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OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK
COUNCIL MINUTES
April 9, 2026
The City Council of the City of Mesa met in the Study Session room at City Hall, 20 East Main Street, on
April 9, 2026, at 7:30 a.m.
COUNCIL PRESENT
COUNCIL ABSENT
OFFICERS PRESENT
Mark Freeman*
Scott Somers
Rich Adams*
Jennifer Duff
Alicia Goforth
Dorean Taylor
Francisco Heredia
Scott Butler
Holly Moseley
Jim Smith
(*Participated in the meeting through the use of video conference equipment.)
Vice Mayor Somers conducted a roll call.
Vice Mayor Somers excused Councilmember Heredia from the entire meeting.
1-a.
Hear a presentation, discuss, and provide direction on the Mesa Fire and Medical Department
budget.
Fire Chief Mary Cameli introduced Assistant Chief Brent Burgett, Assistant Chief Brian Darling,
Assistant Chief Cori Hayes, Assistant Chief John Locklin, and Deputy Director Tara Acuna and
displayed a PowerPoint presentation. (See Attachment 1)
Chief Cameli expressed her gratitude for the ongoing support from the Council and City
management and provided an overview of the Mesa Fire and Medical Department (MFMD)
divisions. She discussed the key outcome areas that serve as factors in helping to save lives,
including maintaining a highly skilled workforce and achieving fast response times. (See Pages 2
and 3 of Attachment 1)
Assistant Chief Locklin reviewed the response time key performance indicators (KPIs) and
explained that response times include the time required for dispatchers to answer and process a
911 call, the turnout time for crews to be notified and get to the apparatus, and the travel time
from the station to the scene. He stated that response times are reported at the 90th, 75th, and
50th percentiles, with the 90th percentile serving as the industry standard for National Fire
Protection Association (NFPA) and accreditation reporting. He added that, following voter
approval of the public safety sales tax and bonds in 2018, response times initially increased
slightly as new units were placed into service; however, as additional stations and response units
were added, including Stations 21 and 22, response times began trending downward. He
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April 9, 2026
Page 2
highlighted the upcoming implementation of a new intersection preemption system that utilizes
GPS to trigger traffic signals for fire trucks more quickly, resulting in improved response times.
(See Page 4 of Attachment 1)
Assistant Chief Locklin discussed the annual call volume KPI and stated that overall call volume
has remained relatively consistent since 2021, generally ranging between 70,000 and 72,000
calls per year. He added that the department also monitors calls by category, including medical
and fire-related incidents and that consistency allows the department to accurately evaluate
response time improvements as new stations and response units are added. (See Page 5 of
Attachment 1)
Assistant Chief Burgett highlighted the reductions in 911 calls since increasing the number
referrals to the social services team. He defined high utilizers as individuals who call 911 more
than three times within a 90-day period and explained the calculations of overall percentage
reduction. He stated that the social services team, which includes two social workers and one
intern, typically receives approximately 100 referrals from crews each month. He noted that the
average reduction in calls after intervention was approximately 45%. He provided an example of
how crews helped identify a service gap and used a multi-tiered approach, including the senior
adult living program, transportation advocacy, and coordination with hospital social workers, to
help connect a higher utilizer with needed long-term care. He added that the goal is to reduce
recidivism and help residents access appropriate services rather than relying on 911 for non-
emergency needs. (See Page 6 of Attachment 1)
Discussion ensued regarding social services referrals for high utilizers of the 911 system.
In response to a question from Councilmember Goforth related to a fire engine responding to calls
rather than a medical response vehicle, Assistant Chief Locklin explained that a fire engine is
dispatched to ensure crews have the full range of equipment available, if necessary, to avoid
delays of service. He stated that the nature of a medical call can change from what was initially
reported, and crews may be redirected to another incident before returning to the station.
Additional discussion ensued regarding the types of response vehicles dispatched to calls for
assistance and the importance of ensuring crews have the appropriate equipment available to
respond effectively.
Ms. Acuna reviewed the service level categories and financial summary for the General
Government Funds, noting that the proposed budget includes budget reductions, budget
adjustments, and merit increases. She recalled that the increase in community involvement was
due to inspector positions added mid-year, while the year-end estimate is lower due to a vacant
position being held in anticipation of budget reductions. She stated that departmental support
increased due to scheduled lifecycle replacement costs, noting that expenditures are expected to
slightly exceed budget due to utility costs; however, the proposed FY 26/27 budget decreases
because fewer lifecycle projects are scheduled. She explained that the increase in incident
response was due to benchmarking implementation and that the year-end estimate is projected
to exceed budget primarily due to ongoing dispatch/call center overtime. She added that staff is
working with the Office of Management and Budget on the issue, and that the proposed FY
2026/27 budget includes transferring four positions to the Public Safety Sales Tax Fund, with
reductions offset by merit increases for sworn personnel. (See Page 7 of Attachment 1)
Ms. Acuna reviewed the Public Safety Sales Tax Fund and stated that Departmental Support
remains relatively stable, as it primarily includes a small number of administrative positions. She
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April 9, 2026
Page 3
explained that incident response includes dispatch and operations, and that the FY 25/26 revised
budget is higher because positions in the fund are budgeted at fully loaded, top-step costs, with
overtime budgeted at 17%. She noted that this created capacity for an $800,000 reduction in the
proposed budget for the following year, related to the transfer of four positions from the General
Fund to the Public Safety Sales Tax Fund and a reduction in overtime funding. (See Page 8 of
Attachment 1)
Responding to a question from Vice Mayor Somers, Assistant Chief Locklin explained that rover
personnel are used to help backfill vacancies caused by vacation, sick leave, injury, and other
absences. He noted that the size and use of the rover pool is regularly evaluated to determine
the most cost-effective balance between rover staffing and explained how those decisions are
considered.
Ms. Acuna reviewed the Emergency Transportation Services (ETS) fund, noting that the increase
from FY 2024/25 to FY 2025/26 reflects the full buildout of ambulance services and a proposed
shift from 12-hour to 24-hour coverage. She stated that revenues are projected to exceed
expenses, with adjustments to be made for bad debt and citywide overhead, and the remaining
funds are intended to help build fund balance for future capital needs. She summarized the
proposed budget reductions, including elimination of a vacant marketing and communications
specialist position and the reallocation of four positions. (See Pages 9 through 11 of Attachment
1)
Ms. Acuna provided updates on current fire station construction projects. She commented that
Fire Station 224, located at 80th Street and Elliot Road, is more than 50% complete and is
anticipated to open in November, and Fire Station 205 has completed demolition, groundwork,
and underground electrical work, with opening anticipated in approximately one year. (See Pages
12 and 13 of Attachment 1)
Assistant Chief Hayes discussed the purchase of 35 automated CPR devices, known as LUCAS
devices, for use on frontline ambulances, with additional units available for reserve and training
purposes. She reported that the purchase is supported by a $725,000 Assistance to Firefighters
Grant, with an approximate 10% City match funded through Emergency Transportation Services
and the Fire Department. She confirmed that the devices will improve responder safety and
provide consistent, high-quality CPR during ambulance transport, while also allowing personnel
to perform other critical tasks during emergency care. (See Page 14 of Attachment 1)
Assistant Chief Burgett provided an overview of the Firewise program, a community risk reduction
effort focused on wildfire mitigation and neighborhood resiliency. He noted that Firewise
communities in Mesa include Las Sendas, with Madrid and Mountain Bridge added in February.
He recalled that using GIS and drone technology have been an asset used to assess vegetation
risks, develop maps, and share information with residents in areas near the Tonto National Forest.
(See Page 15 of Attachment 1)
Assistant Chief Locklin addressed emerging energy and power systems that may create
additional challenges for firefighters responding to structure fires. He stated that in addition to the
traditional power grid, homes and businesses may use other energy systems that make it more
complex to safely isolate power during an emergency, particularly with solar panels that may re-
energize when exposed to sunlight. He discussed compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles as
another emergency response challenge that requires different firefighting considerations because
the pressure relief valves must be allowed to function properly. He reiterated that firefighters must
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April 9, 2026
Page 4
be trained to safely manage these incidents due to the potential hazards associated with
pressurized fuel systems. (See Pages 16 and 17 of Attachment 1)
Assistant Chief Locklin outlined the fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries used in scooters,
e-bikes, phones, laptops, and similar devices. He emphasized the importance of using properly
listed batteries and chargers, ensuring devices are not damaged, and avoiding charging devices
near exits. He stated that if a battery fire occurs, individuals should immediately evacuate and call
911. He discussed the use of fire blankets for electric vehicle fires that are intended to help
suppress fire, heat, and gases after initial fire knockdown and may assist crews in safely moving
or isolating vehicles. He stated that MFMD is awaiting additional guidance from the Fire Safety
Research Institute and will coordinate regionally on best practices for deployment and use. (See
Pages 18 and 19 of Attachment 1)
Assistant Chief Darling reviewed the MFMD’s Cancer Prevention program and listed the various
services funded by public safety sales tax funding and more than $2 million in grant funding since
FY 2019/20. He verified that the program has helped identify cancer in 13 members, allowing for
early detection and treatment, and emphasized the importance of continued cancer prevention
efforts for firefighter health and safety. (See Page 20 of Attachment 1)
Mayor Freeman expressed support for the Fire Department budget, emphasizing the importance
of cancer screening and health support for fire personnel. He stated that maintaining a full-service
public safety response is non-negotiable and thanked staff for their hard work.
Mr. Butler stated that early screening helps identify health risks and allows employees to receive
needed treatment, sometimes before they are aware of a problem. He commented that supporting
employee health is both the right thing to do and a smart business decision, particularly for
recruitment, as prospective employees are more likely to join an organization that takes care of
its personnel.
(At 8:54 a.m., Vice Mayor Somers excused Mayor Freeman from the remainder of the meeting.)
1-b.
Appointments to various boards and committees.
It was moved by Councilmember Duff, seconded by Councilmember Goforth, that the Council
concur with the Mayor’s recommendations and the appointments be confirmed. (See Attachment
2)
Upon tabulation of votes, it showed:
AYES – Somers–Adams–Duff–Goforth–Taylor
NAYS – None
ABSENT– Freeman–Heredia
Vice Mayor Somers declared the motion carried unanimously by those present.
2.
Acknowledge receipt of minutes of various boards and committees.
2-a.
Museum & Cultural Advisory Board meeting held on January 22, 2026.
2-b.
Approval of minutes from City Council executive session held on March 5, 2026.
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April 9, 2026
Page 5
It was moved by Councilmember Duff, seconded by Councilmember Taylor, that receipt of the
above listed minutes be acknowledged.
Upon tabulation of votes, it showed:
AYES – Somers–Adams–Duff–Goforth–Taylor
NAYS – None
ABSENT– Freeman–Heredia
Vice Mayor Somers declared the motion carried unanimously by those present.
3.
Current events summary including meetings and conferences attended.
There were no reports on meetings and/or conferences attended.
4.
Scheduling of meetings.
City Manager Scott Butler stated that the schedule of meetings is as follows:
Thursday, April 16, 2026, 7:30 a.m. – Study Session
5.
Adjournment.
Without objection, the Study Session adjourned at 8:55 a.m.
____________________________________
MARK FREEMAN, MAYOR
ATTEST:
_______________________________
HOLLY MOSELEY, CITY CLERK
I hereby certify that the foregoing minutes are a true and correct copy of the minutes of the Study Session
of the City Council of Mesa, Arizona, held on the 9th day of April 2026. I further certify that the meeting
was duly called and held and that a quorum was present.
_______________________________
HOLLY MOSELEY, CITY CLERK
sr
(Attachments – 2)
Mesa Fire & Medical Department
April 9, 2026
Fiscal Year 2026/27
Chief: Mary Cameli
Assistant Chiefs: Brent Burgett, Brian Darling,
Cori Hayes, John Locklin
Deputy Director: Tara Acuña
Study Session
April 9, 2026
Attachment 1
Page 1 of 20
PERFORMANCEPLUS
E N V I S I O N . E L E V A T E . I M P A C T .
The Mesa Fire & Medical Department exists to deliver timely,
compassionate, and effective all-hazard and medical response,
paired with community risk reduction to decrease loss of life,
property, and preventable harm for a safe and thriving Mesa.
OUTCOMES-base of KPIs
HOW WE ALIGN TO
THE PRIORITIES
WHY WE EXIST
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Attachment 1
Page 2 of 20
Outcome Areas
3
Decrease loss of life
•
Highly skilled workforce
•
Fast response times
Decrease loss of property
•
Well maintained equipment
•
Trained on proper techniques
Decrease preventable harm
•
Following up on referrals
•
Providing additional resources to citizens
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Attachment 1
Page 3 of 20
KPI: Response Times
4
The response time (in minutes) for Code 3 emergency calls by calendar year. Times are shown in decimal format (e.g., 4.50 = 4 min, 30 sec).
Fire and Medical Code 3 Incident Response Times by Percentile
90th Percentile
75th Percentile
50th Percentile
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Attachment 1
Page 4 of 20
KPI: Incidents
5
Number of fire and medical incidents within Mesa Fire and Medical’s jurisdiction per type per calendar year.
MFMD Annual Incidents Responded to by Type
Medical
Fire
MVA
Service
Spec Ops
Comm Med
65,060
65,045
64,319
69,890
71,405
70,921
72,135
71,938
17,738
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Attachment 1
Page 5 of 20
KPI: High Utilizers
6
Reduction of 911 Calls from Emergency Services High Utilizers
Percent reduction in calls from high utilizers after social services intervention. Calculated by total number of high utilizer 911 calls 3 months prior to intervention/total number of
high utilizer 911 calls 3 months after intervention.
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Attachment 1
Page 6 of 20
Financial Summary
7
Figures in millions, rounded
Service Level
FY 24/25
Year End Actuals
FY 25/26
Revised Budget
FY 25/26
Year End Estimate
FY 26/27
Proposed Budget
Community Involvement
$4.3
$4.8
$4.7
$4.9
Departmental Support
$26.3
$35.0
$35.3
$26.7
Incident Response
$82.4
$89.0
$89.5
$89.3
Total Expenses
$113.0
$128.8
$129.5
$120.9
General Governmental Funds
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Attachment 1
Page 7 of 20
Financial Summary
8
Figures in millions, rounded
Public Safety Sales Tax Fund
Service Level
FY 24/25
Year End Actuals
FY 25/26
Revised Budget
FY 25/26
Year End Estimate
FY 26/27
Proposed Budget
Departmental Support
$0.5
$0.7
$0.6
$0.7
Incident Response
$13.1
$17.8
$15.4
$18.7
Total Expenses
$13.6
$18.5
$16.0
$19.4
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Attachment 1
Page 8 of 20
Financial Summary
9
Figures in millions, rounded
Emergency Transport Services Fund
Service Level
FY 24/25
Year End Actuals
FY 25/26
Revised Budget
FY 25/26
Year End Estimate
FY 26/27
Proposed Budget
Incident Response
$15.7
$22.5
$22.6
$23.0
Total Expenses
$15.7
$22.5
$22.6
$23.0
Service Level
FY 24/25
Year End Actuals
FY 25/26
Revised Budget
FY 25/26
Year End Estimate
FY 26/27
Proposed Budget
Incident Response
$24.7
$31.2
$31.2
$33.7
Total Revenues
$24.7
$31.2
$31.2
$33.7
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Attachment 1
Page 9 of 20
FY 26/27 Budget Reduction Summary
10
General Fund Reduction Target: $1.35M over three years
Reduction
FTE / Vacant?
Reduction
Amount
Fund
Eliminate Vacant PIO Marketing/Communications
Specialist II
-1
Yes
-$126,000
General
Reallocate (4) Firefighters from GF to PSST Fund
-
-
-$705,000
General
Total
-1
-$831,000
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Attachment 1
Page 10 of 20
11
FY 26/27 Adjustment Request Summary
*Will be offset by program revenue
Ranking Adjustment
FTE
One-Time
Ongoing
Fund
1
ETS Fund Modification
0
-
$286,000
ETS
2
ETS Conversion (12hr to 24hr)
2
-
$290,000
ETS
ETS Fund Total
2
$0
$576,000*
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Attachment 1
Page 11 of 20
Station 224
12
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April 9, 2026
Attachment 1
Page 12 of 20
Station 205
13
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April 9, 2026
Attachment 1
Page 13 of 20
14
Auto CPR Devices – FEMA AFG Grant
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Attachment 1
Page 14 of 20
15
Firewise Program
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April 9, 2026
Attachment 1
Page 15 of 20
• Solar
• Residential Battery Storage
• Power Grid
• Generator Power
• Hydrogen Diffuser
• Electric Vehicle
Current & Emerging Home Energy Challenges
16
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April 9, 2026
Attachment 1
Page 16 of 20
Flashover
due to
Battery
Charger
18
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Attachment 1
Page 17 of 20
CNG Challenges for Firefighters
17
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Attachment 1
Page 18 of 20
Evolving Equipment for Electric Vehicle Fires
19
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Attachment 1
Page 19 of 20
Cancer
Prevention
Starting in FY 19/20, $210,000 was budgeted annually through the public
safety sales tax for cancer prevention.
We've received over $2M in grant funding for cancer mitigation over the last
three years.
The funding has been used for the following:
• Cancer screenings/full body MRI scans
• Exhaust removal systems in bays
• Relocation of ice machines/turnout storage in bays
• Clean-cab concept implementation
• Galleri blood tests
• Turnout cleaning
To date, the following cancers have been identified through the preventative
screening measures taken: esophageal, colorectal, glioma brain, kindey,
leukemia, lymphoma, thyroid, various skin and testicular.
20
20
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April 9, 2026
Attachment 1
Page 20 of 20
April 9, 2026
TO:
CITY COUNCILMEMBERS
FROM:
MAYOR MARK FREEMAN
SUBJECT:
Appointments to Boards and Committees
The following are my recommendations for appointments to the City of Mesa Advisory
Boards and Committees:
Transportation Advisory Board – Eleven-member board including new appointments.
Nathan Woodworth, District 1. Mr. Woodworth is a Business Development
Manager/Project Manager at Hunter Contracting Co. He earned a Bachelor of Science in
Engineering from Arizona State University. His partial term will expire June 30, 2028.
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April 9, 2026
Attachment 2
Page 1 of 1