Benson, City of

The regular meeting agenda included several key items. The City Manager provided a summary of current events. New business covered the approval of a Consent Agenda, which included the resignation of a member from the Local Public Safety Personnel Retirement System (PSPRS) Board and the approval of OpenGov software for budgeting and capital planning. Presentations were made regarding the December 6, 2025 Festival of Lights Parade and the City's Christmas Decorating Contest, involving the presentation of prizes and certificates of appreciation. Actions were taken to approve a Minor General Development Plan Amendment and a rezoning from Residential (R-3) to General Business (B-2) for a portion of Parcel 123-20-004C. The Council also discussed the adoption of updated Uniform Codes and approved an Intergovernmental Agreement with Cochise County for Election Supplies and Services, as well as an Information Technology contract with Blueprintr, LLC. Finally, the Council discussed City Finances (information only) and approved the appointment of the City Attorney as a full-time City of Benson employee.

The special meeting involved discussion and approval of a proposal from Willdan Financial Services to conduct a Water, Sewer, and Natural Gas Financial Planning and Rate Study for $46,870. The Public Works Director stressed the urgency to align the study results with the upcoming budget process. The scope specifically excluded solid waste, which will be addressed later via an RFP. Council members confirmed that competition was part of the proposal process and that the study would incorporate planned infrastructure needs over the next five and ten years, aiming to prevent large, retroactive rate increases. Following the vote, the Council moved into an Executive Session to consult with the City's attorney regarding possible litigation concerning the City's wastewater treatment operations.

The special meeting included an executive session for discussion and consultation with the City's attorney regarding potential litigation involving employment claims. The council discussed and took possible action to approve a settlement agreement to resolve employment claims by and against a City employee. They also ratified the decision to discuss topics with the City's lawyer at their December 15, 2025 meeting.

The meeting included discussions and actions on several key items. The Council approved the Police Department Dispatch Console upgrade and the procurement of a 2012 Peterbilt 330 service truck. They also approved a job order for material processing under the City of Benson JOC contract with BNR Paving. Updates were provided on the Strategic Plan Projects, including the San Pedro Golf Course and budget transparency. The council also discussed and approved Resolution 48-2025 for the purchase of real property to serve as the new City Hall, and Resolution 49-2025, which involved the transfer of funds in the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget. A detailed financial report for the first quarter of fiscal year 2025-2026 was presented, covering the period ending September 30, 2025. The meeting also included a call to the public with non-agenda-related comments regarding an Aluminum Recycling Plant.

The meeting included discussions and possible actions on various topics, such as the consent agenda items, which covered minutes from previous meetings, renewal and appointments to various commissions and boards, resolutions for special event liquor licenses and grant applications, and processed invoices. A certificate of appreciation was presented to the Benson High School Youth Council Sponsor. The council discussed and considered a recommendation for liquor license approval at Benson Butchery. An executive session was held to discuss candidates for the Planning and Zoning Commission. The council also discussed and took possible action to fill a vacant seat on the Planning and Zoning Commission. Additional discussions covered the release of executive session materials, acceptance of a grant for the Airport Master Plan Update, changes to the City Code relating to Liquor Licenses, a one-year extension of the Airport Manager Agreement, an update on Strategic Plan Projects, and a presentation on City Finances.