Joe Scalmato

The council performed the appointment and swearing-in of a new City Magistrate. Key contract actions included approving agreements for private security services, on-site vehicle glass services for the fleet, bus shelter cleaning services, and a guaranteed maximum price contract for the North Higley Lift Station and Thomas Road sewer project. The council also authorized several intergovernmental agreements regarding drainage improvements, law enforcement training, and crime analysis assistance with Arizona State University. Additionally, the council modified and added various departmental fees, designated dates and purposes for the upcoming General Election, adopted new personnel rules, and approved a five-year capital improvement program.

The committee meeting included several presentations and updates. Topics covered included an update on Spring Training 2026, a review of recent and anticipated projects in Downtown Mesa along with progress on the Redevelopment Toolkit, an overview of Mesa arts and culture institutions regarding economic impact and future measurement, an update on the Office of Economic Development's strategic planning, and a report from Visit Mesa on the use of public funds for economic development goals.

The board discussed and took action on the Longbow Mixed-Use development, granting approval for design review and alternative compliance for the construction of a hotel and commercial facilities. Additionally, the board held preliminary design reviews for the Century Marine SCIP expansion and the Udall Office Center, with no formal action taken on these items.

Public comments were received regarding several key agenda items, specifically the proposed construction of the NTT Global PH10 Data Center and the continuation of the voluntary 287(g) immigration enforcement agreement between the Mesa Police Department and ICE. Opponents raised concerns regarding water and power resource consumption, environmental impact, and the erosion of community trust in local law enforcement. A minority of comments expressed support for the retention of the 287(g) agreement. Additionally, comments were submitted regarding traffic impacts from ongoing road construction in the Val Vista and Southern area.

The board addressed various zoning and permit applications on the consent agenda, including requests for Substantial Conformance Improvement Permits and Special Use Permits for commercial and church developments. Specific actions were taken regarding site plans for vehicle sales facilities, commercial centers, and sign plan amendments. Additionally, the board approved the continuation of a Special Use Permit case for a future site development to a later date.