2026-2028 Strategic Plan

FY2026-2028
STRATEGIC PLAN

The City of El Mirage is committed
to:
Transparency; 
Fiscal Responsibility; 
Environmental Stewardship;
Community Engagement;
and 
Excellence in all we do.
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Structure of the Strategic Plan
Values
Mission
To protect and enhance the quality of
life through leadership, partnerships,
and the efficient delivery of
outstanding service to our diverse
community.
Vision
To embrace progress
while respecting El
Mirage’s grand heritage.
The City's long-term plans, such as the Capital Improvement Plan, Rate Study,
General Plan, Facilities Master Plan and Parks Master Plan, are not just about the
City's needs. They are a reflection of the community's voice, as resident feedback
through the Community Survey is a crucial part of their creation. These plans,
along with the community's input, are used to create the Strategic Plan, a
comprehensive roadmap for the City's future.

Structure of the Strategic Plan
Using the City’s mission, vision, values, and the motto of 'Grand Heritage, Bright
Future!', three pillars were created: quality of life, outstanding service, and community.
These pillars serve as the foundation for the plan, and the areas of focus under them
are the key drivers of the actions. This structure will remain consistent, providing a
stable framework for staff efforts. The plan is a dynamic document that allows for
updates to show the progress of each goal and to break the goals into more actionable
pieces for management, departments, divisions, and even down to the employee. 
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The Strategic Plan, a key driver of policy implementation and program direction, plays a
pivotal role in the development of the City's annual budget and capital improvement
plan. Any requests for new funding are carefully evaluated in the context of their
relationship to the plan, underscoring the importance of the City Council's role in
ensuring the plan's successful implementation. The plan will be discussed annually with
the City Council to review progress and determine priorities for the plan update, further
highlighting their crucial involvement.

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Enhance community safety through proactive crime prevention initiatives while
ensuring that public safety departments are well-equipped, well-trained, and
adequately staffed.
Priority
Public safety is the foundation of a thriving community. It protects individuals,
property, and the community from harm, crime, and disasters. By integrating law
enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services, into proactive community
efforts, we create an environment where residents feel secure and supported.
Optimize staffing and operational readiness.
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Staffing and Training Optimization: Establish a system to analyze current staffing
levels, forecast gaps, and adjust resource allocation accordingly. Refine shift
structures and staffing models.
Community Policing Expansion: Increase outreach programs, enhance
Neighborhood Watch efforts, and host annual crime prevention events.
Enhance Community Fire Prevention and Outreach: Expand educational fire
safety programs, partner with local organizations, and host annual fire safety
events to increase community awareness and resilience.
Asset Management: Implement advanced inventory management software to
optimize the maintenance and utilization of equipment and technology assets.
Interagency Collaboration and Crisis Preparedness: Forge formal partnerships
with neighboring jurisdictions to coordinate crisis response and share best
practices. 
Actions
Objectives
Strengthen community safety through proactive crime prevention.
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Ensure that public safety personnel have access to the necessary
resources, training, and modern equipment.
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PUBLIC SAFETY
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Ensure reliable, safe, and sustainable infrastructure that supports city growth,
improves mobility and accessibility, and enhances water and utility systems for
long-term community well-being.
Priority
Infrastructure supports daily operations and future growth, comprising
essential systems—from roads and bridges to utilities and smart technologies —
that facilitate mobility, communication, and high-quality public services. Our
focus is to develop a reliable, safe, and sustainable infrastructure that meets
current demands and positions El Mirage for long-term success.
Prioritize road repairs in high-traffic and residential areas to
improve safety, mobility, and accessibility.
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INFRASTRUCTURE
Pavement and Street Maintenance: Evaluate and update the pavement
maintenance plan for proactive repairs in targeted neighborhoods.
Long-Term Infrastructure Investments: Prioritize funding in utilities,
streets, and stormwater systems to support sustainable growth.
Development Impact Fees: Analyze impact fees.
Regional Collaboration: Strengthen partnerships with state and federal
agencies to secure additional funding for transportation, utility
enhancements, and air quality improvements.
Sustainable Water Management: Forge partnerships with CAP, SRP, ADWR,
and other agencies; implement conservation measures and groundwater
recharge initiatives to ensure long-term water reliability and environmental
sustainability.
Actions
Objectives
Strengthen water supply partnerships for long-term sustainability
through collaboration with regional agencies.
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Modernize water, sewer, and stormwater management systems to
enhance efficiency and environmental stewardship.
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Align infrastructure investments with community priorities and
ensure transparency in funding practices.
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Enhance the unique character and local identity of El Mirage
through targeted revitalization efforts.
Foster a more connected and engaged community by expanding focused outreach,
hosting inclusive events, and building strategic partnerships with local organizations.
Priority
Neighborhoods are the heart of El Mirage. They represent the unique residential
communities—from downtown to adjacent areas—that contribute to our city’s
character. This priority focuses on revitalizing these neighborhoods through
improved amenities, active partnerships, and initiatives that celebrate our heritage
while enhancing residents' quality of life.
Strengthen collaboration among residents, property owners, and
local businesses to drive neighborhood improvements.
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NEIGHBORHOODS
Downtown Revitalization Plan: Continue targeted improvements in
infrastructure, and public spaces, and enhance the city’s aesthetic appeal.
Property Improvement Incentives: Encourage upgrades to storefronts,
abatement of unsafe structures, and overall neighborhood appearance through
coordination with property owners and proactive code enforcement. 
Arts and Culture Initiative: Develop programs and public art projects that
showcase local talent and heritage, including murals and interactive cultural
events.
Public Space Enhancements: Upgrade parks, streetscapes, and community
facilities to make them more accessible, safe, and attractive.
Actions
Objectives
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Enrich cultural identity through public art installations, cultural
events, and innovative public space enhancements.
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Strengthen community bonds, promote health and wellness, and expand both
recreational and cultural opportunities across all neighborhoods.
Priority
Parks and recreation are essential for community well-being, offering spaces for
physical activity, social interaction, and cultural enrichment. These public spaces —
including parks, green areas, sports facilities, and community centers — serve as
vital hubs that contribute to a healthy, vibrant lifestyle for all residents.
Upgrade parks and recreational spaces to ensure they are safe,
accessible, and engaging.
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PARKS AND RECREATION
Master Parks Study Implementation: Establish and execute a plan to
implement recommendations from the Master Parks Study, focusing on
infrastructure, amenities, and programming improvements.
Ongoing Maintenance and Upgrades: Regularly maintain and upgrade park
equipment and amenities to ensure a safe, accessible, and positive user
experience.
Facility Expansion: Upgrade and expand recreational facilities by adding 
       multi-use trails, community gardens, athletic fields, sports courts, and dedicated   
       cultural event spaces.
Community Engagement in Planning: Engage stakeholders through surveys and
public meetings to ensure that park improvements reflect residents’ needs.
Actions
Objectives
Boost resident participation through enhanced city events and
recreational programs.
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Incorporate resident input into the planning and programming of
parks and recreational facilities.
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A high-performing government is critical to delivering effective services and
fostering trust within our community. This priority is dedicated to ensuring our city
administration operates efficiently, transparently, and effectively while engaging
residents in decision-making. We are committed to continuous improvement, clear
communication, and accountability.
Foster a culture of transparency by improving communication with
residents and expanding public access to information.
HIGH-PERFORMING GOVERNMENT
Communication Strategy Evaluation:  Conduct regular evaluations to
refine public outreach activities.
Technology Adoption: Adopt modern digital platforms and technologies
to optimize city operations.
Resident Feedback Mechanisms: Conduct regular community surveys
and implement public performance dashboards to guide decision-making.
Enhance data-driven decision-making to continuously improve
operational effectiveness.
Strengthen transparency, foster accountability, and improve city services by
enhancing communication, increasing res engagement, and strategically leveraging
modern technology.
Priority
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Actions
Objectives
Streamline city services to enhance accessibility and
responsiveness.
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EMPLOYEES
Regularly assess employee satisfaction and identify areas for
improvement.
Support city employees through robust professional development, competitive
compensation, and a positive, inclusive work environment that fosters career growth,
innovation, and excellence.
Priority
City employees are essential to our operations, dedicated to delivering vital
services and supporting our community. This priority focuses on cultivating a
skilled, motivated, and workforce through comprehensive professional
development, competitive compensation, and a supportive work environment.
Foster individual and organizational effectiveness by offering
training initiatives to empower employees and support career
advancement.
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Communication Strategy Evaluation:  Conduct regular evaluations to
refine public outreach activities.
Technology Adoption: Adopt modern digital platforms and technologies to
optimize city operations.
Resident Feedback Mechanisms: Conduct regular community surveys and
implement public performance dashboards to guide decision-making.
Actions
Objectives
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Ensure competitive salaries and benefits that align with market
standards to attract and retain the top talent necessary for
achieving the City’s mission and goals.
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Evaluate opportunities to improve sustainability, energy efficiency,
and resilience in city facilities.
FACILITIES
Ensure facilities are maintained, updated, and optimized to
accommodate growing staffing needs, operational efficiency, and
resident accessibility requirements.
Assess and address current and projected space constraints to
support service delivery and long-term growth.
Maintain, modernize, and enhance city facilities to ensure efficient operations, safety,
accessibility, and capacity for both organizational requirements and community use.
Priority
City facilities are essential assets that support government operations and
community services. This priority is dedicated to maintaining, modernizing, and
enhancing our physical assets—from city halls to community centers—ensuring
they are safe, energy-efficient, and responsive to evolving needs.
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Energy and Cost Optimization: Explore and implement options to optimize
energy use, and reduce operational costs.
Space Utilization & Expansion Planning: Evaluate facility usage, identify
overcrowding, and determine areas for consolidation or expansion. Assess
the need for additional meeting rooms, public spaces, or city service offices
to support operational efficiency and resident engagement.
Periodic Audits: Conduct facility audits to identify gaps and opportunities for
modernization or expansion, ensuring long-term strategic planning.
Actions
Objectives
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Improve communication and outreach about city partnerships,
available services, and community resources.
COMMUNITY SERVICES
Strengthen and formalize partnerships with local organizations,
nonprofits, and community groups to boost service effectiveness.
Strengthen and expand community services so that all residents have access to
essential programs and support systems that improve overall well-being.
Priority
Community services are vital programs
and resources that enhance social 
well-being and support vulnerable
populations. This priority focuses on
strengthening and expanding our
offerings—from health and housing
initiatives to support for seniors and
youth—to improve the overall quality of
life for every resident.
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Communication Strategy: Develop and implement a comprehensive plan to raise
awareness of city services and resources among residents.
Needs Assessment: Conduct an assessment and gap analysis of current services
provided by the city and its partners.
Affordable Housing and Support Programs: Continue the affordable housing
initiative while exploring additional programs that address housing affordability
and social support.
Engagement: Engage community stakeholders through public meetings and
surveys to refine and improve service delivery.
Actions
Objectives
Expand and innovate service delivery to meet evolving
resident needs.
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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Foster a more connected and informed community through expanded outreach,
inclusive events, and active civic participation.
Priority
Community engagement is the active process of involving residents,
businesses, and organizations in shaping the future of our city. Through
transparent communication and strong partnerships, this priority ensures that
diverse community voices are heard and incorporated into decision-making,
resulting in inclusive and effective policies.
Promote transparency and inclusivity by leveraging diverse digital
and in-person platforms to share information.
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Community Engagement & Outreach: Host public forums, town halls, and
workshops while leveraging surveys and outreach campaigns to gather
resident input, foster dialogue, and inform city improvements.
Digital & Media Communication: Enhance the city’s website, social media,
and traditional media channels to provide real-time updates, enable two-way
communication, and keep residents informed through newsletters and press
releases.
Strategic Partnerships & Civic Education: Collaborate with faith-based
groups, schools, and civic organizations to co-host events, promote volunteer
opportunities, and educate residents about local government operations.
Mayor’s Youth Commission: Engage young residents in city initiatives,
leadership development, and civic participation.
Actions
Objectives
Enhance partnerships with local faith-based organizations,
schools, and civic groups to drive community involvement.
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Revitalize commercial corridors through targeted property
improvements, business incentives, and infrastructure
enhancements.
Economic development is key to ensuring long-term growth and prosperity for 
our community. This priority focuses on stimulating business growth, attracting
investment, and creating job opportunities through strategic infrastructure
investments, public-private partnerships, and workforce development initiatives.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Expand workforce development initiatives to connect residents with
career opportunities through partnerships with businesses, schools,
and training programs.
Expand and strengthen public-private partnerships to foster local
economic innovation, attract investment, and support business
retention and expansion. 
Drive sustainable economic growth by revitalizing business districts, expanding
workforce development, and strengthening partnerships that support long-term
development.
Priority
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Business Corridor Enhancements: Implement the Downtown Revitalization
Plan, improving commercial aesthetics and increasing business attraction
efforts.
Expand Workforce Training:  Enhance job training opportunities in partnership
with local businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations.
Small Business Support: Connect entrepreneurs with resources and financial
assistance to enhance business sustainability and growth.
Actions
Objectives
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