City Hall

City of Maricopa

39700 W. Civic Center

Plaza

Maricopa, AZ 85138

Ph: (520) 568-9098

Fx: (520) 568-9120

www.maricopa-az.gov

Meeting Minutes - Final

City Council Regular Meeting

Mayor Nancy Smith

Vice-Mayor Vincent Manfredi

Councilmember Eric Goettl

Councilmember AnnaMarie Knorr

Councilmember Amber Liermann

Councilmember Bob Marsh

Councilmember Henry Wade

Tuesday, January 20, 2026

6:00 PM

Council Chambers

Call to Order

The meeting was called to order at 6:07 p.m. An invocation was led by Pastor Luke

Panter from Grace Fellowship Church, which was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance

led by Councilmember Marsh.

Roll Call

7 -

Present:

Mayor Nancy Smith, Councilmember Eric Goettl, Councilmember

AnnaMarie Knorr, Councilmember Amber Liermann, Councilmember Bob

Marsh, Councilmember Henry Wade and Vice Mayor Vincent Manfredi

Proclamations, Acknowledgements, Awards and Presentations

Black History Month Proclamation

3.1

PROC 26-01

Mayor Smith read a proclamation designating January 20th as Martin Luther King Jr.

Day in Maricopa. She shared that the proclamation emphasized Dr. King's devotion to

equality, justice, and opportunity for all, highlighting his message of service,

non-violence, and hope that continues to inspire people across generations. Mayor

Smith noted that Maricopa is proud of its diverse and growing community and remains

committed to fostering unity and respect. She added that the proclamation encouraged

residents to honor Dr. King's legacy by serving others, reflecting on his teachings, and

helping to build a stronger, more connected community.

Councilmember Wade expressed appreciation that when it came time to do the

proclamation, there was no pushback from the City of Maricopa, emphasizing that

despite differences, the city gets down to business and takes care of the community.

This Proclamation was Read.

Analiese Alexander Recognition

3.2

PRES 26-01

Mayor Smith recognized Analiese Alexander, a Maricopa resident who received the

Inspired Youth Leadership Award at the 22nd Annual Governor's Volunteer Service

Recognition Ceremony. Mayor Smith highlighted that Analiese was selected from

countless nominations statewide for her unwavering commitment to service and

dedication to amplifying youth voices.

Mayor Smith shared that Ms. Alexander was the first youth volunteer for the Televerity

Foundation. She added that Ms. Alexander co-chaired their backpack program and

supported traditional housing initiatives that help families break cycles of poverty and

incarceration. Lastly, Mayor Smith added that Ms. Alexander has dedicated hundreds

of volunteer hours to the Maricopa Little League and the Cares for Horses Foundation,

and is a reliable presence at community events.

Ms. Alexander thanked the community for making her feel welcome since moving to

Maricopa in 2022 and for encouraging her to volunteer and get involved in making the

community a better place.

The Presentation was heard.

Report from the Mayor

Councilmember Marsh reported on December 8th, he attended the Founders Memorial

Task Force meeting. On December 9th, he was present at the Pinal County Water

Augmentation Authority Board of Directors meeting, during which he also received a

monthly update from the city manager. On December 18th, he organized a drainage

meeting to explore the watershed of the Santa Cruz River and its potential future

impacts. Additionally, on January 14th, he participated in another Founders Memorial

Task Force meeting to finalize designs. Councilmember Marsh also highlighted the

Senior Info Expo, co-hosted with the Senior Advisory Committee on January 17th, and

expressed appreciation for all the volunteers who contributed to making the event a

success.

Councilmember Goettl highlighted his attendance at the fire recruit academy

graduation on December 4th, noting the promising new recruits joining Maricopa Fire

and Medical Department. He also mentioned attending the groundbreaking event for

the new Ak-Chin Medical Center on December 15th, which will offer dialysis services,

easing the burden for those who require frequent treatment. Additionally, he announced

an upcoming house of worship security training event scheduled for January 30th,

organized in partnership with the Maricopa Police Department and the Church of Jesus

Christ of Latter-day Saints, aimed at enhancing security awareness and preparedness

for community members.

Councilmember Knorr discussed attending the Central Arizona Government Day at the

Capitol on January 20, where she met with Arizona Department of Transportation staff

to discuss updates and insights regarding the State Route 347 project. She also

announced the upcoming Maricopa Women in Government Day at the Capitol, which is

scheduled for January 30. She added that participants will have the opportunity to tour

the House of Representatives, engage in mock debates, and learn about legislative

processes, with a focus on water and transportation issues. She asked if anyone would

be interested to contact her through her city email address.

Councilmember Liermann thanked the community for their participation in the recent

food drive, which collected over a ton of food. She added that this effort was

particularly vital during a period when the food bank experienced a 30% increase in

attendance. She announced that the farmers market, previously held at Central

Arizona College, had relocated to Lowe's and is now operational every Sunday from 9

AM to 2 PM. Councilmember Liermann also recognized the significant contributions of

two esteemed community leaders, Joan Koczor and Elizabeth Howell, who had

recently passed away. She shared that their dedication to serving the Maricopa

community left a lasting impact. In addition, Councilmember Liermann highlighted the

police awards ceremony held earlier in January, applauding the achievements of the

Maricopa Police Cadets, who excelled in a recent national competition.

Vice Mayor Manfredi reported that on January 8, he attended the Maricopa Wells

Middle School Future City program, a competition where students design cities of the

future focusing on sustainability and innovation. On January 12, he participated in a

meeting with Arizona Department of Transportation about the State Route 347 project,

discussing forthcoming enhancements and impacts. On January 15, he attended the

State Transportation Board meeting held in Maricopa, marking notable progress in

regional transportation planning. Vice Mayor Manfredi also highlighted the success of

the senior expo hosted on January 17, which provided valuable information and

resources to the senior community. He mentioned attending the CAG Legislative Day

earlier that day and announced an upcoming blood drive scheduled for March 1 at Our

Lady of Grace Catholic Church.

On December 4th, Mayor Smith attended the Veterans Military Christmas brunch. She

reported taking part in Maricopa's holiday events and the Rockin' Stockin' event on

December 17th. On December 18th, Mayor Smith reported attending the Menorah

lighting event. On January 6th, she reported attending the police awards ceremony.

Mayor Smith also highlighted participating in the Pinal Partnership Mayor's breakfast

on January 9th, where regional collaborations were discussed. On January 15th, she

represented the city during the hosting of the Arizona Department of Transportation

meeting. Additionally, she noted the success of the Senior Info Expo on January 17th,

which provided valuable resources to seniors. On January 19th, she attended the

Sinulog Festival at Our Lady of Grace, celebrating Maricopa's vibrant Filipino

community. Mayor Smith reminded everyone to review the proposed general plan,

accessible at the library or online. She also acknowledged the recent passing of

notable community leaders Joan Koczor and Elizabeth Howell, offering a moment of

silence to honor their impactful contributions.

Report from the City Manager

City Manager Ben Bitter provided an in-depth update on the city's growth, noting

impressive advancements in both residential and commercial sectors. Mr. Bitter

reported that in 2025, Maricopa issued permits for 600 single-family homes and an

additional 649 permits for various types of units, illustrating robust residential growth.

Mr. Bitter added that this expansion led to the collection of almost $9 million in

development impact fees and almost $14 million in construction sales tax. He shared

that these contributions totaled about $23 million, earmarked for crucial infrastructure

improvements such as new traffic signals and street lights, vital for accommodating

the city’s expanding population.

Furthermore, Mr. Bitter highlighted the significant surge in commercial development

during 2025, which accounted for more than 10% of all commercial space in Maricopa.

He added that the city witnessed a remarkable 70% increase in commercial growth

compared to 2024, signifying a substantial uptick in business activity. Lastly, Mr.

Bitter shared that over the past eight years, commercial space in Maricopa has

effectively doubled, underscoring the city’s burgeoning economic landscape.

Mr. Bitter emphasized Maricopa's appeal as an investment destination, highlighting the

ongoing demand for new dining, shopping, and employment opportunities. He urged

potential investors to seize the growth momentum, as the city's infrastructure and

community resources continue to expand and evolve. Lastly, he pointed to the What's

New Maricopa tab on the city’s website, offering insights and updates on projects

currently under city review.

Call to the Public

Jon Corwin from Global Water discussed water resources and highlighted customer

programs including a smart irrigation controller rebate program and water notifications

for leak detection. He mentioned upcoming community events including the Maricopa

Water Festival on February 19 and a water conservation puppet show at Saddleback

Elementary on February 26.

Garrett Bauer introduced himself as part of Living Word Maricopa, explaining that he

works two jobs, attends Grand Canyon University, runs a coffee business, and serves

as a youth leader and outreach leader at his church. He expressed interest in hosting

community events and blessing the people of Maricopa.

Judith Zaimont, from Maricopa Arts Council, promoted their free lecture series Inside

the Creative Mind, highlighting the upcoming presentation by Peg Chapados on her

board games on Saturday at the library.

Lei-Sa Anderson invited everyone to the Girl Yes Women's Conference at Central

Arizona College on February 20-21, announcing that Mayor Nancy Smith would receive

the Golden Girl Award. Ms. Andreson added that the conference would include

highlighting entrepreneurs in Maricopa and offering awards for women and young

women business owners.

Janae Knox from Maricopa Lifestyle Magazine extended an invitation to all council

members and attendees to join the Maricopa Desert Music and Arts Festival. Ms. Knox

shared that the event is scheduled to take place on March 6th and 7th at Maricopa

High School. She added that those interested in more information or acquiring tickets

for the festival can reach out to the representative, Chrystal O’Jon.

Peg Chapados announced a partnership between Cutting Edge Crafters Club,

Maricopa Friends of the Arts, and MUSD to offer classes for students aged 14-18 in

arts and crafts. She thanked Reverend Arnold Jackson and Ron Smith for continuing

the Senior Info Expo tradition. She invited residents to join Coffee on the Porch at the

museum on Wednesdays from 9-11 AM.

Ashley Anderson, chair and commissioner for the Governor's Office of African

American Affairs, announced the 2026 Legislative and Leadership Conference from

February 9-14, featuring events including the State of the State opening day, tours,

workshops, youth leadership day, awards ceremony, and Health and Wellness Day.

Joseph Harvey and Tamara Washington from Leading Edge announced the Fire versus

Police flag football charity game on January 30 at 6 PM, with proceeds going to both

departments. They also invited everyone to their annual Underground Railroad and

Black History program on February 12 starting at 5 PM.

Consent Agenda

A motion was made by Councilmember AnnaMarie Knorr, seconded by

Councilmember Eric Goettl, to Adopt the Consent Agenda minus items 7.1 and

7.4, while correcting the time on the minutes for the October 27th Task Force

on Honoring Founders Meeting. The motion carried unanimously.

7.2

ORD 26-02

An Ordinance of the Mayor and City Council, City of Maricopa, AZ, approving and

adopting a zoning amendment to the City's Zoning Map to rezone approximately 3.6

acres of land from the existing Pinal County CB-2 (General Business) zoning district to

the municipal zoning district GC (General Commercial) as described in case #

ZON25-05. The subject property is generally located approximately 700 ft. east of the

southeast corner of N. Porter Road and W. Honeycutt Road, Section 25, Township 04

South, Range 03 East, of the Gila and Salt River Meridian, Pinal County, Arizona.

Discussion and Action.

This Ordinance was Approved.

7.3

CON 26-03

The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and approve the Collateral Assignment of

Development Incentive Agreement and Subordination or Right to Repurchase

(Agreement) by and among TTRG AZ Maricopa Phase II Development, LLC (TTRG), a

Delaware limited liability company, Thompson Thrift Development, Inc., an Indiana

corporation, City of Maricopa, an Arizona municipal corporation, and Johnson Bank, its

successors and/or assigns related to the development of Lots 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 of

Southbridge Marketplace Phase 2 and associated Easements. Discussion and Action.

This Contract was Approved.

7.5

7.6

7.7

7.8

7.9

7.10

The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action on approving the

Maintenance Agreement for the Moonlight Flood Control Structures. Discussion and

Action.

This Contract was Approved

The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action on approval of Minutes from

the December 2, 2025 City Council Regular meeting and the December 8, 2025 City

Council Special Meeting. Discussion and Action.

These Minutes were Approved.

The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and accept the meeting minutes from the

October 27, 2025, November 20, 2025, December 8, 2025 and January 14, 2026 Task

Force on Honoring Founders meetings. Discussion and Action.

These Minutes were Approved as Amended.

The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action on approving the

appointment of Councilmember Goettl, as the Mayor's designee of Chair, to the Public

Safety Personnel Retirement System Board. Discussion and Action.

This Appointment was Approved.

The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and possibly take action on appointing

Curtis Dornath to the Public Safety Personnel Retirement System Board. Discussion

and Action.

This Appointment was Approved.

The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action on approving

Intergovernmental Agreement between City of Maricopa and Maricopa Flood Control

District for Shared Services. Discussion and Action.

This Contract was Approved.

Regular Agenda and/or Public Hearings

ORD 26-01

7.1

An Ordinance of the Mayor and City Council of the City of Maricopa, Arizona, adopting

the document filed with the City Clerk and entitled "Amendments to Chapter 15.05:

Adoption of 2024 Building Codes" by references to repeal Chapter 15.05 of the

previously adopted Maricopa City Code and replace that Chapter with sections

15.05.010 through 15.05.230 and providing for severability and the effective date

thereof. Discussion and Action.

Development Services Director Rodolfo Lopez addressed Councilmember Knorr's

question regarding implementation of the new building codes. He explained that after

approval, the codes would be effective in 30 days, but home builders would have a

grace period until September 1, 2026, to update their standard plans. He confirmed

this information would be published in the rules of transition document.

Vice Mayor Manfredi asked about the impact on individual homeowners. Mr. Lopez

clarified that for basic home repairs, no permits are required and no changes apply. He

added that for projects requiring permits, the new standards would apply, though not all

areas have seen meaningful changes. Lastly, Mr. Lopez stated that licensed

contractors are familiar with the new standards as they are implemented across all

Arizona cities.

A motion was made by Councilmember Knorr, seconded by Councilmember

Liermann, that this Ordinance be Approved. The motion carried by a

unanimous vote.

7.4

PUR 26-01

The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action on approving the purchase of

1 (one) E-One Typhoon Custom Cab Chassis HP100 - 100’ Platform Ladder Truck from

Fire Truck Solutions, LLC in the amount of $2,461,592.00, with an estimated delivery of

September 2026, to immediately restore critical ladder capability and fleet resiliency for

the City. Funding source recommendation is a budget transfer from the Contingency

account under the General Capital Improvement Project Fund - 350 (GL

35016161-99000) to incorporate this purchase/project into the Capitol Improvement

Plan for FY26. Discussion and Action.

Councilmember Knorr asked for an explanation regarding the fire truck purchase. Fire

Chief Pitassi explained that in November, a suspected drunk driver crossed the

median and struck Ladder 574, causing significant damage. He shared that the

accident left the department with only one ladder truck in service.

Chief Pitassi praised Engineer Claudio Rodriguez for his quick actions that saved the

crew and the impaired driver. He noted that two firefighters were transported to the

hospital with minor injuries but have since made a full recovery.

Chief Pitassi shared that the department was able to secure an opportunity to

purchase a new ladder truck with an estimated delivery of September 2026, much

faster than the typical three-year delivery timeline for such vehicles. He added that this

opportunity arose because another fire department in Texas backed out of their order.

General discussion ensued on the actions of the fire fighters on the day of the incident

and the acquisition of the new firetruck.

A motion was made by Councilmember Knorr, seconded by Councilmember

Wade, that this Purchase be Approved. The motion carried by a unanimous

vote.

8.1

APP 26-02

The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action on making an appointment

to fill the vacancy on the Cultural Affairs and Arts Advisory Committee. Discussion and

Action.

Councilmember Liermann nominated Perry Holmes to fill the vacancy on the Cultural

Affairs and Arts Advisory Committee. She noted that Holmes has lived in Maricopa for

30 years, has been a commissioned artist for 20 years, and serves on the advisory

group for the city's vibrant arts grant and community arts grant.

Councilmember Knorr added that she had seen Holmes's art at the Maricopa

Agriculture Center Farms gallery opening and was impressed with his work.

A motion was made by Councilmember Liermann, seconded by Vice Mayor

Manfredi, that this Appointment be Approved. The motion carried by a

unanimous vote.

8.2

MISC 26-01

The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action on approving the 2026

Legislative Platform. Discussion and Action.

Katy Proctor, Intergovernmental Affairs Director, presented the 2026 Legislative

Platform. She acknowledged the federal team at Nexxus, the state team at Policy

Development Group, and city staff who help analyze bills.

She reported that 1,185 bills had been introduced at the state level, along with 77

resolutions and memorials, exceeding the total bills from previous years with potentially

400 more to come. She noted that initial budget figures were positive, and importantly,

there was no interest in reclaiming any of the $102 million appropriated for State Route

347 improvements.

Ms. Proctor shared that the minibus appropriations bill introduced that day included

Maricopa's ambulance funding request of over $800,000. Additionally, she added that

the language for self-administration that would allow the city to manage its own

federally funded transportation projects was included in the bill.

She reported that the legislative platform was largely unchanged from the previous

year, focusing on opposing restrictions on local control in finance and governance,

supporting quality services, and advocating for infrastructure funding and efficient

project delivery.

Councilmember Knorr expressed appreciation for the inclusion of the

self-administration provision, noting that this would help the city complete projects

faster without waiting on Arizona Department of Transportation.

A motion was made by Vice Mayor Manfredi, seconded by Councilmember

Goettl, that this Miscellaneous Item be Approved. The motion carried by a

unanimous vote.

Executive Session

9.1

ES 26-01

The Maricopa City Council may go into executive session for the purpose of

discussion or consultation with the City Attorney and designated representatives of the

City in order to consider its position and instruct its representatives regarding updates

on the status of current agreements, amendments to those agreements and possibly

entering into new agreements for the purchase, sale, lease or exchange of real

property, the potential terms thereof, and for legal advice regarding same, pursuant to

A.R.S. §38-431.03(A)(3), (A)(4) and (A) (7).

A motion was made by Vice Mayor Manfredi, seconded by Councilmember

Wade, that Counil enter into Executive Session. The motion carried by a

unanimous vote.

10.

Adjournment

This meeting was adjourned at 7:47 p.m.

Certification of Minutes

I hereby certify that the foregoing minutes are a true and correct copy of the

minutes of the regular meeting of the City Council of Maricopa, Arizona, held

on the 20th day of January, 2026. I further certify that the meeting was duly

called and held and that a quorum was present.

Dated this 3rd day of February 2026.

__________________________

Vanessa Bueras

City Clerk