12.16.2025 Regular Council Meeting Minutes.pdf
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December 16, 2025 Regular Council Meeting Minutes CITY OF BUCKEYE REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 16, 2025 MINUTES City Council Chambers 530 East Monroe Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85326 6:00 p.m. Pursuant to A.R.S. § 38-431.03(A)(3) the Council may, by majority vote, recess or adjourn to executive session at one or more times during the meeting, as needed to confer with the City Attorney for legal advice regarding any item listed on this agenda. 1. Call to Order/Invocation/Pledge of Allegiance/Roll Call Mayor Orsborn called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.; Pastor Rick Wiles of First Southern Baptist led the invocation; Councilmember Heustis led the Pledge of Allegiance. Members Present: Councilmember Youngker, Councilmember Berry, Councilmember Beard, Councilmember Heustis, Vice Mayor Goodman, and Mayor Orsborn. Members Absent: Councilmember HagEstad. Departments Present: City Manager Doug Sandstrom, Deputy City Manager Javier Setovich, Deputy City Manager Dave Roderique, Deputy City Manager Jared Askelson, City Attorney Scott McCoy, City Clerk Lucinda Aja, Police Chief Robert Sanders, Fire Chief Jake Rhoades, Water Resources Director Terry Lowe, Chief Human Resources Office Cindy Camarata, Program Management Office Director James Shano, Community Services Deputy Director Kelby Mieras, Development Services Director Brian Craig, Information Technology Director Greg Platacz, Interim Chief Financial Officer Rick Langley, and Interim Director of Communications John O’Halloran. 2. Comments from the Public – None. 3. Awards/Presentations/Proclamations – None. 4. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS / NEW BUSINESS Approval of items on the Consent Agenda - All items with an (*) are considered to be routine matters and will be enacted by one motion and vote of the City Council. A motion was made by Councilmember Heustis and seconded by Vice Mayor Goodman to approve Items *4.A, *4.B, *4.C, *4.D, *4.E, *4.F, *4.G, *4.H., and *4.I. Motion passed unanimously. *4.A Council to take action on the AOPA Fly-In at Buckeye Agreement between the City of Buckeye, an Arizona municipal corporation, and the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), a New Jersey non-profit organization; and authorizing the City Manager to execute and deliver said Agreement on behalf of the City of Buckeye. Staff Liaison: Miranda Gomez, Community Services Director Council approved the AOPA Fly-In at Buckeye Agreement between the City of Buckeye, an Arizona municipal corporation, and the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), a New Jersey non- profit organization; and authorizing the City Manager to execute and deliver said Agreement on behalf of the City of Buckeye. December 16, 2025 Regular Council Meeting Minutes *4.B Council to take action on Change Order No. 1 to the Cooperative Contract Purchase Addendum (CCPA No. 2025277) between the City of Buckeye, an Arizona municipal corporation, and Model 1 Commercial Vehicles, Inc., dba Creative Bus Sales, Inc., an Indiana corporation, to provide mobility vehicles and vehicle conversion services; and authorize the City Manager to execute and deliver said Change Order on behalf of the City of Buckeye. Staff Liaison: Rob Roach, Grant Program and Procurement Manager Council approved Change Order No. 1 to the Cooperative Contract Purchase Addendum (CCPA No. 2025277) between the City of Buckeye, an Arizona municipal corporation, and Model 1 Commercial Vehicles, Inc., dba Creative Bus Sales, Inc., an Indiana corporation, to provide mobility vehicles and vehicle conversion services; and authorize the City Manager to execute and deliver said Change Order on behalf of the City of Buckeye. *4.C Council to take action on Change Order No. 1 to the Cooperative Contract Purchase Addendum (CCPA No. 32500033) between the City of Buckeye, an Arizona municipal corporation, and Vincere Physicians Group PLLC, an Arizona professional limited liability company, for cancer screenings; and authorize the City Manager to execute and deliver said Change Order on behalf of the City of Buckeye. Staff Liaison: Jake Rhoades, Fire Chief Council approved Change Order No. 1 to the Cooperative Contract Purchase Addendum (CCPA No. 32500033) between the City of Buckeye, an Arizona municipal corporation, and Vincere Physicians Group PLLC, an Arizona professional limited liability company, for cancer screenings; and authorize the City Manager to execute and deliver said Change Order on behalf of the City of Buckeye. *4.D Council to take action on Change Order No. 1 to the Cooperative Contract Purchase Addendum (CCPA No. 2025263) between the City of Buckeye, an Arizona municipal corporation, and DBA Construction, Inc, an Arizona corporation, for the construction of Capital improvement Program (CIP) Project No. 105660 Rooks Road Bridge at Buckeye Irrigation District (BID), and the construction of a 16-inch water main; authorize the City Manager to execute and deliver said Change Order on behalf of the City of Buckeye; and authorize and direct the City Manager, or designee, to execute all remaining financial and contracting activities related to this project up to the remaining construction budget of $3,946,498, for a combined not to exceed total of $5,035,670. Staff Liaison: James Zwerg, Project Manager Council approved Change Order No. 1 to the Cooperative Contract Purchase Addendum (CCPA No. 2025263) between the City of Buckeye, an Arizona municipal corporation, and DBA Construction, Inc, an Arizona corporation, for the construction of Capital improvement Program (CIP) Project No. 105660 Rooks Road Bridge at Buckeye Irrigation District (BID), and the construction of a 16-inch water main; authorize the City Manager to execute and deliver said Change Order on behalf of the City of Buckeye; and authorize and direct the City Manager, or designee, to execute all remaining financial and contracting activities related to this project up to the remaining construction budget of $3,946,498, for a combined not to exceed total of $5,035,670. *4.E Council to take action on the Professional Services Agreement (PSA) (Contract No. 2025385B) between the City of Buckeye, an Arizona municipal corporation, and OPN INC., an Iowa corporation, related to the design and civil engineering services for Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Project No. 100720 Westpark Fire Station #706; and authorize the City Manager to execute and deliver said Agreement on behalf of the City of Buckeye. December 16, 2025 Regular Council Meeting Minutes Staff Liaison: James Zwerg, Project Manager Council approved the Professional Services Agreement (PSA) (Contract No. 2025385B) between the City of Buckeye, an Arizona municipal corporation, and OPN INC., an Iowa corporation, related to the design and civil engineering services for Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Project No. 100720 Westpark Fire Station #706; and authorize the City Manager to execute and deliver said Agreement on behalf of the City of Buckeye. *4.F Council to take action on Change Order No. 1 to the Cooperative Contract Purchasing Addendum (CCPA No. 32500054) between the City of Buckeye, an Arizona municipal corporation, and Empire Southwest LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, for the purchase of one Caterpillar 950 Wheel Loader; and authorizing the City Manager to execute and deliver said Change Order on behalf of the City of Buckeye. Staff Liaison: Amy Murray, Public Works Director Council approved Change Order No. 1 to the Cooperative Contract Purchasing Addendum (CCPA No. 32500054) between the City of Buckeye, an Arizona municipal corporation, and Empire Southwest LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, for the purchase of one Caterpillar 950 Wheel Loader; and authorizing the City Manager to execute and deliver said Change Order on behalf of the City of Buckeye. *4.G Council to take action on the Construction Manager at Risk Contract (No. 32600047) between the City of Buckeye, an Arizona municipal corporation, and MGC Contractors, Inc., an Arizona corporation for the required expansion of the Central Water Reclamation Facility (WRF) ; and authorize the City Manager to execute said Contract on behalf of the City of Buckeye. Staff Liaison: Terry Lowe, Water Resources Director Council approved the Construction Manager at Risk Contract (No. 32600047) between the City of Buckeye, an Arizona municipal corporation, and MGC Contractors, Inc., an Arizona corporation for the required expansion of the Central Water Reclamation Facility (WRF) ; and authorize the City Manager to execute said Contract on behalf of the City of Buckeye. *4.H Council to take action on Resolution No. 99-25 approving the Development Agreement between the City of Buckeye, an Arizona municipal corporation and Skyline 62, LLC, an Arizona limited liability company relating to water and sewer infrastructure; and authorizing the Mayor to execute said Agreement on behalf of the City of Buckeye. Staff Liaison: Terry Lowe, Water Resources Director Council adopted Resolution No. 99-25 approving the Development Agreement between the City of Buckeye, an Arizona municipal corporation and Skyline 62, LLC, an Arizona limited liability company relating to water and sewer infrastructure; and authorizing the Mayor to execute said Agreement on behalf of the City of Buckeye. *4.I Council to take action on the November 18, 2025 Special Council Meeting and Council Executive Session Minutes and November 18, 2025 Regular Council Meeting Minutes. Staff Liaison: Summer Stewart, Deputy City Clerk Council approved the November 18, 2025 Special Council Meeting and Council Executive Session Minutes and November 18, 2025 Regular Council Meeting Minutes. 5. Public Hearings / Non-Consent - New Business December 16, 2025 Regular Council Meeting Minutes 5.A Council to hold a public hearing and take action on Ordinance No. 29-25 amending the zoning map of the City of Buckeye for approximately 0.75 acres generally located at the southeast corner of South 5th Street and East Mahoney Avenue from Planned Residential (PR) to Downtown Residential (DR). Staff Liaison: Patricia Cooley, Planner II Ms. Cooley presented information on Rezone Ordinance No. 29-25, which involves amending the Zoning Map of the City of Buckeye for approximately 0.75 acres located at the southeast corner of 5th Street and East Mahoney Avenue; vicinity maps were displayed. The property is being rezoned from Planned Residential to Downtown Residential to accommodate its use as a daycare facility. The site, previously used as a church, is situated in a primarily residential area with a vacant parcel to the south. The general plan designation for the area is historic downtown Buckeye Activity Center, and the downtown specific area plan assigns a future land use category of Downtown Residential to the site. The proposed Zoning District is consistent with this future land use category. The applicant has completed all required public participation requirements, and staff recommends approval of the rezone as it aligns with the General Plan, the Downtown Specific Area Plan, and contributes to a vibrant pedestrian community. Mayor Orsborn opened a public hearing at 6:06 p.m. to hear citizen input regarding Rezone Ordinance No. 29-25. There being no public comment, Mayor Orsborn closed the public hearing at 6:06 p.m. Councilmember Heustis requested further information about the plans for the area behind the building, specifically if it would be used as a playground. Ms. Cooley responded that approximately 25 percent of the vacant portion on the east side of the building would be fenced in and developed as a playground, with plans to use artificial turf. Councilmember Heustis also inquired about the number of children the facility intended to accommodate. Ms. Cooley clarified that the facility would be licensed for 59 to 65 children. A motion was made by Councilmember Heustis and seconded by Vice Mayor Goodman to adopt Ordinance No. 29-25 amending the zoning map of the City of Buckeye for approximately 0.75 acres generally located at the southeast corner of South 5th Street and East Mahoney Avenue from Planned Residential (PR) to Downtown Residential (DR). Motion passed unanimously. 5.B Council to hold a public hearing and take action on Ordinance No. 31-25 extending and increasing the corporate limits of the City of Buckeye, Maricopa County, State of Arizona, pursuant to the provisions of Title 9, Chapter 4, Article 7, Arizona Revised Statutes and Amendments thereto, by annexing approximately 1.86 acres generally located at the southeast corner of Tuthill Road and Yuma Road. Staff Liaison: Mandy Woods, Principal Planner Planning Manager Ken Galica presented information regarding Annexation Ordinance No. 31-25, which involves annexing approximately 1.86 acres located at the southeast corner of Tuthill Road and Yuma Road; vicinity maps were displayed. The applicant, David Hughes with EPS Group, is requesting the annexation on behalf of the LLC that owns the property and plans to develop the adjacent property with a single-family community called Mountain View South. The annexation includes two strip parcels along the Tuthill Road alignment, which are currently in the County and would be brought into the City’s jurisdiction, and would allow for the construction of Tuthill Road. The land use designation for the area is neighborhood, and the zoning is currently Rural 43 in the County, which would change to Rural Single-Family Residential 43 within the City. This is the second public hearing for the annexation, and the request meets all eligibility requirements established by the State. Staff recommends approval of the annexation to facilitate the construction of Tuthill Road and improve connectivity within the City. Mayor Orsborn opened a public hearing at 6:15 p.m. to hear citizen input regarding annexation Ordinance No. 31-25. Mayor Orsborn noted for the record that non-speaker comment forms were submitted by Andrea Cozad, Courtney Fasenmyer, Ralph Dumpert, Jody O’Reilly, James O’Reilly, and Robert Van Hofwegen. Nicholas Cozad presented concerns regarding the annexation of the property and future right-of-way improvements. Leolyn Koger presented concerns regarding the annexation of the property and future right-of-way improvements. Christine December 16, 2025 Regular Council Meeting Minutes Dumpert presented concerns regarding the annexation of the property and future right-of-way improvements. Debora Dumpert presented concerns regarding the annexation of the property and future right-of-way improvements. Arie Van Hofwegen presented concerns regarding the annexation of the property and future right-of-way improvements. Gary Mayfield presented concerns regarding the annexation of the property and future right-of-way improvements. There being no further public comment, Mayor Orsborn closed the public hearing at 6:38 p.m. Councilmember Heustis asked questions regarding access, the state of the road and property lines, and plans for the road’s development . Mr. Galica confirmed there are two access points; clarified that the road is currently a dirt path and the property being annexed is owned by Mountain View South, LLC.; explained that the road would be developed to City standards with full street improvements by the developer. Councilmember Heustis acknowledged citizen concerns about increased traffic and the impact on the rural character of the area; clarified that the property being annexed is already owned by Mountain View South, LLC, and that the annexation would allow the City to control the development and ensure it meets City standards. Councilmember Youngker asked about the Development Agreement with Mountain View South and the status of the plot and layout process. Mr. Galica confirmed that there is no Development Agreement and that the preliminary plot has been approved, with final plots in review. Councilmember Youngker also inquired about potential protections for adjacent properties, and Mr. Galica stated that the City would work with residents to minimize impacts from the road development. Councilmember Youngker highlighted the importance of working with the developer to minimize the impact on adjacent properties and ensure that the road development includes necessary protections, such as setbacks, buffers, and landscaping. He stressed the need for collaboration between the City, residents, and the developer to address concerns and find solutions that benefit all parties. Vice Mayor Goodman asked if the road would still be developed if the annexation was not approved and asked about the City's control over the road's development if annexed. Mr. Galica confirmed that the road would still be developed, but it would be under County jurisdiction; confirmed the City would have more control over the process if the proposed annexation is approved. Vice Mayor Goodman pointed out that if the annexation was not approved, the road would still be developed under County jurisdiction, which might not consider the residents' concerns as effectively as the City would. He emphasized that City control over the development would allow for better management and mitigation of the impact on the rural community. A motion was made by Councilmember Heustis and seconded by Vice Mayor Goodman to adopt Ordinance No. 31-25 extending and increasing the corporate limits of the City of Buckeye, Maricopa County, State of Arizona, pursuant to the provisions of Title 9, Chapter 4, Article 7, Arizona Revised Statutes and Amendments thereto, by annexing approximately 1.86 acres generally located at the southeast corner of Tuthill Road and Yuma Road. Motion passed unanimously. 5.C Council to hold a public hearing and take action on Ordinance No. 32-25 amending the zoning map of the City of Buckeye for approximately 64.45 acres located at the southwest corner of the Roosevelt Street (future McDowell Parkway) and Rainbow Road alignments from Planned Community (PC) to Planned Area Development (PAD). Staff Liaison: Sean Banda, Senior Planner Mr. Banda presented information regarding Rezone Ordinance No. 32-25, which involves rezoning approximately 64.45 acres located at the southwest corner of Roosevelt Street and Rainbow Road from Planned Community (PC) to Planned Area Development (PAD); vicinity maps were displayed. The project, named Coyote Crest, is proposed by Alan Baldwin of Norris Design on behalf of Skyline 62 LLC. The development is divided into three units: the first unit will feature 275 cottage-style multifamily units, the second unit will have 170 single-family units, and the third unit will include 456 traditional garden-style apartments. The overall density of the development is approximately 14.5 dwelling units per acre. The PAD zoning allows for a unified development with consistent theming, landscaping, and infrastructure improvements, including water and sewer extensions. The project aims to provide diverse housing options while being sensitive to the surrounding low-density residential areas. The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval of the rezone ordinance. December 16, 2025 Regular Council Meeting Minutes Mayor Orsborn opened a public hearing at 7:06 p.m. to hear citizen input regarding rezone Ordinance No. 32-25. There being no public comment, Mayor Orsborn closed the public hearing at 7:06 p.m. A motion was made by Councilmember Heustis and seconded by Vice Mayor Goodman to adopt Ordinance No. 32-25 amending the zoning map of the City of Buckeye for approximately 64.45 acres located at the southwest corner of the Roosevelt Street (future McDowell Parkway) and Rainbow Road alignments from Planned Community (PC) to Planned Area Development (PAD). Motion passed unanimously. 5.D Council to take action on Resolution No. 100-25 declaring as a public record the Buckeye Housing Needs Assessment and Action Plan; and approving and adopting the same by reference. Staff Liaison: Andrea Marquez, Senior Planner Special Projects Mr. Marquez presented information regarding the Buckeye Housing Needs Assessment and Action Plan, which aims to understand current housing conditions and guide future policy decisions. The assessment analyzed demographics, market demand, and existing housing stock, revealing that while Buckeye has a strong homeownership rate and modern housing stock, rising costs are affecting affordability, especially for renters. The action plan translates these findings into strategies and funding tools to ensure inclusive growth and affordable housing for all income levels. Key strategies include focusing on catalytic development areas like downtown Buckeye and The Landing, providing due diligence assistance, offering density incentives, waiving or reducing development-related fees, and reimbursing development impact fees. The plan also recommends updating the development code, promoting accessory dwelling units, and partnering with state programs for down payment assistance. The implementation approach involves staff-led actions with Council providing policy direction, and collaboration with internal departments and nonprofits to advance housing initiatives. A motion was made by Councilmember Heustis and seconded by Vice Mayor Goodman to adopt Resolution No. 100-25 declaring as a public record the Buckeye Housing Needs Assessment and Action Plan; and approving and adopting the same by reference. Motion passed unanimously. 5.E Council to take action on Resolution No. 98-25 approving the Lease-Purchase Agreement between the Buckeye Police and Motorola Solutions, Inc., for the purchase and financing of the Motorola System Solutions; authorizing the City Manager to execute the Agreement on behalf of the City of Buckeye; and authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute documents and perform reporting requirements associated with the financing portion of the Agreement. Staff Liaison: Robert Sanders, Chief of Police Chief Sanders presented information regarding the Agreement with Motorola Solutions, highlighting the need for a unified technology ecosystem to enhance operational efficiency and public safety. The current body camera system was outdated, prompting the search for a more integrated solution. After extensive evaluation, Motorola was chosen for its comprehensive package, which includes advanced body-worn cameras, in-car video systems, and next-generation radios. These devices offer features like GPS location, smart connectivity, and AI-driven automation, improving officer safety and community transparency. The Agreement also includes software for digital evidence management and real-time information integration. Financially, the Motorola package is more cost-effective than the current provider, saving approximately $933,000 over five years. The unified platform will streamline operations, reduce administrative workload, and position the Buckeye Police Department for future technological advancements. Deputy Police Chief Charles Bezio elaborated on the technical aspects and benefits of the Motorola Solutions Agreement. He detailed the features of the new equipment, including the APX radios with GPS location and smart connectivity, and the SVX body-worn cameras that also function as Bluetooth microphones. The M500 in-car video systems will enhance evidence collection and officer safety with multiple camera angles and license plate readers. The Command Central Suite software will integrate digital evidence management, real-time information, and December 16, 2025 Regular Council Meeting Minutes community engagement tools, improving operational efficiency and transparency. Deputy Police Chief Bezio emphasized that the Motorola package offers a comprehensive, cost-effective solution that enhances officer safety, operational awareness, and community trust. Councilmember Heustis asked about the absence of wires in the new equipment, the monitoring capabilities by citizens, the process for purchasing additional units, and the cost savings. Deputy Police Chief Charles Bezio answered, explaining the Bluetooth functionality, security measures preventing citizen monitoring, the ability to purchase additional units at the same group rate, and the cost savings of approximately $1 million, which could equate to hiring six additional officers. Councilmember Youngker inquired about the sophistication of the AI in the new system, including facial and weapons recognition. Deputy Chief Charles Bezio responded that the current system does not include facial or weapons recognition but can read driver's licenses and run them automatically. Councilmember Berry commented on the integration of technology and its benefits for officer and public safety, expressing support for the comprehensive solution provided by Motorola. Mayor Orsborn commented on the Motorola Agreement, expressing appreciation for the detailed presentation and the thorough research conducted by the Police Department. He acknowledged the complexity of integrating various technologies and the benefits of having a single provider to streamline operations and enhance safety. Mayor Orsborn also highlighted the cost-effectiveness of the Motorola package and commended the team for their efforts in selecting a comprehensive solution. A motion was made by Councilmember Heustis and seconded by Vice Mayor Goodman to adopt Resolution No. 98-25 approving the Lease- Purchase Agreement between the Buckeye Police and Motorola Solutions, Inc., for the purchase and financing of the Motorola System Solutions; authorizing the City Manager to execute the Agreement on behalf of the City of Buckeye; and authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute documents and perform reporting requirements associated with the financing portion of the Agreement. Motion passed unanimously. 5.F Council to take action on the Buckeye 2025 Transportation Master Plan. Staff Liaison: John Willett, Deputy Director of Transportation Mr. Willett presented information regarding the 2025 Transportation Master Plan update, highlighting its purpose to reflect changes in land use, roadway network, connectivity, truck route guidance, and the completion of the City's Bike and Pedestrian Master Plan. Key changes include reclassifying Sun Valley Parkway from a Parkway to a Principal Arterial to accommodate increased traffic, adjusting the I-11 alignment to the western boundary of Teravalis, and reclassifying several roads based on projected traffic volumes. A new chapter was added to address safe passage for wildlife and reduce animal-vehicle conflicts. Emphasis was placed on securing funding for road construction and improvements. Mr. Willett noted that the plan is a living document, updated every five to six years to reflect new developments and changes. He stressed the importance of creating a right-sized roadway network and ensuring the plan serves as a roadmap for both the City and developers. A motion was made by Councilmember Heustis and seconded by Vice Mayor Goodman to approve the Buckeye 2025 Transportation Master Plan. Motion passed unanimously. 6. Comments from the Mayor and Council Councilmember Youngker: recognized City Attorney Scott McCoy and thanked him for his service. Vice Mayor Goodman: recognized City Attorney Scott McCoy and thanked him for his service. Councilmember Heustis: recognized City Attorney Scott McCoy and thanked him for his service. Councilmember Beard: recognized City Attorney Scott McCoy and thanked him for his service. 7. City Manager's Report and Summary of Current Events December 16, 2025 Regular Council Meeting Minutes Mr. Sandstrom provided a summary of current events. 8. Proposals for Future Agenda Items – None. 9. Adjournment There being no further business to discuss, Mayor Orsborn adjourned the meeting at 8:04 p.m. _________________________________ Eric W. Orsborn, Mayor ATTEST: _____________________________________ Lucinda J. Aja, City Clerk I hereby certify that the foregoing minutes are a true and correct copy of the Regular Council Meeting held on December 16, 2025. I further certify that a quorum was present. _____________________________________ Lucinda J. Aja, City Clerk