Sylvie Donaldson

The board conducted a hearing to consider two main agenda items. The first item was a variance request for hillside disturbance on a property, which was approved after discussion regarding the applicant's plan for a permanent residence and the need for temporary housing in an RV. The second item involved a request to allow a 21-ft netted fence on a property bordering a golf course. The applicant presented arguments regarding safety and potential property damage from golf balls, while noting ongoing issues with the homeowners association. The board received updates on the lack of progress in negotiations between the applicant and the homeowners association regarding the netting.

The meeting focused on infrastructure assessment and facility needs for the ballpark, including critical repairs to the roof, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, and concrete structures. There was significant discussion regarding the selection of a contractor and the necessity of a lease amendment to secure funding. Board members emphasized the urgency of finalizing these agreements to meet critical deadlines for upcoming off-season construction work while ensuring transparency and financial oversight.

The meeting included a review of the Program Year 2026 Annual Action Plan, discussing submission status, plan reopening for the City of Tempe, and potential funding reallocations involving the City of Surprise's NAC project to maintain current funding levels. Updates were provided regarding the 3-year HOME Consortium Intergovernmental Agreement and planned submissions to HUD. A presentation on Program Income and HOME match monitoring was delivered, followed by a Q&A session. General administrative updates covered the status of PRWORA litigation, save registration requirements, an OIG fraud letter, and forthcoming rent, income, and subsidy limit bulletins.

The board discussed the initiation of the building code adoption process, specifically moving from 2018 codes to 2024 versions for various building, plumbing, mechanical, fuel gas, and existing building codes. The meeting included an overview of the International Building Code and NFPA National Fire Protection Agency processes, the current status of the regulatory enhancement process, and the ongoing evaluation of proposed amendments in coordination with industry associations to ensure consistency and practical enforcement.

The meeting included an administrative update followed by an executive session for discussion and legal advice. Following the session, the board voted and approved the hiring of a new Executive Director for the Stadium District.