City Council Regular Meeting on 2026-02-03 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 Vincent Manfredi Councilmember Eric Goettl Councilmember AnnaMarie Knorr Councilmember Amber Liermann Councilmember Bob Marsh Councilmember Henry Wade Tuesday, February 3, 2026 6:00 PM Council Chambers 1. Call to Order The meeting was called to order at 6:03 p.m. An invocation was led by Pastor Grady Root from Maricopa Springs Family Church, which was followed by The Pledge of Allegiance led by Councilmember Wade. 2. Roll Call Present: 7 - Mayor Nancy Smith, Councilmember Eric Goettl, Councilmember AnnaMarie Knorr, Councilmember Amber Liermann, Councilmember Bob Marsh, Councilmember Henry Wade and Vice Mayor Vincent Manfredi 3. Proclamations, Acknowledgements, Awards and Presentations There were no proclamations, acknowledgements, awards or presentations. 4. Report from the Mayor Councilmember Marsh reported participating in the Maricopa Futures planning meeting, led by Mayor Smith on January 22nd. On January 27th, he reported attending the Pinal Partnership Government Relations Committee meeting, where they tracked over 1,600 legislative bills. On January 28th, he reported attending the Maricopa Flood Control District board meeting, which is working to transition its operations to the city. Additionally, on January 29th, Councilmember Marsh shared that he attended the Maricopa Unified School District dinner at Desert Sunrise High School, which included a panel discussion featuring representatives Teresa Martinez and Chris Lopez. Lastly, on February 2nd, he reported participating in a Maricopa Historical Society event, where guest speaker Roger Naylor, a renowned author, spoke about his experiences driving Route 66 from New Mexico to California. Councilmember Goettl highlighted attending the Maricopa Unified School District legislative briefing, noting that it was beneficial to hear updates about state legislative impacts on school districts and to meet with representatives from the neighboring Ak-Chin Community. On January 31st, he also reported attending the police department's House of Worship Security Training, which was attended by over 200 individuals representing many faith-based groups and the Maricopa Unified School District. Councilmember Goettl added that the training conducted by Chief Goodman, Officer Horst, Sergeant Koozer, and Officer Nylander, was well-received with attendees City of Maricopa Page 1 City Council Regular Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final February 3, 2026 expressing interest in a follow-up event. Councilmember Wade discussed his attendance at the House of Worship security training, praising the presenters for their expertise in ensuring places of worship are prepared for emergencies. He also reported participating in the Youth Council meeting and noted the dynamic and active involvement of young participants in community discussions, while also standing in for Councilmember Goettl in the Parks and Rec Committee meeting. Additionally, he recognized Chance Love for his dedicated service on the senior committee and announced that Chance would soon transition to a new position in Gilbert. Councilmember Knorr reported participating in the Maricopa Women in Government Day at the Capitol with over 30 women from the city, led by Representative Teresa Martinez. She mentioned that the day included a tour of the Capitol and a mock bill voting exercise on the House floor, along with insightful presentations from the Arizona Department of Water Resources on issues concerning water and the Arizona Department of Transportation about transport projects. Councilmember Knorr also reported attending the First Responder Heroes flag football game at Pacana Park. Additionally, she spoke about two upcoming events: the Veterans Painting Fundraiser on February 10th at Luxe Lounge and the senior prom, Love Never Gets Old, hosted by Maricopa High School DECA on February 13th. Lastly, she reported a detailed meeting with the city manager and the mayor regarding the challenges faced by a potential business coming to Maricopa. She added that they discussed the obstacles confronting this local business while emphasizing the city's commitment to creating a supportive and welcoming business environment essential for the business's success in the Maricopa community. Councilmember Liermann reported that the city just gave out their next cycle of arts grants, which went to Broadway Theater, the Historical Society, and Learned with Aloha. She also reported that Maricopa Friends of the Arts gave out $6,000 in scholarships to various artists. Councilmember Liermann shared that Chilaquiles will be holding an art and sip event on February 12th and 21st. She added that Chilaquiles would be holding a jazz fusion on February 18th. Additionally, Councilmember Liermann shared that Maricopa High School will host an Arts Festival on February 28th and a Murder Mystery Dinner on February 12th. Lastly, she mentioned the Desert Music Arts Festival is scheduled for March 6th and 7th, showcasing the community's vibrant cultural calendar. Vice Mayor Manfredi reported on his participation in the Transportation Policy Committee with the Maricopa Association of Governments, emphasizing its importance for the funding decisions related to State Route 347. He also shared his involvement in meetings with the Maricopa Partnerships Program Association (MPPA) to delve into economic development matters. Next, Vice Mayor Manfredi shared his re-election to the Rural Transportation Advisory Council. Additionally, he highlighted a meeting with Doug Coleman, who is anticipated to be appointed to the Arizona Department of Transportation Governing Board representing Pinal County. Furthermore, he announced that the Attorney General’s office would host a presentation focused on scam prevention for seniors, scheduled for February 27th at the Council Chambers, aiming to bolster community awareness and protection against fraudulent activities. Mayor Smith shared the significant discussions from the January 22nd Maricopa Futures meeting, which addressed key issues such as the city's financial outlook, exploring commuting corridor alternatives, planning for new community facilities, ensuring public safety, and the development of the industrial park. She also reported City of Maricopa Page 2 City Council Regular Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final February 3, 2026 on the productive conversations with the Greater Phoenix Economic Council aimed at attracting more businesses to the city, which included a tour of the city with its new chief executive. Additionally, Mayor Smith met with Gila River’s Governor Lewis to discuss public safety initiatives and the development of the Green Road Loop. She mentioned a positive meeting with Zeke and his wife Jody, owners of Zesty Zeke's Pizza, expressing gratitude for the chance to discuss next steps and emphasizing that they concluded the meeting feeling optimistic about future momentum. Mayor Smith congratulated City Manager Bitter on being elected as the president of the Arizona City and County Management Association (ACMA). Next, she shared about the upcoming ribbon cutting for the Mike Ingram Heritage Park scheduled for February 24th, the possibility of hosting a concert on March 7, and she also urged citizens to provide feedback on the city's general plan. Furthermore, she reminded everyone of the State of the City address taking place on February 11th. 5. Report from the City Manager City Manager Bitter provided several detailed updates during the meeting. He highlighted the innovative community policing efforts demonstrated by the Police Department through the successful implementation of the House of Worship Security Training, which aimed to enhance safety in religious facilities across the city. Mr. Bitter shared that over the past five years, the city has made significant infrastructural advances by adding 99 new lane miles of roads to accommodate growth and improve transportation. He announced that President Trump had recently signed an appropriations bill that included $867,000 in congressionally designated spending, earmarked specifically for procuring the city's ambulances, underscoring a strong focus on emergency response enhancements. Mr. Bitter reminded everyone about the importance of subscribing to the city’s e-newsletter, which is distributed every Friday and contains timely information, community news, and crucial updates concerning city operations and events. 6. Call to the Public Former Mayor Kelly Anderson shared that Doug Coleman as a good representative for transportation matters. He praised the street maintenance crew for their prompt pothole repairs on Ferrell, Hartman, and Murphy Roads. Lastly, Mr. Anderson expressed concern about unkempt properties around the city that could become fire hazards with the approaching hot weather and questioned the landscaped median in front of Desert Sunrise High School that might restrict visibility for buses and student drivers. Joseph Caruso spoke as a representative of United Way of Pinal County, highlighting their Reading by Third Grade initiative in partnership with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library. He noted that only 29% of Maricopa third graders are proficient in reading according to 2025 test scores, a drop from 33% the previous year. Mr. Caruso added that the program mails books to children under 5 to promote literacy before kindergarten. Lastly, he encouraged parents to sign up for the free program at unitedwayofpc.org and mentioned an upcoming golf tournament on April 24 to support the initiative. 7. Consent Agenda A motion was made by Councilmember AnnaMarie Knorr, seconded by Councilmember Henry Wade, to Adopt the Consent Agenda. The motion carried unanimously. City of Maricopa Page 3 City Council Regular Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final February 3, 2026 Aye: 7 - Councilmember AnnaMarie Knorr, Councilmember Eric Goettl, Councilmember Bob Marsh, Councilmember Amber Liermann, Vice Mayor Vincent Manfredi, Mayor Nancy Smith and Councilmember Henry Wade 7.1 SPEVLIQ 26-01 The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action on recommending approval to the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control for an application for a special event liquor license provided by Brenda Campbell to allow Roots Eatery to serve alcohol during a special event known as Copa Cultural on February 21, 2026 at Copper Sky, 44345 W. Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard, Maricopa AZ 85138. Discussion and Action. This Special Event Liquor License was Approved. 7.2 SPEVLIQ 26-02 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 Kelly Anderson for approval of an event known as Copa Paws & Claws to be held on April 4, 2026 at Pacana Park located at 19000 N. Porter Road, Maricopa, Arizona 85139. Discussion and Action. This Special Event Liquor License was Approved. 7.3 MIN 26-09 Approval of Minutes from the January 20, 2026 City Council Regular meeting. Discussion and Action. These Minutes were Approved. 8. Regular Agenda and/or Public Hearings 8.1 APP 26-04 The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action on making an appointment to fill the vacancy on the Cultural Affairs and Arts Advisory Committee. Discussion and Action. Councilmember Knorr acknowledged Cynthia Portrey for her dedicated service of nearly a decade on the Cultural Affairs and Arts Committee. She shared that Ms. Portrey was actively involved and present at each meeting, while bringing her passion for the arts to the community. Councilmember Knorr introduced Thomas Schilling as her nominee. She shared that Mr. Schilling comes with an impressive background as an acclaimed writer, with 14 publications in both the United States and Great Britain. She added that his literary talents and active involvement in the arts community are expected to bring a fresh perspective to the committee. A motion was made by Councilmember Knorr, seconded by Councilmember Liermann, that this Appointment be Appointed. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 7- Vice Mayor Vincent Manfredi, Councilmember Amber Liermann, Councilmember AnnaMarie Knorr, Councilmember Eric Goettl, Councilmember Bob Marsh, Mayor Nancy Smith and Councilmember Henry Wade 8.2 RES 26-01 PUBLIC HEARING: A Resolution of the Mayor and City Council of the City of Maricopa, Arizona, vacating and abandoning, without compensation, a portion of North Maricopa Road, generally located between W. Honeycutt Avenue and N. John Wayne Parkway, within the City of Maricopa. Discussion and Action. City of Maricopa Page 4 City Council Regular Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final February 3, 2026 Derek Scheerer, Planner II, from the Planning Division presented a right-of-way abandonment application for a 0.182-acre area located south of West Honeycutt Avenue and west of North John Wayne Parkway. He elaborated that this initiative is part of a larger project aimed at realigning North Maricopa Road to create a proper intersection, eliminating the existing offset configuration. Mr. Scheerer added that this realignment is designed to improve traffic flow and enhance safety at the intersection. Lastly, he added that the area being abandoned will be transferred to the adjacent property, which is also owned by the city, thereby increasing the property's potential for future development and marketability. Staff recommended approval as the city and public utilities have determined this portion of the utility easement is no longer necessary and have no plans to improve or use it. No members of the public spoke during the public hearing, which the mayor opened at 6:50 p.m. and closed immediately after. A motion was made by Councilmember Wade, seconded by Councilmember Marsh, that this Resolution be Approved. The motion carried by a unanimous vote. Aye: 7 - Councilmember Eric Goettl, Councilmember Bob Marsh, Councilmember AnnaMarie Knorr, Councilmember Amber Liermann, Mayor Nancy Smith, Vice Mayor Vincent Manfredi and Councilmember Henry Wade 8.3 RES 26-02 PUBLIC HEARING: A Resolution of the Mayor and City Council of the City of Maricopa, Arizona, vacating and abandoning, without compensation, a portion of a Public Utilities Easement on the real property known as Assessor Parcel Number 510-27-0380 generally located south of N. Maricopa Rd. and west of N. John Wayne Parkway, within the City of Maricopa. Discussion and Action. Derek Scheerer presented a request for the abandonment of a Public Utility Easement specifically for the First Baptist Church, which spans approximately 0.477 acres. He shared that this area is a remnant piece of land created during the construction of the State Route 347 overpass. Mr. Sheerer clarified that the church is fully aware of the proposed abandonment and is supportive of it, as it aligns with their planned expansion efforts. Lastly, he added that the church intends to use the additional land to either enlarge their classroom facilities or construct a new auditorium. Staff recommended approval as the easement is no longer necessary. No members of the public spoke during the public hearing, which the mayor opened at 6:54 p.m. and closed immediately after. A motion was made by Councilmember Knorr, seconded by Councilmember Goettl, that this Resolution be Approved. The motion carried by the following vote: Aye: 7- Councilmember Henry Wade, Councilmember Eric Goettl, Councilmember Amber Liermann, Councilmember AnnaMarie Knorr, Councilmember Bob Marsh, Mayor Nancy Smith and Vice Mayor Vincent Manfredi 9. Executive Session No executive session was held. 10. Adjournment This meeting was adjourned at 6:55 p.m. City of Maricopa Page 5 City Council Regular Meeting Meeting Minutes - Final February 3, 2026 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 3rd day of February, 2026. I further certify that the meeting was duly called and held and that a quorum was present. Dated this 17th day of February 2026. __________________________ Vanessa Bueras City Clerk City of Maricopa Page 6