Martin Smith

The Town Council addressed several financial and administrative items, including the designation of the Finance Director as the Chief Fiscal Officer for FY27 expenditure reporting and the adoption of a pension funding policy for public safety personnel. The Council approved special assessment levies and debt service certifications for the former Camp Verde Sanitary District, as well as an Affiliate Library Agreement with the Yavapai County Free Library District. Additional business included appointments to the Parks and Recreation and Planning and Zoning Commissions, revisions to the Town's salary and personnel policies, the award of a heritage pool renovation contract, and discussions regarding council agenda-setting procedures and virtual attendance requirements. Executive sessions were held to discuss legal advice related to firearms regulations and negotiations for dispatch services.

The Council convened for a special session to discuss, consider, and potentially approve the proposed fiscal year 2027 tentative budget. The budget serves as the town's financial plan for the upcoming year, outlining anticipated revenues, expenditures, capital projects, and operational priorities, while establishing the maximum expenditure authority for the fiscal year.

The council meeting included discussion and potential approval of a letter of support for the Town of Clarkdale's designation under the federal Opportunity Zone 2.0 program. Key topics included the formation of an Equestrian Center Town Manager's Working Group and continued direction regarding projects in the Proposed Capital Improvement Plan. Several executive sessions were scheduled to consult with the Town Attorney regarding public record requirements, procedures for handling citizen complaints, and a specific review of complaints against the Town Manager, including an evaluation of their performance.

The board meeting agenda includes a public hearing to discuss, consider, and potentially approve a variance request for 552 W. Finnie Flat Road. This request seeks to permit the use of washing machines with capacities up to 60 pounds in a laundromat, which currently exceeds the 25-pound maximum limit established by the Town Code.

The council discussed the administration of the oath of office for newly hired employees and received a funding update for the Verde Lakes Drive Flood Study. Additionally, the council considered awarding FY26 Community Outreach Funds to various nonprofit organizations and reviewed the adoption of a resolution to waive fees for three specific renewal use permit applications that were previously delayed due to administrative oversight.