational game night at the Community Center will also be held. Mr. Quinn shared that the Historical Society would hold an event that offers a space for sharing local history. Lastly, Mr. Quinn added that there will be a three-day carnival at Pecana Park with rides, games, a neon cowboy color run, and unique experiences like goat kissing, alongside contests like cricket spitting and cow pie tossing. Mayor Smith urged resident participation, and Councilmember Liermann announced a domestic violence awareness booth at the event. The Presentation was heard. 8.4 RES 25-44 A Resolution of the Mayor and City Council of the City of Maricopa, Arizona, adopting a Partnership Strategy to set forth the approach for expanding services by establishing strategic partnerships with the City of Maricopa. Discussion and Action. Quinn Konold, Community Enrichment Director, presented a comprehensive strategy focused on establishing strategic partnerships with private and nonprofit entities in three key areas: seniors, teens and preteens, and arts and culture. He outlined that this strategy aligns with the city's strategic priority to enhance the quality of life for all residents, aiming to explore and meet the needs of underserved groups by leveraging effective partnerships. Mr. Konold emphasized that the strategy was developed with significant input from the city's advisory committees. Between June and August 2025, these committees provided valuable feedback and suggestions for potential future expansion into other areas. He highlighted that while the initial focus is on the three identified areas, the strategy's flexibility allows for possible expansion to include other demographic groups in the future, should community needs arise. Mr. Konold noted that the strategy is not intended to be exclusive or restrictive. He stressed the importance of efficiently using resources to ensure that investments are seen as essential enhancements rather than burdens on taxpayers. He further clarified that this approach is not a fixed policy, but a strategic effort aimed at achieving the city's goals of not only increasing service access for underserved groups but also enhancing overall community engagement in valuable programs and activities. Priscilla Behnke from the nonprofit Be Awesome spoke about the language in the strategy. She argued that partnerships should not be required to achieve financial self-sustainability exclusively, pointing out that many programs, particularly those supporting teens and vulnerable groups such as seniors, are not inherently revenue-generating. Ms. Behnke shared that expecting these programs to inevitably move away from city support might inadvertently exclude high impact but non-profitable City of Maricopa Page 7 City Council Regular Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final October 7, 2025 initiatives. Councilmember Marsh shared that the city should consider increasing discretionary fund allotments to support these programs more effectively, reinforcing the idea that city-backed partnerships play an essential role in meeting community needs. Councilmember Goettl proposed an amendment to the strategy's language, specifically in section 2 number 5. He suggested changing the wording from "partnerships must demonstrate" to "partnerships are encouraged to demonstrate," to prevent the language from becoming a barrier. He added that this change was aimed at allowing flexibility for long-term partnerships to grow with potential city support, ensuring that the initial rigid requirements do not hinder the development of beneficial programs. Vice Mayor Wade shared his appreciation for the strategy, recognizing it as a responsive measure to ongoing conversations held in previous council meetings. He shared the importance of being heard by the city's administration and expressed optimism about the positive outcomes these partnerships could bring to the community. Councilmember Knorr reiterated the necessity of not prematurely cutting off programs from city support if they do not achieve self-sustainability within a specific time frame. She added that the importance of maintaining crucial services for the community and ensuring these remain available to residents over the long term, pointing out that some services might inherently require ongoing city involvement to thrive. Councilmember Knorr expressed her hope that this partnership strategy would continue to evolve and adapt to meet the community's changing needs. A motion was made by Councilmember Goettl, seconded by Councilmember Knorr, that this Resolution be Approved as Amended. The motion carried by a unanimous vote. 8.5 IGA 25-12 The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action to approve an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) between the City of Maricopa and Pinal County for a financial contribution to the widening of the Pinal County portion of State Route 347. Discussion and Action. City Manager Ben Bitter discussed an Intergovernmental Agreement between the City of Maricopa and Pinal County concerning the financial contribution towards the enhancements of State Route 347. He detailed that the city had formerly established an agreement with the Arizona Department of Transportation to contribute $50 million as part of the local contribution. This amount included $30 million sourced from the city and an additional $20 million pledged by Pinal County. He shared that this current agreement is intended to formalize the mechanism by which Pinal County will fulfill its commitment to provide the $20 million contribution to the City of Maricopa. A motion was made by Councilmember Knorr, seconded by Councilmember Manfredi, that this Intergovernmental Agreement be Approved. The motion carried by a unanimous vote. 9. Executive Session No executive session was held. 10. Adjournment City of Maricopa Page 8 City Council Regular Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final October 7, 2025 This meeting was Adjourned at 8:46 p.m. Certification of Minutes I hereby certify that the foregoing minutes are a true and correct copy of the minutes of the regular meeting of the City Council of Maricopa, Arizona, held on the 7th day of October, 2025. I further certify that the meeting was duly called and held and that a quorum was present. Dated this 4th day of November, 2025. __________________________ Vanessa Bueras City Clerk City of Maricopa Page 9