On the agenda: Bisbee meeting — Colocation (Jan 6)

AGENDA
AGENDA OF THE REGULAR SESSION OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BISBEE,
COUNTY OF COCHISE, AND STATE OF ARIZONA, TO BE HELD ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 6, 2026,
AT 7:00 PM AT COUNCIL CHAMBERS LOCATED AT 118 ARIZONA STREET, BISBEE, ARIZONA.
THE MEETING WAS CALLED TO ORDER BY ________________ AT ___________.
ROLL CALL
COUNCIL
Councilmember Trish Damon, Ward III
Councilmember Pete Skinner, Ward II
Councilmember Karen Schumacher, Ward I
Mayor Ken Budge
Councilmember VACANT, Ward I
Councilmember Mel Sowid, Ward II
Councilmember Anna Cline, Ward III, Mayor Pro Tempore
STAFF
VACANT, City Manager
Ashlee Coronado, Interim City Manager / City Clerk
Keri Bagley, Finance Director
Joelle Landers, Personnel Director
Matthew Gurney, Public Works Director
Logan Dodd, Operations Manager
Tim Cox, Police Chief
Jay Ritchie, Deputy Police Chief
Jim Richardson, Fire Chief
CITY ATTORNEY
Joseph Estes
INVOCATION: A Moment of Silence
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MAYOR’S PROCLAMATIONS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS:
CALL TO THE PUBLIC
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WILL BE DISCUSSED, CONSIDERED, AND/OR DECIDED UPON AT THIS
MEETING:
GENERAL BUSINESS:
1.

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: Subject to availability of funds.

2.

Approval of the Consent Agenda
A. Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Session of Mayor and Council held on Tuesday,
December 16, 2025.
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk

AGENDA OF THE REGULAR SESSION OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL

January 6, 2026

B. Approval of the Appointment of Nicole France to the Bisbee Arts Commission.
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk
C. Approval of the Appointment of Alisia Espiriti to the Board of Adjustment with a Waiver for
Number of Commission Memberships Served.
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk
D. Approval of the Appointment of Nicole France to the Charter Review Committee.
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk
E. Approval of the Appointment of Bill Bailey to the Design Review Board with a Waiver for
Number of Commission Memberships Served.
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk
F. Approval of the Reappointment of Cheri Chase to the Airport Advisory Commission.
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk
G. Approval of the Reappointment of Tyler Bradberry to the Board of Adjustment.
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk
H. Approval of the Reappointment of Melissa Hartman to the Board of Adjustment.
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk
I.

Approval of the Reappointment of Mary Gojkovich to the Civil Service Commission with a
Waiver for Number of Commission Memberships Served.
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk

J. Approval of the Reappointment of Annie Larkin to the Evergreen Cemetery Committee.
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk
K. Approval of the Reappointment of Sandra Michel to the Evergreen Cemetery Committee.
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk
L. Approval of the Reappointment of William Gronlund to the Library Advisory Board with a
Waiver for Length of Service.
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk
M. Approval of the Reappointment of Donna Wirtel to the Library Advisory Board.
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk
N. Approval of the Reappointment of William Bailey to the Parks and Recreation Committee.
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk
O. Approval of the Reappointment of Alisia Espiriti to the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk
P. Approval of the Reappointment of Mary Gojkovich to the Police and Fire Advisory Committee.
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk

2

AGENDA OF THE REGULAR SESSION OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL

January 6, 2026

OLD BUSINESS
3. Discussion and Possible Approval of Ordinance O-26-01; Amending Chapter 7, Building, by establishing a
new article 7.16- Utility Pole Installation and Relocation Regulations.
Logan Dodd, Operations Manager
NEW BUSINESS
4. Public Hearing and Discussion and Possible Approval of a Liquor License Application for Le Cornucopia
Café located at 1 Howell Avenue, Bisbee, AZ; Gretchen Renee Bonaduce, Applicant.
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk
5. Public Auction of Designated Surplus Property an unaddressed parcel located adjacent to APN 101-12082H.
J. Emanuel Stuart, City Planner
6. Discussion and Possible Approval of Resolution R-26-01, Amending the Building Inspector Section of the
City Fee Schedule.
Melissa Hartman, City Planner
7. Discussion and Possible Approval for the Bisbee Arts Commission to pay Hotel La More at The Bisbee Inn
in the amount of $126.56 for two rooms for Flam Chen following the New Year’s Eve Event.
Karen Schumacher, BAC Liaison
8. Discussion and Possible Approval for the Bisbee Arts Commission to pay Art Car World in the amount of
$150.00 for an Art Car and Driver for their New Year’s Eve Event.
Karen Schumacher, BAC Liaison
9. Discussion of Current status of Bisbee Bus including pending 5311 Application, Budget, Audit and
Contracts.
Melanie Greene, Interim Transit Manager
10. Discussion and Possible Approval of the Notice of Intent to Adopt Ordinance O-26-02; Amending the City
Code of the City of Bisbee, Chapter 3.5 Procurement.
Melanie Greene, Interim Transit Manager
11. Discussion and Possible Approval of Revisions to the City of Bisbee, Bisbee Bus ADA Policies.
Melanie Greene, Interim Transit Manager
12. Discussion and Possible Approval of the DBE Program Plan.
Melanie Greene, Interim Transit Manager
13. Discussion and Possible Approval of the Adoption of the City’s Title VI Plan.
Melanie Greene, Interim Transit Manager
14. Discussion and Possible Approval of a Contract Administration Manual.
Melanie Greene, Interim Transit Manager

3

AGENDA OF THE REGULAR SESSION OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL

January 6, 2026

15. Discussion and Possible Approval of Resolution R-26-02; Authorizing the Submission of an Application to
the Arizona State Match Advantage for Rural Transportation (AZ Smart) Fund for reimbursement of
Federal Grant Development costs related to a raise/build Transportation Discretionary Grant Application.
J. Emanuel Stuart, City Planner
16. Discussion and Possible Approval of a Motion to Go into Executive Session Pursuant to A.R.S. § 38431.03(A)(3) for discussion or consultation for legal advice with the City Attorney related to the City
Manager Recruitment.
Ken Budge, Mayor
17. Discussion and Possible Selection of a firm for City Manager Recruitment Services.
Ken Budge, Mayor
18. City Manager’s Report:
COUNCIL COMMENTS OR FUTURE AGENDA ITEM SUGGESTIONS: (Council members may suggest
topics for future meeting agendas, but Council will not here discuss, deliberate, or take any action on these
topics.):
•

Councilmember Schumacher would like to comment on the Bisbee Arts Commission New Years Eve
Event.

ADJOURNMENT:
Pursuant to A.R.S.§ 38-431.02(H), The public will have physical access to Council Chambers 20 minutes before the meeting is scheduled to begin.
Individuals with hearing disabilities can contact the City Clerk’s Office (520) 432-6012 to request an Assisted Listening Device, at least 24 hours
before the meeting.
Anyone needing special accommodation to attend this meeting should contact Ashlee Coronado at (520) 432-6012 at least twenty-four hours
before the meeting.
Public documents referred to herein may be viewed during regular business hours at the City Clerk’s Office at 118 Arizona St, Bisbee.
Pursuant to A.R.S.§ 38-431.03(A)(3), the Council may vote to enter executive session at any point during this meeting for discussion or
consultation for legal advice with its attorney(s), who may appear telephonically.

4

MINUTES
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR SESSION OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BISBEE,
COUNTY OF COCHISE, AND STATE OF ARIZONA, HELD ON TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2025, AT
7:00 PM AT COUNCIL CHAMBERS LOCATED AT 118 ARIZONA STREET, BISBEE, ARIZONA.
THE MEETING WAS CALLED TO ORDER BY MAYOR BUDGE AT 7:01PM.
ROLL CALL
COUNCIL
Councilmember Trish Damon, Ward III
Councilmember Pete Skinner, Ward II
Councilmember Karen Schumacher, Ward I
Mayor Ken Budge
Vacant, Ward I
Councilmember Mel Sowid, Ward II
Councilmember Anna Cline, Ward III, Mayor Pro Tempore

7:03PM

STAFF
Stephen J. Pauken, City Manager
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk
Matthew Gurney, Public Works Director
Logan Dodd, Operations Manager
Jay Ritchie, Deputy Police Chief
Jim Richardson, Fire Chief
Melissa Hartman, City Planner
CITY ATTORNEY
Joseph Estes
INVOCATION: Mayor Budge called for a moment of silence for personal reflection.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MAYOR’S PROCLAMATIONS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS:
CALL TO THE PUBLIC
• Ben Lepley, Bisbee resident, spoke regarding Ordinance O-25-06, Vacant Building and Property
Regulations.
• Aurelia Cohen, Bisbee resident, also spoke regarding Ordinance O-25-06.
• Mike Ablin, Bisbee resident, spoke regarding having open and transparent communication.
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE DISCUSSED, CONSIDERED, AND/OR DECIDED UPON AT THIS
MEETING:
GENERAL BUSINESS:
1. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE: Subject to availability of funds.
MOTION: Councilmember Cline moved to approve accounts payable in the amount of $445,887.72.
SECOND: Councilmember Sowid
MOTION PASSED: UNANIMOUSLY
2.

Approval of the Consent Agenda

MINUTES OF THE REGULAR SESSION OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL

December 16, 2025

A. Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Session of Mayor and Council held on Tuesday,
December 2, 2025.
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk
B. Approval of the appointment of Tom Wheeler to the Charter Review Committee.
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk
C. Approval of the appointment of Peter Gaffer to the Charter Review Committee.
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk
Mayor Budge noted he was still looking for more Charter Review Committee members.
MOTION: Councilmember Cline moved to approve the Consent Agenda items A through C.
SECOND: Councilmember Schumacher
MOTION PASSED: UNANIMOUSLY
OLD BUSINESS
NEW BUSINESS
6. Discussion and Possible Approval of Resolution R-25-11, adopting the City of Bisbee Community Wildfire
Protection Plan 2025 Update.
Jim Richardson, Fire Chief
Fire Chief Richardson presented Resolution R-25-11 for the adoption of the City of Bisbee Community Wildfire
Protection Plan (CWPP) 2025 Update. He explained that the CWPP identifies priority wildfire risk areas within
Bisbee and establishes a five-year action plan focused on fuel reduction, water infrastructure improvements,
home hardening, defensible space enforcement, and public education.
Chief Richardson emphasized that the adoption of the CWPP was required to remain eligible for state and
federal wildfire mitigation funding. He noted that the previous plan had expired, with the city having gone
nearly 20 years without updating it. The county's CWPP was also expired, and they are beginning work on their
update, which will incorporate Bisbee's plan.
The chief explained that the updated plan was Bisbee-specific, tailored to the city's terrain, fire behavior risks,
priorities, and community infrastructure. It has already been reviewed and authorized by the Arizona
Department of Forestry.
MOTION: Councilmember Skinner moved to approve Resolution R-25-11 adopting the City of Bisbee
Community Wildfire Protection Plan 2025 Update.
SECOND: Councilmember Damon
MOTION PASSED: UNANIMOUSLY
3. Discussion and Possible Approval of a successor MOU for the Bisbee Firefighters Local 2146.
Stephen J. Pauken, City Manager
Mr. Pauken presented four items proposed in the new MOU with Bisbee Firefighters Local 2146:
●

Increase paramedic pay by 75 cents an hour, at a cost of approximately $26,000 per year, with an
agreement to discuss future increases for the next fiscal year.

●

Transfer unused PTO accruals in excess of allowed maximum into the 457 plan, which would decrease
the city's unfunded liability and eliminate the loss of earned PTO that cannot be used. Mr. Pauken
explained this would be cost-neutral and would allow employees to retain earned time that would
otherwise be forfeited.
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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR SESSION OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL

December 16, 2025

●

Increase the minimum staffing per shift from 5 to 6 people. Currently, the department schedules 7
people per shift but only requires a minimum of 5. The new minimum would improve safety.

●

Develop a renovation plan for Station 82, which includes various improvements for both appearance
and safety reasons, particularly addressing the steep stairway from the apparatus bay to the second
floor.

Representatives from the Firefighters Union thanked the Council for addressing their concerns, particularly
regarding station safety and staffing levels. The union representatives emphasized that these changes would
enhance their ability to serve the community.
Councilmember Cline requested that the station's exterior painting be completed, as currently only the front of
the building has been painted. The firefighters agreed with this request.
Mayor Budge commented on the importance of minimum staffing for firefighter safety, noting that a 5-person
crew was barely adequate for structure fires, as it requires two people to enter, two on standby, and one on the
pump, with no one left for command.
MOTION: Councilmember Cline moved to approve the Memorandum of Understanding with Bisbee Firefighters
Local 2146 dated December 17, 2025.
SECOND: Councilmember Sowid
MOTION PASSED: UNANIMOUSLY
4. Discussion and Possible Approval of a Park, facility and right of way use permit and Special Event
Agreement for The Bisbee Community Market for the use of Lower Vista every Saturday from January 3,
2026, through December 26, 2029, from 7:30am to 2:00pm.
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk
Mr. Derek Weidenthal provided an update on the Bisbee Community Market, reporting significant growth since
his family took over management a year ago. The market had increased from an average of 52 vendors to 74
vendors in December, with a peak of 79 vendors the previous week, representing a 50% increase. He
highlighted that nonprofit organizations could set up for free, with an average of 5 nonprofits participating each
week, up from 2-3 previously.
Mr. Pauken praised Mr. Weidenthal's management, noting that he had made public works' job very easy and had
turned the market into a successful family business shared with the community.
Multiple council members expressed appreciation for the market's growth and management, with
Councilmember Cline mentioning that the market serves as a social gathering place for the community.
MOTION: Councilmember Schumacher moved to approve the Park, facility and right of way use permit and
Special Event Agreement for The Bisbee Community Market for the use of Lower Vista every Saturday from
January 3, 2026, through December 26, 2029, from 7:30am to 2:00pm.
SECOND: Councilmember Skinner
MOTION PASSED: UNANIMOUSLY
5. Discussion and Possible Approval of Ordinance O-25-08; authorizing the sale and transfer of certain surplus
city property being a portion of city owned property located at 21A Temby Ave, APN 103-63-026A.
Emanual Stuart, City Planner
Mayor Budge noted this was a continuation from the December 2, 2025, meeting, where the council had
designated the property as surplus and set the sale price at $6,800 and clarified that this action was essentially
cleaning up property lines, as part of a house was on the other side of the property.
MOTION: Councilmember Skinner moved to approve Ordinance O-25-08; authorizing the sale and transfer of
certain surplus city property being a portion of city owned property located at 21A Temby Ave, APN 103-63026A.
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December 16, 2025

SECOND: Councilmember Damon
ROLL CALL VOTE:
AYES: Councilmember Damon, Skinner, Schumacher, Sowid, Cline and Mayor Budge
NAYS: 0
MOTION PASSED: AYES-6 NAYS-0
7. Discussion and Possible Approval for the Bisbee Arts Commission to pay the Arizona Rangers for security
at their New Year’s Eve Event, not to exceed $500.00.
Karen Schumacher, BAC Liaison
Councilmember Schumacher, as the Bisbee Arts Commission Liaison, explained the request to pay the Arizona
Rangers for security at the upcoming New Year's Eve event, at a cost not to exceed $500. She provided details
about the free community event, which will include activities at the Jonquil from 7-9 PM, a parade starting from
the Ironman at 10 PM and finishing around 11 PM at City Park, followed by performances until midnight to
ring in the New Year.
MOTION: Councilmember Damon moved to approve the Bisbee Arts Commission to pay the Arizona Rangers
for security at their New Year’s Eve Event, not to exceed $500.00.
SECOND: Councilmember Sowid
MOTION PASSED: UNANIMOUSLY
8. Discussion and Possible Approval for the Bisbee Arts Commission to pay Rose Hall in the amount of
$300.00 for their New Years Event Lantern Workshops.
Karen Schumacher, BAC Liaison
Councilmember Schumacher presented the request to pay Rose Hall $300 for lantern-making workshops for the
New Year's Eve parade. She explained that the workshops were being held at the Copper Queen Library, with
one final session scheduled for the coming Friday. The Copper Queen Library did not have budget for the
classes, so the Bisbee Arts Commission decided to fund them since the lanterns would be used in the parade.
MOTION: Councilmember Sowid moved to approve the Bisbee Arts Commission to pay Rose Hall in the amount
of $300.00 for their New Years Event Lantern Workshops.
SECOND: Councilmember Damon
MOTION PASSED: UNANIMOUSLY
9. Discussion and Possible Approval of the recommendation from the Bisbee Arts Commission to fund a grant
application for “Positive Buttons in a Worlds Full of Negativity” submitted by Heather Buton in the amount
of $400.00 from the Bisbee Arts Commission fund.
Karen Schumacher, BAC Liaison
Councilmember Schumacher presented a recommendation from the Bisbee Arts Commission to fund a grant
application for "Positive Buttons in a World's Full of Negativity" submitted by Heather Buton in the amount of
$400. She noted that the BAC raises their own funding for grants and events, and this application was
unanimously approved. The funding would support the purchase of equipment to make buttons.
MOTION: Councilmember Skinner moved to approve the funding of the grant application for “Positive Buttons
in a Worlds Full of Negativity” submitted by Heather Buton in the amount of $400.00 from the Bisbee Arts
Commission fund.
SECOND: Councilmember Damon
MOTION PASSED: UNANIMOUSLY
10. Discussion and Possible Approval to award Phoenix Pumps for the purchase of a submersible pump for the
Mule Gulch Lift Station.
Matthew Gurney, Public Works Director
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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR SESSION OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL

December 16, 2025

Mr. Gurney explained that the city went out to bid on November 4 for a submersible pump for the Mule Gulch
lift station, receiving one bid from Phoenix Pumps for $16,609.42. He explained that this purchase was to
replace the second pump in the lift station, following a previous replacement earlier in the year. The lift station
serves Old Bisbee, Lowell, and the Saginaw neighborhood, making it critical infrastructure that requires reliable
pumps.
Mr. Gurney noted this was a planned purchase in the budget, and they had also budgeted for another pump later
in the year to ensure adequate backup, as they had previously experienced all pumps failing simultaneously and
had to rent emergency equipment.
MOTION: Councilmember Cline moved to approve the bid award to Phoenix Pumps for the purchase of a
submersible pump for the Mule Gulch Lift Station.
SECOND: Councilmember Sowid
MOTION PASSED: UNANIMOUSLY
11. Discussion and Possible Approval of a Notice of Intent to Adopt Ordinance O-26-01; Amending Chapter 7,
Building, by establishing a new article 7.16- Utility Pole Installation and Relocation Regulations.
Logan Dodd, Operations Manager
Mr. Dodd presented a Notice of Intent to adopt an ordinance establishing utility pole installation and relocation
regulations. He explained that the ordinance was designed to address the problem of "double poles" throughout
the city, where utility companies install new poles but fail to remove old ones, creating hazards and eyesores.
Mr. Dodd shared a recent incident where killer bees had established a large hive inside a hollow section of an
old pole, creating a public safety risk. The ordinance would require utility companies to work together to
transfer equipment to new poles and remove old ones in a timely manner, with fines for non-compliance.
Mayor Budge expressed support for the ordinance, wishing it could be passed as an emergency measure but
acknowledging the required process.
MOTION: Councilmember Damon moved to approve the Notice of Intent to Adopt Ordinance O-26-01;
Amending Chapter 7, Building, by establishing a new article 7.16- Utility Pole Installation and Relocation
Regulations.
SECOND: Councilmember Schumacher
ROLL CALL VOTE:
AYES: Councilmember Damon, Skinner, Schumacher, Sowid, Cline and Mayor Budge
NAYS: 0
MOTION PASSED: AYES-6 NAYS-0
12. Discussion and Possible Approval of a Statement of Work with CivicPlus for AudioEye Accessibility
Services to support ADA website compliance.
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk
Ms. Coronado explained that the city was required to ensure website content was accessible to all users under
the Americans with Disabilities Act. CivicPlus, the city's website provider, was offering AudioEye services to
continuously monitor the website for compliance, allowing users to listen to content rather than read it. She
stated the first year would cost $1,359 (prorated), with subsequent years at $3,200.
Councilmember Sowid sought clarification on the price increase, and Ms. Coronado confirmed it was a
discounted rate for the first year.
Mayor Budge emphasized the importance of ADA compliance, noting that since the city has an ADA-compliant
building, it should also have an ADA-compliant website.
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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR SESSION OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL

December 16, 2025

MOTION: Councilmember Schumacher moved to approve the Statement of Work with CivicPlus for AudioEye
Accessibility Services to support ADA website compliance.
SECOND: Councilmember Cline
MOTION PASSED: UNANIMOUSLY
13. Discussion and Possible Acceptance of the resignation of Councilmember Leslie Johns and Discussion and
Recommendations for scheduling to fill this vacancy.
Ken Budge, Mayor
Mayor Budge announced plans to immediately begin the process of filling the vacancy following acceptance of
Councilmember Johns' resignation. Applications would be due by January 7th, with a special session scheduled
for January 13th to interview applicants and appoint a replacement. Mayor Budge noted this timeline falls
within the required 15–31-day window for filling a council vacancy.
City Manager Pauken confirmed that he had spoken with Councilmember Johns on Sunday, and she still wished
to resign.
MOTION: Councilmember Skinner moved to accept the resignation of Councilmember Leslie Johns and to set
a council meeting for January 13, 2026, to appoint a replacement councilmember for this position.
SECOND: Councilmember Sowid
MOTION PASSED: UNANIMOUSLY
14. Discussion and Possible Approval of the proposed City Manager Recruitment Plan, Timeline and
Announcement.
Joelle Landers, Personnel Director
Mayor Budge informed the Council that Personnel Director Joelle Landers had submitted her resignation
effective January 15th. Given this development, the Mayor proposed issuing an RFP for a recruitment agency to
handle the city manager’s search, rather than conducting it internally.
Mayor Budge outlined a plan to hold a work session on January 6 at 6:00 PM to review proposals from
recruitment agencies, followed by an executive session during the regular meeting to select an agency. The
chosen agency's contract would then be approved at the special session on January 13.
Councilmember Schumacher asked about a point person to work with the firm and whether it would be possible
to wait to hire a new HR person until a new city manager was in place.
Ms. Coronado, City Clerk, indicated she would likely be the contact person, and that the HR position would be
filled as a normal vacancy.
MOTION: Mayor Budge moved to direct staff to issue an RFP for a recruitment agency for a new city manager.
SECOND: Councilmember Skinner
MOTION PASSED: UNANIMOUSLY
15. Discussion and Possible Approval of the appointment of Ashlee Coronado as Interim City Manager.
Ken Budge, Mayor
Mayor Budge recommended appointing City Clerk Ashlee Coronado as Interim City Manager until a permanent
city manager was hired.
Councilmember Cline strongly supported the recommendation, noting Ms. Coronado's experience and
reliability.
MOTION: Councilmember Schumacher moved to appoint Ashlee Coronado as interim City Manager to serve in
that capacity until such time as a permanent city manager was appointed and employed, starting on January 4,
2026.
SECOND: Councilmember Damon
MOTION PASSED: UNANIMOUSLY
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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR SESSION OF MAYOR AND COUNCIL

December 16, 2025

16. Discussion and Possible Approval of a rate increase related to Legal Services with Pierce Coleman PLLC.
Stephen J. Pauken, City Manager
Mr. Pauken explained that Pierce Coleman had notified the city of a rate increase for legal services in the
coming year. The current rate of $240 per hour would increase to $255 per hour for partners, from $220 to $235
for associates, and from $125 to $160 for paralegals.
Mr. Pauken noted that even with the increase, the rates remain lower than the $265 per hour the city paid to the
previous law firm. He mentioned that the firm uses associates and paralegals sparingly, and that they offer a flat
fee option that could be considered during the next budget cycle.
MOTION: Councilmember Sowid moved to approve the rate increase associated with legal services with Pierce
Coleman PLLC.
SECOND: Councilmember Damon
MOTION PASSED: UNANIMOUSLY
17. City Manager’s Report:
• Mr. Pauken announced that the Warren Historic District had been approved by the keeper of the National
Register of Historic Places in Washington the previous week. He described this as a significant achievement
after nearly 20 years of effort, with this being the third attempt at securing the designation.
Mr. Pauken detailed the history of the application process, noting that the first attempt was about 30 years
ago, the second attempt went to the keeper's office in 2014 but was not completed, and the third attempt
began when he returned to Bisbee in April 2021. He acknowledged the contributions of city staff,
consultants, and 15-20 community volunteers who helped with the process.
He clarified that unlike Old Bisbee, the Warren Historic District would not have a Design Review Board,
with applications treated individually.
COUNCIL COMMENTS OR FUTURE AGENDA ITEM SUGGESTIONS: (Council members may suggest
topics for future meeting agendas, but Council will not here discuss, deliberate, or take any action on these
topics.):
Council members took turns expressing their appreciation for City Manager Stephen Pauken's service to Bisbee.
Mayor Budge highlighted numerous accomplishments during Pauken's tenure, including:
•
•
•
•
•
•

Turning a $500,000-700,000 budget deficit into a $1.1 million surplus within two years
Addressing the city's unfunded liability in the public safety retirement system
Securing over $28 million in grants for various projects
Rebuilding City Hall after the fire
Restoring the community market and animal shelter
Successfully completing the Warren Historic District designation

Councilmember Cline recalled Pauken's concern for city employees during the City Hall fire, even while he was
working in Winslow, and his commitment to work until the new City Hall was completed.
Other council members expressed their gratitude for Pauken's leadership, mentoring, and dedication to the city.
In response, City Manager Pauken thanked the Council and reflected on his time with Bisbee. He highlighted
financial achievements, including addressing the public safety retirement system deficit and completing City
Hall without incurring debt. He emphasized the importance of city employees and expressed concern about the
loss of civility in local government. Pauken assured the Council he would remain available as a resource and
would continue to be an active community member.
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December 16, 2025

Mayor Budge stated that, as there was nothing else before this Council this meeting was adjourned.
ADJOURNMENT: 9:00PM
___________________________
Ken Budge, Mayor

8

ORDINANCE O-26-01
AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF BISBEE, COUNTY OF COCHISE, STATE OF
ARIZONA, AMENDING CHAPTER 7 - BUILDING, BY
ESTABLISHING A NEW ARTICLE, ARTICLE 7.16 –
UTILITY POLE INSTALLATION AND RELOCATION
REGULATIONS, REQUIRING UTILITIES TO RELOCATE
THEIR FACILITIES TO NEW UTILITY POLES UPON
INSTALLATION OF NEW POLES IN THE CITY OF BISBEE;
PROVIDING FOR THE REPEAL OF CONFLICTING
ORDINANCES; PROVIDING FOR SEVERABILITY;
PROVIDING FOR PENALTIES AND PROVIDING FOR AN
EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the Mayor and City Council have the authority to adopt and to amend, by ordinance,
the City Code of the City of Bisbee (the “City”); and,
WHEREAS, the City recognizes the importance of maintaining safe, reliable, and efficient utility
infrastructure for the benefit of its residents and businesses; and,
WHEREAS, utility poles are essential to the delivery of utility services, including electricity,
telecommunications, and other essential utilities; and,
WHEREAS, the timely relocation of utility facilities to new poles ensures continued safety,
infrastructure modernization, and service reliability; and,
WHEREAS, the City finds that this Ordinance is intended to protect the public health, safety and
welfare by enacting these regulations; and,
WHEREAS, it is in the best interests of the City of Bisbee and its citizens to establish utility pole
installation and relocation regulations in Chapter 7 of the City Code.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF BISBEE, COUNTY OF COCHISE, STATE OF ARIZONA, THAT:
Section 1.
In General.
The Code of the City of Bisbee, Chapter 7 - Building is hereby amended by establishing a new
Article 7.1.16 – Utility Pole Installation and Relocation Regulations, as provided for as follows:
CHAPTER 7 BUILDING
ARTICLE 7.16
REGULATIONS

UTILITY

7.16.1 Declaration of Policy

POLE

INSTALLATION AND

RELOCATION

The purpose of this article is to establish requirements for the installation of utility facilities
as well as the relocation and removal of utility facilities once new facilities have been
installed, ensuring the continued maintenance and improvement of the City of Bisbee’s
utility infrastructure and public safety. The City may adopt additional requirements and
standards through a public utility administrative manual or other adopted means.
7.16.2 Definitions
Unless otherwise expressly stated or clearly indicated by the context, the following terms
as used in this section shall have the meanings indicated in this section:
Utility Pole means a pole or post used to carry overhead utility lines, including but not
limited to electrical lines, telecommunications wires, and other utility infrastructure.
Utility Facility means any apparatus, wire, cable, or other infrastructure related to utility
service that is attached to a utility pole.
New Pole means a utility pole that has been newly installed to replace an existing pole or
as part of an upgrade to the utility infrastructure.
7.16.3 Utility Pole Installation Requirements
A.
Aerial electric, cable, or fiber optic lines shall be a minimum of 18-ft high when
crossing signalized street intersections, pavement, or alleys. The height above
ground, outside of paved areas and all other intersections shall be no less that 16-ft
at lowest sag locations. Adding of additional poles shall not be considered if the
height cannot be maintained at the sag between pole spacing.
B.
Overhead lines shall not obstruct or interfere with traffic signal visibility.
C.
Utility lines in violation with the requirements of this article shall be raised or
moved to an underground location as approved by the City.
D.
Permits for overhead utility lines must comply with any license agreement with
licensed and franchised companies.
E.
Guy wires must be out of the pedestrian path.
7.16.4 Utility Pole Relocation and Maintenance Requirements
A.
When plans are submitted for utility pole relocation and/or removal, all utility
owners that may be attached to the utility pole shall be notified by the owner of the
utility pole. This notice shall be provided at least 10 days before installation of the
new pole.
B.
Upon installation of a new utility pole in the City, all utility pole occupants,
including those providing electricity, telecommunications, cable, or other services,
shall relocate their facilities to the new pole within 30 days of its installation.
C.
Utilities shall complete the relocation of all facilities to the new utility pole within
30 days after the new utility pole has been installed. Failure to relocate within this
timeframe shall subject the utility provider to penalties outlined in this Article.
D.
Remnants of infrastructure that is replaced or relocated, including any structure at
or above grade (ground level), shall not be left in place unless first approved be the
City and only under special circumstances.

E.

F.
G.

Once all attachments to the old utility pole have relocated their equipment to the
new utility pole, the old utility pole shall be removed within 30 days by the utility
provider that owned the old utility pole. The cost to the utility company shall not
be a reason for not removing the abandoned infrastructure.
If a utility pole is no longer in use for the primary permitted utility service for that
utility pole, the utility pole shall be removed by the utility provider to improve
safety, reduce visual clutter, and preserve the aesthetic value of the community.
The City reserves the right to relocate or protect in place, any portion of utility
equipment and facilities as may be required in any emergency as determined by the
City without liability for interruption of service, unless otherwise provided for in a
license agreement with a license or franchise utility provider. However, prior to
taking any actions pursuant to this subsection, the City shall provide, if feasible,
reasonable notice to the utility pole owner of the emergency to allow the owner the
opportunity to protect or repair the utility facilities involved in the emergency.

7.16.5 Small Wireless Facilities (SWF)
A.
Small wireless facilities shall be designed and located to minimize the impact to
homeowners and business owners and to maintain the character and appearance of
the surrounding neighborhood. This will include lot line location, pole
appearance/aesthetics, safety, pedestrian access, and compatibility with existing
utility infrastructure.
B.
SWF support equipment shall be minimized and above ground electric meters shall
be included within the pole makeup where possible and at approved locations.
C.
Companies installing SWF are encouraged to collocate and use existing power pole
locations or replace existing streetlights with a dual-use (combination of small cell
and street lighting) pole. Colocation requires permission from the pole owner. The
pole must be able to withstand the extra weight of colocation equipment, fiber
installations, and wind loading. A structural analysis will be required.
D.
Should colocation not be possible, freestanding poles, equipped with a mast arm
and luminaire for potential street lighting shall be used. New SWF poles may not
be closer than 150-feet radially from existing utility pole unless approved through
a utility waiver request. The SWF design should attempt to replace existing utility
poles to meet this intent.
E.
It is the intent to reduce the number of poles on a street and remove or position
above ground equipment from view. Therefore, four different types of SWF
installations may be permitted in the City’s rights-of-way. These types include the
following concepts:
1.
Attachments to existing wooden power poles - Type 1;
2.
Attachments to wooden streetlight poles - Type 2;
3.
Replacement of existing wood poles or metal streetlight poles - Type 3, 3A;
4.
New freestanding metal pole installations - Type 4.
7.16.6 Penalties and Enforcement
A.
Penalties for Non-Compliance: If a utility fails to relocate its facilities within the
required timeframe, the utility shall be subject to the following penalties:
1.
A fine of $50 per day for each day that the relocation remains incomplete

B.

after the 30-day deadline.
2.
A fine of $100 for failure to remove the old pole within the specified 30day timeframe.
Enforcement Authority: The City of Bisbee’s Public Works Department, or any
other designated city department, shall be responsible for enforcing this ordinance.
The City may issue notices of violation and impose penalties for non-compliance.

7.16.7 Exceptions
The requirements of this article may be waived or modified by the City Council upon
request of the utility provider, should there be a demonstration of undue hardship, safety
concerns, or other justifiable reasons. Any such request must be submitted in writing to
the City Clerk for City Council review and approval.
Section 3.
Providing for Repeal of Conflicting Ordinances.
All ordinances and parts of ordinances in conflict with this Ordinance or any part of the Code
adopted herein by reference are hereby repealed.
Section 4.
Providing for Severability.
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase or portion of this Ordinance or any part of the
Code adopted herein by reference, is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the
decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the
remaining portions thereof.
Section 5.
Providing for Penalties.
A violation of this Ordinance is subject to the following penalties:
If a utility fails to relocate its facilities within the required timeframe, the utility shall be subject to
the following penalties:
(1).

A fine of $50 per day for each day that the relocation remains incomplete after the
30-day deadline.

(2).

A fine of $100 for failure to remove the old pole within the specified 30-day
timeframe.

Section 6.
Effective Date.
This Ordinance shall be effective from 30 days after the date written below.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED by the Mayor and Council of the City of Bisbee on this
6th day of January, 2026.
APPROVED:

_____________________________
Ken Budge, Mayor

ATTEST:

_______________________
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk
APPROVED AS TO FORM:

____________________________
Joseph D. Estes, City Attorney
Pierce Coleman, PLLC

RESOLUTION R-26-01
A RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BISBEE,
COUNTY OF COCHISE, STATE OF ARIZONA, AMENDING THE BUILDING
INSPECTOR SECTION OF THE CITY FEE SCHEDULE
WHEREAS, the City adopted a Fee Schedule on April 14, 2020 for the purpose of
setting forth the comprehensive fees assessed and collected by the City for a range of
applications, permits, licenses, services, and activities; and
WHEREAS, the Fee Schedule sets forth the cost of all services provided to the citizens
and businesses of the City of Bisbee, Arizona; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Bisbee considers it reasonable to amend said
Fee Schedule periodically by Resolution to reflect the costs of providing services; and
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the City of
Bisbee amend the City Fee Schedule as follows:
BUILDING INSPECTOR
Other Applications/Permits
(including mailing & publication cost)
Vacant Building Registration Fee for Residential
Commercial Buildings 5,000 square feet and under
Commercial Buildings 5,001 square feet and under

FEES
$175.00
$225.00
$350.00

PASSED, ADOPTED AND APPROVED by the City of Bisbee, this 6th day of January 2026.
APPROVED:
____________________________
Ken Budge, Mayor

ATTEST:

_____________________________
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk

APPROVED AS TO FORM:

______________________________

Joseph D. Estes, City Attorney
Pierce Coleman, PLLC

RESOLUTION R-26-02
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BISBEE, ARIZONA, AUTHORIZING THE
SUBMISSION OF AN APPLICATION TO THE ARIZONA STATE MATCH ADVANTAGE FOR RURAL
TRANSPORTATION (AZ SMART) FUND FOR REIMBURSEMENT OF FEDERAL GRANT DEVELOPMENT
COSTS RELATED TO A RAISE / BUILD TRANSPORTATION DISCRETIONARY GRANT APPLICATION
WHEREAS,
The City of Bisbee (“City”) is a rural Arizona municipality eligible to participate in the Arizona State
Match Advantage for Rural Transportation (“AZ SMART”) Fund administered by the Arizona
Department of Transportation (ADOT); and
WHEREAS,
The AZ SMART Fund is designed to assist eligible rural communities with costs associated with
preparing and submitting competitive federal transportation discretionary grant applications,
including but not limited to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Rebuilding American
Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) / Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage
Development (BUILD) Transportation Discretionary Grants Program; and
WHEREAS,
The City intends to submit an application for federal discretionary transportation funding to
support the planning, design, or construction of a transportation infrastructure project that
advances safety, state of good repair, economic vitality, and long-term community resilience; and
WHEREAS,
The City has estimated the total cost of developing and submitting the federal RAISE/BUILD grant
application to be Six Thousand Four Hundred Dollars ($6,400), inclusive of eligible professional
services and administrative costs; and
WHEREAS,
Pursuant to AZ SMART Program Guidelines, eligible rural municipalities may request
reimbursement of up to fifty percent (50%) of the total eligible costs associated with federal grant
development; and
WHEREAS,
The City seeks to request Three Thousand Two Hundred Dollars ($3,200) from the AZ SMART Fund,
representing fifty percent (50%) of the total estimated grant development cost, with the
remaining fifty percent (50%) to be provided by the City through local funds or in-kind resources;
and
WHEREAS,
Submission of an AZ SMART Fund application requires formal authorization by the City Council and
confirmation of the City’s commitment to comply with all applicable program requirements,
guidelines, and reporting obligations;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BISBEE, ARIZONA, AS
FOLLOWS:

Authorization to Apply.
The City Council hereby authorizes the submission of an application to the Arizona State Match
Advantage for Rural Transportation (AZ SMART) Fund requesting $3,200 for reimbursement of
eligible costs associated with developing and submitting a federal RAISE/BUILD Transportation
Discretionary Grant application.

Project Purpose.
The requested AZ SMART funds shall be used solely for eligible federal grant development
activities, including professional services, technical analysis, and application preparation necessary
to pursue federal discretionary transportation funding.

Local Match Commitment.
The City Council affirms that the City will provide the required local share of $3,200, representing
fifty percent (50%) of the total grant development cost, through cash, in-kind services, or other
eligible local resources.

Designation of Authorized Official.
The City Manager, Mayor, or their designee is hereby authorized to execute and submit all
applications, certifications, agreements, and related documents necessary to complete the AZ
SMART Fund application and, if awarded, to administer the grant in accordance with state and
federal requirements.

Compliance.
The City agrees to comply with all applicable AZ SMART Fund Program Guidelines, ADOT
requirements, and state and federal regulations governing the use of awarded funds.

PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Bisbee, Arizona, this 6th day of January,
2026.

CITY OF BISBEE, ARIZONA

________________________________________
Ken Budge, Mayor
ATTEST:

___________________________________
Ashlee Coronado, City Clerk

APPROVED AS TO FORM:

___________________________________
Joseph D. Estes, City Attorney
Pierce Coleman, PLLC

I AGENDA ITEM NUMBERfl

REQUEST FOR MAYOR & COUNCIL ACTION
Session of: January 6, 2025
[gjRegular

DATE ACTION SUBMITTED:
REGULAR

[gj

TYPE OF ACTION:
RESOLUTION 0
SUBJECT:

FROM:

□Special

December 29, 2025

CONSENT

ORDINANCE

0

0

FORMAL ACTION

IZI

OTHER

□

Discussion and Possible Selection of a firm for City Manager Recruitment Services.

Ken Budge, Mayor

RECOMMENDATION:

PROPOSED MOTION:

DISCUSSION:

TBD

I move to approve __________ for City Manager
Recruitment Services.

Mayor and Council will discuss and select a company to move into negotiations with for the City
Manager Recruitment Services.

FISCAL IMPACT:

DEPARTMENT LINE-ITEM ACCOUNT:

BALANCE IN LINE ITEM IF APPROVED:
Prepared by:

Ashlee Coronado
Interim City Manager

Reviewed by:

C,v,�...,

�hM.k
Ashlee Coronado
Interim City Manager