City of Phoenix Welcomes Community Input for 2023-24 Proposed Trial Budget

https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/budget-and-research/2700

Budget & Research

3/21/2023 11:00:00 PM

https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/2700/City-Hall-in-Downtown-Phoenix.jpg

City of Phoenix Welcomes Community Input for 2023-24 Proposed Trial Budget

<div class="ExternalClass414703DBF3EE4AA69B7F8ACE547022BA"><html> The City of Phoenix Trial Budget for Fiscal Year (FY) 2023-2024, proposed by Phoenix City Manager Jeff Barton, is ready for public review and comment. City Manager Barton presented a balanced Trial Budget to Council on March 21, 2023. The proposed Trial Budget will provide new and expanded programs and services to the community, and ensure the City can competitively pay its employees in order to attract and retain a highly skilled workforce. “This year’s Trial Budget is focused on ensuring that we can deliver quality, timely and efficient services to our residents,” said Phoenix City Manager Jeff Barton. “Over the last three years, the City has made smart, strategic decisions and has expanded programs to assist our residents with the impact and aftermath of COVID-19. The Trial Budget ensures that those vital services and most importantly the people who provide them can be sustained for years to come.” During the month of April, the Budget and Research Department will hold 11 community budget hearings, inviting residents to attend in-person and give public comment. The schedule of budget hearings can be found at <a style="color:rgb(30, 81, 136);" tabindex="0" href="https://phoenix.gov/budget/hearings" data-cke-saved-href="https://phoenix.gov/budget/hearings" target="_blank">phoenix.gov/budget/hearings</a>. This proposed Trial Budget for fiscal year 2023-24 includes $14 million for service additions in key City Council priority areas such as: public safety and criminal justice, including adding firefighters to staff a new Fire station located at 19th Avenue and Chandler Boulevard which will help to improve response times; further efforts to civilianize positions in the Police Department to allow sworn officers to respond to higher level public safety calls for service; resources to continue important expiring grant funded programs to support low-income residents and victims of crime; resources are also proposed to add park rangers for overnight patrol at City parks, and increases for community arts grant funding. Additionally, $1 million is reserved for community input and recommendations reflecting resident comments gathered over the next several weeks. Based on available funds some of the suggestions could be incorporated into the final City Manager’s Budget scheduled to be presented to City Council on May 2nd. The remaining $5 million would be allocated to the General Fund contingency fund, or rainy-day fund to account for proposed ongoing spending initiatives. The 2023-24 Trial Budget also proposes to allocate resources to address employee compensation, so we can provide the highest level of service ensuring our most valuable assets are paid competitively and positions can be filled with the best talent available. The City is experiencing significant vacancy rates due to the competitive labor market and therefore approximately 85%, or $114 million, of the total $134 million surplus in the 2023-24 Trial Budget is allocated to employee compensation. This investment in our employees is necessary and will help to fill vacant positions so the services residents rely on and expect can continue to be provided with improved service levels. What is the General Fund? The General Fund is part of the City of Phoenix’s total budget. The General Fund is made up of resources including general sales tax, property taxes, revenue distributed by the state from income tax, sales and vehicle license taxes, and some fines and fees. The General Fund supports many of the services our residents, visitors, and businesses have come to expect in Phoenix such as libraries, parks, senior and youth programs and police and fire services. What’s Next? After community review, City Manager Barton will present a revised proposed budget to the Phoenix City Council on May 2, 2023. The City Council is expected to decide on the budget on May 16, 2023. The approved budget will take effect July 1, 2023. Community Input Residents are encouraged to participate in upcoming in-person budget hearings. The community is also encouraged to use the City’s FundPHX interactive tool to provide input. The <a style="color:rgb(30, 81, 136);" tabindex="0" href="https://phoenix.gov/fund" data-cke-saved-href="https://phoenix.gov/fund" target="_blank">FundPHX tool</a> allows residents to provide direct feedback on the proposed FY 2023-24 Trial Budget additions. All input received from the tool, at the budget hearings, or by contacting the Budget and Research Department directly at budget.research@phoenix.gov or by calling (602) 262-4800 will be provided to the City Council, so they may consider your feedback prior to adopting the budget. In-Person Community Hearings The City of Phoenix is holding 11 budget hearings including one bilingual community-wide hearing and community-wide hearings for youth and arts. Hearing schedule: <ul> <li>District 6, Monday, April 3, at 8:30 a.m. Devonshire Senior Center, Multipurpose Room 2802 E Devonshire Avenue </li> <li>District 2 and 3, Monday, April 3, at 6 p.m. Paradise Valley Community Center Multipurpose Room 17402 N 40th Street </li> <li>District 3, Tuesday, April 4, at 8:30 a.m. Shadow Mountain Senior Center 3546 E Sweetwater Avenue </li> <li>District 5, Tuesday, April 4, at 6:00 p.m. Washington Activity Center, Building B Multipurpose Room 2240 W Citrus Way </li> <li>District 1, Thursday, April 6, at 8:30 a.m. Cholla Library 10050 N Metro Parkway E </li> <li>Bilingual Community-wide, Monday, April 10, at 6:00 p.m. Maryvale Community Center Multipurpose Room 4420 N 51st Avenue </li> <li>District 7, Tuesday, April 11, at 8:30 a.m. Desert West Community Center 6501 W Virginia Avenue </li> <li>Youth Community-wide, Tuesday, April 11, at 6:00 p.m. Central High School Student Union 4525 N Central Avenue </li> <li>District 4, Wednesday, April 12, at 6:00 p.m. Steele Indian School Park, Memorial Hall 300 E Indian School Road </li> <li>District 8, Thursday, April 13, at 6:00 p.m. South Phoenix Youth Center 5245 S 7th Street </li> <li>Arts Community-wide, Saturday, April 15, at 10:00 a.m. South Mountain Community College, Library Community Room 7050 S 24th Street</li> </ul> The hearings will broadcast live on the City of Phoenix’s YouTube page. Learn more at <a style="color:rgb(30, 81, 136);" tabindex="0" href="https://phoenix.gov/budget/hearings" data-cke-saved-href="https://phoenix.gov/budget/hearings" target="_blank">phoenix.gov/budget/hearings</a>. </html></div>

https://www.phoenix.gov/budget

News

budget-and-research

Phoenix City Hall in Downtown Phoenix

Budget

Adam Waltz

602-781-1334

602-534-6648

adam.waltz@phoenix.gov

cityofphoenixaz

Take Advantage of Extended Summer Hours at City Trailheads	https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/2769	Parks and Recreation	6/1/2023 11:00:00 PM	https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/2769/Pima-Canyon-Trailhead-at-South-Mountain.jpg	Take Advantage of Extended Summer Hours at City Trailheads	<div class="ExternalClassA1FB694761934389807B4396F29EBB6F"><html> <p style="box-sizing:border-box;margin-bottom:0.875em;line-height:1.5em;font-family:hind, "open sans", sans-serif;font-size:16px;">During the Valley's warm weather months, the Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department recommends hiking during the early morning or evening hours when it is cooler and there is more shade.<br></p> <p style="box-sizing:border-box;margin-bottom:0.875em;line-height:1.5em;font-family:hind, "open sans", sans-serif;font-size:16px;">To help with that recommendation, extended summer hours are in effect annually from June through September at three of the City's popular hiking destinations – <a style="box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(154, 0, 73);background:transparent;font-family:hind, sans-serif;transition:all 0.2s ease-in-out 0s;font-weight:700;" href="/parks/trails/locations/north-mountain" target="_blank">North Mountain Park</a> and <a style="box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(154, 0, 73);background:transparent;font-family:hind, sans-serif;transition:all 0.2s ease-in-out 0s;font-weight:700;" href="/parks/trails/locations/piestewa-peak" target="_blank">Piestewa Peak Trailhead</a> in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve, and <a style="box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(154, 0, 73);background:transparent;font-family:hind, sans-serif;transition:all 0.2s ease-in-out 0s;font-weight:700;" href="/parks/trails/locations/south-mountain" target="_blank">Pima Canyon Trailhead</a> in South Mountain Park/Preserve.</p> <p style="box-sizing:border-box;margin-bottom:0.875em;line-height:1.5em;font-family:hind, "open sans", sans-serif;font-size:16px;">To provide an extra two hours of availability and promote hiking after 7 p.m., parking lot entrances are open until 9 p.m. at those locations. Year-round at those three trailheads, parking lots open at 5 a.m. and trails are open until 11 p.m.</p> <p style="box-sizing:border-box;margin-bottom:0.875em;line-height:1.5em;font-family:hind, "open sans", sans-serif;font-size:16px;">The Phoenix Parks and Recreation and Phoenix Fire departments remind trail users to <a style="box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(154, 0, 73);background:transparent;font-family:hind, sans-serif;transition:all 0.2s ease-in-out 0s;font-weight:700;" href="/parks/trails/" target="_blank">"Take a Hike. Do it Right."</a> when enjoying the city's desert parks and mountain preserves. All trail users should follow these important and potentially life-saving hiking safety guidelines:</p> <ul style="box-sizing:border-box;font-family:hind, "open sans", sans-serif;font-size:16px;" dir="" class=""> <li style="box-sizing:border-box;font-size:1em !important;"> <p style="box-sizing:border-box;margin-bottom:0.875em;line-height:1.5em;font-size:1em !important;"> <span style="box-sizing:border-box;font-weight:700;">Watch the Weather:</span> Yes, "it's a dry heat" - but Arizona's temperature can be deceiving and deadly. Hike when it's cool outside, try early mornings and evenings when there's more shade.</p> </li> <li style="box-sizing:border-box;font-size:1em !important;"> <p style="box-sizing:border-box;margin-bottom:0.875em;line-height:1.5em;font-size:1em !important;"> <span style="box-sizing:border-box;font-weight:700;">Dress Appropriately:</span> Wear proper shoes, clothing, hat and sunscreen.</p> </li> <li style="box-sizing:border-box;font-size:1em !important;"> <p style="box-sizing:border-box;margin-bottom:0.875em;line-height:1.5em;font-size:1em !important;"> <span style="box-sizing:border-box;font-weight:700;">Bring Water:</span> Hydrate before you go. Have plenty of water, more than you think you need. Turn around and head back to the trailhead before you drink half of your water.</p> </li> <li style="box-sizing:border-box;font-size:1em !important;"> <p style="box-sizing:border-box;margin-bottom:0.875em;line-height:1.5em;font-size:1em !important;"> <span style="box-sizing:border-box;font-weight:700;">Keep in Contact:</span> Carry a mobile phone.</p> </li> <li style="box-sizing:border-box;font-size:1em !important;"> <p style="box-sizing:border-box;margin-bottom:0.875em;line-height:1.5em;font-size:1em !important;"> <span style="box-sizing:border-box;font-weight:700;">Team Up:</span> Hike with others. If hiking solo, tell someone your start and end times, and location.</p> </li> <li style="box-sizing:border-box;font-size:1em !important;"> <p style="box-sizing:border-box;margin-bottom:0.875em;line-height:1.5em;font-size:1em !important;"> <span style="box-sizing:border-box;font-weight:700;">Be Honest:</span> Do you have a medical condition? Asthma, heart problems, diabetes, knee or back problems? Don't push yourself! (Even trained athletes have been caught off guard by getting dehydrated on Arizona trails.)</p> </li> <li style="box-sizing:border-box;font-size:1em !important;"> <p style="box-sizing:border-box;margin-bottom:0.875em;line-height:1.5em;font-size:1em !important;"> <span style="box-sizing:border-box;font-weight:700;">Don't Trailblaze:</span> Enjoy the Sonoran Desert's beautiful and undeveloped landscape, but please stay on designated trails.</p> </li> <li style="box-sizing:border-box;font-size:1em !important;"> <p style="box-sizing:border-box;margin-bottom:0.875em;line-height:1.5em;font-size:1em !important;"> <span style="box-sizing:border-box;font-weight:700;">Take Responsibility:</span> Don't be "that person" - the one who wasn't prepared, shouldn't have been there for health reasons or ignored safety guidelines. Be the responsible hiker, who takes a hike and does it right!</p> </li> </ul> <p style="box-sizing:border-box;margin-bottom:0.875em;line-height:1.5em;font-family:hind, "open sans", sans-serif;font-size:16px;">For the safety of pets, dogs are prohibited on any City of Phoenix trail when the temperature is 100 degrees or warmer. The Arizona Humane Society advises that temperatures in the 90s are also unsafe for pets to be outdoors. <br></p> <p style="box-sizing:border-box;margin-bottom:0.875em;line-height:1.5em;font-family:hind, "open sans", sans-serif;font-size:16px;">Visitors to Phoenix's desert parks and mountain preserves should also be aware that the <a style="box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(154, 0, 73);background:transparent;font-family:hind, sans-serif;transition:all 0.2s ease-in-out 0s;font-weight:700;" href="/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/2728" target="_blank">annual ban of open fires went into effect on May 1</a>.<br></p> </html></div>	https://www.phoenix.gov/parks	News
Phoenix Water Services Department Assures Water Security Following Release of New Groundwater Model	https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/water-services/2768	Water Services	6/1/2023 9:00:00 PM	https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/2768/Groundwater_AMA_Newsroom_Water_055.jpg	Phoenix Water Services Department Assures Water Security Following Release of New Groundwater Model	<div class="ExternalClass2FED68F1E16942C6AE8E851AABFE68CD"><html> <div></div><div><span id="ms-rterangepaste-start"></span><span id="ms-rterangepaste-start"></span><p>The City of Phoenix Water Services Dept. addresses concerns raised by the <a target="_blank" href="https://new.azwater.gov/phoenix-ama-groundwater-supply-updates">new Phoenix Active Management Area (AMA) Groundwater Model release</a>, emphasizing that Phoenix's water security remains intact due to its diversified water portfolio and long-term planning. It is important to note that while the Phoenix AMA bears our city’s name, the area is very large and encompasses all of Maricopa County and parts of Pinal County. However, the model, unveiled by the Arizona Department of Water Resources, has prompted discussions about Phoenix's water resources.<br></p><p>The Groundwater Model provides valuable insights into groundwater usage projections and indicates an expected groundwater shortage of 4.9 million acre-feet over the next 100 years in the Phoenix AMA. The Model does not include projections of the availability of any other type of water, including water from rivers and streams and reclaimed water.<br></p><p>While the results of the study are important for understanding the groundwater situation, it is crucial for Phoenix Water customers and stakeholders to know that the City’s water security remains unaffected. Groundwater plays a minimal role in Phoenix's overall water usage, accounting for only 2% of the City's total water usage each year. The remainder of Phoenix’s water supplies come from renewable resources, such as the Salt, Verde, and Colorado Rivers. Phoenix also reuses more than 95% of its reclaimed water. <br></p><p>"Ensuring our continued water security is a top priority, and I have the utmost confidence in the City of Phoenix’s water resources planning and resilience," said Mayor Kate Gallego. "For the last several decades we have stored more groundwater than we have used, and we will continue to invest in diversifying our resources, bolstering infrastructure, and enhancing conservation practices. We’re not only looking out for ourselves—Phoenix will continue to lead the region in securing our water supplies for the future, including in driving the development of a regional Advanced Water Purification system that will supply up to 60 million gallons of water per day by the end of the decade."<br></p><p>The Assured Water Supply (AWS) program is a cornerstone of Phoenix's water management efforts. All ten cities within the Arizona Municipal Water Users Association (AMWUA) have a 100-year Assured Water Supply Designation, demonstrating their ability to meet current and future water demands, including growth. This designation considers a diverse water portfolio, including surface water from the Central Arizona Project (CAP) and Salt River Project (SRP), which accounted for 90% of drinking water supplies in 2021. Groundwater represents a small percentage of the collective water portfolios of AMWUA cities.<br></p><p>Cynthia Campbell, Phoenix Water Resources Management Advisor, added, "The City of Phoenix has diligently pursued a comprehensive water management strategy, which includes reducing dependence on groundwater. Through proactive measures such as advanced water purification systems, infrastructure expansion, and strong conservation programs, we will continue to be resilient in the face of challenges."<br></p><p>Additionally, the City of Phoenix has implemented its own sophisticated water forecasting system that considers various factors such as temperature, precipitation patterns, population growth, and economic development. This comprehensive approach allows the City to accurately assess future water demands and make informed decisions to ensure water availability for its residents and businesses. By considering the potential impacts of climate change, population growth, and economic factors, Phoenix is actively planning and implementing strategies to meet the water needs of a thriving and expanding city. This proactive approach, combined with the diversified water portfolio and long-term planning, further solidifies Phoenix's commitment to maintaining water security and sustainability for the years to come.<br></p><p>The City of Phoenix Water Services Department remains committed to sustainable water management practices, investing in technology, infrastructure, and conservation measures. Those efforts ensure that Phoenix can meet current and future water demands, regardless of the challenges posed by the groundwater model or potential Colorado River shortages.<br></p><span id="ms-rterangepaste-end"></span><span id="ms-rterangepaste-end"></span> </div> <p> <strong>Arizona Department of Water Resources</strong>: <a target="_blank" href="https://new.azwater.gov/phoenix-ama-groundwater-supply-updates">Phoenix AMA Groundwater Supply Updates</a></p> <p> <strong>About City of Phoenix Water Services Department</strong> <br></p> <p> The City of Phoenix Water Services Department is dedicated to providing high-quality, reliable, and sustainable water services to the residents, businesses, and visitors of Phoenix. With a commitment to water conservation, innovation, and long-term planning, the department ensures a secure and resilient water supply for future generations. For more information, visit <a href="/waterservices" target="_blank">phoenix.gov/water</a>. </p><p><br></p> <p><strong><strong style="font-size:13.3333px;">Media Contacts:</strong><span style="font-size:13.3333px;"><br></span></strong></p><p><span style="font-size:13.3333px;">Jimena Garrison</span><br style="font-size:13.3333px;"><span style="font-size:13.3333px;">Public Information Officer</span><br style="font-size:13.3333px;"><span style="font-size:13.3333px;">Water Services</span><br style="font-size:13.3333px;"><span style="font-size:13.3333px;">480-390-1933</span><br style="font-size:13.3333px;"><a style="font-size:13.3333px;" href="mailto:jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov" target="_blank">jimena.garrison@phoenix.gov</a><br style="font-size:13.3333px;"><br style="font-size:13.3333px;"><span style="font-size:13.3333px;">Michael Gertzman</span><br style="font-size:13.3333px;"><span style="font-size:13.3333px;">Senior Public Information Officer </span><br style="font-size:13.3333px;"><span style="font-size:13.3333px;">Water Services</span><br style="font-size:13.3333px;"><span style="font-size:13.3333px;">602-534-1209</span><br style="font-size:13.3333px;"><a style="font-size:13.3333px;" href="mailto:michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov" target="_blank">michael.gertzman@phoenix.gov</a><br></p> </html></div>	https://www.phoenix.gov/waterservices	News
Fabulous Phoenix 4th Fireworks Show Returns in 2023	https://www.phoenix.gov/newsroom/parks-and-recreation/2767	Parks and Recreation	6/1/2023 4:00:00 PM	https://www.phoenix.gov/newssite/Lists/NewsArticle/Attachments/2767/Fabulous-Phoenix-Fourth.jpg	Fabulous Phoenix 4th Fireworks Show Returns in 2023	<div class="ExternalClassEDB44E35CD524751B0A2032F183DF93E"><html> <p>The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department is proud to announce the return of its annual fireworks event, Fabulous Phoenix 4th. The event will take place in 2023 and will be a celebration of the city's vibrant culture and community. <br></p> <p>Fabulous Phoenix 4th takes place at Steele Indian School Park (300 E. Indian School Road) on Tuesday, July 4, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. <br><br>The 35th Annual Fabulous Phoenix 4th features one of the largest fireworks displays in the Southwest with more than 7,800 aerial effects. This free, non-alcoholic family event attracts thousands of attendees. </p> <p>"I am thrilled to welcome the return of Fabulous Phoenix 4th fireworks show to our City," District 4 Councilwoman Laura Pastor said. “This event has long been a source of joy and celebration for our community, and I am proud to be part of its revival."</p> <p>"We are delighted to bring back this beloved event," said Cynthia Aguilar, Director of the Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department. "Fabulous Phoenix 4th will be a night of fun, laughter, and excitement for everyone to enjoy."</p> <p>The event will include a spectacular fireworks display with plenty of food, music, and games for all ages. To ensure everyone's safety during the event, we encourage all attendees to follow these simple fireworks safety tips: </p> <ul> <li>Always have an adult present when lighting fireworks. </li> <li>Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass or shrubs. </li> <li>Keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby in case of an emergency. </li> <li>Never point or throw fireworks at another person. </li> <li>Only light one firework at a time and never try to relight a dud. </li> </ul> <p>We look forward to seeing you all at Fabulous Phoenix 4th! </p> <p> <strong>Know Before You Go</strong> </p> <p> <strong>Is there an admission fee?</strong> </p> <p>Admission is FREE! Vendors will be selling a variety of items, including food and beverage, arts and crafts, and promotional items. <em>ATMs will NOT be available for this year's event, please plan accordingly.</em></p> <p> <strong>How do I get to the event? </strong> </p> <p>The Fabulous Phoenix 4th is held at Steele Indian School Park, located at 3rd St. and Indian School Rd. There is no vehicle entrance and no public parking at the event. The rideshare/taxi area is located on 2nd St. just south of Indian School Rd. There are three pedestrian entrances: Central Ave. and Glenrosa Ave., 3rd St. and Indian School Rd., and 7th St. just north of Turney Ave. </p> <p>Learn more about road closures for the event on the <a href="http://www.phoenix.gov/parks/special-events/fabphx4/know-before-you-go" target="_blank">Know Before You Go</a> site. <br><br><strong>What should I definitely bring?</strong></p> <p>Lots of cold water! Though water will be available for purchase at the event, having an ample supply of water will help ensure that you stay hydrated. Also, it's suggested that you bring shade. Personal shade devices are allowed and encouraged, however, at sunset all standing shade devices must be lowered and safely put away.</p> <p> <strong>What items can I NOT bring? </strong> </p> <p>Items you cannot bring include drones, alcohol, fold-out tables, personal fireworks, barbecue grills, glass bottles, pets (service animals are permitted), laser pointers, skateboards, inline skates and kites. Fishing is prohibited during the event.</p> <p>For more tips and information, visit our <a href="/parks/special-events/fabphx4" target="_blank">Fabulous Phoenix 4th website</a>. For recorded event information call 602 534 FEST (3378).<br></p> <p> <strong>Other Fireworks Events</strong> <br> </p> <p> <strong></strong>After Dark in the Park and Light Up The Sky are also returning in 2023. </p> <p>After Dark in the Park takes place on Saturday, June 24, 2023, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m, at Deer Valley Park, 19602 N. 19th Ave. Fireworks being at 8:45 p.m.</p> <p>Light Up the Sky occurs on Saturday, July 1, 2023, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at American Family Fields of Phoenix, 3600 N. 51st Ave. <br></p> </html></div>	https://www.phoenix.gov/parks	News