Goodyear hosts a special election

Goodyear voters have until Tuesday, May 20, to return their ballots in a special election that could bring permanent changes to the city’s foundational governing document and impact future utility services.

The election includes six ballot questions: four proposed amendments to the Goodyear City Charter and two franchise agreements with private water utilities. Ballots must be received by 7 p.m. on Election Day to be counted. Voters can return their completed ballots by mail or drop them off at Goodyear City Hall, 1900 N. Civic Square.

Goodyear’s City Charter, which functions similarly to a constitution, defines the structure and authority of the local government. As a charter city, Goodyear requires voter approval for any amendments to the document. The current proposals were recommended by the city’s Charter Review Ad-Hoc Committee.

Question 1 would clarify that the City Council may adopt land use and development regulations, including zoning ordinances and architectural design standards, by a simple majority vote, so long as they align with the city’s General Plan.

Question 2 proposes to update Article II, Section 11 of the charter to include “Benefits” in its title and would expand the responsibilities of the Citizens Compensation Committee. If passed, the committee would recommend both salaries and benefits for council members, with the council limited to a simple majority vote to accept or reject those recommendations.

Question 3 would transfer the authority to create, consolidate, or eliminate city departments from the City Council to the city manager. Any such changes would need to stay within council-approved staffing levels and budget parameters.

Question 4 aims to codify the allowable categories for the municipal transaction privilege tax and clarify existing procedures for issuing municipal bonds.

The remaining two questions concern franchise agreements with private utility providers. If approved, both would allow continued service from the companies in exchange for franchise fees paid to the city.

Question 5 asks voters to approve a franchise agreement with EPCOR Water Arizona Inc. for water distribution and wastewater collection services.

Question 6 seeks approval for a similar agreement with Liberty Utilities (Litchfield Park Water and Sewer) Corp.

Goodyear City Hall is open for ballot drop-off during the following hours:

• Wednesday, May 14 – 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Thursday, May 15 – 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Friday, May 16 – 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Monday, May 19 – 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Tuesday, May 20 – 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Election Day)

The drop box is closed over the weekend. Ballots must be returned by 7 p.m. Tuesday to be counted.

More information on the election is available at goodyearaz.gov.