Attachment A - June 12, 2024 EDH Minutes.pdf

Phoenix City Council 
Economic Development and Housing (EDH) Subcommittee 
Summary Minutes 
Wednesday, June 12, 2024 
City Council Chambers 
200 W. Jefferson St. 
Phoenix, Ariz. 
Subcommittee Members Present     
Subcommittee Members Absent 
Chairman Kevin Robinson, Chair 
Vice Mayor Debra Stark 
Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington 
Councilman Carlos Galindo-Elvira 
CALL TO ORDER 
Chairman Robinson called the Economic Development and Housing Subcommittee to 
order at 10:04 a.m. with Vice Mayor Debra Stark, and Councilman Carlos Galindo-Elvira 
present.  
Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington attended the Economic Development and 
Housing Subcommittee meeting at 10:07 a.m. 
CALL TO THE PUBLIC 
Charmain Robinson opened the floor to public comment. 
Evelynne Castillo, a field organizer with the Take Back Our Homes campaign, 
expressed concern over the lack of protections for individuals facing evictions and the 
insufficient funding for housing in Arizona. She said having organized in Phoenix for 
several years, she highlighted the pressing need for a Right-to-Counsel program, citing 
real-life examples of how legal representation can prevent evictions and provide crucial 
support to families in distress. She recounted a specific case where legal aid helped a 
tenant avoid eviction, secure additional time to find new housing, and avoid hefty fees, 
contrasting it with the harsh realities faced by many Arizonans without such support. 
Ms. Castillo urged the Council to prioritize a cost-benefit study for a Right-to-Counsel 
program, emphasizing that it's within their power as elected officials to safeguard the 
well-being of Phoenix residents.  
Andrea Luna Cervantes, representing the Take Back Our Homes campaign, advocated 
for a Right-to-Counsel program for renters facing eviction. Ms. Cervantes emphasized 
the critical need for legal representation in eviction proceedings, noting the limitations of 
existing resources like the Tenant Eviction Assistance Project. She mentioned 
Attachment A

successful models in Tucson and Cleveland, Ms. Cervantes highlighted significant 
positive outcomes, such as a higher rate of favorable outcomes for tenants and 
substantial cost savings for the cities involved. She urged the council to conduct a 
thorough study to assess the potential benefits and cost-effectiveness of implementing 
a Right-to-Counsel program in Phoenix. Ms. Cervantes underscored the urgency of the 
situation, citing rising eviction rates and the community's need for robust eviction 
prevention measures. She called for unified Council support to prioritize funding for 
eviction prevention programs in the upcoming budget cycle, stressing that the time to 
act is now. 
 
Sebastian Del Portillo, Campaign Manager for the Take Back Our Homes campaign, 
advocating for a Right-to-Counsel program. He highlighted the overwhelming support 
from community members, advocates, and organizations for this initiative, emphasizing 
that funding for legal defense has been a top priority during the budget process due to 
its crucial role in preventing evictions. Mr. Portillo underscored the moral and economic 
benefits of implementing a Right-to-Counsel program, citing examples from other cities 
where such programs have significantly reduced eviction rates and saved taxpayer 
money on emergency services. He commended Councilmember Robinson for 
spearheading efforts to conduct a cost-benefit analysis to demonstrate the economic 
impacts of such an ordinance in Phoenix. Mr. Portillo urged the Council to act swiftly, 
pointing out that delays in City processes could exacerbate the eviction crisis affecting 
Phoenix residents, including vulnerable children. He expressed disappointment on 
behalf of campaign members regarding the current budget allocations but remained 
hopeful that the City's economic growth and development would be paralleled by strong 
protections for its residents. Mr. Portillo called on the Council to prioritize funding for a 
Right-to-Counsel program in the upcoming budget cycle, emphasizing the urgent need 
to support Phoenix residents facing eviction and to ensure stable and healthy 
communities. 
 
Chairman Robinson closed the floor to public comment.  
 
MINUTES OF MEETINGS 
 
1. Minutes of the Economic Development and Housing Subcommittee Meeting 
Vice Mayor Stark made a motion to approve the minutes of the May 8, 2024, Economic 
Development and Housing Subcommittee meeting. Councilman Galindo-Elvira 
seconded the motion which passed unanimously, 4-0. 
 
CONSENT ACTION (ITEMS 2-7)  
 
Items 2-4 were for consent action. No presentations were planned, but City staff was 
available to answer questions. 
 
2. Aviation Land Reuse Strategy Update - Authorization to Dispose of Additional 
Land Reuse Strategy Properties

Consent only. No Councilmember requested additional information. 
 
3. Head Start Birth to Five Program Purchase of Capital Equipment Over $5,000 
Consent only. No Councilmember requested additional information. 
 
4. Head Start Birth to Five Program Approval to Submit Request of Disposition 
Consent only. No Councilmember requested additional information. 
 
5. Request Approval of the Head Start Birth to Five Quality Improvement Plan 
Consent only. No Councilmember requested additional information. 
 
6. Approval of Head Start Birth to Five Standards of Conduct Policy 
Consent only. No Councilmember requested additional information. 
 
7. Authorization to submit a Low-Cost Extension request of Head Start Birth to 
Five Program 
Consent only. No Councilmember requested additional information. 
 
Vice Mayor Stark made a motion to approve Consent Items 2 through 7. Councilwoman 
Hodge Washington seconded the motion which passed unanimously, 4-0. 
INFORMATION ONLY (ITEM 8-10) 
8. Historic Preservation Demonstration Project Grant - First National Bank 
building - 1506 (aka 1516 and 1520) E. McDowell Road 
Information only. No Councilmember requested additional information. 
9. Opioid Response Planning: Substance Use Plan 
Information only. No Councilmember requested additional information. 
10. Head Start Birth to Five Monthly Report - April 2024 
Information only. No Councilmember requested additional information. 
 
INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION (ITEMS 11)  
 
11. Strategies to Address Homelessness Plan Update 
Deputy City Manager Gina Montes, Homeless Solution Director Rachel Milne, Housing 
Director Titus Mathew, and Neighborhood Services Director Spencer Self presented on 
the item. 
 
Vice Mayor Stark began by acknowledging Deputy Homeless Solution Director Scott 
Hall in the audience, highlighting his role as a dedicated employee and father, 
expressing pride in having him as part of the City. She then recognized the significant 
contributions of various nonprofits in combating homelessness and supporting 
communities, such as House of Refuge, Sunny Soap, New Freedom, and Phoenix 
Rescue Mission. She emphasized that these organizations operate largely

independently without relying on City funding, underscoring their vital role alongside 
governmental efforts. Vice Mayor Stark praised the progress made since the adoption of 
the 2020 plan to combat homelessness, crediting the City staff for their exceptional 
work. She commended their responsiveness to public concerns and their proactive 
efforts in addressing community needs. Vice Mayor Stark concluded by expressing 
gratitude for the dedication and outstanding performance of City staff in making 
significant strides towards improving housing and homelessness issues in Phoenix. 
 
Councilwoman Hodge Washington acknowledged the efforts of City staff presenting 
their work, recognizing the challenges they face and expressing appreciation for their 
contributions. She noted that despite progress, there are still areas needing 
improvement. She mentioned receiving calls from constituents seeking assistance with 
evictions and encampments, highlighting ongoing community concerns. Councilwoman 
Hodge Washington then posed a question about how hotspots are managed once 
identified, seeking clarification on whether they are treated differently from other 
encampments.  
 
Ms. Milne clarified that hotspots are identified based on a concentration of Phoenix 
Community Action Response Engagement Services (C.A.R.E.S.) cases in a specific 
area. She said when numerous C.A.R.E.S. cases accumulate at a particular address or 
location, it triggers proactive measures by the City. She said this proactive approach 
involves not only responding to individual cases as they arise but also initiating 
proactive outreach to address the encampment comprehensively. Ms. Milne mentioned 
the City's strategy includes engaging with individuals present at these hotspots to 
connect them with services and support, aiming to manage and reduce homelessness 
in these concentrated areas effectively. She added the distinction underscores the City's 
commitment to addressing homelessness through proactive intervention and community 
engagement initiatives. 
 
Councilwoman Hodge Washington raised two key points, first, she highlighted the need 
for improved communication with community members who report homelessness 
hotspots in their neighborhoods. She noted that constituents often feel left in the dark 
after reporting these issues and suggested that providing more regular updates on the 
City's actions could help manage expectations and foster patience among residents. 
Councilwoman Hodge Washington secondly inquired about the outcomes and data 
regarding individuals who have been engaged through outreach efforts, particularly 
those who transition from unsheltered to sheltered situations and vice versa. She 
expressed interest in understanding whether there are patterns or factors influencing 
these transitions, such as chronic homelessness or other unaddressed needs. She 
suggested it would better inform City strategies and resource allocation to effectively 
address homelessness in Phoenix. 
 
Ms. Milne assured that the City is actively looking into this data, not only for those who 
remain in sheltered situations but also for those who have moved into unsheltered 
conditions. Ms. Milne mentioned that they are conducting an aggregate analysis to

identify common characteristics and factors influencing these transitions. She 
committed to providing further information and updates on this matter. 
 
Councilwoman Hodge Washington expressed a desire to address concerns raised 
about safety in shelter settings by articulating the measures in place to ensure oversight 
and safety. She emphasized the importance of clarifying these practices to provide 
reassurance and accuracy regarding shelter conditions. 
 
Ms. Milne highlighted that the City exercises control over the shelters it funds, 
emphasizing a proactive approach to oversight rather than micromanagement. She 
mentioned that her team spends considerable time at these shelters to ensure 
contractual obligations are met and that services are enhanced. Ms. Milne also stated 
that they address concerns promptly by providing additional monitoring and technical 
assistance when issues are reported at specific shelters. 
 
Councilwoman Hodge Washington emphasized the importance of receiving feedback 
not only from shelter operators but also directly from the users of the shelters. 
 
Ms. Milne confirmed that they do receive direct requests from shelter clients to 
investigate issues or concerns they may have. 
 
Councilwoman Hodge Washington expressed her desire to identify areas where 
progress has been made and to understand the remaining tasks and challenges. She 
highlighted the need to articulate next steps to address pending issues and barriers that 
hinder accomplishments. She mentioned the overwhelming demand for housing 
vouchers and the limitations imposed by federal allocations. She sought ways for the 
City to advocate more effectively to increase the number of vouchers available. 
Councilwoman Hodge Washington emphasized the importance of developing a 
comprehensive plan to continue advancing initiatives and filling gaps identified by the 
task force. 
 
Councilman Galindo-Elvira expressed gratitude for the presentations and highlighted his 
ongoing focus on homelessness. His asked about the Navigation Center's progress, 
seeking confirmation if they were on schedule for opening in mid-July. 
 
Ms. Milne confirmed they are on schedule to open the Navigation Center in mid-July 
with a phase one opening. She shared they plan to be operational by the end of July, 
with the center starting to be open for business by mid-July. 
 
Councilman Galindo-Elvira clarified there will be 140 beds.  
 
Ms. Milne confirmed that the phase one opening of the Navigation Center will provide 
beds for 140 individuals.

Councilman Galindo-Elvira expressed gratitude for clarifying the access to the 
Navigation Center, noting that it operates on a referral basis rather than being a walk-up 
facility. 
 
Ms. Milne confirmed that access to the Navigation Center will be strictly on a referral 
basis, similar to how other smaller sites have operated. She stated there will be no 
walk-up services available, and individuals seeking assistance such as meals or beds 
must be referred by an outreach team. 
 
Councilman Galindo-Elvira inquired about the scope of wraparound services at the 
Navigation Center, specifically asking if they include access to physical health services 
in addition to behavioral health services. 
 
Ms. Milne confirmed that Community Bridges will provide case management and 
behavioral health services at the Navigation Center. She added Circle the City will 
partner to offer physical health services through their mobile unit on-site. 
 
Councilman Galindo-Elvira inquired about the safeguards in place around the 
Navigation Center to address concerns from the local neighborhood. He emphasized 
the importance of sharing this information in a culturally and linguistically appropriate 
manner. 
 
Ms. Milne outlined several safeguards that will be implemented around the Navigation 
Center to address concerns from the local neighborhood. She mentioned that on-site 
security will be present, including a security gate at the entrance to monitor who enters 
and exits the site. She stated the perimeter security will also be maintained, and 
Outreach teams will engage with the community to address any issues that arise. She 
said collaboration with the Police staff is planned to keep them informed about 
operations at the site. She added everyone accessing the site will be referred and 
physically transported there, ensuring that entry is controlled and monitored effectively. 
Ms. Milne said transport will also be provided for individuals attending appointments or 
job interviews. 
 
Councilman Galindo-Elvira clarified that while the Police staff will have a presence at 
the Navigation Center for security purposes, the primary approach will continue to be 
centered around service provision. He said this means that services and support will 
remain the core focus of operations at the center, with security being an integral but 
secondary aspect of their role. 
 
Ms. Milne affirmed that the Navigation Center will primarily be managed by homeless 
service operators with the support of private security. She said Police staff will be called 
upon as needed, particularly in cases involving crimes in progress, demonstrating their 
role as a partner in ensuring safety at the site while primarily leaving operations to the 
homeless service operators and security personnel.

Chairman Robinson expressed his gratitude and appreciation for the efforts City staff, 
highlighting their collaboration and responsiveness to questions from everyone involved. 
He acknowledged the significant progress made while recognizing that there is still work 
to be done. Chairman Robinson emphasized the importance of their work in caring for 
the most vulnerable members of society, expressing heartfelt thanks for their dedication 
and hard work, which he assured them does not go unnoticed. 
 
DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION (ITEMS 12-15)  
 
12. Authorization to Amend Contract 109415 and Enter into a Ground Lease 
between the City of Phoenix and University of Arizona for the Development of the 
Center for Advanced Molecular and Immunological Therapies at the Phoenix 
Bioscience Core 
Community and Economic Development Director Christine Mackay, Deputy Community 
and Economic Development Director Xandon Keating presented on the item.  
 
Chairman Robinson supported the project for advancing research to the next level, 
underscoring its significance and the opportunities it presents for the City. Chairman 
Robinson highlighted the value of partnerships in achieving these goals, expressing 
optimism that the success of such efforts will benefit everyone involved. 
 
Councilwoman Hodge Washington said the project now resonates positively within the 
community, fostering excitement and a sense of inclusion. She highlighted her recent 
attendance at Bio International, where she witnessed significant advancements in 
biosciences in Phoenix. She found the innovations inspiring and believes Cami will 
contribute significantly to these developments. Councilwoman Hodge Washington 
reaffirmed her support for the program and commended its impact and community 
involvement. 
 
Ms. Mackay added the significant progress in cancer research announced at Bio 
International last week, specifically mentioning a cancer vaccine for canines and its 
promising efficacy. She underscored their commitment to advancing cancer research in 
Phoenix. She mentioned Councilwoman Hodge Washington adeptly engaged with 
biosciences at the trade show booth, effectively promoting the City’s capabilities to 
attending companies over a couple of days. 
 
Councilman Hodge Washington made a motion to approve the item. Vice Mayor Stark 
seconded the motion which passed unanimously, 4-0. 
 
13. Authorization to Enter into Lease and City Building Refurbishment Agreement 
with Poolhouse Group, LLC for the former Firehouse located at 1130 N. 1st St. 
Community and Economic Development Director Christine Mackay, Deputy Community 
and Economic Development Director Xandon Keating, Economic Development Program

Manager Heather Rasmussen and Community and Economic Development 
Procurement Manager Jennifer Holland presented on the item.  
 
Chairman Robinson opened the floor to public comment.  
 
Rick Naimark, President representing the Hance Park Conservancy, emphasized the 
park's role as a neighborhood hub for arts, culture, and regional recreation. He 
expressed gratitude for the City's support, including a $3 million allocation from the bond 
program to advance the park's development. Mr. Naimark credited the Community and 
Economic Development staff for their perseverance in reaching this milestone amid a 
lengthy journey. He highlighted ongoing efforts, including partnerships with the Phoenix 
Community Alliance to fund the master plan, he noted completed projects like the 
Republic Services Garden and Fiesta Bowl Playground. Mr. Naimark stressed the park's 
growing importance to a burgeoning downtown population, foreseeing its future as a 
premier food and beverage destination. He underscored the pivotal role of City 
investment and proposed business agreements in facilitating the park's adaptive reuse, 
concluding with a call for continued support from City officials to further enhance Hance 
Park's community impact. 
 
Chairman Robinson closed the floor to public comment.  
 
Councilman Galindo-Elvira expressed support for the item.  
 
Councilman Galindo-Elvira made a motion to approve the item. Councilwoman Hodge 
Washington seconded the motion which passed unanimously, 4-0. 
 
14. Development Agreement with Lines Family Entities for Public Infrastructure 
Improvements 
Community and Economic Development Director Christine Mackay and Deputy 
Community and Economic Development Director Nathan Wright presented on the item. 
 
Chairman Robinson opened the floor to public comment.  
 
Linda Abegg, chair of the Laveen Village planning committee, expressed appreciation 
for the collaborative efforts that have culminated in progress toward responsible 
development in Laveen. She shared having been involved since the project's inception, 
she highlighted the community's longstanding commitment to balancing housing and 
employment needs with essential infrastructure support. Ms. Abegg credited 
Councilwoman Hodge Washington, the Community and Economic Development staff, 
and the developer for their contributions to finding a sustainable approach that meets 
the City’s requirements while fostering local growth. She requested support for the 
project and commended the decision to direct funds from the billboard to Ocotillo Park, 
noting its alignment with successful past initiatives. 
 
Chairman Robinson closed the floor to public comment.

Councilwoman Hodge Washington expressed gratitude to the Community and 
Economic Development staff for their collaboration in crafting a significant Planned Unit 
Development (PUD) agreement in Laveen. She acknowledged the unconventional path 
taken and highlighted the unique resolution achieved to meet both community and 
developer needs. She said the PUD addresses several community priorities, including 
investments in streets, infrastructure, public art, and parks. Councilwoman Hodge 
Washington emphasized the importance of securing a combined Police and Fire station, 
fulfilling a longstanding desire for Laveen to have its own substation. She underscored 
the impact on emergency response times, citing her recent ride-along with Fire Station 
58 as evidence of the area's growth. Councilwoman Hodge Washington stressed that 
this project reflects a community-driven effort, echoing the sentiments shared by the 
Laveen Village planning committee chair. She concluded by affirming her excitement 
and support for balancing growth in the Laveen economic corridor while preparing for 
future development opportunities. Councilwoman Hodge Washington also noted that the 
development project will include a new trailhead that provides an additional access point 
to South Mountain Park from its westernmost area. She said this aspect of the project 
aims to increase accessibility for more residents to enjoy the natural beauty of South 
Mountain Park. She emphasized the significance of this new trailhead as an addition to 
the community benefits provided by the development. 
 
Vice Mayor Stark expressed gratitude for the crafted development agreement, 
acknowledging the limited Economic Development Tools available in Arizona. She 
commended Councilwoman Hodge Washington for her diligent work on both the zoning 
case and the development agreement.  
 
Councilman Galindo-Elvira supported the successful achievement of the project. He 
mentioned receiving positive feedback from the Laveen area, where there has been 
significant support for Councilwoman Hodge Washington's leadership, sincerity, and her 
commitment to understanding and appreciating the concerns of the Laveen community. 
He expressed gratitude to her for listening to their voices and emphasized his strong 
support for the project. 
 
Councilman Hodge Washington made a motion to approve the item. Vice Mayor Stark 
seconded the motion which passed unanimously, 4-0. 
 
15. Formation of the Phoenix Sports & Events Commission 
Convention Center Director Jerry Harper, President and CEO Visit Phoenix Ron Price, 
and Sports and Major Events Lead Bloomberg Associates Mike Hopper presented on 
the item.  
 
Vice Mayor Stark sought clarification regarding the goal of hosting a minimum of two 
new major events. She inquired whether this initiative aimed to attract these events 
anywhere within the city or specifically targeted the convention center.

Mr. Price clarified that the goal of hosting a minimum of two new major events applies to 
any location within the city. This includes utilizing various facilities such as the 
convention center and Park and Recreation facilities like Reach 11 for hosting new 
tournaments or events that would be novel to the City's current offerings. 
 
Vice Mayor Stark sought clarification on whether members of the commission would be 
required to reside within the city. She suggested that individuals with expertise in the 
industry might reside in nearby cities like Mesa but could still contribute valuable skills 
and knowledge to the commission. 
 
Mr. Price clarified individuals can be on the commission outside of the city as well.  
 
Councilwoman Hodge Washington expressed curiosity about the metrics used to 
determine what qualifies as a major event for the City, noting that the City has set high 
standards with past events like the Final Four. She sought clarification on the criteria or 
indicators that would define such events in the future. 
 
Mr. Price explained that defining major events involves establishing metrics such as the 
number of hotel rooms utilized, akin to how certain states legislate mega events like the 
Final Four or Super Bowl. He mentioned that the Advisory Board would collaborate to 
determine specific criteria, analogous to distinguishing between Citywide and in-house 
convention business metrics used at the Convention Center. 
 
Councilman Galindo-Elvira made a motion to approve the item. Councilwoman Hodge 
Washington seconded the motion which passed unanimously, 4-0. 
 
CALL TO THE PUBLIC  
 
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS 
Councilwoman Hodge Washington reiterated her interest in exploring the Right-to-
Counsel issue further, noting its previous discussion in subcommittee meetings. She 
emphasized the need for a cost-benefit analysis to assess the potential impacts, costs, 
and benefits of expanding the program. 
 
Vice Mayor Stark suggested expanding the discussion on the Right-to-Counsel for 
eviction cases, highlighting that most evictions are handled through Justice of the Peace 
Courts, making it a countywide issue. She proposed exploring how Maricopa County 
could be involved, suggesting that Justice of the Peace Courts might need to consider 
implementing a program to assist individuals facing eviction. 
 
Councilwoman Hodge Washington emphasized the need for comprehensive 
involvement in discussions around the Right-to-Counsel for eviction cases, agreeing 
with Vice Mayor Stark that all relevant stakeholders should be engaged. She suggested 
that resources should also be sought from the State Legislature, as they determine 
eviction timelines. Councilwoman Hodge Washington proposed reconsidering the

current five-day eviction notification period, suggesting a longer period to allow tenants 
more time for negotiation and review. 
 
Councilman Galindo-Elvira emphasized the importance of measuring the efficacy of 
programs along with ensuring accessibility. He requested information on how this 
information is distributed or communicated throughout the community, particularly 
focusing on linguistic and cultural accessibility to ensure that individuals can easily avail 
themselves of these services and programs. 
 
ADJOURNMENT 
Chairman Robinson adjourned the meeting at 11:54 a.m. 
 
Respectfully submitted, 
 
Johnathan Gates 
Management Fellow