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OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK
COUNCIL MINUTES
February 5, 2026
The City Council of the City of Mesa met in the Study Session room at City Hall, 20 East Main Street, on
February 5, 2026, at 7:31 a.m.
COUNCIL PRESENT
COUNCIL ABSENT
OFFICERS PRESENT
Mark Freeman
Scott Somers*
Jennifer Duff
Alicia Goforth
Francisco Heredia
Dorean Taylor
Rich Adams
Scott Butler
Holly Moseley
Jim Smith
(*Participated in the meeting through the use of video conference equipment.)
Mayor Freeman conducted a roll call.
Mayor Freeman excused Councilmember Adams from the entire meeting.
1.
Review and discuss items on the agenda for the February 9, 2026, Regular Council meeting.
All of the items on the agenda were reviewed among Council and staff and the following was
noted:
Conflict of interest: None
Items removed from the consent agenda: None
City Manager Scott Butler announced that pending state law is expected to pass with an
emergency clause that will require an update to the City of Mesa’s primary election date, which
will be added to the February 9, 2026, Regular Council meeting agenda.
City Clerk Holly Moseley noted that the Governor is expected to sign the legislation next week,
which would shift the election timeline back by two weeks from August 4 to July 21, 2026.
In response to a question from Mayor Freeman regarding agenda Item 4-a, (Arizona Farms
Road High Pressure Gas Line Replacement Design-Bid-Build Contract. (Pinal County)), on
the Regular Council Meeting agenda, Energy and Sustainability Director Scott Bouchie displayed
a PowerPoint presentation. (See Attachment 1)
Mr. Bouchie provided an overview of the City of Mesa’s (COM) natural gas service areas, noting
that the COM serves approximately 45,000 customers within the service territory and
Study Session
February 5, 2026
Page 2
approximately 36,000 customers within the Magma service territory. He explained that the Magma
service territory is experiencing rapid growth and highlighted several large industrial customers
within the Magma service territory. He explained that the proposed project would abandon
approximately four miles of natural gas pipeline originally installed in the 1960s, before the City
of Mesa acquired the Magma service territory, noting that the line has been operating at reduced
pressure and, as a result, has limited overall system capacity. He reported that following an audit
by the Arizona Corporation Commission, the COM committed to replacing the pipeline as part of
its long-term master plan. He noted that the replacement pipeline was upsized from the originally
planned eight-inch diameter to a twelve-inch diameter that will accommodate anticipated industrial
growth in the northern portion of the service area. (See Pages 2 and 3 of Attachment 1)
Responding to a question from Councilmember Taylor, Mr. Bouchie explained that the
improvements are part of a systemwide approach and consistent with the COM’s natural gas
master plan designed to accommodate system growth. He confirmed that the COM does not plan
to standardize the system to a single pipe size and that the system includes a range of pipe
diameters generally from two inches to twelve inches based on anticipated demand, customer
load, and land-use zoning within each service area.
In response to a question from Vice Mayor Somers regarding agenda Item 5-a, (Approving and
authorizing the City Manager or designee to apply for and enter into Highway Safety
Contracts with the Arizona Governor’s Office of Highway Safety for Federal Fiscal Year
2027 and accept up to $354,000 in grant funding. These contracts have historically
included overtime for added traffic enforcement (e.g. impaired driving, safety education
and awareness, etc.) as well as funding for additional traffic supplies, equipment, and
training. (Citywide)), on the Regular Council Meeting agenda, Police Lieutenant Dennis Thomas
agreed that pursuing a similar grant to support e-bike safety would be worthwhile and stated that
he would research the matter further and provide additional information at a later date.
Mr. Butler added that many of the grants referenced are standard grants the Police Department
receives annually through the state that typically support DUI enforcement activities.
Discussion ensued regarding e-bike safety and education.
In response to a question from Councilmember Taylor regarding agenda Item 7-a, (ZON25-00313
"The Lincoln" 9.1± acres located 340 feet west of the southwest corner of Hampton Avenue
and Crismon Road. Minor General Plan Amendment to change the Placetype from Urban
Center to Urban Residential. Virtua Mesa Crismon Owner, LLC, owner; Brennan Ray, Ray
Law Firm, applicant. (District 5)), on the Regular Council Meeting agenda, Mr. Ray explained
that the landscaping concepts discussed, including the quality of materials and overall design
approach, would be addressed through the design review process as the project continues to
move forward in close coordination with the COM staff.
Responding to a question from Councilmember Taylor regarding agenda Item 8-a, (An ordinance
adopting titles and schedules of terms/rates/fees/charges for non-residential water utility
services. (Citywide)), on the Regular Council Meeting agenda, Office of Management and
Budget Director Brian Ritschel recalled that Council adopted a Notice of Intent in December for
non-residential rate adjustments and stated that the proposed ordinance reflects the additional
increase that Council requested be incorporated into the rates.
Mr. Butler clarified that the item represents the second phase of the rate adjustment process and
reviewed the Notice of Intent requirements.
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February 5, 2026
Page 3
Responding to a question from Mayor Freeman regarding agenda Item 6-a, (ZON25-00256 "Sun
Devil Auto - Signal Butte" 5.9± acres located approximately 280 feet east of the northeast
corner of East Southern Avenue and South Signal Butte Road. Major Site Plan Modification
and amending Conditions of Approval Nos. 1, 6, 7 and 9 of Ordinance No. 3884 for the
development of an approximately 7,689± square foot Minor Automobile/Vehicle Service
and Repair facility. WS Holdings I, LLC, owner; George Pasquel III, Withey Morris Baugh,
PLC, applicant. (District 5)), on the Regular Council Meeting agenda, Planning Director Mary
Kopaskie-Brown clarified that the case under consideration is separate from the proposed text
amendments related to administrative review processes. She stated that the purpose of the
presentation at this meeting is to receive direction from Council on how to address proposed
changes associated with an ordinance previously approved by Council.
In response to a question from Mayor Freeman regarding agenda Item 5-b, (ZON25-00056
"Destination at Gateway FLM" 117± located at the Southeast and Southwest corners of
East Williams Field Road and South Signal Butte Road. Council Use Permit for Freeway
Landmark signs. This will allow for two freeway landmark signs. BCB Group Investments,
LLC, owner; Sean Lake, Pew and Lake, applicant. (District 6)), on the Regular Council Meeting
agenda, Ms. Kopaskie-Brown advised that the proposed sign was not a billboard, but rather a
freeway landmark monument sign which is allowed under the Zoning Code.
2-a.
Hear a presentation, discuss and receive an update on Mesa’s crime statistics for 2025.
Chief of Police Dan Butler introduced Assistant Police Chief Gina Nesbit and displayed a
PowerPoint presentation. (See Attachment 2)
Chief Butler noted that much of the discussion would reference crime statistics and public safety
before reviewing comparative data from other cities across the country, and that the higher crime
statistics in other jurisdictions should not be interpreted as a reflection of poor leadership or
ineffective police departments. He stressed that the COM is different from most in that its public
safety is supported by the entire community, City leadership and collaboration across all
departments.
Chief Butler presented data on violent crime incidents, noting that the COM experienced a 14%
overall reduction in 2025 following a steady increase in violent crime from 2020 through 2024. He
reported that robberies have declined year over year since 2020 as part of the Department’s long-
term crime reduction efforts. He compared homicide data for the past two years highlighting that
the Department achieved a 100% homicide clearance rate in 2024 and that, while investigations
are ongoing for 2025 cases, the clearance rate is approaching 90% and noted the national
average homicide clearance rate is approximately 50%. He emphasized that these outcomes
reflect a citywide effort and are not attributable solely to sworn police officers. (See Pages 2 and
3 of Attachment 2)
Assistant Chief Nesbit reviewed the calls for service, noting that overall calls for service increased
by approximately 5% from 2024 to 2025 and explained that this increase reflects population
growth and overall activity levels, rather than a deterioration in service delivery to community
members. She reported that dispatched calls for service declined by approximately 4% and have
decreased each year since 2021. She verified that this trend indicates improved call triage,
prioritization, and operational efficiency in how calls are handled. She highlighted a significant
shift toward proactive policing, with officers identifying and addressing issues before they escalate
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February 5, 2026
Page 4
into calls for service, rather than responding solely after incidents occur. (See Page 4 of
Attachment 2)
Discussion ensued regarding calls for service, including dispatch calls and proactive policing.
Assistant Chief Nesbit reported a decrease in calls for shots fired, armed robbery, and incidents
involving a subject with a gun, and noted that the reductions are significant given the serious
nature of the offenses. She stated that juvenile-related disturbances increased by 11% and
reiterated the importance of continued collaboration with schools and community partners to
address youth-related issues. She reviewed the motor vehicle crimes which showed a downward
trend in 2025 and stated that these sustained reductions were attributed to focused enforcement
efforts and strong community partnerships. She added that officers are also engaging directly with
residents to provide education and strategies to help improve neighborhood safety. (See Pages
5 and 6 of Attachment 2)
Discussion ensued regarding the value of the Resource/Community Officer (RCO) program and
the importance of the strong relationship between the MPD and the City Council.
In response to a request from Councilmember Taylor, Chief Butler provided an overview of the
RCO program, its role and impact. He pointed out that while a specific cost analysis had not been
completed, he referenced the data on the high societal cost of crime and emphasized that
proactive, community-based efforts contribute to prevention and long-term savings. He added
that the MPD is focused on efficiency and noted that the current staffing model is made up of
approximately 60% sworn and 40% non-sworn personnel. He advised that the MPD is partnering
with Arizona State University (ASU) to further analyze data and outcomes, while continuing to
work collaboratively with the community and other agencies to develop and implement strategies
that address neighborhood-specific concerns.
Assistant Chief Nesbit noted an emerging trend involving an increased theft of e-bikes and ways
that MPD is responding through targeted enforcement and public education. She stated that traffic
collisions increased in 2025, which reflected a broader national and regional trend observed since
2020, when driving behaviors shifted during the COVID-19 pandemic. She said that while fatalities
had increased slightly overall, 2025 totals remained lower compared to 2022 and 2023. (See
Pages 7 and 8 of Attachment 2)
Discussion ensued regarding ways to increase traffic safety such as collaboration between the
MPD and the Transportation Department.
Assistant Chief Nesbit noted an increase in traffic stops, with a continued emphasis on issuing
warnings as part of an education-focused approach. She emphasized that enforcement efforts
are not focused on issuing citations for their own sake, but rather on preventing serious injuries
and fatalities. She confirmed that, overall, roadway safety efforts remain centered on
accountability, public awareness, and saving lives. (See Page 9 of Attachment 2)
Assistant Chief Nesbit explained that there had been a significant increase in mission-directed
patrols, with activity increasing by 113% from 2024 to 2025. She pointed out a strategic shift
toward proactive policing, increased visibility, and early intervention in problem areas through
community engagement. She reported an increase of 85% in human trafficking offenses from
2024 to 2025, which the Department attributed to more targeted and proactive investigations
uncovering crimes that may have previously gone undetected, rather than an increase in
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February 5, 2026
Page 5
victimization. She stated that during the same time, vandalism incidents had declined by 15%,
continuing a steady downward trend since 2020. (See Page 10 of Attachment 2)
Responding to a question from Councilmember Taylor regarding whether the decline in vandalism
is related to reduced gang activity, Chief Butler indicated that the decrease is primarily attributed
to increased proactive policing efforts. He reported that the MPD emphasized that higher levels
of officer-initiated activity and targeted enforcement have a direct correlation with reductions in
crime. He acknowledged the presence of gang members, including individuals from outside the
community, and stated that the MPD actively addresses gang-related activity with focused and
intentional strategies to prevent escalation.
Assistant Chief Nesbit addressed the Driving Under the Influence (DUI) arrests which had
increased 8%, reflecting a continued emphasis on impaired driving prevention and roadway
safety. She advised that weapons violations and prohibited possessor arrests increased by
approximately 18%, and remarked that officers are making more contacts, identifying criminal
behavior earlier, and removing firearms from the community before they are used in crimes. She
said many recovered weapons are processed through investigative systems, helping to solve
additional crimes across the region. (See Page 11 of Attachment 2)
Chief Butler presented light rail crime statistics. He reported that that approximately 50% of
incidents occurring within 500 feet of light rail stops are the result of officer-initiated activity and
that the most common offense in these areas is drug paraphernalia, with approximately 1,500
incidents reported each year. He stressed that compared to overall ridership of approximately 1.8
million users annually, crime associated with the light rail system remains low, occurring in roughly
0.8% of total ridership. He reiterated that data indicates that the light rail system continues to
operate as a relatively safe mode of transportation. (See Page 12 of Attachment 2)
Chief Butler advised that among cities with populations over 500,000, the COM ranks as the
safest major city in the nation. He verified that the peer comparison cities include Kansas City,
Sacramento, Fresno, Tucson, Albuquerque, Milwaukee, Baltimore, Memphis, and Portland. He
pointed out that while some smaller cities, such as Virginia Beach, may rank similarly, differences
in population size and unique factors such as large military populations with different reporting
mechanisms impact direct comparisons. He declared that the COM continues to perform strongly
in national public safety rankings among comparable cities. (See Page 13 of Attachment 2)
Assistant Chief Nesbit recalled that the crime data and safety rankings are based on 2024 FBI
Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) data due to standard reporting delays. She pointed out that the
preliminary 2025 victim-based data from the Major Cities Chiefs Association indicates that the
COM is projected to remain the safest city among those with populations between 500,000 and
650,000. (See Page 14 of Attachment 1)
Chief Bulter reflected on the external safety rankings and referred to a recent WalletHub survey
that ranked the COM as the 11th best city overall and the top city in Arizona and noted that such
rankings may not fully reflect actual public safety conditions. He explained that the survey
methodology included factors beyond crime, such as financial stability and natural disaster risk,
which together account for a significant portion of the overall score. He added that metrics
included perception-based measures, infrastructure, and staffing ratios, which may not accurately
align with the COM’s policing model. He emphasized that the COM’s public safety performance
is better reflected through crime data, noting that the COM remains the safest among similarly
sized major cities. He recognized the MPD’s unique staffing approach, which utilizes a higher
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February 5, 2026
Page 6
proportion of civilian personnel to improve efficiency, making traditional officer-per-capita
comparisons less applicable. (See Pages 15 and 16 of Attachment 2)
Mr. Butler expressed his appreciation to Chief Butler and his staff for the presentation. He noted
that the COM’s strong public safety performance is often taken for granted due to the MPD’s
consistent effectiveness. He stressed that public safety remains the COM’s top priority and is
reflected in the budget as a core community value. He highlighted that a safe community is
essential to economic development, and he acknowledged that MPD’s positive community
engagement confirms its strong stewardship of public funds and is an essential contributor to
maintaining a safe and thriving community.
Responding to a request from Councilmember Duff regarding the relationship between the MPD
and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Chief Butler encouraged the public to review
the MPD’s transparency page for detailed information on policies, practices, and departmental
philosophy. He clarified that while the MPD works with federal law enforcement partners, MPD
does not enforce federal law in the field and does not ask immigration-related questions. He stated
that in accordance with A.R.S. 11-1051, notifications to federal authorities may occur only after a
lawful arrest has been made for a violation within the officer’s authority. He emphasized the
importance of balancing visibility with officer safety and stated that the MPD uniforms include
standardized identifiers such as badges and patches, and that the use of highly reflective or
fluorescent materials was not supported due to safety concerns, particularly during nighttime or
proactive enforcement activities.
Mayor Freeman expressed his appreciation to staff for the presentation, professionalism, and
commitment to transparency within the community. He highlighted the MPD’s outreach efforts,
particularly engagement with Latino and Hispanic communities, including participation in
community events and festivals, noting the COM’s diverse population. He commended the MPD’s
strong relationships at all levels and emphasized the importance of data-driven strategies such
as CompStat in guiding targeted policing efforts. He also recognized the value of the Real-Time
Crime Center (RTCC) and the use of technology to enhance situational awareness and support
effective policing across the city.
In response to a question from Mayor Freeman, Chief Butler verified that staffing remains an
ongoing challenge, particularly due to increased retirements of long-tenured officers. He stated
that the MPD is proactively planning for anticipated vacancies by allocating funding in advance to
stay ahead of staffing needs and pointed out that there are approximately 80 recruits in the hiring
pipeline, progressing through the academy and training program toward certification. He indicated
that the Department is performing well in recruitment efforts and remains focused on maintaining
adequate staffing levels for patrol operations.
Responding to a question from Vice Mayor Somers, Chief Butler explained that crime rates are
influenced by a variety of factors, including median income and neighborhood characteristics, and
noted that policing strategies cannot be applied uniformly across all areas. He highlighted the
MPD’s approach of empowering commanders to address issues specific to their assigned areas.
In response to a comment from Councilmember Taylor, Chief Butler reiterated the importance of
community engagement, noting that events such as National Night Out serve as key opportunities
to build relationships between residents and COM departments.
Chief Butler responded to a request from Councilmember Duff and confirmed that the MPD
officers only make arrests for violations of criminal law. He confirmed that individuals are taken
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February 5, 2026
Page 7
into custody solely for criminal offenses under applicable state statutes, and the MPD does not
arrest individuals for civil immigration matters.
Mayor Freeman thanked staff for the presentation.
(Mayor Freeman declared a recess at 9:07 a.m. The meeting reconvened at 9:13 a.m.)
2-b.
Hear a presentation, discuss and provide direction to staff on the process to modify site plans
(Development Plan Modifications) as part of the proposed Administrative Review Text
Amendments, including provisions related to identifying Council approvals and administrative
approvals.
Planning Director Mary Kopaskie-Brown introduced Assistant Planning Director Rachel Phillips,
and Assistant City Attorney Kirsten Dvorchak and displayed a PowerPoint presentation. (See
Attachment 3)
Ms. Kopaskie-Brown presented the proposed text amendment related to House Bill (HB) 2447,
which requires cities to establish objective standards for design review and administrative
approvals for site plans and subdivisions. She recalled that subdivision plat approvals were
previously shifted to an administrative process and are no longer reviewed by Council or the
Planning and Zoning Board. She said that the current amendment focuses on streamlining site
plan reviews and creating a more predictable, objective administrative process. (See Page 2 of
Attachment 3)
Ms. Kopaskie-Brown explained that under the current process, site plans are often tied to rezoning
approvals, requiring Council action for major modifications, and that minor amendments may be
approved administratively if they meet established thresholds. She verified that the proposed
changes would separate legislative and administrative site plan modifications to reduce the
number of items requiring Council approval. She emphasized that this is primarily a policy
decision for Council regarding which types of site plan changes should be returned for review.
She pointed out that the proposed amendment aims to align with state law, incorporate
stakeholder feedback, and further streamline development processes to support a more business-
friendly environment. (See Pages 3 and 4 of Attachment 3)
Ms. Kopaskie-Brown outlined proposed criteria to distinguish between legislative and
administrative site plan modifications. She recalled that legislative actions would continue to
include rezonings, overlay districts, and cases where conditions tied to an approved ordinance
are affected. She presented a two-prong test to determine when a site plan modification would
require Council review and reported that under this approach, a project would return to Council
only if the proposed change is both a substantial modification to the site plan, such as changes
exceeding 15% of gross floor area, increases in residential density, the addition of drive-thru uses,
or significant traffic impacts, and includes a change in land use. She stated that if only one of
these conditions is met, such as a significant building expansion without a change in use, the
modification could be approved administratively. She noted that many site plan modifications are
already handled administratively and that the proposed changes are intended to further streamline
the process while preserving Council oversight for major policy-related decisions. (See Pages 5
and 6 of Attachment 3)
Ms. Kopaskie-Brown discussed the proposed options for Council consideration, including
maintaining the current process, adopting the proposed two-prong test as recommended, or
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February 5, 2026
Page 8
shifting most site plan approvals to the Planning Director with only zoning-related changes
returning to Council. (See Page 7 of Attachment 3)
Councilmember Goforth emphasized the COM’s ongoing focus on efficiency, flexibility, and
streamlining development processes, noting that both Council and staff actively work with the
development community to reduce delays and costs. She highlighted the importance of
maintaining Council oversight, particularly when site plans are a key factor in rezoning decisions
and noted that site plans often serve as the basis for trade-offs communicated to residents, and
significant changes to those plans after approval could undermine the original justification for a
zoning decision. She expressed concern that the proposed 15% threshold for determining
substantial site plan changes may be too high and suggested maintaining a 10% threshold to
ensure meaningful changes continue to be reviewed by Council.
At 9:38 a.m., Mayor Freeman excused Councilmember Heredia from the remainder of the
meeting.
Discussion ensued regarding the existing 5,000 square foot cap, the proposed 15% threshold
intended to provide additional flexibility, concerns that reducing Council oversight could diminish
the ability to represent constituent interests, as zoning decisions are closely tied to community
input and expectations, and the parameters of the proposed text amendments.
Mr. Butler expressed support for maintaining a 10% threshold for site plan modifications while
removing the 5,000 square foot cap, noting this approach would provide greater flexibility while
still preserving meaningful oversight. He suggested that this approach could be evaluated over
time to assess its effectiveness and adjust if needed.
Mayor Freeman confirmed Council consensus to proceed with a 10% threshold for cumulative
increases or decreases in gross floor area (GFA), rather than 15%.
Mayor Freeman thanked staff for the presentation.
3.
Acknowledge receipt of minutes of various boards and committees.
3-a.
Planning and Zoning Board Study Session meeting held on November 12, 2025.
3-b.
Planning and Zoning Board Public Hearing meeting held on November 12, 2025.
3-c.
Planning and Zoning Board Special meeting held on November 12, 2025.
3-d.
Museum & Cultural Advisory Board meeting held on November 20, 2025.
3-e.
Human Relations Advisory Board meeting held on December 3, 2025.
It was moved by Councilmember Taylor, seconded by Councilmember Duff, that receipt of the
above listed minutes be acknowledged.
Upon tabulation of votes, it showed:
AYES – Freeman–Somers–Duff–Goforth–Taylor
NAYS – None
ABSENT – Adams–Heredia
Study Session
February 5, 2026
Page 9
Mayor Freeman declared the motion carried unanimously by those present.
4.
Current events summary including meetings and conferences attended.
There were no reports on meetings and/or conferences attended.
5.
Scheduling of meetings.
City Manager Scott Butler stated that the schedule of meetings is as follows:
Monday, February 9, 2026, 5:00 p.m. – Study Session
Monday, February 9, 2026, 5:45 p.m. – Regular Council
6.
Adjournment.
Without objection, the Study Session adjourned at 9:52 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 5th day of February 2026. I further certify that the meeting
was duly called and held and that a quorum was present.
_______________________________
HOLLY MOSELEY, CITY CLERK
sr
(Attachments – 3)
Study Session
February 5, 2026
Attachment 1
Page 1 of 3
Magma Gas Service Area
• 235 square miles
• Serves more than
36,000 gas
customers.
• Growth ~2,000
customers per
year.
• Notable gas
customers:
• LG Energy Solution
• CMC Steel
• ZF (formerly TRW)
Study Session
February 5, 2026
Attachment 1
Page 2 of 3
Arizona Farms Rd Gas Project
• Project Scope:
• Abandon ~4 miles of 4”
HP steel and install ~ 5
miles of 12”.
• Address a probable
violation with Arizona
Corporation
Commission.
• Align with Master Plan
to improve system
redundancy and future
growth.
• Ensure sufficient
system capacity to
support potential
future industrial and
residential
development .
Study Session
February 5, 2026
Attachment 1
Page 3 of 3
City of Mesa
Police Department
2025 Crime Data
Overview
February 5, 2026
CITY OF MESA POLICE DEPARTMENT – 2025 CRIME OVERVIEW
Presented by:
Daniel Butler – Chief of Police
Gina Nesbit – Chief of Staff
Disclaimer: Crime and call figures presented reflect Mesa Police Department data
available at the time of reporting and are subject to revision as reports are finalized.
Study Session
February 5, 2026
Attachment 2
Page 1 of 16
CITY OF MESA POLICE DEPARTMENT – 2025 CRIME OVERVIEW
2
Violent Crime Incidents
• Violent crime Incidents rose
steadily from 2020 through 2024.
• In 2025, Mesa saw a reduction by
about 14%.
• Robberies continued a long-term
downward trend, decreasing for
the fifth consecutive year (about a
34% decrease since 2020).
• Aggravated assaults decreased for
first time in five years.
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February 5, 2026
Attachment 2
Page 2 of 16
CITY OF MESA POLICE DEPARTMENT – 2025 CRIME OVERVIEW
3
Violent Crime Incidents
• Reported sexual assault and rapes
dropped significantly, continuing
multi-year decrease.
• While homicide victims increased
slightly in 2025, totals remain
lower than the levels seen
between 2020 and 2023.
• This progress reflects sustained
enforcement, prevention, and
community partnership efforts that
will continue into 2026.
Study Session
February 5, 2026
Attachment 2
Page 3 of 16
CITY OF MESA POLICE DEPARTMENT – 2025 CRIME OVERVIEW
4
Calls for Service
• Calls for service increased about
5% from 2024 to 2025.
• Dispatched calls continue a multi-
year decline.
• Officer initiated on view activity
increased, highlighting proactive
policing rather than reactive
response.
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February 5, 2026
Attachment 2
Page 4 of 16
CITY OF MESA POLICE DEPARTMENT – 2025 CRIME OVERVIEW
5
Calls for Service
• Calls involving shots fired, armed
robbery, and subjects with guns all
decreased.
• Juvenile disturbance calls
increased, pointing to areas where
community and prevention efforts
remain critical.
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February 5, 2026
Attachment 2
Page 5 of 16
CITY OF MESA POLICE DEPARTMENT – 2025 CRIME OVERVIEW
6
Motor Vehicle Crimes
• Stolen vehicles dropped to their
lowest level since 2020, including a
significant decline since the peak in
2023.
• Vehicle burglaries continued a
steady multi-year decrease, down
more than 50% since 2021.
• Theft of motor vehicle parts also
dropped and remains on a
downward trend.
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February 5, 2026
Attachment 2
Page 6 of 16
CITY OF MESA POLICE DEPARTMENT – 2025 CRIME OVERVIEW
7
Motor Vehicle Crimes
• One emerging concern is thefts
involving electric bikes, motorized
scooters, and similar devices,
which Mesa Police Department is
actively addressing.
• Focused enforcement and public
awareness efforts continue to
adapt as criminal patterns change
over time.
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February 5, 2026
Attachment 2
Page 7 of 16
CITY OF MESA POLICE DEPARTMENT – 2025 CRIME OVERVIEW
8
Traffic Accidents and Citations
• Traffic accidents increased citywide
again in 2025, particularly in areas
experiencing rapid population
growth.
• Traffic related fatalities also
increased, which serves as a
reminder that roadway safety
remains a shared responsibility.
• Traffic enforcement rose including
both citations and warnings.
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February 5, 2026
Attachment 2
Page 8 of 16
CITY OF MESA POLICE DEPARTMENT – 2025 CRIME OVERVIEW
9
Traffic Accidents and Citations
• Increased warnings show an
emphases on education and
behavior change, not just
enforcement.
• Enforcement efforts are focused
on reducing serious injuries and
saving lives.
• Roadway safety efforts remain
focused on accountability,
awareness, and preventing serious
injury.
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February 5, 2026
Attachment 2
Page 9 of 16
CITY OF MESA POLICE DEPARTMENT – 2025 CRIME OVERVIEW
10
Proactive Patrol and Community Engagement
• Mission directed patrol and
community engagement more
than doubled, reflecting a
proactive policing strategy.
• Targeted investigations led to
identified human trafficking cases,
exposing crimes that often go
unseen.
• Vandalism and criminal damage
continued a long-term decline.
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Attachment 2
Page 10 of 16
CITY OF MESA POLICE DEPARTMENT – 2025 CRIME OVERVIEW
11
Proactive Patrol and Community Engagement
• DUI arrests increased, showing an
emphasis on impaired driving
prevention.
• Weapon violation and prohibited
possessor arrests rose, while
dispatched weapon calls decreased,
indicating effective proactive patrol.
• Proactive engagement remains
pivotal to prevention, accountability,
and community trust.
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February 5, 2026
Attachment 2
Page 11 of 16
CITY OF MESA POLICE DEPARTMENT – 2025 CRIME OVERVIEW
11
Light Rail Incidents
• 2.58% decrease in police incidents
within 500 ft of Light Rail stops in
Mesa in 2025
• Across all stops more than 50% of
calls were proactive on-viewed
activity
• The top offense at all stops in 2025
was Drug Paraphernalia
Study Session
February 5, 2026
Attachment 2
Page 12 of 16
What makes Mesa the safest city in its class?
CITY OF MESA POLICE DEPARTMENT – 2025 CRIME OVERVIEW
• Mesa has the lowest Violent Crime
Rate and Property Crime rate of US
Cities with a population of 500,000
to 650,000.
• Based on 2024 FBI UCR, Victim based
Data. (2025 data is not yet available)
• This data is available on the FBI
Crime Data Explorer.
* Indicates the number of Victims per crime type
* FBI Crime Explorer website data
Study Session
February 5, 2026
Attachment 2
Page 13 of 16
What makes Mesa the safest city in its class?
CITY OF MESA POLICE DEPARTMENT – 2025 CRIME OVERVIEW
• Based on 2025 preliminary agency
Victim count data reported to Major
Cities Chiefs Association (MCCA)
• Includes Cities with Populations of
500,000 to 650,000
* Indicates the number of Victims per crime type
* Data provide by MCCA as preliminary and not a final UCR/NIBRS
report.
•
Violent crime data includes the following offenses: aggravated
assaults (13A), homicide (09A), rape (11A), and robberies (120)
Study Session
February 5, 2026
Attachment 2
Page 14 of 16
Some sites such as WalletHub use subjective data to determine a “safety
score”
CITY OF MESA POLICE DEPARTMENT – 2025 CRIME OVERVIEW
60%
20%
20%
Safest Cities Score Composition
Home & Community Safety
Natural-Disaster Risk
Financial Safety
Study Session
February 5, 2026
Attachment 2
Page 15 of 16
WalletHub Home & Community Safety Scoring Breakdown
CITY OF MESA POLICE DEPARTMENT – 2025 CRIME OVERVIEW
Study Session
February 5, 2026
Attachment 2
Page 16 of 16
Administrative Review Text Amendments
Council Approved Site Plan Modifications
Mary Kopaskie-Brown, Planning Director
Rachel Phillips, Assistant Planning Director
Kirstin Dvorchak, Assistant City Attorney
February 5, 2026
Study Session
February 5, 2026
Attachment 3
Page 1 of 9
Background
• HB 2447
Requires objective standards and administrative
approval of site plans, development plans, plats, etc.
Streamline processes
Establish predictable processes
• Modifying MZO (Design Review and Site Plan Process) to
meet new requirements
2
Study Session
February 5, 2026
Attachment 3
Page 2 of 9
3
• Council approved Rezoning (PAD, BIZ, Overlay, etc.)
• Requires an ordinance with approved rezoning - site
plans are often approved in conjunction with
rezoning
• Ordinance typically includes a condition of approval
requiring “compliance with the final site plan as
submitted”
Council Approved Rezonings and Site Plans
Current Process
Study Session
February 5, 2026
Attachment 3
Page 3 of 9
4
• Site Plan Modifications
• If site plan modifications MEET “minor site plan
amendment criteria” - approved administratively
• If site plan modifications DO NOT MEET criteria
(major site plan amendment) – City Council approval
may be needed
• Typically, zoning is not changing
• Site plan criteria evaluated - recommendation on
site plan changes to City Council
• Mesa Zoning Ordinance classifies this as a
“rezoning”
Council Approved Rezonings and Site Plans
Current Process (Continued)
Study Session
February 5, 2026
Attachment 3
Page 4 of 9
5
Council Approved Site Plan Modifications
Proposed Administrative Review Text Amendments
• Legislative Development Plan Modification - Meets
EITHER of the following general criteria:
•
Rezoning or Overlay Request
•
Development Plan Condition Modification – but only if:
•
Change in Site Plan exceeds objective criteria
•
Cumulative increase/decrease in total GFA over 15%
•
An increase in the residential density approved
•
The addition of a drive-thru lane
•
An increase in traffic generation (TIS or TIA) over 15%
•
Change in Use
• Administrative Development Plan Modification
• Other Site Plan Modifications
Study Session
February 5, 2026
Attachment 3
Page 5 of 9
6
• Option 1 - Maintain Existing Process
• Council approval of site plans with condition of approval
requiring “compliance with the final site plan as submitted”
• Option 2 – Staff’s recommended approach related to Council
approval
• Two prong test – the change in the site plan exceeds the
objective criteria and there is a change in use
• Option 3 – Provide that all site plan changes are
administratively approved
• Planning Director approval of all site plan modifications
• Includes site plans approved by Council with a condition of
approval requiring “compliance with the final site plan as
submitted”
Council Approved Site Plan Modifications
Options
Study Session
February 5, 2026
Attachment 3
Page 6 of 9
Questions?
Study Session
February 5, 2026
Attachment 3
Page 7 of 9
8
Study Session
February 5, 2026
Attachment 3
Page 8 of 9
Development Plan Modifications — Approval Authority
Development Plan Modification
Meets EITHER of the following general criteria
(Legislative Development Plan Modification):
1. Rezoning or Overlay Request
2. Development Plan Condition Modification – but only if:
A. Change in Site Plan exceeds objective criteria
Cumulative increase/decrease in total GFA over 15%
An increase in the residential density approved
The addition of a drive-thru lane
An increase in traffic generation (TIS or TIA) over 15%
B. Change in Use
Administrative Approval
Planning Director/Designee
Does not meet criteria for
Legislative Development Plan
Modification
Legislative Approval
City Council
Study Session
February 5, 2026
Attachment 3
Page 9 of 9