HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-12-02 City Council Regular Minutes i
City of Apache Junction, Arizona Meeting location:
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City Council Chambers
---~ Meeting Minutes at City Hall
300 E.Superstition Blvd
Apache Junction,AZ
City Council Meeting 85119
apachejunctionaz.gov
Ph:(480)982-8002
Doors are open to the public at least 15 minutes prior to the
posted meeting start time.
Tuesday,December 2,2025 7:00 PM City Council Chambers
A. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Wilson called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
B. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Councilmember Heck gave the invocation and Councilmember Cross led the meeting attendees
in the Pledge of Allegiance.
C. ROLL CALL
Present: 7- Mayor Wilson
Vice Mayor Schroeder
Councilmember Nesser
Councilmember Heck
Councilmember Johnson
Councilmember Cross
Councilmember Soller
Staff in Attendance:
Bryant Powell, City Manager
Matt Busby, Assistant City Manager
Evie McKinney, City Clerk
Joel Stern, City Attorney
Kayla Fulmer, Director of Marketing and Communications
Michael Pooley, Police Chief
Johnny John, Assistant Police Chief
Rudy Esquivias, Development Services Director
Ryan Kaup, Economic Development Director
Sidney Urias, Development Services Deputy Director
Nicholas Leftwich, Planner
Emile Schmid, City Engineer
Rob Wisler, Management Analyst
Eli Richardson, Management Analyst
Casaundra Wallace, City Attorney 1
Michael Beaton, Commander
D. CONSENT AGENDA
Councilmember Nesser moved,seconded by Councilmember Cross to approve the Consent
Agenda.
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City Council Meeting Meeting Minutes December 2, 2025
Yes: 7- Mayor Wilson, Vice Mayor Schroeder, Councilmember Nesser, Councilmember
Heck, Councilmember Johnson, Councilmember Cross and Councilmember
Soller
No: 0
1. 25-598 Consideration of acceptance of agenda.
2. 25-597 Consideration of approval of minutes of the regular meeting of November 18,
2025.
3. 25-604 Consideration of approval of Map of Dedication for Peralta Drive (SV-24-5).
4. 25-606 Consideration of approval of Resolution 25-34 Intent to Form Streetlight
Improvement District No. 2025-SV-BR-3 Blossom Rock Phase 3.
5. 25-607 Consideration of approval of Resolution 25-35 Ordering the Installation of
Streetlights for Streetlight Improvement District No. 2025-SV-BR-3 Blossom
Rock Phase 3.
6. 25-605 Consideration of approval of Resolution 25-36 Adopting the Budget for Fiscal
Year 2026-2027 for Streetlight Improvement District No. 2025-SV-BR-3
Blossom Rock Phase 3.
E. AWARDS, PRESENTATIONS AND PROCLAMATIONS
F. REGIONAL INTERGOVERNMENTAL UPDATES
7. 25-599 Brief summary of intergovernmental updates from mayor and
councilmembers.
Mayor Wilson attended the National League of Cities City Summit 2025 in Salt Lake City. He
shared how different the rules are for cities in other states and brought some ideas back to
share with City Management and the Council. He also commented on the large amount of
attendees and vendors.
Vice Mayor Schroeder inquired if the Summit is always in Utah. Mayor Wilson responded that it
moves locations and will be held in Nashville next year.
G. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT
8. 25-600 City Manager's Report
City Manager Bryant Powell shared that the winning art design to cover a utility box was installed
on the northeast corner of Southern and Ironwood. The art contest was held at Apache Junction
High School earlier this year.
Mr. Powell also announced that the Apache Junction Public Library mobile van has a new wrap
design on it. He shared pictures and commented on how great it looks.
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City Council Meeting Meeting Minutes December 2,2025
9. 25-558 Presentation and discussion on regional transportation development.
Management Analyst Rob Wisler gave an update on the major regional transportation projects
that will have an impact on Apache Junction in the future. The on-going projects he presented
were SR24 expansion, SR505 (North-South Freeway), Central Arizona Parkway, and US 60.
He went over the funding sources and potential timelines for each project.
Councilmembers had no concerns.
10. 25-601 Announcement of Current Events
City Manager Bryant Powell shared the following upcoming events:
-Apache Junction Holiday Event: December 6, 2025, 3:00 p.m. -6:30 p.m. at Flatiron
Community Park, 100 N. Apache Trail, Apache Junction. Following the event is the tree lighting
ceremony at 6:30 p.m. and the Holiday Light Parade at 7:00 p.m. For more information, please
visit www.apachejunctionaz.gov/891/holiday-event.
- Invasive Plant Removal Event: December 6, 2025, 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. at Silly Mountain
Park, Corner of US 60 and Silly Mountain Road, Apache Junction.
H. PUBLIC HEARINGS
11. 25-568 Consideration of application for a new Series 6 Bar liquor license for Hitching
Post Saloon located at 2341 N. Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ. The next
step in the process is for the council to hold a public hearing on the application
and make a recommendation of approval or denial to the Arizona Department
of Liquor License and Control.
Councilmember Soller moved,seconded by Councilmember Nesser that the application for a new
Series 6 Bar liquor license for Hitching Post Saloon,located at 2341 N.Apache Trail,Apache
Junction,AZ,be recommended to the Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control for
approval.
Yes: 7- Mayor Wilson, Vice Mayor Schroeder, Councilmember Nesser, Councilmember
Heck, Councilmember Johnson, Councilmember Cross and Councilmember
Soller
No: 0
City Clerk Evie McKinney stated the city received an application for a new Series 6 Bar liquor
license for the Hitching Post Saloon located at 2341 N. Apache Trail, on October 27, 2025, and
the Notice of Posting was placed at the establishment on October 30, 2025. The posting
requirement has been met with no comments from the public.
Correspondence related to inspections of the premises for safety and code compliant matters
have been received from the Apache Junction Police Department, Development Services
Division and the Superstition Fire and Medical District. All entities find compliance with the
inspection requirements and recommend approval.
Councilmembers had no concerns.
Mayor Wilson opened the Public Hearing, receiving no comments from the public, he closed the
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City Council Meeting Meeting Minutes December 2,2025
Public Hearing and asked for a motion.
12. 25-602 Presentation, discussion, public hearing and consideration of Resolution No.
25-24 of Conditional Use Permit ("CUP") case P-25-38-CUP, a request by
Roers Companies, represented by Greg Davis of Iplan Consulting, for the
approval of a 300-unit, three-story, multi-family residential rental community
on approximately 13-acres zoned City Center("B-Y) near the southeast
corner of Idaho Road and the Scenic Street alignment.
Councilmember Cross moved,seconded by Councilmember Heck for a continuance on this item
to December 16, 2025.
Yes: 4- Mayor Wilson, Councilmember Nesser, Councilmember Heck and
Councilmember Soller
No: 3- Vice Mayor Schroeder, Councilmember Johnson and Councilmember Cross
Planner Nick Leftwich presented that Pinal County and City zoning records, parcels
101-19014B, 101-19-0130, 101-19-015B, and 101-19-015D have historically been zoned City
Center("B-3"), or an equivalent county commercial zoning designation, but have never been
developed.
Proposal:
P-25-38-CUP is a proposed Conditional Use Permit (CUP)to allow for the development of a
300-unit, three-story multi-family residential community.The proposed project is located on an
approximately 13-acre site near the southeast corner of Idaho Road and the Scenic Street
alignment. The property is currently zoned City Center(B-3).
The subject area consists of approximately 13-acres, upon which 300 units are proposed,
resulting in an approximate density of twenty-two (22) dwelling units per acre. The development
plan proposes fourteen (14)three-story buildings. The residential units will include forty-eight
(48) 1-Bedroom/1-bath, one hundred thirty-two(132) 2-Bedroom/2-bath units, eighty-four(84)
3-bedroom/2-bath units, and thirty-six (36)4bedroom/2-bath units. Parking will consist of a
mixture of surface (370 spaces) and covered parking stalls (300 spaces).
In terms of the design of the proposed buildings, the applicant and Planning Staff went through
multiple revisions to capture the community's desire for Southwest-inspired architecture. The
resulting design combines modern Southwest elements with warm, desert tones and materials
such as corrugated metal and vertical siding, creating a contemporary look that feels cohesive
with the surrounding desert landscape. The same design style continues throughout all three (3)
building types and the clubhouse.
According to the applicant's narrative, this project will utilize the Section 42 Low-Income Housing
Tax Credit(LIHTC) program,which allows developers to offer affordable housing to residents
earning up to 60% of the area's median income (AMI). Rental rates are set annually by the U.S.
Department of Housing and Urban Development(HUD). For this area in 2025, rents range from
$1,262 for a one-bedroom to$1,950 for a four-bedroom unit, inclusive of utilities.
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City Council Meeting Meeting Minutes December 2,2025
Families must meet both income and household size requirements to qualify for housing under
the LIHTC program. In 2025, the maximum income limits were as follows:
1-person household: $47,160
2-person household: $53,820
3-person household: $60,600
4-person household: $67,320
Although this community will utilize the LIHTC program, it is designed to offer a comparable
experience to nearby market-rate developments, with a range of amenities for residents.
Primary access will be off Idaho Road, shared with the adjacent proposed multi-family
development to the south, while a secondary right-in/right-out only access point is planned for
the northwest corner of the site. Planned amenities include a clubhouse, pool, dog park, tot lot,
community open space, and covered parking stalls with solar panels.
Planninq and Zoning Commission Recommendation:
The Planning and Zoning Commission Public Hearing was held on October 28, 2025. The
commissioners requested clarification on several aspects of the proposed development. The
questions focused on which utilities would be paid for by the developer, how often residents
would need to verify their income eligibility, whether a property manager would live onsite, details
regarding the secondary access point, the building height, and the absence of elevators.
In response, the developer explained that essential utilities including electric, gas, water, sewer,
and trash services will be paid for by the developer, while internet and cable will be available as
optional add-ons at an additional cost paid to the utility provider. The developer noted that
although rents are set annually by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development
("HUD") and may fluctuate, residents will never be required to pay for the included utilities, even
in the event of rising utility costs. To help offset energy expenses, solar panels will be installed
throughout the community. While the initial installation cost is significant, the developer
emphasized that the long-term benefits of reduced utility costs make it a worthwhile investment
for both the residents and the community.
Regarding daily operations and resident eligibility, applicants must meet the community's
income qualifications and will be required to self-certify their income and household size
annually to ensure continued compliance. Property management will oversee adherence to
community guidelines and occupancy standards, helping to prevent unpermitted individuals
from residing in the units. While the development will not include a dedicated onsite unit for a
property manager, the developer intends to hire management staff from within the local
community.
With respect to the site plan and building design, the secondary access point, located at the
northwest corner of the property, will function as a right-in/right-out only. The building's pitched
roof reaches a maximum height of 45 feet, remaining well below the permitted 60-foot height
limit. ADA-compliant units will be located on the ground floor, and elevators are not required
based on the building's current height and design.
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City Council Meeting Meeting Minutes December 2,2025
Ultimately, the Commission determined that the proposed development met all the Conditional
Use Permit findings of fact and voted 4:1 to approve case P-25-38-CUP. The commissioner
who voted against the project did not provide details as to why they voted in opposition.
Staff Recommendation:
After reviewing the project proposal and CUP Findings of Fact, Planning Staff supports
proposed Conditional Use Permit Case No. P-25-38-CUP.
Planning Staff worked closely with the applicant throughout the review process to ensure the
project reflects the community's expressed desire for a high-quality downtown development that
incorporates a distinctly western design aesthetic. Planning Staff supports the project due to its
consistency with the City Center zoning district, the voter-approved General Plan, and the vision
outlined in the Concentrated Downtown Master Plan. Together, these guiding frameworks
encourage multi-family housing at this location to expand housing opportunities for year-round
residents, support existing commercial businesses, and attract future investment, particularly
on the nearby city-owned parcel envisioned as the center of a vibrant, walkable downtown.
It is important to note that this project is distinct from other recent developments in that it
proposes the use of the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit("LIHTC") program to provide
affordable housing for future residents. Planning Staffs recommendation is based on the
applicant's proposal of a well-designed multi-family development within the downtown core,
which reflects strong architectural design, a well designed site plan, and high quality of provided
amenities. While Planning Staff supports the proposed use of the property for multi-family
residential development, the policy decision regarding the appropriateness of a LIHTC project at
this location is respectfully deferred to the Mayor and City Council.
Work Session Update:
On November 18, 2025, the City Council reviewed case P-25-38-CUP as a new business item.
This item was for presentation and discussion only. During the review, Council posed questions
regarding the development's participation in the Apache Junction Crime Free Multi-Housing
Program, whether management would be required to live on-site, and Planning Staffs overall
support of the project.
Condition No. 9 in draft Resolution No. 25-24 requires the development to participate in the
Apache Junction Crime Free Multi-Housing Program. The applicant will be required to provide
proof of participation annually on the anniversary of the grand opening to verify ongoing
compliance.
With respect to on-site management, Planning Staff clarified that during the Planning and Zoning
Commission public hearing, the applicant stated that they do not typically have management
reside on-site. However, they do try to hire people from within the local community. Additional
operational questions were deferred to the applicant, who was available to respond at the Public
Hearing on December 2, 2025. If Council wishes to require on-site management, Planning Staff
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City Council Meeting Meeting Minutes December 2,2025
has prepared a draft condition of approval that may be added to the Resolution at the time of a
motion.
Optional Condition No. II:
In draft Resolution No. 25-24, optional Condition No. 11 states"A member of the apartment
management team must reside on-site to ensure continuous management presence."
Planning Staff remains supportive of the proposed multi-family use and the overall quality of the
development as presented. The applicant was responsive and collaborative throughout the
review process and adjusted the project based on feedback from Planning Staff and Council to
create a development that reflects the vision for downtown and the Southwest character of
Apache Junction.
The Roers Company representative Jason Sanks, presented the following information:
-The background of the company
-The requirements of the LIHTC program
- How The Roers Company management works and the extent of their availability
-Why they chose the location
-A site map of the development that showed parking areas, buildings locations and
entrances/exits
-The amenities and the types of materials used for the buildings
-The benefits of the LIHTC program
Councilmember Cross inquired about the following topics: traffic, the amount of people allowed
to live in the units, air conditioning control, water usage, design features, if residents need to
prove their income each year, sharing their tax forms and the units changing to Section 8.
Roers Company representative Peter Schroeder responded to Councilmember Cross.
Councilmember Soller asked for confirmation that this will be a crime-free multi-housing
development and if they would pull out of the project if an on-site live in manager is required.
Mayor Wilson commented the success of the LIHTC projects in Apache Junction and asked Mr.
Leftwich to go over where these are located.
Councilmember Soller asked the response time of the management office.
Councilmember Nesser inquired if the management would be located within a certain distance
to the development.
Councilmember Johnson expressed that she is in favor of on-site management and asked
about the up keep of the development.
Mr. Sanks asked for clarification on why Council is requesting the on-site management at this
project and not others in the City.
Councilmember Soller explained his reasoning is due to less issues and having a person to go if
a problem arises. He stated he wishes he would have requested that on the other projects.
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City Council Meeting Meeting Minutes December 2,2025
Councilmember Johnson stated she has concerns that the buildings look the same on day one
as they would in 10 years, and are kept up nicely.
Councilmember Cross stated Sonoma Valley as an example and how it was not kept up. He
asked for assurance that the buildings will be maintained.
Roers representative Kevin Sturgeon explained the difference with the older low income housing
program and LIHTC. He also went over reasons why they would keep up with the buildings and
how safety and reputation are important to their company.
Councilmember Nesser asked City Attorney Joel Stern if there would be legal issues if Council
were to require on-site management at this project and not previous ones.
Mr. Stern responded that based on the discussion this evening that is on the record, he does not
believe there would be any legal issues.
Mayor Wilson opened the Public Hearing.
Donna Carr, 2178 W. Virginia Street, Apache Junction, expressed her concerns about having
more renters in the City.
Reese Anderson, 1744 S. Val Vista, Mesa, stated his support of the Roers Company and the
project.
Catherine Meek, 1327 S. Belair Dr, Apache Junction, expressed her support of affordable
housing but stated her concerns about the long term issues that could come up.
Elisa Krcilek, 476 S. Ironwood Dr, Aapche Junction, shared her opposition for this project and
low income housing.
Andre Meek, 1327 S. Belair Dr, Apache Junction, stated his support of this project but did agree
with some of the previously stated concerns.
Mehmood Mohiuddin, 2304 N. Cortez Road, Apache Junction, expressed his opposition for this
project.
Kathy Waz 5951 E. Broadway, Aapche Junction, shared her support for low income housing but
stated her concerns about the location and the amount of apartment complexes in the City.
Mayor Wilson closed the Public Hearing.
Councilmember Johnson commented on why she is in support of low income housing.
Mr. Stern informed the Council that they need to discuss the findings on the Staff Report before
they can make a motion.
Vice Mayor Schroeder expressed his support for LIHTC projects but stated his concerns with
the design of the buildings and the location.
Councilmember Cross agreed with Vice Mayor Schroeder regarding the location and design.
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City Council Meeting Meeting Minutes December 2,2025
Mayor Wilson asked if the developers can respond to the Public Hearing comments.
Mr. Stern stated they can respond but the Public Hearing would need to be reopened.
Mayor Wilson called for a break at 8:36 p.m.
Mayor Wilson reconvened the meeting at 8:44 p.m.
Mr. Sanks responded to the concerns addressed in the Public Hearing.
Councilmember Cross asked about the percentage of units needing to qualify as LIHTC.
Roers Company representative Peter Schroeder responded to Councilmember Cross and
stated they would come up with a new plan for having a manager unit.
Councilmember Heck spoke about how this development fits the approved master plan and
shared his support of this project.
Mayor Wilson stated they would like to have a continuance and bring this item back for further
discussion at the December 16, 2025, meeting.
Mr. Stern stated they could but he needed to reopen the Public Hearing.
Mayor Wilson opened the Public Hearing.
Chantel Westall, 2363 N. Valley, Drive, expressed her concerns regarding traffic near this
project.
Donna Carr, 2178 W. Virginia Street, Apache Junction, stated her concerns with traffic and the
location of this project.
Mayor Wilson closed the Public Hearing and asked for a motion.
I. OLD BUSINESS
J. NEW BUSINESS
13. 25-608 Presentation, discussion and consideration of Resolution No. 25-39 approving
an intergovernmental agreement with Pinal County Multi-Agency Traffic Task
Force.
Councilmember 5oller moved,seconded by Councilmember Nesser that Resolution No.25-39,
approving an intergovernmental agreement with Pinal County Multi-Agency Traffic Task Force be
approved.
Yes: 7- Mayor Wilson, Vice Mayor Schroeder, Councilmember Nesser, Councilmember
Heck, Councilmember Johnson, Councilmember Cross and Councilmember
Soller
No: 0
Apache Junction Police Commander Michael Beaton presented that he recommends the City of
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City Council Meeting Meeting Minutes December 2,2025
Apache Junction join the Pinal County Multi-Agency Traffic Task Force (PCTTF) through an
Intergovernmental Agreement(IGA). Participating agencies in this initiative include Florence,
Coolidge, Eloy, Maricopa, Queen Creek, and the Pinal County Sheriffs Office.
Apache Junction is currently experiencing unprecedented growth, leading to an increase in both
the population and the complexity of traffic incidents. A recent example is a serious accident
involving a DUI driver that resulted in injuries to 17 victims at a local organization. This highlights
the urgent need for enhanced traffic safety measures and specialized investigative support.
By joining the Task Force, it will provide:
-Access to Specialized Expertise: The PCTTF provides access to approximately 29 specially
trained vehicular crime detectives who can assist in the investigation of complex traffic
incidents.
-2417 Standby Support: Unlike current resources, PCTTF always has detectives on standby,
ready to respond to incidents as needed. This immediate availability can significantly enhance
response capabilities.
-Force Multiplier Effect: By joining this task force, the Apache Junction Police Department
(AJPD) can leverage the expertise and resources of multiple agencies, improving capacity to
manage and investigate complex traffic accidents effectively.
Councilmember Heck inquired if AJPD officers will be on the task force and how the funding
works.
Councilmember Cross shared his support for the IGA.
Councilmember Nesser asked for clarification on why this is needed and how training for the
future will be offered.
Councilmember Soller shared his support for the task force and IGA.
Commander Beaton responded to all questions.
K. COUNCIL DIRECTION TO STAFF
L. SELECTION OF MEETING DATES, TIMES, LOCATIONS, AND PURPOSES
M. CALL TO PUBLIC
Donna Carr, 2178 W. Virginia Street, Apache Junction, stated her frustration with solar
companies.
Dennis Mack, Apache Junction, expressed his appreciation to the City for participating in the
Veteran's Day parade.
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City Council Meeting Meeting Minutes December 2,2025
N. ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Wilson adjourned the meeting at 9:09 p.m.
ACCEPTED THIS DAY OF be0&V"� 2025, BY THE MAYOR AND CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF APACHE JUNCTION, ARIZONA.
SIGNED AND ATTESTED TO THIS /10 DAY OF ACeK4 5Y,'2025.
WALTER"CHIP"WILSON
Mayor
ATTEST:
S � M
EVIE MCKINNEY
City Clerk
City of Apache Junction,Arizona Page 11