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 Henry Wade  
Councilmember Eric Goettl  
Councilmember AnnaMarie Knorr  
Councilmember Amber Liermann  
Councilmember Vincent Manfredi  
Councilmember Bob Marsh  
Tuesday, October 7, 2025  
6:00 PM  
Council Chambers  
1.  
Call to Order  
Mayor Smith called the meeting to order at 6:10 p.m., which was followed by the  
invocation led by Pastor Grady from Maricopa Springs Family Church, and then the  
Pledge of Allegiance led by Councilmember Liermann.  
2.  
Roll Call  
7 -  
Present:  
Mayor Nancy Smith, Vice Mayor Henry Wade, Councilmember Eric Goettl,  
Councilmember AnnaMarie Knorr, Councilmember Amber Liermann,  
Councilmember Vincent Manfredi and Councilmember Bob Marsh  
3.  
Proclamations, Acknowledgements, Awards and Presentations  
Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation  
3.1  
PROC 25-09  
Mayor Smith read a proclamation declaring October 2025 as Domestic Violence  
Awareness Month in the City of Maricopa. She shared that Arizona ranks fourth in the  
nation for domestic violence, with 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men experiencing physical  
violence from someone they trust, and every 44 minutes a child in Arizona witness  
domestic violence in their home.  
Councilmember Liermann shared statistics specific to Maricopa, stating that between  
February and May, the city had 10 shootings, 8 of which were related to domestic  
violence. She shared that there has been a 53% increase in restraining orders,  
averaging 6 per week. Councilmember Liermann thanked community resources  
including Hope Women's Center, Maricopa Police Department, and Doves Network  
Against Abuse for their efforts in serving those affected by domestic violence. She  
noted that the shelter was full that night, indicating the ongoing need for these  
services.  
Jim DeVenezia, Victim Advocate, emphasized that domestic violence is widespread,  
affecting thousands in Arizona and millions nationwide. He stressed the importance of  
openly addressing domestic violence rather than hiding it and encouraged continued  
awareness and support beyond October.  
Following the presentations, the Mayor announced a brief recess to view the lighting of  
the pecan tree in purple for Domestic Violence Awareness Month and invited attendees  
to view artwork by domestic violence survivors displayed in the lobby.  
Read  
3.2  
PRES 25-19  
The City Council shall hear a legislative update from Representative Teresa Martinez  
and Representative Chris Lopez.  
Representative Teresa Martinez shared their successful efforts to protect RICO funds  
from being diverted from law enforcement. She added that after learning that RICO  
funds had previously been taken to cover budget shortfalls, but she attempted to pass  
a bill prohibiting this practice. Representative Martinez mentioned that the bill was  
killed in committee, she managed to include language in the budget that permanently  
prevents the state from taking these funds from law enforcement agencies. She  
presented Police Chief Mark Goodman with documentation of this achievement. Lastly,  
Representative Martinez additionally highlighted $300,000 secured for La Frontera for  
suicide prevention, mentioning the emotional impact a suicide incident had on her, and  
$200,000 for the Boys and Girls Club at Sun Corridor.  
Next, Representative Chris Lopez emphasized their team's achievements by securing  
crucial funding, including $200,000 each for the Maricopa police and fire departments.  
He outlined the monetary success as a collaborative win for the community, paired with  
substantial financial contributions towards the significant State Route 347  
improvements. He shared the need for legislative accountability and encouraged  
community members to engage and visit legislators at the Capitol. Representative  
Lopez also detailed his committee appointments, comprising key roles in  
Appropriations and Health and Human Services, and noted his significant position as  
vice chair of the Natural Resources, Energy, and Water committee, all of which  
contribute to addressing essential issues within the state.  
The Presentation was heard.  
4.  
Report from the Mayor  
On September 18th, Councilmember Marsh reported attending a lunch and learn about  
dementia at the senior center. On September 22nd, he reported attending a meeting  
with the police union. He also reported attending the Planning and Zoning meeting  
regarding the Copper Sky hospital project. On September 23rd, Councilmember Marsh  
shared that he participated in the groundbreaking at Heritage Park. On September  
25th, he shared that he was working with the Pinal County Board of Adjustments and  
Appeals in Florence. On October 2nd, Councilmember Marsh reported attending a  
meeting with historical society leadership. On October 3rd, he shared that he attended  
the Pinal Partnership breakfast meeting on water. Lastly, on October 6th,  
Councilmember Marsh reported that he attended the General Plan update meeting.  
Councilmember Knorr reported attending the groundbreaking ceremony for Heritage  
Park, which she expressed excitement about due to the potential benefits and  
opportunities it would offer the residents. She also reported attending the Maricopa  
Unified School District community leaders luncheon, where she received a  
comprehensive update on the district's efforts and initiatives within Maricopa. She  
expressed admiration for the insightful presentations, particularly one featuring a local  
youth’s achievements, which she found both touching and inspiring. Lastly,  
Councilmember Knorr shared that she participated in the Maricopa Unified School  
District Kindergarten through the 8th grade naming committee as they discussed  
potential names for a new school, expressing enthusiasm about the progress and  
upcoming decisions.  
Councilmember Liermann wished the Navy a happy birthday, which will be on October  
13th. She invited community participation in the Pinal County health needs survey.  
Councilmember Liermann announced a spooktacular wildlife event on October 30th.  
She shared her appreciation with city staff for their work during monsoon season and  
highlighted her participation with Councilmember Goettl in Operation Back on Track, a  
train derailment exercise. She added that the exercise included participation from  
Maricopa Police and Fire, the CERT program, Ak-Chin Police, Pinal County Coroner's  
Office, Amtrak staff, Chandler Fire Department, Pinal County Sheriff's Department,  
Exceptional Health, and AMR Ambulance Service.  
Councilmember Goettl also shared on the emergency exercise that he attended with  
Councilmember Liermann, stressing the critical role of these preparedness activities in  
enhancing community safety and emergency response readiness. He reported on his  
insightful tour of the Phoenix Alarm Room, a pivotal hub coordinating 9-1-1 services  
across the Phoenix Valley, showcasing its integral role in regional safety infrastructure.  
Councilmember Goettl further shared his participation in the Maricopa Police  
Department's inaugural Business Watch meeting, highlighting it as a significant step  
towards fostering secure and vibrant local business environments through community  
collaboration and proactive policing efforts.  
Mayor Smith shared her involvement in the recent Kids Day festival, which successfully  
attracted more than 3,000 children and their parents as it celebrated its 18th year. She  
expressed enthusiasm about the festival's growth and its positive impact on the  
community. Mayor Smith recounted her enlightening tour of the Phoenix Dispatch  
Center, where she observed firsthand the effectiveness of mutual aid in coordinating  
emergency responses across multiple jurisdictions, highlighting the importance of  
these collaborations in enhancing public safety. Furthermore, she attended the  
Maricopa Relay for Life Survivor Dinner, participating as a proud 9-year breast cancer  
survivor. She emphasized the significance of this annual event in supporting cancer  
survivors and fostering community resilience.  
5.  
Report from the City Manager  
City Manager Ben Bitter shared about a new initiative called Business Watch, modeled  
after Neighborhood Watch. He introduced Police Chief Mark Goodman to provide  
details.  
Chief Goodman explained that the Business Watch program aims to engage local  
businesses in community policing efforts to create a vibrant, successful, and safe  
business environment. The first meeting was held at the library on September 24th  
with 8-10 businesses attending in person, while Councilmember Liermann's Facebook  
livestream reached over 1,000 participants. He reported that the department plans to  
engage businesses in different areas of the city, starting with the Fry's shopping  
center, then moving to the Bashas's side of John Wayne Parkway, and eventually to  
the Walmart area. Chief Goodman also noted the department's participation in Pink  
Patch Month to support breast cancer awareness.  
6.  
Call to the Public  
Kim Morris expressed concerns about rhetoric at a Turning Point Action event held in  
the city, stating that events in public spaces should reflect shared values of civility,  
safety, and community rather than promote intimidation or hostility. She requested the  
Council consider creating a unity commission to bring people together from all sides of  
the political spectrum.  
Kent O’Jon, speaking on behalf of the Black Maricopa Chamber of Commerce,  
expressed concerns about the same event, stating that while they respect free speech,  
they believe public platforms should not harm, exclude, or marginalize residents. He  
requested the Council create a community-informed process for reviewing speakers at  
city-supported venues and establish guidelines for responding when events raise  
concerns about racial or community harm.  
Terry Yoshii spoke about the E. Coli incident, requesting an independent investigation  
and questioning who is responsible for public health and safety. He expressed concern  
that the water company may have used proactive measures that prevented an accurate  
assessment of the initial contamination.  
Brad Follett addressed the Council regarding the E. Coli incident, asserting that Global  
Water did not adequately notify the public as required by federal regulations. He raised  
additional concerns about the lack of transparency concerning the specifics of the  
contamination. Next, Mr. Follett spoke on the pressing issues surrounding school  
crosswalks in Maricopa, emphasizing that many do not comply with established safety  
standards and require immediate attention to ensure the safety of children commuting  
to and from school.  
Chrystal O'Jon expressed her concerns regarding a Turning Point event hosted in  
Maricopa. While she acknowledged the importance of freedom of speech, she  
emphasized the need for the city to take proactive steps to ensure that events held  
within its boundaries do not incite fear or promote division among the community  
members. Ms. O'Jon suggested that the city develop and implement protocols  
specifically designed to address and respond when events pose potential risks of  
causing harm or unrest within the community. She shared the significance of  
maintaining a welcoming and safe environment for all residents.  
Teniecka Drake announced her upcoming book launch and community event summit  
on October 18th, inviting organizations providing services to survivors to participate so  
people can learn where to get help.  
Torri Anderson announced that the 20th annual Seeds of Change Gala was sold out,  
shared the history of domestic violence awareness in Maricopa, and thanked the  
community for its support over the years.  
7.  
Consent Agenda  
Approval of the Consent Agenda  
A motion was made by Councilmember Manfredi, seconded by  
Councilmember Marsh to Adopt the Consent Agenda. The motion carried  
unanimously.  
7.1  
7.2  
7.3  
SUB25-11  
IGA 25-10  
SUB24-17  
The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action to approve Subdivision Case  
# SUB25-11, Moonlight Parcel A, a Re-Plat of Moonlight Parcel A, Fee No.  
2023-070056. Discussion and Action.  
This Subdivision was Approved.  
The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action to approve an  
Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) between the City of Maricopa and Pinal County for  
participation in the Pinal County Annual Safety Roadeo. Discussion and Action.  
This Intergovernmental Agreement was Approved.  
The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action to approve Subdivision Case  
# SUB24-17, Final Plat for "Final Plat - Replat of Lots 16A, 17, and 18 of Maricopa  
Power Center The Wells," a request for final plat approval to subdivide +/- 34.987 acres  
of land into six (6) Lots for a commercial subdivision. Discussion and Action.  
This Subdivision was Approved.  
7.4  
IGA 25-11  
The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action on approving a first  
amendment to IGA 25-01 with the Town of Gilbert for Fire Service trainings for the cost  
increase from $4,500 to $5,000 for the Recruit Training Academy. Discussion and  
Action.  
This Intergovernmental Agreement was Approved.  
7.5  
SPEVLIQ 25-09  
The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action on recommending approval  
to the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control for a Special Event Liquor  
License application submitted by Wendy Webb for approval of an event known as  
Thirsty Thirdsday on January 15, February 19, March 19, and April 16, 2026 to be held  
at 20942 N. Province Parkway, Maricopa, Arizona 85138. Discussion and Action.  
This Special Event Liquor License was Approved.  
7.6  
ORD 25-12  
An Ordinance of the Mayor and City Council of the City of Maricopa, Arizona,  
amending Section 2.15.150(A) of the Maricopa City Code related to the established  
standing Budget and Finance Council Subcommittee and providing for severability and  
the effective date thereof. Discussion and Action.  
This Ordinance was Approved.  
7.7  
7.8  
MIN 25-60  
CON 25-19  
Approval of Minutes from the September 16, 2025 City Council Regular meeting.  
Discussion and Action.  
These Minutes were Approved.  
The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action to ratify a Coverage  
Settlement Agreement with Travelers Indemnity Company related to coverage for the  
Settlement Agreement previously approved with Estrella Gin Business Park, LLC.  
Discussion and Action.  
This Contract was Approved.  
7.9  
BIN 25-01  
The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action on authorizing the City Clerk  
to forward an Endorsement by Local Governing Body to the Arizona Department of  
Revenue, Bingo Section, for issuance of a Change of Location Bingo License, as  
requested by the Maricopa Moose Lodge 2730 for location 19395 N. John Wayne  
Parkway, Maricopa, AZ 85139. Discussion and Action.  
This Bingo License was Approved.  
8.  
Regular Agenda and/or Public Hearings  
8.1  
APP 25-06  
The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action on making an appointment  
to fill the vacancy on the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee. Discussion and  
Action.  
Councilmember Manfredi nominated Kenneth Longman to fill a vacancy on the Parks  
and Recreation Advisory Committee. He was impressed with Longman's history of  
community service as a retired firefighter and his enthusiasm for making the position  
one with significant time involvement.  
A motion was made by Councilmember Knorr, seconded by Councilmember  
Liermann, that this Appointment be Appointed. The motion carried by a  
unanimous vote.  
8.2  
ORD 25-11  
An Ordinance of the Mayor and City Council of the City of Maricopa, Arizona, approving  
and adopting an amendment to the City's Zoning Map to rezone approximately 9.33  
acres of land generally located at the southeast corner of W. Bowlin Rd. and N. John  
Wayne Pkwy., within the City of Maricopa incorporated limits, on Pinal County Parcels  
510-12-014D, and 510-12-014N, from D3 Planned Area Development (PAD) to Copper  
Sky Medical Campus Planned Area Development (PAD), as described in Zoning Case  
#PAD25-06. The parcels of land are located in a portion of Section 34, Township 4  
South, Range 3 East, of the Gila and Salt River Base and Meridian, Pinal County,  
Arizona. Discussion and Action.  
Derek Scheerer, Planner II, presented a request to rezone approximately 9.33 acres at  
the southeast corner of John Wayne Parkway and Bowlin Road from D3 Planned Area  
Development to Copper Sky Medical Campus Planned Area Development.  
Mr. Scheerer reported that the proposal is for a smaller medical campus than a  
previous PAD that never came to fruition. He added that the new plan includes a  
hospital, either a 1-2 story 60,000 square foot or a 4-story 100,000 square foot facility  
with at least 25 licensed medical surgical inpatient beds, including 4 ICU-capable  
beds, an operating suite, 10 treatment bays, a helipad, and various imaging services.  
He added that the development also includes options for medical office buildings and  
support retail services.  
Councilmember Marsh asked about a small parcel located at the corner of Bowlin  
Road and John Wayne Parkway. Mr. Scheerer provided clarification that this parcel is  
owned by a Homeowner's Association and, as such, it is not included in the current  
rezoning initiative. He added that despite this exclusion, the developer has shown  
interest in acquiring or utilizing this parcel.  
Councilmember Knorr took a moment to thank the Planning and Zoning Commission  
for their meticulous and comprehensive review process. She asked Mr. Scheerer to  
clarify what would be the next steps upon approval from the council on the presented  
rezoning. Mr. Scheerer shared that this approval lays the groundwork for the  
subsequent process, which involves a development review permit as the next critical  
step in moving the project forward.  
Councilmember Liermann sought confirmation regarding the details of the  
presentation, particularly focusing on the minimum requirements set forth for the new  
facility. Her confirmation spotlighted the flexibility within the proposed plans, indicating  
that while these are the baseline requirements, the actual facility might end up being  
significantly larger, with more extensive features than initially outlined.  
Vice Mayor Wade asked about the helipad, which Mr. Scheerer confirmed would be  
used to transport patients to higher-level trauma centers when needed.  
A motion was made by Councilmember Goettl, seconded by Vice Mayor Wade,  
that this Ordinance be Approved. The motion carried by a unanimous vote.  
8.3  
PRES 25-18  
The Mayor and Council shall hear a presentation from the Communications and  
Cultural Services Department on event activations and opportunities for community  
engagement during the Maricopa Stagecoach Days event, to be held from October  
15-26, 2025.  
Quinn Konold, Community Enrichment Director, provided an overview of the upcoming  
Stagecoach Days event, from October 15 to October 26, 2025, aimed to celebrate the  
city's incorporation and become an annual tradition. He said that the event will feature  
a variety of activities, including the Pecan Pride food competition showcasing local  
dishes and the Shuttershots photo competition highlighting the city. Mr. Quinn added  
that library activities include an art reception and a western-themed mini book sale. He  
shared that outdoor events such as movies at Copper Sky, a fishing derby with free  
fishing poles for participants, and a multi-generational game night at the Community  
Center will also be held. Mr. Quinn shared that the Historical Society would hold an  
event that offers a space for sharing local history. Lastly, Mr. Quinn added that there  
will be a three-day carnival at Pecana Park with rides, games, a neon cowboy color  
run, and unique experiences like goat kissing, alongside contests like cricket spitting  
and cow pie tossing. Mayor Smith urged resident participation, and Councilmember  
Liermann announced a domestic violence awareness booth at the event.  
The Presentation was heard.  
8.4  
RES 25-44  
A Resolution of the Mayor and City Council of the City of Maricopa, Arizona, adopting  
a Partnership Strategy to set forth the approach for expanding services by establishing  
strategic partnerships with the City of Maricopa. Discussion and Action.  
Quinn Konold, Community Enrichment Director, presented a comprehensive strategy  
focused on establishing strategic partnerships with private and nonprofit entities in  
three key areas: seniors, teens and preteens, and arts and culture. He outlined that  
this strategy aligns with the city's strategic priority to enhance the quality of life for all  
residents, aiming to explore and meet the needs of underserved groups by leveraging  
effective partnerships. Mr. Konold emphasized that the strategy was developed with  
significant input from the city's advisory committees. Between June and August 2025,  
these committees provided valuable feedback and suggestions for potential future  
expansion into other areas. He highlighted that while the initial focus is on the three  
identified areas, the strategy's flexibility allows for possible expansion to include other  
demographic groups in the future, should community needs arise.  
Mr. Konold noted that the strategy is not intended to be exclusive or restrictive. He  
stressed the importance of efficiently using resources to ensure that investments are  
seen as essential enhancements rather than burdens on taxpayers. He further clarified  
that this approach is not a fixed policy, but a strategic effort aimed at achieving the  
city's goals of not only increasing service access for underserved groups but also  
enhancing overall community engagement in valuable programs and activities.  
Priscilla Behnke from the nonprofit Be Awesome spoke about the language in the  
strategy. She argued that partnerships should not be required to achieve financial  
self-sustainability exclusively, pointing out that many programs, particularly those  
supporting teens and vulnerable groups such as seniors, are not inherently  
revenue-generating. Ms. Behnke shared that expecting these programs to inevitably  
move away from city support might inadvertently exclude high impact but non-profitable  
initiatives.  
Councilmember Marsh shared that the city should consider increasing discretionary  
fund allotments to support these programs more effectively, reinforcing the idea that  
city-backed partnerships play an essential role in meeting community needs.  
Councilmember Goettl proposed an amendment to the strategy's language, specifically  
in section 2 number 5. He suggested changing the wording from "partnerships must  
demonstrate" to "partnerships are encouraged to demonstrate," to prevent the  
language from becoming a barrier. He added that this change was aimed at allowing  
flexibility for long-term partnerships to grow with potential city support, ensuring that the  
initial rigid requirements do not hinder the development of beneficial programs.  
Vice Mayor Wade shared his appreciation for the strategy, recognizing it as a  
responsive measure to ongoing conversations held in previous council meetings. He  
shared the importance of being heard by the city's administration and expressed  
optimism about the positive outcomes these partnerships could bring to the  
community.  
Councilmember Knorr reiterated the necessity of not prematurely cutting off programs  
from city support if they do not achieve self-sustainability within a specific time frame.  
She added that the importance of maintaining crucial services for the community and  
ensuring these remain available to residents over the long term, pointing out that some  
services might inherently require ongoing city involvement to thrive. Councilmember  
Knorr expressed her hope that this partnership strategy would continue to evolve and  
adapt to meet the community's changing needs.  
A motion was made by Councilmember Goettl, seconded by Councilmember  
Knorr, that this Resolution be Approved as Amended. The motion carried by a  
unanimous vote.  
8.5  
IGA 25-12  
The Mayor and City Council shall discuss and take action to approve an  
Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) between the City of Maricopa and Pinal County for  
a financial contribution to the widening of the Pinal County portion of State Route 347.  
Discussion and Action.  
City Manager Ben Bitter discussed an Intergovernmental Agreement between the City  
of Maricopa and Pinal County concerning the financial contribution towards the  
enhancements of State Route 347. He detailed that the city had formerly established  
an agreement with the Arizona Department of Transportation to contribute $50 million  
as part of the local contribution. This amount included $30 million sourced from the  
city and an additional $20 million pledged by Pinal County. He shared that this current  
agreement is intended to formalize the mechanism by which Pinal County will fulfill its  
commitment to provide the $20 million contribution to the City of Maricopa.  
A motion was made by Councilmember Knorr, seconded by Councilmember  
Manfredi, that this Intergovernmental Agreement be Approved. The motion  
carried by a unanimous vote.  
9.  
Executive Session  
No executive session was held.  
10.  
Adjournment  
This meeting was Adjourned at 8:46 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 7th day of October, 2025. I further certify that the meeting was duly  
called and held and that a quorum was present.  
Dated this 4th day of November, 2025.  
__________________________  
Vanessa Bueras  
City Clerk