Attachment D - Community Feedback.pdf

ATTACHMENT D 
Community Feedback on the FY 2026-27 Proposed Budget 
Community feedback on the proposed budget is a critical component of the 
annual budget process. Input from Phoenix residents can help the City 
Council and departments prioritize existing resources and plan for the 
future. Based on the feedback received, overall residents support the FY 
2026-27 proposed budget. Multiple comments were received requesting 
additional resources in the areas of shade, youth and education, 
immigration legal defense fund, veterans services, eviction legal services, 
free public transit, electric buses, the 19th Avenue Community Safety Plan 
(CSP), the City Prosecutor’s Role in CSPs, and Real Time Operations 
Centers. The information below highlights efforts to date in these areas and 
plans for the future. 
This attachment also includes feedback from residents received at the 12 
community budget hearings held across the City from March 30 – April 6 
and comments provided through email and phone directly to the Budget & 
Research Department. 
Shade 
The City of Phoenix has continued to increase its investment in improving 
tree and shade coverage citywide, as guided by the Shade Phoenix Plan 
approved by City Council in November 2024. The Shade Phoenix Plan 
established a guiding framework for five years of investment to target 
actions where shade can have the greatest impact on human health and 
wellbeing, especially for vulnerable populations. City departments and 
partner agencies have made measurable progress on each of the 36 
actions in the Shade Phoenix Plan since its adoption, and 31 of 36 actions 
were reported to be fully on track or ahead of schedule in the first annual 
Shade Phoenix Plan progress report completed in fall 2025. Recent and 
ongoing tree and shade programs have been funded by a combination of 
sources including the City of Phoenix General Fund, General Obligation 
Bond, and American Rescue Plan Act Resources, the Transportation 2050 
initiative, a U.S. Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry Grant 
through the Inflation Reduction Act, and philanthropic support from 
American Forests and the Ford Foundation.

Phoenix’s efforts to increase and maintain tree planting in neighborhoods 
with low tree canopy coverage has been accelerated by the Community 
Canopy, Canopy for Kids, and Tree Stewards programs funded by the U.S. 
Forest Service. The Community Canopy program provides free, 
professionally planted trees for residents along with supplies and tree-care 
education. Approximately 2,500 trees have been planted through this 
program to date at more than 1,300 homes, adding to another 2,000 trees 
planted by the phase of the Community Canopy program funded by the 
American Rescue Plan Act. Total FY2025-26 Community Canopy 
expenditures are estimated at $1.3 million. The Canopy for Kids program, 
which is implemented in partnership with Arizona State University and 
Watershed Management Group, plants trees, revitalizes landscapes, and 
provides new environmental education for youth at local schools. More than 
200 trees were planted through this program in FY25-26 with estimated 
expenditures of $245,000, including landscaping and educational 
components of the program. In partnership with the Arizona Sustainability 
Alliance, ten Phoenix residents were newly hired and trained this year as 
Tree Stewards, who will help build tree care knowledge and capacity in 
participating neighborhoods. 200 additional trees have been planted 
through the Tree Stewards program, and estimated FY25-26 expenditures 
including tree planting and compensation for participants is $130,000.  
 
Several city departments have continued making substantial contributions 
to increasing tree canopy on public property. The Parks and Recreation 
Department and Street Transportation Department collectively manage 
approximately $6,000,000 in dedicated funding for tree planting and 
maintenance, which supports the planting of more than 3,000 trees each 
year. Maintenance of trees and landscaping on public property is 
addressed through a combination of city employees and contracted labor. 
All departments that manage property with trees are participating in the 
ongoing update to the municipal tree inventory, which will be used to guide 
more than $1,000,000 in budgeted FY26-27 tree planting investments at 
city property through the General Obligation Bond.  
 
In addition to tree planting, the City is investing in built shade consistent 
with the goals and values of the Shade Phoenix Plan. The American 
Rescue Plan Act-funded Sidewalk Shade Program allocated approximately

$2,000,000 to create shade structures benefitting pedestrians at high-use 
intersections and crosswalks. Designed in concert with a local artist, the 
structures feature Sonoran Desert-inspired patterns and were completed in 
spring 2026. The Public Transit Department is on track to meet its annual 
target of adding shade shelters at 80 bus stops in FY25-26, representing 
more than $1,400,000 of new investment. 15 playgrounds, pools, and 
splashpads are scheduled to receive new shade structures through the 
next two years through the General Obligation Bond program, with a 
budget of $1,700,000.  
 
Phoenix is also continuing to invest in innovation, partnerships, and 
professional development of the city workforce to increase local capacity to 
implement high-impact, state-of-the-art tree and shade programs and 
policy. Examples of these efforts include completion of the Sombra! 
Experiments in Shade project led by the Office of Arts and Culture, which 
created nine temporary unique shade installations in public spaces in 
Phoenix, as funded by a $1,000,000 grant from the Bloomberg 
Philanthropies’ Public Art Challenge. Phoenix’s efforts to engage with the 
business community on tree and shade programs and other heat mitigation 
efforts are supported by partnerships with and funding from entities 
including Resilient Cities Catalyst, Smart Surfaces Coalition, and the Ford 
Foundation. American Forests, Bloomberg Associates, the Arbor Day 
Foundation, and a wide suite of local nonprofit, community-based, and 
academic organizations are also essential collaborators in shaping the 
city’s tree and shade strategy and are critical partners in delivering 
programs that benefit residents.  
 
More information about Phoenix’s complete portfolio of tree and shade 
programs is available at phoenix.gov/shade or by contacting the Office of 
Heat Response and Mitigation.  
 
Youth and Education 
The City provides a range of services related to early childhood literacy and 
education, in a variety of ways, including through the Human Services 
Head Start Program, the Youth and Education Office, Phoenix Public 
Libraries, and the Parks and Recreation Department. These services are 
documented below:

• The City of Phoenix Head Start Program provides comprehensive, 
free early childhood education, health, nutrition, and family support 
for eligible families with children aged 0-5. The program has an 
emphasis on school readiness through early learning opportunities 
that promote strong child outcomes in the areas of social and 
emotional development, language, cognitive, early reading, science, 
math, and physical development. These services are provided in 
partnership with school districts and community-based organizations 
who provide direct education and care engagement with children 
Monday thru Friday, while HSD staff provide the family support and 
health services. The most recently available funded enrollment data 
included 2,205 children. FY 2026-27 funding is anticipated to be 
$44.9 million through federal grant funds from the US Department of 
Health and Human Services Office of Head Start. 
• Phoenix Families First Resource Centers (FRCs) serve as safe, 
supportive community hubs (Burton Barr/ Ceasar Chavez Libraries, 
Aeroterra, and Beuf Community Center) that promote early literacy 
and healthy development for pregnant mothers and families with 
children from birth to age five. The centers provide early childhood 
education programming and connect families to services tailored to 
their unique needs. Core areas of engagement include: school 
readiness and early literacy, access to information and community 
resources, parenting education and support groups, and referrals to 
health, education, and social service programs. Key data and 
outcomes from FY 2024-25 are shown below: 
o Unduplicated families served: 2,841 
o Duplicated families served: 26,284 
o Unique program workshop/activities: 2,319  
o Referrals to partner/community resources: 3,476  
o Funding Source: First Things First Grant of $750,000  
• Experience Corps Tutoring supports third grade reading proficiency 
through an evidence-based, Tier 1, one-on-one tutoring model led by 
adult volunteers aged 50 and older. The program’s goal is to 
strengthen academic achievement by providing consistent, 
individualized support that builds students’ skills and confidence. Key 
data and outcomes from FY 2024-25 are shown below: 
o Number of school districts: 10 
o Number of schools: 14 
o Number of students: 326 
o Number of volunteers: 86

o Funding Source: Youth and Education General Fund at 
$225,000 annually 
• The Read On Phoenix Literacy Hubs, located at Sullivan Elementary 
in the Murphy School District and Peralta Elementary in the 
Cartwright School District, are a strategic initiative designed to 
address early literacy challenges in economically disadvantaged 
communities through the implementation of evidence-based practices 
rooted in the Science of Reading. These hubs aim to close literacy 
gaps by providing coordinated, community-based services that 
support both students and families from Birth to Third Grade. The 
Hubs directly provide: access to developmentally appropriate literacy 
resources, offering a safe, welcoming space for families to engage in 
literacy-focused programming during and after school, and supporting 
schools in connecting more effectively with parents, caregivers, and 
communities. Key data and outcomes from FY 2024-25 are shown 
below: 
o Unduplicated families served: 1,640  
o Students tutored: 82 
o Literacy Fairs: 4  
o Free books: 3,251 
o Youth and Education General Funds for $25,000 per school 
annually 
• Phoenix Public Library’s Early Literacy Outreach Team (ELOT) 
delivers a variety of high-impact early learning programs designed to 
support school readiness for young children and their families. 
Programs include Kindergarten Bootcamp, a seven-week interactive 
series that prepares children for kindergarten through activities 
focused on letters, numbers, social-emotional skills, and classroom 
routines. Library 101 and Ready Set Kindergarten offer parent 
workshops on how to support children as they transition into school. 
The new Family+Math program, created in partnership with Arizona 
PBS, provides six weekly sessions for caregivers and children ages 
3–5 to build foundational math skills through hands-on exploration of 
counting, shapes, patterns, measurement, and more. Key data and 
outcomes from FY 2024-25 are shown below: 
o 800 early learning programs 
o 7,600 children and 7,704 adults (Duplicated) 
o 6,000 free books for children ages 0-5  
o Funding Source: First Things First Grant of $414,000

• Library Story Times offer young children and their families a fun, 
engaging space to explore books, build early literacy skills, and 
develop a love for reading. Through interactive stories, songs, and 
hands-on activities, library staff create welcoming experiences that 
support language development and strengthen connections between 
families and their local libraries. Key data and outcomes from FY 
2024-25 are shown below: 
o Overall: 2,400 programs a year 
o 33,000 children and 30,000 adults (Duplicated) 
o Funding Source: Library General Funds at $84,000 annually 
• The Parks and Recreation Department offers offer several programs 
related to youth development, including early childhood initiatives, 
Project BRAVE (Bringing Reality About Violence Education), Phoenix 
After School Care (PAC), and PHXteens. 
o Project Brave 
• Violence-prevention and life-skills program coordinated by 
the City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department. 
• Serves youth ages 6 to 18 and provides healthy 
alternatives to self-destructive behaviors and violence 
through education and leadership training 
• FY 2026-27 Grant Funding - $220,000 
o PHXteens 
 Offers activities created by teens for teens at facilities 
citywide for youth ages 13 to 17 
 FY 2026-27 General Fund Budget - $460,000 
o Toddler & Preschool programs 
• PRD offers a variety of engaging programs for ages 0-5, 
with parents and caregivers.  
• 847 hours of programming for 1,320 participants 
• FY 2026-27 General Fund Budget –Funding is included in 
the overall recreation budget by division; specific funding 
info unavailable.  
o Childcare programs 
• The department offers care through the PAC program and 
school break camps for ages 6-12 
• 5,317 participants 
• FY 26-27 General Fund Budget - $2.85 million

Immigration Legal Defense Fund 
Some community members asked the City to create an immigration legal 
defense fund to help individuals facing removal proceedings and their 
families who are affected.  
 
Cities like Chicago and New York City were referenced as having similar 
programs. Importantly, the laws in Illinois and New York are different from 
the laws in Arizona. In those states, state law does not require cities to 
check whether someone is legally in the United States before giving them 
local public benefits.  
 
However, Arizona law works differently. Here a city must verify that every 
applicant for a local public benefit – such as an immigration legal defense 
fund – is legally present in the United States. Therefore, under Arizona law 
a legal defense fund could only assist applicants who can prove legal 
presence in the United States.  Additionally, any program would have to be 
carefully constructed to avoid the Arizona Constitution’s strict gift clause 
restrictions. 
 
Veterans Services and the Veterans Court 
The City provides services to veterans through a number of channels, 
including the Housing and Human Services Departments, as well as 
through the Veterans Court. 
 
The Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) program is a joint effort 
between HUD and the VA that combines housing vouchers with supportive 
services to help homeless veterans and their families achieve stable, 
permanent housing.  The City of Phoenix Housing Department currently 
administers 1,003 VASH vouchers, supported by more than $11M of 
federal funding, and provides housing to eligible veterans through referrals 
from the VA. 
 
The Human Services department specifically focuses on veterans within its 
Community Services and Workforce Development programs. Within the 
Community Services program (CSP), one dedicated General Funded 
Caseworker III along with other support staff provided 136 veterans and/or 
active military households with 172 rent or utility assistance payments

totaling $140,000 this fiscal year. Under the Workforce Development 
program (WDP), veterans receive priority of service, including highest 
priority for low-income or basic-skills-deficient Veterans, faster access to 
training and services when resources are limited, and eligibility extends to 
spouses of veterans in specific cases. The WDP staff work directly with the 
State’s Veteran workforce services as well as maintain a direct referral 
partnership with US VETS. In FY 2025, 34 veterans and eligible spouses 
were enrolled in workforce programs. 
 
The Veterans Court looks to address the unique needs of defendants who 
are veterans of the United States military. The goal of Veterans Court is to 
help restore those veterans in need to return to being successful, 
contributing members of the community, by ensuring that veterans 
participating in the court make contact with specific programs that address 
the root causes of the behavior and conduct, which resulted in the veteran 
entering the criminal justice system. 
 
The target population consists of defendants (veterans) who served in the 
United States Armed Forces who are experiencing treatable behavioral 
issues such as post-traumatic stress (PTS), traumatic brain injury (TBI), 
anger management, domestic violence, or substance and alcohol abuse. 
 
Eligible veterans may participate in Veterans Court by voluntarily opting 
into the court. Veterans Court meets as a separate court docket. A 
Veterans Administration representative is present and conducts a VA 
eligibility assessment. The prosecutor and veterans with their attorneys 
gather in Veterans Court along with the VA coordinator; together they 
explore the various counseling and behavioral programs available to the 
veteran and determine which is most appropriate for each veteran. When 
they reach a decision, a treatment plan is incorporated into a plea 
agreement that becomes the contract for the veteran's responsibility. The 
court ultimately must review and accept the agreement for the resolution of 
the case to be completed. 
 
The veteran must be willing to participate fully with the designated 
program(s). If the veteran chooses not to participate in the agreed upon 
program(s), the court removes the case from the Veterans Court docket 
and returns it to the traditional criminal track. As with other cases within 
Municipal Court, some cases will be eligible for diversion if the veteran

completes specified treatment programs. In most cases, the programs will 
be specifically tailored for the underlying issues of the veteran. For 
example, domestic violence cases in a traditional track would be sent to 
standard domestic violence counseling. Veterans Court sends domestic 
violence offenders to counseling at the VA. If PTSD is an underlying issue, 
then PTSD counseling is incorporated into this program. 
 
The VA coordinator and prosecutor regularly review cases to monitor 
compliance. As part of the therapeutic approach of Veterans Court, 
frequent sentence review hearings are used to verify the veteran's 
compliance with the program. This not only establishes accountability for 
the veteran but also allows the court to recognize the accomplishment of 
the veteran in taking responsibility for their actions. 
 
For the calendar year 2025, there were 268 defendants responsible for 335 
cases in the Phoenix Veterans Court.  The Court has two bailiffs and one 
Judge that oversee the Veterans Court. They do not exclusively handle the 
Veterans Court only.  Veterans’ cases are staffed on Thursday, and 
matters are heard on Friday. The Court is not a provider of services; it 
convenes the Veterans Court and providers utilized by the Defense and the 
Prosecutor’s Office to assist Veterans.        
 
Services provided to Veterans include, but not limited to, case 
management, mental health services, housing navigation (rapid re-
housing), obtaining VA benefits, social security and disability benefits, 
counseling, and employment.    
 
Eviction Legal Services 
The Human Services Department’s Eviction Legal Services (ELS) supports 
residents by offering no-cost services to eligible persons experiencing an 
eviction crisis by providing mediation outside of a courtroom proceeding, 
legal representation, or post-eviction services to address possible 
impediments to future renting opportunities. This program is funded with 
$1.2 million in ARPA interest, and began in January 2025 and is forecasted 
to be funded through June 2027.  
 
In calendar year 2025, the program received 623 applications of which 360 
applications were approved for services. During this period, 50% of closed 
cases achieved overall positive outcomes, including 45% of legal

representation cases reducing negative impacts of eviction, 16% of eviction 
filings being dismissed, and 25% ended with a negotiated settlement.  The 
Human Services Department (HSD) had only one mediation case in the 
first year of the program. This is primarily due to the short turnaround 
timeframe of the Arizona eviction process coupled with residents not 
contacting HSD prior to an eviction filing being submitted by a landlord.  
HSD has implemented several solutions to combat this challenge, including 
implementing a community outreach plan targeting areas of high evictions 
and making direct connections for residents requesting rental assistant and 
landlord/tenant services to ELS.  
 
Free Public Transit 
The cost to ride transit remains low, with fares not having been increased 
since 2013. A single ride on local bus or light rail service is $2; an all-day 
pass is capped at $4. Nonetheless, fares are a component of the revenues 
the City and the region uses to operate transit services, and without a 
replacement revenue source, transit services would need to be reduced to 
make up for the lost revenue. Also, while Phoenix has a transit fare 
ordinance which outlines the cost to ride, Phoenix is one of 18 cities plus 
Maricopa County which operate transit services as part of the regional 
transit system the public knows as Valley Metro. As such, any changes to 
transit fares would require regional concurrence and approval by the Valley 
Metro Board. Finally, in 2023, the Legislature passed Senate Bill 1102 
which allowed Maricopa County to seek approval from the voters of the 
county to extend the half-cent sales tax through 2045 under Proposition 
479. One component of the legislation requires that beginning in fiscal year 
2026-2027, a farebox recovery audit be conducted for the regional transit 
system and that minimum fare recovery ratios be met; the ratio begins at 
10% and increases thereafter – eliminating transit fares would not allow the 
regional transit system to comply with these requirements.  
 
Electric Buses 
The City’s Public Transit Department (PTD) operates a fleet of 500 heavy-
duty buses. 2/3 of the fleet operates on clean-burning natural gas, while 45 
hybrid electric buses were also recently added to the fleet. The department 
is currently piloting twelve (12) battery-electric buses made possible by a 
competitive Federal Transit Administration grant under the previous federal

administration which had goals to transition transit fleets to zero-emissions 
operating systems; the current administration does not have such goals. 
Additionally, since July 2023, PTD has been using Renewable Liquefied 
Natural Gas (RLNG) to fuel the 2/3 of the fleet that uses compressed 
natural gas. RLNG is a natural gas fuel product generated from the 
decomposition of organic waste streams, or “biomass.” PTD’s RLNG is 
primarily sourced from landfill waste streams. 
 
19th Avenue Community Safety Plan (CSP) 
This fiscal year, the 19th Avenue CSP advanced through increased 
enforcement, stronger coordination, and expanded community 
engagement. The Phoenix Police Department enhanced corridor 
operations with increased training and focused narcotics operations, 
multi-week crime-suppression efforts, and visible proactive patrols through 
Resource Team deployments, officers in training on the light rail, and 
technology-guided patrol activity. Additional efforts included liquor 
inspections, traffic enforcement, and Authority to Arrest compliance 
evaluations. 
 
The Prosecutor’s Office improved alignment with the Transit Unit through 
job shadowing, early case identification, and leadership meetings, while 
partnering with City and state agencies on problematic properties and 
working with MCAO on crime-suppression training, felony travel 
restrictions, and repeat-offender charging. 
 
Neighborhood Services advanced place-based strategies through 
coordinated cleanups, support for a new business alliance at Glendale 
Avenue, and direct neighborhood engagement. 
 
In the coming year, the City will work with the 19th Avenue CSP 
Community Committee to identify lighting improvements along transit 
corridors and evaluate effective strategies and funding options. The City 
will also collaborate with Valley Metro as they research approaches for 
implementing live light rail system camera feeds, including potential 
integrations with local and regional public safety partners. Staff will 
continue working with community and agency partners to identify and 
pursue appropriate funding opportunities, including federal competitive

grants, to support these efforts. These efforts collectively continue to 
improve safety, coordination, and quality of life along the 19th Avenue 
corridor. 
 
City Prosecutor’s Role in CSPs 
Within the CSPs, the City Prosecutor’s Office is taking a proactive, 
data-driven approach to identifying repeat offenders and escalating cases 
by strengthening collaboration with Phoenix PD and the Maricopa County 
Attorney’s Office (MCAO). Through ride-alongs, regular information-sharing 
meetings, and coordinated enforcement along key corridors, the office has 
improved early identification of transit-related and high-risk offenders, 
enhanced prosecution of focused misdemeanor arrests, and expanded the 
strategic use of travel restrictions and bond recommendations.  
 
Community Prosecutors handled more than 400 Repeat Offender cases 
and 40 STOP cases in 2025, securing impactful outcomes such as 
long-term custody sentences and citywide transit restrictions. The office is 
also bridging gaps between misdemeanor and felony matters, providing 
crime-suppression training to officers, and developing improved reporting 
tools that include streamlined travel-restriction tracking and a citywide 
repeat-offender report. In addition, the office began tracking instances in 
2024 where bond was requested at Initial Appearance but not imposed, 
documenting more than 600 such cases in 2025. This tracking effort allows 
prosecutors to better monitor release trends and adjust strategies to protect 
community safety. 
 
Additionally, the Phoenix Municipal Court is currently developing a new 
case management system. The existing Court Management System does 
not easily track several of the data points referenced above, and while the 
new system is expected to enhance data tracking and analysis, it is not yet 
clear how all judicial case management information will be captured or 
reported. Furthermore, data from the Phoenix Municipal Court would not 
include individuals arrested on felony charges prosecuted by MCAO, such 
as drug-related offenses.

Real Time Operations Centers 
The Police Department will reallocate existing positions to be assigned to 
Cactus Park (2) and Desert Horizon (2) precincts, enabling 24/7 coverage 
so technology can be leveraged to support patrol operations day and night. 
This expanded staff provides one civilian operator, on duty 24/7, in each of 
the two precincts to run law enforcement databases, cameras, gunshot 
detection and license plate readers in support of on-duty patrol 
squads. This expanded coverage maximizes RTOC’s capabilities and 
support to the community.

Summary of Resident Comments by Category 
Comments for additional funding/support of the budget: 
(55) support funding additional resources for refugees. 
(39) support funding for flexible financial assistance. 
(27) support funding for heat initiatives that include heat mitigation, tree planting and 
shaded bus shelters. 
(20) support funding for continued library services and hours.   
(19) support funding for legal counsel for individuals facing eviction. 
(16) support funding for youth and education programs to include funding allocated to 
the Jacob Michael Harris Foundation. 
(13) support funding for childcare assistance. 
(12) support funding for free electric public transit. 
(10) support continued funding for Arts & Culture. 
(10) support funding for affordable housing. 
(7) support funding for community legal aid.  
(7) support additional funding to homeless shelters.  
(7) support funding for additional security in city parks that includes additional Park 
Rangers and monitoring cameras.  
(6) support funding for safety infrastructure at Margaret T. Hance Park.  
(5) support funding for a master lease program. 
(4) support funding for a housing trust fund.  
(4) support funding for traffic management solutions. 
(4) support funding to assist with crime prevention in the city that include real-time 
operations cameras connected to Community Safety Partnership (CSP) and the Police 
precincts.  
(3) support funding for additional Motorcycle Police. 
(3) support funding for Public Safety. 
(3) support funding for services for the disabled homeless population.  
(3) support funding to assist low-income families with food security.

(3) support funding for additional water fountains.  
(3) support funding for homeless prevention programs. 
(2) support funding for additional crisis vans. 
(2) support funding to decrease fire response times. 
(2) support funding for mental health services. 
(2) support funding for crime prevention measures along the 19th Avenue light rail 
corridor. 
(2) support funding for rental assistance. 
(2) support funding for street maintenance in the South & West areas of the city.  
(2) support continued funding to Vision Zero. 
 
Comments for reduced funding/opposition of the budget: 
(2) oppose the budget process because it lacks transparency and insufficient 
community involvement.

SUMMARY MINUTES 
COMMUNITY BUDGET HEARING 
COUNCIL DISTRICT 1 
GOELET A. BEUF COMMUNITY CENTER 
MARCH 30, 2026 at 6:00 PM 
 
Councilwoman Ann O’Brien opened the meeting at 6:06 pm and introduced Spanish 
interpreter Mario Barajas. Mr. Barajas provided instructions for residents requiring Spanish-
language interpretation during the hearing. 
 
Councilwoman O’Brien welcomed everyone and thanked them for attending to provide 
feedback on the budget process. She noted the importance of maintaining a balanced 
budget and introduced City Manager Ed Zuercher and Budget and Research Director Aaron 
Mertz. 
 
Mr. Zuercher welcomed everyone to the first budget hearing of the year and introduced city 
staff. He noted where to find additional information on the proposed FY 2026-27 Trial 
Budget, how to leave a comment, and the next steps in the budget process. 
 
A short video on the proposed Trial Budget was played at 6:10 pm.  
 
Councilwoman O’Brien opened the floor for public comment at 6:26 pm. 
 
1. 
Dolores Raleigh asked if funding is planned for HAWK signals, specifically 
near 35th Avenue and Eva Street.   
 
Councilwoman O’Brien stated staff will follow up with her after it’s researched.  
 
2. 
Elisha Dunn spoke on the importance of reinstalling an exterior barrier around 
Telephone Pioneer Park for child safety concerns. 
 
Councilwoman O’Brien stated that she has been made aware of the safety 
concerns and is currently working with the Parks Department to add another 
wall. 
 
3. 
Stephen Verbil did not wish to speak but commented that Public Works Solid 
Waste Division’s refuse and recycling trucks may be beyond their lifespan and 
maintenance costs may be too high. 
 
 4. 
Stan Bates did not wish to speak but supports fully funding the Police and Fire 
Departments and filling all Police vacant positions. 
 
 
 5. 
Gail Morgan did not wish to speak but supports fully funding the Police and 
Fire Departments. 
 
 
 6. 
Chris Mehling did not wish to speak but advocated for onsite fire and crash 
vehicles at Deer Valley Airport to support its growth.

7. 
Candice Fremouw spoke in support of prioritizing electronic marquees at 
community centers to easily inform the public on current activities. 
 
8. 
Dianna Kimling spoke in favor of merging the new fire station with the new 
police station at the old Fry’s Electronics at I-17 and Thunderbird. 
 
Executive Chief Tim Kreis responded that new locations are strategically 
placed for the greatest positive impact on response times and shifting a 
planned location will diminish the return on response times. 
 
 
Councilwoman O’Brien explained she will follow up with Ms. Kimling on 
additional information to her comment. 
 
Ms. Kimling further asked if the available land within Metrocenter could be used 
for the new fire station. She also stated that the planned new-build townhomes 
may bring complications to the community that may not have been fully 
addressed by the City. 
 
Councilwoman O’Brien responded that she will speak with Ms. Kimling after the 
meeting. 
 
 9. 
Ms. Raleigh noted that no funding was added for the 35th Avenue BRT Corridor 
and asked when the project will start. 
 
 
Mr. Zuercher responded that the project is in progress and was not included in 
the proposed FY 2026-27 Trial Budget because it is not an addition to the 
budget and is funded by Transportation 2050. 
 
 
Ms. Raleigh added that the new corridor poses neighborhood traffic concerns. 
 
Councilwoman O’Brien responded that she will follow up with Ms. Raleigh about 
her concerns. 
 
10. 
Rajesh Das provided a comment requesting additional pickleball courts at 
Paseo Highlands Park to maintain growth and demand at the park. 
 
11. 
Louise Sivils provided a comment requesting to update the exterior building of 
Cholla Library. 
 
Councilwoman O’Brien thanked everyone for attending and concluded the hearing at 6:41 
pm. 
 
Respectfully submitted, 
 
 
Susannah Pietrzykowsky 
  Senior Budget and Research Analyst

SUMMARY MINUTES 
COMMUNITY BUDGET HEARING 
COUNCIL DISTRICT 4 
STEELE INDIAN SCHOOL PARK, MEMORIAL HALL 
APRIL 1, 2026 at 6:00 P.M. 
 
City Manager Ed Zuercher opened the meeting at 6:06 p.m. and introduced Spanish-
language interpreter Elsie Duarte. Ms. Duarte introduced herself and provided instructions 
for residents requiring Spanish-language interpretation during the hearing. 
 
Mr. Zuercher noted the importance of City budget hearings, where to find additional 
information on the proposed 2026-27 Trial Budget, additional ways to provide budget 
feedback, and next steps in the budget process. 
 
A short video on the proposed Trial Budget was played. 
 
Councilwoman Pastor welcomed residents to the hearing and stated that she was at the 
meeting to listen to resident input and to advocate for residents.  
 
Mr. Zuercher opened the floor for public comment. 
 
1. 
Frank Urban advocated for residents with mental and physical disabilities that 
are experiencing homelessness. He shared his negative experience with police 
interactions at homeless encampments. He requested more day shelters to 
support disabled residents experiencing homelessness.  
 
2. 
Erik Richardson shared his experience at the Safe Outdoor Space (SOS) 
campus. He requested more shelters such as the Central Arizona Shelter 
Services (CASS) and SOS for residents with disabilities. 
 
3. 
Elizabeth Venable recognized positive procedural changes with the Police 
Department’s handling of residents experiencing homelessness and the City’s 
creation of over 1,600 indoor shelter beds in the past four years. She requested 
more individualized programming for residents experiencing homelessness and 
more community surveys to assess the needs of disabled residents.   
 
Mr. Zuercher acknowledged the advocacy of Ms. Venable over many years and 
the impact it has had on the City’s budget.  
 
4. 
Rhonda Savage thanked the City for keeping shelters open. She advocated for 
more day shelters and heat respite centers in the downtown Phoenix area. She 
also requested more bottled water at shelter facilities.  
 
Mr. Zuercher stated that the proposed budget includes $1.5 million to keep the 
City’s 24/7 heat respite site and three other extended hours cooling centers 
open.   
 
5. 
Lee Ellis advocated on behalf of disabled individuals experiencing 
homelessness at the SOS campus. He stated there were only two handicap

accessible restrooms at the SOS campus and requested additional accessible 
bathrooms and shower facilities for disabled residents. 
 
Councilwoman Pastor stated she would advocate for two more accessible 
bathrooms.  
 
6. 
Tony Harris requested a misting system for the SOS campus to provide heat 
relief for residents. He shared his negative experience with mold and bacteria 
contaminated showers in the shelter. He also advocated for more day shelters 
and heat respite centers. 
 
Mr. Zuercher explained that the showers at the SOS campus are cleaned six 
times per day and shared that the heat respite center at 20 West Jackson will 
open on May 1st.  
 
7. 
Monica Barrientos requested a $2M set aside in the budget for the creation of a 
Working Families Relief Fund to support the immigrant community.   
 
Councilwoman Pastor stated that she does believe in some form of relief for the 
immigrant community. She explained the legal requirements that need to be 
followed for that type of program to be created.  
 
8. 
Dori Vrenden requested additional funding for day shelters, heat respite centers, 
and housing. She emphasized the importance of preventative measures to stop 
the costly and traumatic effects of homelessness.  
 
Mr. Zuercher explained that the City’s Manager budget includes a $20 million 
allocation of the surplus to address the issue of homelessness. It is in addition 
to the tens of millions of dollars the Council has already invested in affordable 
housing and other services she advocated for. 
 
9. 
David Morgan advocated for assisted living facilities for special needs residents 
in and around shelters. He requested additional funding for housing assistance 
for the special needs community, including residents with mental and physical 
disabilities as well as the elderly. 
 
10. Ginnie Ann Sumner spoke in support of additional funding for Police 
Department’s Real Time Operations Centers (RTOC) and requested more 
police motorcycle officers and speed feedback signs. She requested that Street 
Transportation staff work more closely with residents on the installation of speed 
humps. She also requested more Park Rangers for security and mobile 
cameras in parks.    
 
11. Tillie McKoy advocated for increased education programs for residents 
experiencing homelessness. She shared her positive experience with CASS 
shelter staff and requested that the City keep shelters open. 
 
Mr. Zuercher confirmed that the proposed budget does have funding to keep 
shelters open.

12. Rahima thanked the Councilwoman for her vote to support the Community 
Transparency Initiative (CTI). She discussed various challenges facing the 
migrant community and advocated for $2 million to be allocated to establish a 
Working Families Relief Fund.  
 
13. 
 
 
 
 
 
14. 
Michele Smith thanked the City for preserving the Del Norte Historic 
Neighborhood. She also thanked Councilwoman Pastor for standing up for 
historic neighborhood residents at the Legislature. She spoke in support of the 
shade initiatives that the City has started and in support of water conservation 
efforts. 
 
Tim Smith spoke about frequent flooding and high volumes of traffic that occur 
at the intersection of 16th Avenue and Encanto Boulevard. He advocated for the 
installation of a traffic circle at the intersection with water harvesting features to 
conserve rainwater.  
 
15. Sabrina Kernagis proposed that the City adopt a domestic violence code of 
conduct policy for all City funded organizations, increase investment in trauma 
informed response teams and survivor advocacy infrastructure, expand 
prevention programs, and build stronger oversight systems with survivor and 
community input. She also advocated for the establishment of a $2 million 
Working Family Relief Fund. 
 
16. Nicole Rodriguez advocated for increases in Fire Department staffing to reduce 
response times, more bus shelters throughout the City, increased investment in 
Vision Zero safety infrastructure (HAWK crossings, roundabouts, speed humps, 
etc.), and investment in public restrooms.  
 
17. Ben Laughlin supported various aspects of the Trial Budget including 
investments in childcare, streetlights, programming for teens, and services for 
unsheltered individuals. He advocated for the establishment of a $2 million 
Working Family Relief Fund. 
 
18. Catrina Kohler expressed gratitude to the City and to Councilwoman Pastor for 
continued support of the arts community. She appreciated that there were no 
proposed budget cuts for the Office of Arts & Culture. She explained the $450 
million annual economic impact of the arts sector and how it supports 8,000 jobs 
in the community but represents less than 1% of the City’s budget. She 
advocated for an increase in the budget for the Office of Arts & Culture.  
 
19. Crystal Anderson shared her experience with homelessness and the various 
challenges she has faced. She expressed gratitude for the support she has 
received for herself and her dog at various shelters. She advocated for 
continued funding of shelters to keep them open. 
 
20. 
 
 
Margaret Bauer advocated for more pedestrian safety measures in the area 
around Steele Indian School Park. She advocated for the City to study traffic 
patterns in the area and to update signage along 7th Avenue and 7th Street.

21. 
She also advocated for more day shelters, shade structures, and water 
availability for residents.  
 
Mr. Zuercher confirmed that there is budget in the Street Transportation 
department for more HAWK signals, but acknowledged there was more demand 
than supply. He also explained the Chilled Drinking Fountain program that 
provides cold water to residents in multiple City locations.  
 
AJ Marsden requested funding to implement the 19th Avenue Safety Corridor 
Plan. She also advocated for additional bike safety measures such as green 
paint markings along 15th Avenue near Christown Mall. She requested an 
investment in technology for Fire and Police to reduce call service times and 
advocated for the City to focus on Victim Prevention instead of Crime 
Prevention. 
 
Mr. Zuercher thanked residents for participating in the hearing.  
 
Councilwoman Pastor thanked residents for attending the hearing and giving a voice to the 
issues in the community. She stated her support for more funding for the SOS campus and 
addressed various speakers’ concerns about shelter closures. She explained that shelters 
will not be closing due to the end of American Rescue Plan Act funding because the cost of 
operating the shelters will now be shifting to the General Fund.  
 
Councilwoman Pastor acknowledged the return on investment associated with funding for 
the arts. She agreed with the need for implementation of the 19th Avenue Safety Corridor 
Plan. She also agreed that technology is a need in the City for first responders and public 
safety. She explained the importance of water conservation in the City. She confirmed her 
support for the Community Transparency Initiative and the importance of listening to the 
community.  
 
Councilwoman Pastor discussed the budget tabloid and requested clarification on funding, 
including how the funding was categorized. She described the set-asides in the proposed 
budget and asked whether the proposed $5 million General Fund set-aside to address 
childcare affordability was new to the City. Mr. Zuercher confirmed the proposed set-aside 
was presented as part of the Trial Budget and that it is a new item for the City. 
 
Councilwoman Pastor asked if the proposed $1.5 million supplemental for Client Services in 
the Human Services Department fell under the Support for Children, Youth, and Families 
category and Mr. Zuercher confirmed that it did fall under that category.  
 
Councilwoman Pastor encouraged residents to continue participating in the budget hearing 
process and adjourned the hearing at 7:27 p.m. 
 
Respectfully submitted, 
 
 
James Nguyen 
Senior Budget and Research Analyst

SUMMARY MINUTES 
COMMUNITY BUDGET HEARING 
COUNCIL DISTRICT 5 
MARYVALE COMMUNITY CENTER 
APRIL 2, 2026, 6:00PM  
 
Councilmember Betty Guardado opened the hearing at 6:13 P.M.  
 
She stated the hearing will present options for the proposed fiscal year 2026-27 Trial Budget 
and summarized her office’s recent district efforts and upcoming district developments. 
Councilmember Guardado also explained the hearing is for community feedback for 
consideration in the development of next year’s budget. She welcomed City Manager Ed 
Zuercher and Deputy City Manager David Mathews. 
 
Mr. Zuercher made opening remarks and introduced Spanish language interpreter,                                  
Florencia Seguezza, who then introduced her co-interpreter, Paulette Castillo. Ms. 
Seguezza also provided instructions for residents requiring Spanish interpretation during the 
hearing. 
 
Mr. Zuercher briefly explained the 2026-27 Trial Budget and encouraged attendees to 
provide comments on the Trial Budget during the hearing. He requested staff play the 
budget videos in English and Spanish languages. 
 
Councilmember Guardado opened the floor for public comment. 
 
 
1. 
Bill Whitmire spoke in favor of more funding for community legal aid and 
flexible financial assistance and refugee crisis assistance aimed at preventing 
homelessness and stabilizing housing and food security for low-income 
individuals and families.  
 
2. 
Evelynne Rodas Castillo spoke in favor of a right-to-counsel ordinance that 
ensures court representation for low-income tenants facing eviction. She also 
expressed support for $12 million in funding for community legal aid, 
childcare, and flexible financial assistance and refugee crisis assistance 
aimed at preventing homelessness and stabilizing housing and food security 
for low-income individuals and families.  
 
3. 
Teddy Block spoke in favor of more funding for tree planting and shade 
structures for heat relief. 
 
4. 
Katarzyna Jarzabek spoke in favor of more funding for trees to deal with rising 
heat and for heat relief. 
 
Councilmember Guardado asked staff from the Office of Heat Response and 
Mitigation to speak with concerned residents at the hearing. She briefly 
explained the City is working with Arizona’s Senate delegation on federal 
heat-resistance legislation that would designate extreme heat as a declared, 
major natural disaster.

5. 
Aaron Lopez spoke in favor of more funding for electric public transit to 
improve air quality, reduce risk and help ensure that residents remain healthy, 
protected, and able to enjoy a better quality of life. 
 
6. 
Jessica Bueno spoke in favor of more funding to complete streets in south and 
west Phoenix, increased tree shade canopies, and 100 percent free, safe, 
electric public transportation by 2035 for cleaner air. She expressed gratitude 
for including funding for family and youth programming and parks and 
recreation programs as well as the 2026-31 Preliminary Capital Improvement 
Program (CIP) budget to improve parks, public transit and street infrastructure 
in south and west Phoenix.  
 
7. 
Ariane Redding spoke in favor of a right-to-counsel ordinance that ensures 
court representation for low-income tenants facing eviction.  
 
8. 
Andrea Luna Cervantes spoke in favor of funding a right-to-counsel program. 
She also expressed support for $12 million in funding for community legal aid, 
childcare, eviction prevention, and flexible financial assistance and refugee 
crisis assistance aimed at preventing homelessness and stabilizing housing 
and food security for low-income individuals and families. 
 
9.  Michelle Ashton spoke in favor of funding a right-to-counsel program. 
She advocated for properly maintaining buildings and better response to 
concerns about projects the City creates such as affordable housing. 
 
10. Rafael Aviles advocated for increased funding for programs that prevent 
family evictions and enhance housing security and access to childcare. 
 
11. Magdelena Acosta spoke in favor of more funding for childcare and 
homelessness prevention.  
 
12. Ariana Garcia spoke in favor of more funding for the Housing Trust Fund and 
a right-to-counsel program. She also expressed support for $12 million in 
funding for community legal aid, childcare, eviction prevention, and flexible 
financial assistance and refugee crisis assistance aimed at preventing 
homelessness and stabilizing housing and food security for low-income 
individuals and families.  
 
13. Michael Nydes spoke in favor of more funding for helping families in need, 
childcare, rental assistance, preventing evictions and homelessness. He 
suggested allocating some funds from graffiti management to affordable 
housing development and urged residents to report graffiti in progress. 
 
14. Jesus Cervantes spoke in favor of allocating more funding to help low-income 
residents avoid evictions by providing eviction assistance, and affordable 
childcare. 
 
15. Liliana Santoyo spoke in favor of more funding for affordable housing because 
she has seen families living in cars. She also expressed support for the

proposed $12 million in funding for community legal aid, childcare, eviction 
prevention, and flexible financial assistance and refugee crisis assistance 
aimed at preventing homelessness and stabilizing housing and food security 
for low-income individuals and families.  
 
16. Prayukta Meka spoke in favor of additional funding for tree shade and a tree 
plan, especially in low-income communities. 
 
17. Gustavo Brambila expressed concern about unhoused individuals and more 
effective alley work around 59th Avenue and Camelback. He expressed 
support for encouraging homeowners to keep up with home maintenance. 
 
18. Laura Torres spoke in favor of more funding for childcare support, youth and 
education programs, and healthcare affordability. 
 
19. Leonard Pennock spoke in favor of more funding for proactive homeless 
prevention, eviction assistance, community legal aid, and flexible financial 
assistance because he affirmed such programs can help prevent 
homelessness. 
 
20. Nor Sylva spoke in favor of more funding for shade trees, youth recreational 
and sports programs, housing programs to help unhoused individuals, and 
green areas near the downtown/Phoenix Sky Harbor area in District 8. She 
expressed concerns about the loss of resources that provided shade trees for 
single mothers in District 8, pool closure, youth employment programs, section 
8 housing assistance, and unhoused individuals in 
parks.                                                                                                                     
 
21. Chetana Beegal spoke in favor of investment in electric transportation for a 
cleaner environment. 
 
22. Sai Sri spoke in favor of increased funding for planting and maintaining more 
shade trees to help cool the environment and provide heat relief. 
 
23. Marco Marcial expressed appreciation for the responsiveness of 
Councilmember Guardado for providing speedbumps and 1,500 gates for the 
district. 
 
24. Tanmayi Muerza submitted a comment card in favor of trees to address air 
pollution. 
 
25. Elise Mugabe submitted a comment card in favor of more trees. 
 
26. Julian Zepeda submitted a comment card in favor of more measures to reduce 
extreme heat during the summer and options to make it cooler for walking. 
 
27. Ana Loaiza submitted a comment card in favor of more trees and shade for 
youth in the south and west side.

28. Jasmin Loaiza submitted a comment card in favor of more shade in 
neighborhoods and investing in additional youth programs. 
 
 
Councilmember Guardado stated more trees are needed. She thanked the community for 
participating and asked the community to keep providing feedback and advocacy.  
 
Councilmember Guardado adjourned the hearing at 7:45pm. 
 
Respectfully submitted, 
 
 
Genevieve Siri 
Budget and Research Analyst

SUMMARY MINUTES 
COMMUNITY BUDGET HEARING 
COUNCIL DISTRICT 6 
DEVONSHIRE SENIOR CENTER 
April 6, 2026 at 8:30 AM 
 
City Manager Ed Zuercher opened the meeting at 8:33 AM with Councilman Kevin 
Robinson and Budget & Research Department Director Aaron Mertz present.   
 
Mr. Zuercher introduced interpreter Mario Barajas, who introduced himself and co-
interpreter Oscar Monroy in English and Spanish.  
 
Councilman Robinson introduced himself and recognized and expressed thanks for 
the attendance of the eighth-grade students from the Sonoran Science Academy.  
 
Councilman Robinson expressed the hearing as opportunities to see how the City 
works, how the budget is prepared for the next fiscal year, and for the City Council to 
obtain public input regarding their priorities, issues of concern and where greater 
emphasis could be placed. Councilman Robinson encouraged students and residents 
to make their questions or concerns known during the meeting, and that notes were 
being taken to reflect those questions and concerns.  Councilman Robinson thanked 
and welcomed those attending and turned the meeting over to Mr. Zuercher. 
 
Mr. Zuercher thanked Councilman Robinson.  Mr. Zuercher described his 
responsibility to present to the City Council and the community a budget proposal for 
next year to continue existing services and evaluate potential additions based on 
available funding. Mr. Zuercher indicated the budget video would describe how 
additional available funds are proposed to be used and indicated the budget 
pamphlet and phoenix.gov/budget website provide more information.  
 
Mr. Zuercher thanked City staff in attendance, indicating they are available to 
respond to questions, acknowledged City staff who specifically came to be available 
to discuss trash pickup after the hearing, and indicated the City was evaluating the 
amount the City charges for trash pickup.  
 
Mr. Zuercher indicated the hearing was being recorded and streamed on YouTube, 
asking those speaking to use the microphone, to speak for up to two minutes and to 
complete a comment card.  Mr. Zuercher indicated the video would be played 
followed by public speakers. 
 
A short video on the proposed Trial Budget was played. 
 
Mr. Mertz opened the floor for public comment. 
 
1. 
Ginnie Ann Sumner requested more traffic enforcement including more motor 
officers, street transportation studies of traffic flows into neighborhoods and 
alternatives to speed humps, traffic flow coordination preventing delays at 
intersections, a real-time operation center for Mountain View Precinct, and 
more park rangers, private security, and mobile cameras at City parks.

2. 
Joseph Dora requested $400,000 in funding to train veterans service 
officers, indicating the City provides nothing in its budget specifically 
for veterans. Mr. Zuercher asked for elaboration about veteran service 
officers and training.  Mr. Dora explained that veteran service officers 
assist veterans with obtaining benefits to which they are entitled. Mr. 
Zuercher indicated the City has numerous veteran preferences within 
its programs, which are not called out. 
 
3. 
Fatuma Haji asked how the City of Phoenix could keep the City 
cleaner. Mr. Zuercher asked Samantha Tavares to respond.  Ms. 
Tavarez described various services provided by the Solid Waste 
Division.  Mr. Zuercher described the Adopt-A-Street program and that 
some schools coordinate with neighborhood associations and the 
Neighborhood Services Department for clean-up opportunities. 
 
4. 
Karen Kruse expressed thanks for support of the City’s library 
systems, including the budget to expand the Cholla parking lot. Ms. 
Kruse described Friends of the Public Library support for library 
services, the historic designation of Acacia neighborhood, the Book 
Storm Program offering free books to teachers and librarians, an 
upcoming Wallace and Ladmo Day including a proclamation by the 
governor, a children’s book drive sponsored by KUPD and Fulton 
Homes, and an event with the Diamondbacks and Avnet. 
 
 
Councilmember Robinson asked whether any students present had additional questions. 
 
Jason Washington asked how Phoenix will help homeless veterans.  Councilman Robinson 
asked a representative of Office of Homeless Solutions (“OHS”) to respond.  Margaret 
Adams indicated OHS partners with other organizations, prioritizes veterans experiencing 
homelessness for shelter programs, provides City staff into the community to identify 
unsheltered individuals including veterans and connects veterans with shelters and veteran 
services for needed specialized support.  Mr. Zuercher indicated that veterans have rights to 
services from the Veterans Administration and the City has staff to help veterans connect to 
those services. Mr. Zuercher noted the City budget includes $20 million to continue 
homeless services, replacing expired federal funding.  Ms. Adams added OHS works with 
the Department of Housing, which administers specialized (“VASH”) housing subsidies 
helping end veteran homelessness and helping veterans retain housing. 
 
Councilmember Robinson called for questions for other students – none responded.  Mr. 
Robinson said he would speak with the students after the hearing.   
 
Councilmember Robinson made announcements concerning Fire Station 13, expanded fire 
services to reduce response times, and improving fire safety for firefighters as top priorities.  
Mr. Robinson encouraged paying attention to developments associated with parks and other 
quality of life issues being addressed by the City. 
 
Councilmember Robinson concluded the hearing at 9:00 AM.

Respectfully submitted, 
 
Scott B. Greenberg 
Budget & Research Analyst

SUMMARY MINUTES 
COMMUNITY BUDGET HEARING 
COUNCIL DISTRICT 7 
DESERT WEST COMMUNITY CENTER 
APRIL 6, 2026 at 6:00PM  
 
Assistant City Manager Ginger Spencer opened the hearing at 6:00 P.M.  
 
She introduced Spanish language interpreter, Mario Barajas. Mr. Barajas introduced his co-
interpreters Oscar Monroy and Elsie Duarte and provided instructions for residents requiring 
Spanish-language interpretation during the hearing. 
 
Ms. Spencer introduced Councilmember Anna Hernandez. 
 
Councilmember Anna Hernandez welcomed attendees and expressed appreciation for 
community feedback on the 2026-27 Trial Budget. She also thanked the District 7 team, Ms. 
Spencer and City staff for attending. 
 
Ms. Spencer briefly explained that resident input on the Trial Budget is important and how 
residents can provide comments. She provided a summary of the budget approval timeline. 
 
Councilmember Hernandez pointed out that Public Works Department staff were present to 
answer questions about the proposed solid waste fee increase. 
 
Ms. Spencer asked staff to play the budget videos in English and Spanish languages. 
 
Councilmember Hernandez opened the floor for public comment. 
 
 
1. 
Jessica Bueno spoke in favor of increased funding for tree shade canopies, 
complete streets in south and west Phoenix, and free electric public 
transportation. She expressed appreciation for including youth, teens and 
families in the Trial Budget and added that the Capital Improvement Program 
is a major opportunity to improve parks, public transit, and street infrastructure 
in west and south Phoenix. She commended the creation of the Council 
District 7 Budget Fellowship. 
 
2. 
Nicole Morales spoke in favor of increased funding for shade, shaded bus 
shelters, bike lanes, support for unsheltered residents and renters, electric 
public buses, small business support in Maryvale, and trees on city and 
private property.  
 
3. 
Magdelena Marin spoke in favor of increased funding for youth programs, 
school psychologists, and college assistance programs. She also expressed 
support for more public transportation along McDowell Road and improved 
parks amenities like those in other cities.

4. 
Justin Capaz spoke in favor of increased funding to help working families such 
as programs for affordable housing and healthcare. He recommended a $20 
million working families relief fund that would not have work requirements with 
protection from federal immigration enforcement. 
5. 
David Portugal spoke in favor of funding for a working families relief fund. He 
also advocated for funding for affordable youth recreation programs, trees, 
and free electric public transportation. He recommended future hearing 
presentations include a pie chart of the proposed Trial Budget.  
 
Mr. Portugal also commended the creation of the Council District 7 Budget 
Fellowship. 
 
6. 
Beatriz Rojas Perez spoke in favor of additional funding for shade, trees, and 
shaded walkways, especially in central, west and south Phoenix. 
 
7. 
Johana Rojas Perez spoke in favor of increased funding for trees and shaded 
walkways to provide heat relief. 
 
8. 
Ben Laughlin spoke in favor of increased funding for childcare and services for 
unhoused individuals. He also advocated for funding $1 million for teen 
programs, with some allocation for the Jacob Michael Harris Foundation, and 
$5 million for a flexible crisis relief/legal assistance fund. 
 
9. Monica Barrientos spoke in favor of funding to support immigrants and teen 
programs, with an allocation to the Jacob Michael Harris Foundation. She also 
advocated for a right-to-counsel for renters facing eviction and establishing a 
$5 million working families relief fund. 
 
10. Reeb Menjivar spoke in favor of funding a $5 million working families relief 
fund that would be available to all residents. She also advocated for approving 
a right-to-counsel ordinance for renters facing eviction. 
 
11. Nancy Lam spoke in favor of funding $5 million for a working families relief 
fund, immigrant legal services, and youth programs with an allocation to the 
Jacob Michael Harris Foundation. 
 
12. Steffi Faircloth spoke in favor of funding a $5 million working families relief 
fund. 
 
13. Raul Moreno spoke in favor of funding more trees, shade, shaded bus 
shelters and pedestrian paths, and free electric public transportation. 
 
14. Hector Gavina spoke in favor of investing in youth health, safety and 
education. 
 
15. Jason Chavez spoke in favor of increased funding for economic relief for all 
regardless of immigration status and a $5 million working families relief fund.

16. Lupe Mora spoke in favor of providing school psychologists. She also 
advocated for increased funds to help families in need of legal assistance due 
to federal immigration enforcement. 
 
17. Ana Loaiza submitted a comment card in favor of funding for more shade 
structures and free electric public transportation. 
 
18. Elizabeth Gavina submitted a comment card in favor of funding a working 
families relief fund and for more street lighting and cleaner energy in city 
parks. 
 
19. Sofia Quezada submitted a comment card in favor of additional public transit 
and accessibility. 
 
20. Esmeralda submitted a comment card in favor of funding greater access to 
higher education. 
 
Councilmember Hernandez shared that there are additional budget hearings and encouraged 
attendance. 
 
Ms. Spencer thanked everyone for attending. 
 
Councilmember Hernandez adjourned the hearing at 7:08 pm. 
 
Respectfully submitted, 
 
 
Genevieve Siri 
Budget and Research Analyst

SUMMARY MINUTES 
COMMUNITY BUDGET HEARING 
SPANISH LANGUAGE 
MARYVALE COMMUNITY CENTER 
APRIL 7, 2026 at 6:00 P.M. 
 
Assistant City Manager Ginger Spencer opened the meeting at 6:06 p.m. and introduced 
interpreter Mario Barajas, Councilwoman Anna Hernandez, and Councilwoman Ann 
O’Brien. Mr. Barajas provided instructions for residents requiring English-language 
interpretation during the hearing. 
 
Ms. Spencer requested the budget video presentation in Spanish to be played. 
 
City Manager Ed Zuercher and Councilwoman Laura Pastor joined the meeting.  
 
Councilwoman Hernandez opened the floor for public comment. 
 
1. 
Juana Rita spoke in favor of allocating $5 million from the City’s budget to a 
fund designed to support working families experiencing crises, including 
assistance with housing, economic relief, and migratory processes, regardless 
of an individual’s legal status. 
 
2. 
Laura Rodriguez spoke in favor of allocating funding to provide financial 
support for working families who were being affected by Immigration and 
Customs Enforcement. She stated the entire country was experiencing 
uncertainty, chaos, and disorder, and she urged the City to address the harm 
caused by the federal administration’s actions. 
 
3. 
Jessica Bueno spoke in opposition to the budget process, stating it lacked 
transparency and insufficient community involvement in its development. 
 
4. 
Irma Pacheco stated that the $1.5 million Human Services one-time funding to 
provide flexible financial assistance and refugee crisis assistance is 
insufficient and Council should consider increasing it. 
 
5. 
Reeb Menjivar spoke in favor of allocating $5 million to a fund designed to 
support working families experiencing crises, including assistance with 
housing, economic relief, and migratory processes, regardless of the 
individual’s legal status. 
 
6. 
Stela Varela spoke in favor of allocating $5 million to a fund designed to 
support working families experiencing crises, including assistance with 
housing, economic relief, and migratory processes, regardless of the 
individual’s legal status. She also requested that part of the funding be used to 
establish a right-to-counsel program for tenants facing eviction, noting that 
many renters lacked legal representation and the community has been 
requesting this protection for more than three years.

7. 
Juana Elizarraras advocated for an improved transportation system with more 
shading, the need for housing assistance, and higher wages for low-paying 
jobs. 
 
8. 
Esther Moreno did not wish to speak but requested additional security for the 
community. 
 
9. 
Berta Rita did not wish to speak but advocated in favor of allocating $5 million 
to a fund designed to support working families experiencing crises, including 
assistance with housing, economic relief, and migratory processes, regardless 
of the individual’s legal status. 
 
10. Elizabeth Gavina spoke in favor of allocating $5 million to a fund designed to 
support working families experiencing crises, including assistance with 
housing, economic relief, and migratory processes, regardless of the 
individual’s legal status. She requested support for immigrant families’ basic 
needs regardless of legal status, a right-to-counsel ordinance for tenants 
facing eviction, increased funding for youth programs, and a reduction in 
surveillance devices in parks and neighborhoods. 
 
11. Nancy Lam spoke in favor of allocating $5 million to a fund designed to 
support working families experiencing crises, including assistance with 
housing, economic relief, and migratory processes, regardless of the 
individual’s legal status. 
 
12. Yollanda Barrera spoke in favor of allocating $5 million to a fund designed to 
support working families experiencing crises, including assistance with 
housing, economic relief, and migratory processes, regardless of the 
individual’s legal status. 
 
13. Lupe Mora spoke in favor of allocating $5 million to a fund designed to support 
working families experiencing crises, including assistance with housing, 
economic relief, and migratory processes, regardless of the individual’s legal 
status. 
 
14. Maria Mora spoke in favor of allocating $5 million to a fund designed to 
support working families experiencing crises, including assistance with 
housing, economic relief, and migratory processes, regardless of the 
individual’s legal status. 
 
15. Angelina Flores spoke in favor of expanded medical assistance, particularly 
for individuals seeking disability or Social Security support. She also 
advocated for resources to help women navigate legal processes, such as 
divorce, and emphasized the importance of respecting the retirement age. 
 
16. Steffi Faircloth spoke in favor of allocating $5 million to a fund designed to 
support working families experiencing crises, including assistance with 
housing, economic relief, and migratory processes, regardless of the 
individual’s legal status.

17. Melina Fonseca spoke in favor of allocating $5 million to a fund designed to 
support working families experiencing crises, including assistance with 
housing, economic relief, and migratory processes, regardless of the 
individual’s legal status.  
 
18. Guadalupe Garina did not wish to speak but expressed support for assistance 
with electric bills and the addition of water stations throughout the City for 
unhoused residents. 
 
 
Councilwoman Hernandez adjourned the hearing at 7:25 p.m. 
 
Respectfully submitted, 
 
Dayana Rosas 
Management Fellow

SUMMARY MINUTES 
COMMUNITY BUDGET HEARING 
COUNCIL DISTRICT 3 
SUNNYSLOPE COMMUNITY CENTER 
APRIL 9, 2026 at 8:30 AM 
 
Councilwoman Debra Stark opened the meeting at 8:31 am. 
 
Deputy City Manager Alan Stephenson introduced Spanish-language interpreters Elsie 
Duarte and Oscar Monroy. Ms. Duarte provided instructions for residents requiring Spanish-
language interpretation during the hearing. 
 
Councilwoman Stark welcomed everyone to the hearing and informed the audience that 
there are additional upcoming budget meetings. 
 
Mr. Stephenson briefly explained the options for the public to provide input and get 
information on the Trial Budget. 
 
A short video on the Trial Budget was played. 
 
Councilwoman Stark requested that closed captions be added to the video and then opened 
the floor for public comment. 
 
1. 
Monica Barrientos requested to dedicate $5 million in the budget for the 
creation of a Working Families Relief Fund to support the immigrant 
community. She supports the additional funding provided in the trial budget for 
teen prevention programs and advocates for adding more funds to these 
programs. She also advocated for the City to pass a right-to-counsel 
ordinance for residents facing eviction. 
 
2. 
Chris Locke congratulated the City on the improved services for heat relief 
and addressing homelessness. She spoke about disability issues and how it 
relates to homelessness.  
 
3. 
Teresa Hill spoke about the amount of traffic accidents and crime on 19th 
Avenue. She does not want any cuts to the Police budget and supports more 
crisis vans and mental health community assistance. She requested the use 
of comprehensive pavement maintenance in place of crack seal treatments. 
 
4. 
Ginnie Ann Sumner spoke in support of additional funding for traffic 
management; park rangers, private security guards, and mobile cameras in 
parks; and the Office of Homeless Solutions Trial Budget request. 
 
5. 
Lisa Bell spoke in support of additional funding to provide benefits for the 
refugee population.  
 
6. 
Nancy Lam spoke about immigration enforcement concerns and requests an 
additional $5 million to provide working families with legal representation in

immigration hearings, housing, food, and health care. She requested an 
additional $1 million in funding for youth. 
 
7. 
Justin Capaz spoke in support of additional funding for the relief of working 
families. 
 
8. 
Adriana Garcia Maxmiliano spoke in support of the Children, Youth, and 
Families section of the budget and requests additional funding for those 
programs. She additionally requested speed mitigation measures along 
Mountain View Road. 
 
9. 
Ben Laughlin supported various aspects of the Trial Budget including 
investments in childcare, programming for teens, and services for unsheltered 
individuals. He advocated adding an additional $5 million to the Children, 
Youth, and Families section of the budget, and $500,000 in teen prevention 
programs. 
 
Councilwoman Stark provided closing remarks and adjourned the hearing at 9:08 am. 
 
 
Respectfully submitted, 
 
 
Daniel Heidinger 
  Senior Budget and Research Analyst

SUMMARY MINUTES 
COMMUNITY BUDGET HEARING 
SPANISH LANGUAGE 
SOUTH MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY CENTER 
APRIL 9, 2026 at 6:00 PM 
 
Assistant City Manager Ginger Spencer opened the meeting at 6:17 p.m. and introduced 
City Manager Ed Zuercher and Councilmember Anna Hernandez. Ms. Spencer introduced 
interpreter Elsie Duarte, who provided instructions for residents requiring English-language 
interpretation during the hearing.  
 
Councilmember Hernandez thanked City employees and residents who have attended 
community budget hearings. She stated it is important for residents to communicate how 
they want City funds to be spent and indicated her office will continue to gather public 
feedback and ideas throughout this process. 
 
Councilmember Hernandez requested the budget video to be played in Spanish. 
 
Councilmember Hernandez indicated no public comments were submitted and adjourned 
the hearing at 6:31 p.m. 
 
Respectfully submitted, 
 
Christine Klich-Corbin 
Budget & Research Analyst

SUMMARY MINUTES 
COMMUNITY BUDGET HEARING 
COMMUNITYWIDE 
COUNCIL CHAMBERS 
APRIL 11, 2026 at 10:30 A.M. 
 
City Manager Ed Zuercher opened the meeting at 10:32 a.m. with Mayor Kate Gallego, Vice 
Mayor Hodge Washington, Councilwoman Ann O’Brien, Councilwoman Anna Hernandez, 
Councilwoman Laura Pastor, Councilwoman Debra Stark, Deputy City Manager Amber 
Williamson, and Budget and Research Director Aaron Mertz present. Mayor Gallego, 
Councilwoman Pastor, and Councilwoman Stark attended the meeting virtually. 
 
Mr. Zuercher introduced Spanish-language interpreter Elsie Duarte. Ms. Duarte provided 
instructions for residents requiring Spanish-language interpretation during the hearing. 
 
Mayor Gallego explained the importance of residents speaking at the budget hearings. Vice 
Mayor Hodge Washington thanked residents for taking the time to attend the meeting. 
Councilwoman Stark expressed her interest in hearing from residents. Councilwoman 
Pastor encouraged residents to speak at the hearing. Councilwoman O’Brien thanked staff 
for their work on the budget throughout the year. Councilwoman Hernandez mentioned this 
is an opportunity for residents to share their opinion. She highlighted the strong fiscal 
position the City of Phoenix is in thanks to staff. 
 
Ms. Williamson thanked residents for speaking. She noted where to find information on the 
proposed 2026-27 Trial Budget, how to provide budget feedback, and next steps in the 
budget process. 
 
A short video on the proposed Trial Budget was played. 
 
Ms. Williamson opened the floor for public comment. 
 
1. 
Alyse Hammonds spoke in favor of funding the Human Services Department 
for working families who may need assistance with rising costs of living. She 
noted that although some families may not be in an emergency situation, they 
may still need support with inflation and healthcare. She also spoke in 
opposition to a zero-dollar budget for the Office of Arts and Culture and the 
Public Works Department. 
 
Mr. Mertz explained the items that have zero dollars allocated means the costs have already 
been covered in the department’s existing budget. 
 
The Councilmembers present made closing remarks and Mr. Zuercher adjourned the 
hearing at 11:12 a.m. 
 
Respectfully submitted, 
 
Cecilia Alcantar 
Management Fellow

SUMMARY MINUTES 
COMMUNITY BUDGET HEARING 
COUNCIL DISTRICTS 2 & 3 
PARADISE VALLEY COMMUNITY CENTER 
APRIL 13, 2026 at 6:00 PM 
 
City Manager Ed Zuercher opened the meeting at 6:00 pm and introduced Spanish-
language interpreter Elsie Duarte. Ms. Duarte provided instructions for residents requiring 
Spanish-language interpretation during the hearing. 
 
Mr. Zuercher introduced Councilmember Debra Starks and Councilmember Jim Waring, 
who provided opening remarks. 
 
Mr. Zuercher noted where to find additional information on the proposed 2026-27 Trial 
Budget, how to leave a comment, and the next steps in the budget process. 
 
A short video on the proposed Trial Budget was played.  
 
Mr. Zuercher opened the floor for public comment. 
 
1. 
Teresa Hill advocated to add transponders to fire emergency vehicles at 
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, and supports additional funding to 
continue decreasing fire response times. Ms. Hill requested to find other 
funding sources to decrease the proposed Solid Waste rate increases. She 
also requested periodic events to assist residents with resources for homeless 
solutions and eviction assistance. Ms. Hill supports the City’s proposed plan 
related to medical treatment in parks. 
 
Mr. Zuercher stated staff are currently pursuing transponders for fire vehicles 
at Sky Harbor. He also clarified on the proposed Solid Waste rates and 
inflation rates used. Mr. Zuercher added that the City currently has a 5-year 
plan for the Fire Department to expand services by building new stations and 
adding new positions. 
 
2. 
Karen Kruse spoke in favor of library funding and services, and supports the 
parking lot expansion at Cholla Library. She also requested additional soccer 
fields across the City. 
 
Mr. Zuercher provided closing remarks and noted that the next budget meeting will be held 
on May 5. 
 
Councilmember Starks and Councilmember Waring adjourned the meeting at 6:20 pm. 
 
Respectfully submitted, 
 
 
Susannah Pietrzykowsky 
  Senior Budget and Research Analyst

SUMMARY MINUTES 
COMMUNITY BUDGET HEARING 
COUNCIL DISTRICT 8 
SOUTH MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY LIBRARY 
APRIL 15, 2026 at 6:00 P.M. 
 
Deputy City Manager Alan Stephenson opened the meeting at 6:03 p.m. and introduced 
interpreter Elsie Duarte and Vice Mayor Kesha Hodge Washington. Ms. Duarte provided 
instructions for residents requiring English-language interpretation during the hearing. 
 
Mr. Stephenson requested the budget video presentation to be played.  
 
Vice Mayor Hodge Washington opened the floor for public comment. 
 
1. 
Ginnie Ann Sumner requested funding to be allocated to neighborhood traffic 
solutions and resources for parks. Ms. Sumner expressed support for 
motorcycle police officers and further requested funding be set aside for an 
Office of Homeless Solutions representative to be present with medical 
providers and feeders permitted in parks.   
 
2. 
Angela Florez spoke in favor of allocating extra funding to resources for the 
unsheltered community, heat mitigation, reliable public transit, and affordable 
housing. 
 
3. 
Kristi McCann advocated for $5 million to be set aside for childcare, $1.5 
million for flexible emergency financial assistance, $1.5 million for heat relief, 
$12.9 million for homeless services continuity with shelter operations, and the 
continuation of $6.6 million toward the Housing Trust Fund. She also spoke in 
support of $2.5 million toward the Master Lease program. She advocated for 
HeadStart to be expanded into schools without pre-kindergarten and 
additional funding for Community Action Officers.  
 
4. 
Irma Pacheco requested additional shade, improved landscaping, more trees 
along 7th Ave, 7th Street, Broadway, and Southern and funding allocated to 
working families with higher electricity and water bills in South Phoenix.  
 
5. 
Darren Jerick requested funding for the Right to Counsel program.  
 
6. 
Andrea Luna Cervantes requested funding for the Right to Counsel program. 
She also requested an increase in funding from $7 million to $12 million for 
flexible financial assistance, refugee‑crisis support and childcare; an increase 
to $3 million for the Master Lease program; and infrastructure improvements 
near 7th Avenue and Grant, including sidewalks, lighting, and traffic‑safety 
measures for both housed and unhoused neighbors. 
 
7. 
Sky requested that additional funding be allocated to the Right to Counsel 
program, flexible financial assistance, Housing Trust Fund, Master Lease 
program and childcare.

8. 
Adriana Garcia advocated for additional funding to be allocated to the Master 
Lease program, flexible financial assistance, refugee crisis support and 
Housing Trust Fund. She also advocated for expansion of the eviction legal 
services through the Right to Counsel ordinance. Furthermore, she requested 
that these programs be structured as low‑barrier, minimizing administrative 
hurdles. 
 
9. 
Jessica Bueno advocated for a participatory budget and budget transparency 
as it relates to the General Fund, Enterprise Fund and Capital Improvement 
Project Funds. She also urged the Council to explore a transit bond to build 
out Bus Rapid Transit and Light Rail.  
 
10. Callie Gregory did not wish to speak but favored increasing funding to 
neighborhood services for the homeless community.  
 
11. Dylan Sage Knostomon did not wish to speak but opposed the current $800 
million allocated to the Phoenix Police Department and advocated for the 
funding to be allocated to other community programs.  
 
Vice Mayor Hodge Washington stated she will continue to advocate for affordable housing 
and the Housing Trust Fund. She thanked City staff for the work being done.  
 
Vice Mayor Hodge Washington adjourned the hearing at 6:46 p.m. 
 
Respectfully submitted, 
 
Taniya Williams  
Management Fellow

SUMMARY MINUTES 
COMMUNITY BUDGET HEARING 
CITYWIDE 
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS 
APRIL 16, 2026 at 6:00 PM 
 
City Manager Ed Zuercher opened the meeting at 6:03 pm. Mr. Zuercher introduced 
Spanish interpreter Mario Barajas. Mr. Barajas introduced himself and Elise Duarte, both of 
whom he said would provide interpretation services for the hearing. He provided instructions 
for residents requiring Spanish-language interpretation. 
 
Mr. Zuercher explained the purpose of the budget hearing, introduced Vice Mayor Kesha 
Hodge Washington, and informed the audience that Councilwoman Debra Stark was 
attending virtually.  
 
Vice Mayor Hodge Washington spoke about the importance of public input on the budget 
and thanked those in attendance and City staff. 
 
Councilwoman Stark spoke about the importance of public input on the budget.  
 
Mr. Zuercher then introduced Deputy City Manager Amber Williamson. 
 
Ms. Williamson briefly explained the options on how to get information on the Trial Budget 
and how to speak at the budget hearing. 
 
A short video on the Trial Budget was played at 6:07 pm. 
 
Mr. Zuercher opened the floor for public comment at 6:15 pm. 
 
1. 
Jessica Bueno spoke about the need to make the budget process more 
transparent. She also spoke in favor of increased funding to address potential 
disruptions caused by light rail construction in Maryvale. 
 
2. 
Emily Sanchez spoke in favor of adding more green spaces to address the 
dangers of extreme heat. 
 
3. 
Julian Zepeda spoke in favor of free electric public transit to make the City 
safer and cleaner. 
 
4. 
Andrea Luna Cervantes spoke in support of assistance to struggling working 
families. She requested a right-to-counsel ordinance be passed, a $5 million 
increase to the flexible financial assistance budget, and to increase the master 
lease pilot program budget to $3 million.  
 
5. 
Sasha Robinson advocated for fencing to be installed along a state-owned 
property in her neighborhood to address crime and homeless issues.

6. 
Adriana Garcia Maximiliano spoke in support of the Children, Youth, and 
Families section of the budget and requested $5 million in additional funding 
for the flexible financial assistance budget. 
 
7. 
Ana Loaiza spoke about the positive impact of youth involvement at public 
hearings. 
 
8. 
Noellee Lewis spoke in favor of providing legal representation during eviction 
court proceedings and additional water fountains for the homeless. 
 
9. 
Knor Silva advocated for more shade trees. She spoke about her concerns 
with homeless people in alleys and empty lots in her neighborhood. She 
advocated for more youth programs. 
 
10. Connie Phillips spoke about refugee resettlement programs. She advocated a 
$3 million increase to set-aside funding or refugee resettlement assistance. 
 
11. Devaughn Robinson spoke in favor of additional funding for refugee 
resettlement assistance. 
 
12. Mastaani spoke in favor of a $3 million increase in refugee resettlement 
assistance. 
 
13. Kevin Groman spoke in support of funding for refugee resettlement support 
programs. 
 
14. Oleksander S. spoke about the challenges of finding stable employment as a 
refugee and requested an increase in funding for refugee resettlement 
assistance programs. 
 
15. Immacculee F. spoke about the challenges of being a refugee.  
 
16. Lajoie M. spoke of the challenges of finding employment as a refugee and 
requested an increase in the budget for refugee assistance.  
 
17. Aziz B.’s testimony was read, which described the experiences of being a 
refugee while having cancer and being unable to receive SNAP benefits. 
 
18. Naomi B. advocated an increase to the refugee resettlement assistance 
budget. 
 
19. John Niyaonzima spoke about the struggles of affording rent and advocated to 
increase the refugee assistance budget from $1.5 million to $4.5 million. 
 
20. Sade Omidiji spoke about the need for additional resources for refugees and 
requested an additional $3 million in the budget for the refugee assistance 
programs.

21. Cynthia Graber advocated $2.5 million to fund real-time camera monitoring to 
prevent crime. She also requested $150,000 to analyze and review the 
release of repeat criminal offenders along the 19th avenue corridor between 
Camelback Road and Dunlap Avenue. 
 
22. Suzanne Day spoke in support of setting aside funds for maintenance and 
expansion of protected bicycle lanes. She also requested that motor vehicle 
speed limits be enforced and reduced on streets with bicycle lanes.  
 
23. Bill Whitmire spoke about housing affordability and advocated additional 
funding for the housing trust fund. He requested $12 million in funding for 
community legal services, flexible financial assistance, refugee services, and 
a right-to-counsel program. He spoke against the Parks medical and food 
distribution ordinance being considered by the City Council. 
 
24. Anne Ender requested funding to conduct research into Phoenix Police 
staffing issues. She asked where the $1 million for Community Transparency 
Initiative legal services is located in the budget. She requested a $150,000 to 
fund an analysis of the release of repeat criminal offenders along the 19th 
avenue corridor and additional funding for real-time camera monitoring. 
 
25. Melody Moss advocated fencing to be installed along a state-owned property 
in her neighborhood to address crime and homeless issues.  
 
26. Mary Kaech spoke about issues facing the refugee community. She requested 
additional funding of $3 million to be added to the budget to address these 
problems. 
 
27. Elise Mugabe spoke about the dangers of extreme heat and about the need to 
have more trees and shade in the City. She also spoke in favor of 
implementing affordable or free electric public transportation. 
 
 
Mr. Zuercher thanked everyone for attending and City staff. He provided information on the 
next steps in the budgeting process.  
 
Vice Mayor Hodge Washington expressed her gratitude to all the residents who attended 
and spoke at the budget hearing.  
 
Councilwoman Stark thanked those who spoke at the budget hearing and thanked City staff. 
 
Mr. Zuercher concluded the hearing at 7:20 pm. 
 
 
Respectfully submitted, 
 
 
Daniel Heidinger 
  Senior Budget and Research Analyst

VOICEMAIL, ELECTRONIC, AND WRITTEN BUDGET COMMENTS    
March 1, 2026 – April 21, 2026, AND SOCIAL MEDIA STATISTICS  
    
Emails 
 
1. Leanna Lonski sent an email in support of continued funding to the library. 
2. Lisa Nathan sent an email in support of continued funding to the library. 
3. Judy Whitehouse sent an email in support of continued funding to the library. 
4. Robin Cusick sent an email in support of continued funding to the library. 
5. Mary Ann Maher sent an email in support of continued funding to the library. 
6. Monica Goddard sent an email in support of continued funding to the library. 
7. Mary Lee sent an email in support of continued funding to the library. 
8. Wayne Turner sent an email in support of continued funding to the library. 
9. Barbara Fenzi sent an email in support of continued funding to the library. 
10. Andrew Miller sent an email in support of continued funding to the library.  
11. Catherine Colbert sent an email in support of continued funding to the library. 
12. Robbie Bhattarai sent an email in support of continued funding to the library. 
13. Lois Flynn sent an email in support of continued funding to the library. 
14. MaryAnn Johnson sent an email in support of continued funding to the library. 
15. Ivy Gerbis sent an email in support of continued funding to the library. 
16. Wendy Waither sent an email in support of continued funding to the library. 
17. Elizabeth Douglas sent an email in support of continued funding to the library. 
18. Sharon Denny sent an email in support of continued funding to the library.  
19. Zaneta Alexander sent an email in support of funding to assist residents with 
housing.  
20. Destyn Letcher sent an email in support of funding to the Historic Preservation 
Office.  
21. Susan Nasrazadani sent an email in support of funding for Office of Arts & Culture. 
22. Jake Williams sent an email in support of funding for the Office of Arts & Culture.  
23. Goerge (Kip) Sudduth sent an email in support of funding for the Office of Arts & 
Culture. 
24. Heidi Dauphin sent an email in support of funding for the Office of Arts & Culture.

25. Christen Carns sent an email in support of funding for the Office of Arts & Culture. 
26. Claire Warden sent an email in support of funding for the Office of Arts & Culture. 
27. David Adams sent an email in support of funding for the Office of Arts & Culture. 
28. Christine Lester sent an email in support of funding for the Office of Arts & Culture. 
29. Jaye Nelson sent an email in support of funding for the Office of Arts & Culture. 
30. Elena Martinovici sent an email in support of funding for mosquito fogging.  
31. Teresa Hill sent an email in support of funding for crisis vans, mental health 
community assistance and additional security at homeless shelters.  
32. Mary Kaech sent an email in support of funding for a relief fun for refugee and 
immigrant families.  
33. Carrie Vaughn sent an email in support of funding for a relief fun for refugee and 
immigrant families. 
34. Wendy Schultz sent an email in support of funding for a relief fun for refugee and 
immigrant families. 
35. LeAnn Allgood sent an email in support of funding for a relief fun for refugee and 
immigrant families. 
36. Helen Ryan sent an email in support of funding for a relief fun for refugee and 
immigrant families. 
37. Robert Sarussi sent an email in support of additional funding for safety infrastructure 
at Hance Park to include additional Park Rangers.  
38. Margaret Dietrich sent an email in support of additional funding for safety 
infrastructure at Hance Park to include additional Park Rangers. 
39. Brian Kruckenberg sent an email in support of additional funding for safety 
infrastructure at Hance Park to include additional Park Rangers. 
40. Heather Fahay sent an email in support of additional funding for safety infrastructure 
at Hance Park to include additional Park Rangers. 
41. Chris Genung sent an email in support of additional funding for safety infrastructure 
at Hance Park to include additional Park Rangers. 
42. Krystian Sosinski sent an email in support of additional funding for safety 
infrastructure at Hance Park to include additional Park Rangers. 
43. Suzie Colace sent an email in support of additional funding to create more family 
friendly wellness activities in South Phoenix, specifically an indoor walking path and 
additional toddler classes offered by the Park Department.

44. John Walker sent an email in support of additional funding to continue to make the 
streets safer for cyclists.  
45. Jeremy Maldonado sent an email in support of additional funding to the Parks 
Department to maintain and clean up the hiking trails.  
46. Jennifer Flores sent an email and letter in support of funding for HAWK Traffic 
Signals for Camelback and 15th and 17th Avenues. Ms. Flores would also like to see 
the city committed to funding for safety designs and active cameras monitoring the 
transit route along the 19th Avenue corridor that isn’t strictly tied to police precincts 
due to staffing. She would also like to see blighted and chronic problem properties 
on the path of the light rail be cleaned up or demolished before construction on the 
new light rail extension begins. Ms. Flores would also like to see the Office of 
Homeless Solutions (OHS) and the Phoenix Police Department separate their 
reporting in zip code 85015. The letter is attached.  
47. Cynthia Graber sent an email in support of the city setting aside $150,000 in the 
FY2026-27 budget to fund an independent study on judicial release practices 
affecting repeat offenders along the 19th Avenue corridor. Ms. Graber also supports 
allocating funding to expand real-time operations capability connected to Community 
Safety Partnership (CSP) along the light rail corridor to strengthen safety, improve 
response times and protect residents who depend on public transportation,  
48. Leisa McDonald with the Matthew House emailed a letter in support of additional 
funding for refugee and immigrant families. The Letter is attached.  
Voicemails 
 
There have been no budget comments left through voicemail. 
 
Social media statistics from March 1 to April 20, 2026: 
Statistic totals are from City of PHX Facebook (English/Spanish), Twitter 
(English/Spanish), Instagram and Nextdoor: 
• 59 Posts 
• 
51,435 Impressions 
• 
336 Engagements 
 
Flowpage (Trial Budget) 
• 257 Pageviews 
  
14 City of Phoenix YouTube  
• 1,401 
• 17 Likes

Advertising statistics from March 19 to April 16, 2026: 
Statistic totals are from Cox Media advertising for online ads, streaming ads, and 
television ads (English/Spanish): 
• 595,138 Impressions (display and streaming) 
 
 
Respectfully submitted, 
Kari Lambert 
Administrative Assistant II

Dear Mayor Gallego, City Manager, and City Council, 
As you finalize the trial budget, I strongly urge you to allocate capital funding to the Street 
Transportation Department for Right-of-Way (ROW) engineered shade infrastructure along the 
19th Avenue corridor. Do not forget the dangerous intersections at 15th Ave & W Camelback 
and 17th Ave & W Camelback, which experience traffic and pedestrian accidents and fatalities. 
While temporary cooling centers are vital, our neighborhood requires long-term infrastructure to 
remain livable and economically vibrant.  
The 2008 light rail expansion replaced our mature shade canopy with a massive footprint of 
concrete and asphalt. Today, these intersections are severe micro-heat islands, making the 
daily transit experience grueling—and often dangerous—for riders including senior citizens, 
the disabled, and school aged children during our hottest months. 
Therefore, I am specifically requesting budget priority to engineer concrete tree wells, curb 
bump-outs, and enhanced traffic calming and safety measures along N 19th Ave (3000 to 7000 
blocks, Zip Code 85015): 
• 
Expanded Desert Canopy: Installation of desert-adapted shade trees (such as Desert 
Willows) to reduce the urban heat island effect. 
• 
Enhanced Median Plantings: Native landscaping to improve air quality and safety 
without obscuring traffic, bike, or pedestrian visibility. 
• 
Community Assets: Support for mixed-use owner-occupied developments and 
community hubs—Community-Centered Food Hub, a new Phoenix International District 
senior center, and indoor recreational space—while strictly protecting the Pierson 
Garden that sits adjacent to the 19th Ave & W Camelback Park & Ride. 
• 
Cultural Identity: Inclusion of culturally representative public art and signage for the 
International District to celebrate our history and foster economic growth. 
• 
Safe Transit Nodes: Integration of HAWK pedestrian crossing signals, DarkSky 
[darksky.org] approved upgraded lighting, and high-visibility intersection markings at key 
light rail and bus stops. By implementing standards from this globally recognized 
organization headquartered in Arizona, we ensure safe, multi-modal access for all 
residents while effectively eliminating light trespass and reducing glare in the 
surrounding neighborhood. 
This project supports the City’s Vision Zero commitment and addresses a critical Heat Equity 
gap for transit riders, including school age children, who suffer from extreme exposure in this 
corridor. Investing in these "cool corridor" improvements now will provide a clear economic 
return through increased walkability, ridership, and improved local property values. 
Thank you for your commitment to a cooler, safer, and more walkable Phoenix. 
Sincerely, 
 
Jennifer Flores, Resident, Westown Amended Neighborhood Association

Current State
19th Ave & W Campbell

19th Ave & W Camelback Road 
19th Ave & W Indian School Road