2015 League of Cities and Towns - League of Arizona Cities and

2015 League of Cities and Towns
Get a better handle on your taxpayer dollars.
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It’s lawful and simply requires bidders to:
• Be fully bonded
• Provide OSHA training
• Employ workers from state-approved apprenticeships
• Have no wage/hour violations in the past 3 years
• Have not defaulted on any project in the last 3 years
Adopt a Responsible Contractor Policy
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Welcome to Tucson
General Information
Conference Sponsors
Tuesday Agenda
Wednesday Agenda
Thursday Agenda
Friday Agenda
Spouse/Guest Program
Youth Program
Service Awards
Legislative Awards 2015
Meeting Room Map
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WELCOME TO TUCSON!
Tucson is honored to host the 2015 League of Arizona Cities
and Towns Annual Conference at the beautiful JW Marriott
Starr Pass Resort & Spa. As the largest gathering of municipal
officials in Arizona, the conference provides the opportunity for
elected policymakers and government professionals to discuss
issues of concern to our communities.
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With several concurrent sessions taking place, conference
attendees will have the opportunity to address legislative issues,
economic and downtown development, council relations,
educational partnerships and more. The conference provides an
opportunity to exchange best practices and successful strategies.
Through this sharing of ideas, we benefit and learn from
one another.
During your visit, I hope you find time to enjoy our beautiful
Sonoran Desert and mountains. Tucson has many attractions to
delight visitors, including fine restaurants, shops and museums.
We are delighted to welcome you to our city.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Rothschild
Mayor of Tucson
GENERAL INFORMATION
League Life Members
Registration Desk Location and Hours
Carol S. Anderson, Kingman • Christopher J. Bavasi, Flagstaff
James L. Boles, Winslow • Douglas Coleman, Apache Junction
Boyd Dunn, Chandler • Stanley Gibson, Globe
Harry E. Mitchell, Tempe • Wayne C. Pomeroy, Mesa
George R. Renner, Glendale • Gary Scaramazzo, Page
Mark Schnepf, Queen Creek • Elaine M. Scruggs, Glendale
Robert Walkup, Tucson
The conference registration desk will be located in the Tucson Foyer at the
Starr Pass Resort.
League Executive Committee
9:30
7:00
7:00
7:00
a.m.
a.m.
a.m.
a.m.
to
to
to
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7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 18
7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 19
7:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 20
10:00 a.m. on Friday, August 21
President:
CLE Credit
Vice President:
Note: Sessions with an
next to them may be eligible for
continuing legal education (CLE) credit.
Treasurer:
Conference Mobile Application
Mark Mitchell, Mayor, Tempe
Jay Tibshraeny, Mayor, Chandler
Mark Nexsen, Mayor, Lake Havasu City
Committee Members:
Doug Von Gausig, Mayor, Clarkdale • Gilbert Lopez, Councilmember, Coolidge
Lana Mook, Mayor, El Mirage • Gerald Nabours, Mayor, Flagstaff
Linda Kavanagh, Mayor, Fountain Hills • John Lewis, Mayor, Gilbert
Jerry Weiers, Mayor, Glendale • Tom Schoaf, Mayor, Litchfield Park
Ed Honea, Mayor, Marana • Christian Price, Mayor, Maricopa
John Giles, Mayor, Mesa • Kenny Evans, Mayor, Payson
Daniel Valenzuela, Vice Mayor, Phoenix • Harvey Skoog, Mayor, Prescott Valley
Jim Lane, Mayor, Scottsdale • Daryl Seymore, Mayor, Show Low
Rick Mueller, Mayor, Sierra Vista • Sharon Wolcott, Mayor, Surprise
Bob Rivera, Mayor, Thatcher • Jonathan Rothschild, Mayor, Tucson
Douglas Nicholls, Mayor, Yuma
To download the League Conference mobile app, scan the QR code
below or visit www.leagueaz.org/mobile/15ac/r/
from your mobile device.
Conference Badges
You must wear your official conference badge to obtain entrance to all functions,
including meals and social events.
The dress at the conference is business casual. This includes the
receptions and dinners.
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CONFERENCE SPONSORS
PLATINUM SPONSORS
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GOLD SPONSORS
SILVER SPONSORS
AT&T ● Brown & Associates Certified Inspection Service, Inc.
EPCOR ● HighGround, Inc. ● Stifel
BRONZE SPONSORS
Aetna ● ARCADIS U.S., Inc. ● Arizona Food Marketing Alliance ● Arizona Metropolitan Trust
Arizona Public Employers Health Pool (APEHP) ● Arizona Transit Association ● Ballard Spahr LLP ● Central Arizona Project
CenturyLink ● Charles Abbott Associates, Inc. ● Comcast ● Cox Business
Curtis, Goodwin, Sullivan, Udall & Schwab, PLC ● Gammage & Burnham ● Kiewit Infrastructure West Co.
Kutak Rock LLP ● Molera Alvarez /A Government & Public Relations Firm ● Mountain States Employers Council
National Bank of Arizona ● PFM Asset Management LLC ● RBC Capital Markets ● Southwest Gas Corporation ● SRP
Total Transit Inc. ● Tucson Electric Power Co. & Unisource Energy Services ● World Wide Technology
Endorsed Partners
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TUESDAY AGENDA
TUESDAY, August 18
Golf Tournament
8:00 a.m. – Starr Pass Golf Club
Pre Conference Session
1:30 p.m. – Arizona 12
Leading Together - A New Model for Governing and Managing
Your Community
Learn how an integrated strategic planning system, internationally-recognized
board governance model, and use of the Baldridge Award-based organizational
effectiveness survey can improve the focus of your elected council and manager.
Participants will learn how to use these tools to jointly set results-oriented
management priorities and outcomes that will improve the effectiveness of the
relationship between the elected council and its manager.
This is a "hands on" interactive session taught by a current elected official and
department head and a former city manager who consult nationally with clients
that have successfully implemented this model. Participants will learn how these
tools work and have opportunities to discuss in small groups how they might be
used in their communities.
Mike Letcher, MPA, ICMA-CM
Assistant Professor, The University of Arizona
Senior Vice President, The Mercer Group, Inc.
William Stipp, MPA
City Councilmember, Goodyear, Arizona
Senior Vice President, The Mercer Group, Inc.
Event Cost: $40
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Please Note: Registration for this event is separate from the main conference.
If you did not register for this session but would like to attend, please talk with
the League registration staff.
Resolutions Committee Meeting
1:30 p.m. – Arizona 6 and 7
Arizona Municipal Risk Retention Pool (AMRRP)
Annual Meeting
4:00 p.m. – San Xavier
Affiliate Group Meeting
Greater Arizona Mayors Association (GAMA)
4:00 p.m. – Arizona 5
Welcome Reception
5:30 p.m. – Arizona Foyer
The League extends a warm welcome to all conference delegates
and guests.
APS Dinner at the League Annual Conference
6:30 p.m. – Tucson Ballroom
Please Note: This dinner is open to all government (city/town, county, state
and association) conference attendees and is included as part of your
conference registration.
If you plan to attend the dinner, you must have a ticket that will be provided
in your registration packet.
WEDNESDAY AGENDA
WEDNESDAY, August 19
Parade of Flags Practice
•Keynote Speaker – Celestino Fernandez , Ph.D., Distinguished Outreach Professor, The University of Arizona
The Pursuit of Happiness: The Key (and Often
Overlooked) Ingredient in Leadership and
Healthy Communities
7:30 a.m. – Arizona Ballroom 6 and 7
Designated representatives who will walk with their flag will meet in the
Arizona Ballroom for parade practice. We strongly encourage all flag
bearers to attend practice.
The Declaration of Independence, a critical
foundational document of our government,
lists three "unalienable rights," including the
pursuit of happiness. Why does happiness
matter in the well-being of communities? What
role should public leaders play in the happiness
of local residents? This keynote presentation
will help us think differently about leadership,
civic engagement, and the role of happiness
in this equation.
Youth Program - see page 20
8:30 a.m. – Arizona 5
Opening General Session
9:00 a.m. – Arizona 6 and 7
Presider:
Mark Mitchell, Mayor, Tempe, President,
League of Arizona Cities and Towns
•Invocation
•Presentation of the Colors
• Parade of Flags/Celebration of Cities and Towns •Host Mayor’s Welcome –
Jonathan Rothschild, Mayor, Tucson
•President’s Report –
Mark Mitchell, Mayor, Tempe, President,
League of Arizona Cities and Towns
•Sponsor Recognition
Lunch On Your Own
12:00 p.m.
•Update from the NLC 1st Vice President –
Melodee Colbert Kean, Councilmember, Joplin, Missouri
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Concurrent Sessions
Forest Health and Its Impact on Cities and Towns
in Arizona
1:30 p.m. – Tucson J
During the last few years Arizona has experienced several catastrophic
wildfires that have caused great economic damage to our state. In addition,
years of drought and high tree densities in our forests have combined to allow
pine bark beetle populations to reach outbreak level, killing millions of piñon
and ponderosa pine trees in Arizona. This session will explore the science
behind forest restoration, what programs the Arizona Forestry Division has
in place to mitigate future disasters, how forest health directly impacts one
of Arizona’s towns and the importance of healthy forests to our watershed.
Whether you are a city or town that is in or adjacent to forest land, or you
live in a metropolitan city, it is important that you understand why Arizona’s
forest health is important for your city or town.
Presider: Kenny Evans, Mayor, Payson
Speakers: Rebecca Davidson, Senior Analyst, Water Rights & Contracts, Salt River Project
Diane Vosick, Director of Policy and Partnerships, Ecological Restoration Institute, Northern Arizona University
Jeff Whitney, Director, Arizona State Forestry Division
PSPRS Task Force Update and Recommendations
1:30 p.m – Tucson E
Members of the League's Pension Reform Task Force will discuss the Task Force’s
reform recommendations for PSPRS. Referred to as the "yardstick," these
recommendations reflect the elements of an affordable and sustainable public
safety pension system for all parties (employees, retirees, employers, and
taxpayers). The implementation process and timeline will also be discussed.
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Presider: Michael LeVault, Mayor, Youngtown
Speakers: Greg Caton, Manager, Oro Valley, Member, Pension Reform
Task Force
1:30 p.m. – CONCURRENT SESSIONS
1:30 p.m. – CONCURRENT SESSIONS
WEDNESDAY AGENDA
Scott McCarty, Finance Director/CFO, Queen Creek,
Chair, Pension Reform Task Force Arizona Council on Transportation Innovation
Exchange Campaign
1:30 p.m. – Tucson F
The Arizona Council for Transportation Innovation (ACTI) was formed in 2013
to promote practices that can deliver Arizona’s state, regional and local
transportation systems in a better, smarter, and faster way. ACTI conducts
Innovation Exchanges to share information about what’s new in the industry.
Join us as we bring our Innovation Exchange Campaign to the League of
Cities and Towns and talk about how technological advances are making our
state’s transportation system one of the best in the nation. Our five-member
panel will share what's on the horizon in terms of innovative technology
related to transportation, bike/ped integration on highly-congested urban
streets, advancements in Intelligent Transportation System technology, measuring
wait time of personal and commercial vehicles at ports of entry using Bluetooth,
Wi-Fi and radio frequency identification technology, and looking at variable
speed limit technology (Active Traffic Management).
Presiders: Dallas Hammit (ADOT), Co-Chair, Arizona Council for
Transportation Innovation
Karla Petty (FHWA), Co-Chair, Arizona Council for
Transportation Innovation
Speakers: Dr. Larry Head, Professor, College of Systems and Industrial Engineering, The University of Arizona
Reza Karimvand, P.E., Assistant State Engineer,
Transportation Technology Manager, ADOT
Richard B. Nassi, P.E., Ph.D., Engineering Consulting
Services, Pima Association of Governments
Rudy H. Perez, Jr., Planning Program Manager, ADOT
Faisal Saleem, ITS Branch Manager & SMARTDrive Program
Manager, Maricopa County DOT
Fundamentals of Local Government - Public Service
Ethics and Open Government
1:30 p.m. – Tucson A and B
This session will outline four basic guidelines for local government: open
government, unbiased government, responsible government and efficient
government; and review the Open Meeting Law, conflict of interest laws, the
council-manager form of government and the use of public monies.
Presider: Gilbert Lopez, Councilmember, Coolidge
Speaker: Bill Sims, Attorney, Sims Murray Ltd.
Legislative Update and How You Can Make an Impact
at the Capitol
1:30 p.m. – Tucson C and D
League legislative staff will provide an overview of the major issues from the
2015 legislative session, discuss what is on the horizon for the 2016 legislative
session and deliver a basic primer on how you, as a municipal official, can
make an impact at the Arizona State Legislature.
Presider: Ken Strobeck, Executive Director, League of Arizona Cities
and Towns
Speakers: Ryan Peters, Legislative Associate, League of Arizona Cities and Towns
Dale Wiebusch, Legislative Associate, League of Arizona Cities and Towns
3:15 p.m. – CONCURRENT SESSIONS
1:30 p.m. – CONCURRENT SESSIONS
WEDNESDAY AGENDA
Concurrent Sessions
Zoning/Code Enforcement and Blight Control Issues
in Smaller Communities: What Can You Do With
Abandoned and Deteriorating Buildings?
3:15 p.m. – Tucson J
This discussion-style session will provide valuable information to smaller
communities on best practice approaches to code enforcement related
issues, including blight control, zoning violations, and dealing with
abandoned and deteriorating structures. Although designed with smaller
communities in mind, cities and towns of all sizes will benefit from this
informative session.
Presider: Lana Mook, Mayor, El Mirage
Speakers: Gregory Arrington, Community Development
Manager, Youngtown
Stephen Erno, Code Enforcement Division Manager, Avondale
Malcolm Hankins, Neighborhood Preservation
Manager, Chandler
Chuck King, Building Official & Inspection
Compliance Manager, Oro Valley
Bill Lorefice, Code Compliance Officer, Marana 9
Schools and Cities/Towns: Innovative Ideas and
Strategies for Successful Partnerships
3:15 p.m. – Tucson F
A strong education system and robust partnership with our schools is critical
for economic development and the overall health of our communities. Learn
from success stories in the cities of Globe, Goodyear and Surprise as we
discuss unique ways we’ve collaborated with and supported our schools.
Strategies will be translatable for small and large communities.
Presider:
Speakers:
John Williams, Vice Mayor, Surprise
Paul Bernardo, Youth Services Administrator, Surprise
Brent Billingsley, City Manager, Globe
Chris Collopy, Development Services Director, Globe
Joanne Osborne, Councilmember, Goodyear
Members of Surprise Youth Council
Social Media and Cities: The Pros and Cons of Instant
Connection to Citizens
3:15 p.m. – Tucson E
Social media is now a part of our everyday lives and has become too big for
local governments to not be part of the conversation. It can be both a challenge
and opportunity to effectively communicate with residents digitally. This presentation will give examples of how the pros and cons of social media are best
handled and how tone remains key in communicating to, and with, residents.
Presider:
Douglas Nicholls, Mayor, Yuma
Speakers: Cary Pfeffer, ClearComm Consulting
Jen Snyder, Digital Media Specialist, Queen Creek
3:15 p.m. – CONCURRENT SESSIONS
3:15 p.m. – CONCURRENT SESSIONS
WEDNESDAY AGENDA
Fundamentals of Local Government: Basics of
Budgeting for Small Communities
3:15 p.m. – Tucson A and B
Whether you are a large or small community, developing a budget is one
of the most important steps in providing services to your citizens with limited
resources and ever growing demands. The Arizona Revised Statutes (ARS)
require all communities to adhere to budget and audit requirements. For small
communities to do this, it is becoming increasingly difficult as their revenue
base continues to decrease while trying to provide the minimum services to
their citizens. This session will discuss fundamental steps in the development
of budgets in compliance with ARS. During this session we will also discuss
the additional challenges small communities face in not only the decline in
revenues, but the culture and expectations that the community has in their
government. Examples will be shared as well as participation from the audience
to discuss the challenges the various small communities in Arizona continue
to experience.
Presider: Bob Rivera, Mayor, Thatcher
Speaker: Pat Walker, Principal Owner, Pat Walker Consulting
TPT Reform: What to Expect in 2016
3:15 p.m. – Tucson C and D
Cities and towns continue to be involved in the effort of transitioning to the
Arizona Department of Revenue being the central point for businesses to
license, report and pay their TPT for all jurisdictions including the State and
all 91 cities. This session will provide an update on the progress of the project,
recap the expected changes to the TPT system created by the legislature over
the past three years, and explore potential sales tax changes we see on
the horizon.
Presider: Jim Lane, Mayor, Scottsdale
Speakers: Ken Jones, Deputy City Manager/Chief Financial Officer, Tempe
Lee Grafstrom, Tax Policy Analyst, League of Arizona
Cities and Towns
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3:15 p.m. – CONCURRENT SESSIONS
WEDNESDAY AGENDA
Helping Arizona’s Veteran Population: What Your City and
Town Can Do
3:15 p.m. – Arizona 8
Arizona's 625,000 service members, veterans and their families live in
every city and town in our state. This session will focus on how communities,
large and small, can play a vital role in ensuring there is no wrong door
and no wrong person to which a service member, veteran or family member
can turn to for help.
Directors from the Arizona Department of Veterans' Services and the Arizona
Coalition for Military Families, along with a key City of Tempe councilmember
will discuss the process for cities and towns to become a veteran supportive
community and engage our military, veteran and family population connecting
them to the broader community of resources and employment opportunities.
Presider: Thomas Winkel, M.A., L.P.C., Director of Community
Engagement, Arizona Coalition for Military Families
Speakers: Robin Arredondo-Savage, Councilmember, Tempe
Wanda Wright, COL (Ret), Director, Arizona Department of Veterans' Services
Service Award Dinner and Entertainment
6:30 p.m. – Arizona Ballroom
Presider:
Mark Nexsen, Mayor, Lake Havasu City, Treasurer, League of
Arizona Cities and Towns
Entertainment provided by Rancho Deluxe Band.
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THURSDAY, August 20
Spouse/Guest Mobile Tour
Tour Downtown Tucson on Board the Sun Link Streetcar See Page 21
8:00 a.m. – San Ignacio
Tucson's new Sun Link streetcar system has sparked an urban renaissance as
development booms along the four-mile route that connects five central districts.
View new hotels, restaurants, office space, retail and public investment from
the comfort of a modern streetcar, while city staff and local developers serve
as your guides.
Note: There is a cost of $25 to attend this tour. Pre-registration is required
and space is limited. All spouses/guests who are signed up for the full
spouse/guest program may attend (a ticket will be included with your badge).
8:15 a.m. – SESSIONS
Concurrent Sessions
Lifesavers in the Pool: Helping You Stay Afloat Through
AMRRP Services
This session sponsored by the Arizona Municipal Risk Retention Pool
8:15 a.m. – Tucson A and B
The 76 cities and towns who are members of the Arizona Municipal Risk
Retention Pool receive insurance protection, along with a number of valueadded benefits provided at no cost. Learn about these pool “lifesavers” and
their significant value to your municipality, and have your questions answered
by the experienced attorneys who staff them.
Presider: Scott Barber, Human Resource Director, Florence
Speakers: Justin Pierce, Attorney, Pierce Coleman PLLC
Bill Sims, Attorney, Sims Murray Ltd.
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8:15 a.m. – CONCURRENT SESSIONS
THURSDAY AGENDA
Can Small Towns Be Cool?
8:15 a.m. – San Luis
Based on a three-year research study examining nearly 300 successful small
and mid-sized communities in 22 states, this presentation provides real stories
from real communities on enhancing local entrepreneurship, reversing youth
migration, strengthening young professional engagement and developing
regional prosperity plans with other communities. Attendees will gain strategies
to take back to their communities to enhance vitality and make their town “cool”
among current and future residents.
Presider: Harvey Skoog, Mayor, Prescott Valley
Speaker: Dr. David Ivan, Community & Economic Development
Programs, Michigan State University
Marijuana Legalization: It's Coming Our Way, the Colorado
Experience and How it Will Impact AZ Cities and Towns
8:15 a.m. – Tucson C and D
Marijuana is currently legal for recreational purposes in four states and the
District of Columbia. This trend will likely continue. This presentation will
provide a high-level overview of Colorado’s experience as the first state in
the country to legalize the recreational use of marijuana. We will touch on
the benefits from retail sales, handling drugged drivers and tourists, and will
review lessons learned in the process of implementing regulations.
Presider: Speaker: Linda Kavanagh, Mayor, Fountain Hills
Cheri Vandergrift, Attorney, Employment Law Services, Mountain
States Employers Council If an emergency occurred in your city or town today how would you
communicate with residents? Who would take the lead, and who would
need to be involved? When was the last time that your city/town had an
exercise to prepare for an emergency? Has your city/town performed
vulnerability assessments on the critical infrastructure in your community?
The worst time to learn the answers to these questions is after an emergency
occurs, but this is exactly what happens much of the time when a disaster
strikes a community. This session will provide a basic understanding of what
your city or town needs to have in place to ensure you can effectively deal
with emergencies when they arise.
Presider: Daryl Seymore, Mayor, Show Low
Speakers: Dan Couch, Retired Battalion Chief, Chandler
Marc Walker, Principal Consultant, Emergency Management Projects, Arcadis-US
Fundamentals of Local Government: Arizona’s Open
Meeting Law
8:15 a.m. – Arizona 8
This session will cover the basics of the Open Meeting Law and how it
pertains to city and town elected officials and staff.
Presider: Gilbert Lopez, Councilmember, Coolidge
Speaker: Christina Estes-Werther, General Counsel, League of Arizona
Cities and Towns
8:15 a.m. – SESSIONS
Emergency Preparedness: What You Need to Know as an
Elected Official to Ensure Your Community is Prepared
to Deal with Emergencies
8:15 a.m. – Arizona 12
Media Relations for Elected Officials: Avoiding Common
Pitfalls when Interacting with Media
8:15 a.m. – San Pedro
As former news reporters, Chip and Bill understand the value of being
prepared for a media interview. Elected officials should be ready to comment
at any time – or know what to avoid when the notebooks are open and the
mics and cameras are turned on. This media-training session is designed to
keep your message on-target, and to help you avoid common pitfalls when
interacting with reporters, opinion writers and bloggers.
Presider: Frederick Mueller, Mayor, Sierra Vista
Speakers: Bill Bertolino, Scutari & Cieslak Public Relations
Chip Scutari, Co-Founder, Scutari & Cieslak Public Relations
Concurrent Sessions
10:00 a.m. – CONCURRENT SESSIONS
8:15 a.m. – CONCURRENT SESSIONS
THURSDAY AGENDA
Building and Maintaining Effective Mayor, Council and
Manager Relationships
This session sponsored by the Arizona City/County Management Association
10:00 a.m. – Tucson A and B
The council-manager form of government provides a solid foundation for
well-run communities in Arizona. This session will explore the importance of
the unique relationship between a mayor, councilmembers and their city/
town manager. The discussion will include concrete examples of how a city
or town manager and elected officials succeed in working together to create
meaningful public policy to support their community’s needs.
Presider: Josh Wright, Town Manager, Wickenburg, President, ACMA
Speakers: Jim Bacon, Former Town Manager, Paradise Valley
Todd Tande, Councilmember, Surprise
Kenneth Weise, Mayor, Avondale
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Water Issues: The Crisis in California and its Impact on
Arizona
10:00 a.m. – San Pedro
Given recent media attention about western water issues, this panel discussion
is intended to provide an update on Arizona's water management and future
supplies, as well as to highlight some innovative programs and approaches
by cities and towns throughout the state which are focused on protecting and
preserving our current and future water supplies.
Presider: Doug Von Gausig, Mayor, Clarkdale Speakers: Jeff Biggs, Deputy Director of Water, Tucson
Tom Buschatzke, Director, Arizona Department of
Water Resources
Chuck Cullom, Colorado River Programs Manager, Central
Arizona Project
Buzz Walker, Assistant Public Works Director, Payson
Greg Wilkinson, City Administrator, Yuma
Business Beyond Borders: Identifying Synergistic
International Strengths and Opportunities for Trade,
Exports and Investment with Mexico and Canada
10:00 a.m. – Arizona 8
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Changing global dynamics and emerging opportunities for long-term, sustainable
growth make it imperative that U.S. metro areas engage globally as never before.
As Arizona and its communities look to enhance economic development
opportunities in the post Great Recession era, the importance of economic
diversification through trade and exports is taking center stage. In the last
two years, Arizona exports have increased by approximately 15 percent,
outpacing states such as California, Texas and Utah. Despite this fact, Arizona
exports remain at less than 10 percent - five percent below the national average.
With 95 percent of the world’s consumers, and 80 percent of the world’s
purchasing power located outside of the U.S., cities and towns in Arizona
10:00 a.m. – CONCURRENT SESSIONS
10:00 a.m. – CONCURRENT SESSIONS
THURSDAY AGENDA
are starting to contemplate how they can grow their local economy through
greater connectivity with global markets. Policy and business leaders are looking
to economic development departments to adopt an international economic
development strategy that includes a trade and foreign direct investment
component in addition to executing a domestic economic development program.
In today’s global economy, it is imperative more than ever that communities
and metro areas develop stronger global trade and investment plans that reflect
21st century market realities. Please join our guest speakers and panelists who
will be discussing the importance of doing business beyond borders and the
opportunity that lies ahead for Arizona and its communities by adopting a
more robust economic development strategy that includes international trade,
exports and investment beginning with Mexico and Canada – Arizona’s top
two trading partners.
Presider: Jim Lane, Mayor, Scottsdale
Speakers: Christopher Wilson, Deputy Director, Mexico Institute,
Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars
Ing. Rodrigo Alpízar Vallejo, President of CANACINTRA
(National Chamber of Industry Transformation)
Elected Official/ Practitioner Panel
David Farca, President, Arizona Mexico Commission
Kate Gallego, Councilmember, Phoenix
Bob Jackson, Mayor, Casa Grande
Marlin Kuykendall, Mayor, Prescott
Michael LeVault, Mayor, Youngtown
John W. Lewis, Mayor, Gilbert
Danny Ortega, Mayor, Douglas
Jonathan Rothschild, Mayor, Tucson
Glenn Williamson, Founder/CEO, Canada Arizona
Business Council
Sharon Wolcott, Mayor, Surprise
Downtown Success Strategies From Around the Country
10:00 a.m. – San Luis
Downtowns are often the face of a community yet many downtowns struggle
to fill vacant storefronts. Based on the perspectives of a variety of downtown
revitalization experts, this presentation provides the five pillars to downtown
success. Examples from successful downtowns, mostly from smaller and
mid-sized communities, are highlighted in this visual-heavy presentation.
Presider: Speaker: Kenny Evans, Mayor, Payson
Dr. David Ivan, Community & Economic Development Programs, Michigan State University
10:00 a.m. – SESSIONS
10:00 a.m. – SESSIONS
THURSDAY AGENDA
Reading the Tea Leaves: Pundits Discuss the Current
Political Climate and Next Year's Legislative Session
10:00 a.m. – Tucson C and D
This will be a lively discussion from pundits on both sides of the political
aisle on the current hot issues: political topics in the news, how the next
legislative session is shaping up and early discussion about the 2016 election
races and how they might impact Arizona.
Presider: Speakers:
Chip Scutari, Co-Founder, Scutari & Cieslak Public Relations
Michael Bielecki, Principal, Lewis, Roca and Rothgerber
Marcus B. Osborn, Ph.D., Government Affairs Specialist,
Kutak Rock, LLP
Paul Senseman, Principal, Policy Development Group, Inc.
Theresa Ulmer, Owner, Ulmer Consulting
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Great Ideas That Work: Current Innovative Programs and
Solutions Being Utilized that Can Help Your City or Town
10:00 a.m. – Arizona 12
This session is designed to showcase innovative ideas and programs that
municipal leaders can adopt in their communities. Each speaker will have 10
minutes to present their idea, innovative project, or successful program. This
session is designed to inspire, engage and generate ideas for you to take back
home to your city or town! Topics will include: Crowdfunding, building parks
through innovative private/public partnerships, donation drop boxes in cities
and towns, EMT Transitional Response Vehicles (TRVs) and codes of conduct
for elected officials.
Presider: Christian Price, Mayor, Maricopa
Speakers: Mary Cameli, Assistant Fire Chief, Mesa
Jon Edwards, Vice Mayor, Peoria
Chris Jacques, Planning Director, Peoria
Jennifer Rogers, Chief Communications Officer, Buckeye
Jeff Weninger, Arizona State Representative, District 17
General Luncheon
12:00 p.m. – Arizona Ballroom
Presider: Jay Tibshraeny, Mayor, Chandler, Vice President, League of
Arizona Cities and Towns
Keynote Speaker: U.S. Senator Jeff Flake
Legislative Champions and Friends will be recognized
Honorees of the 2015 Gabe Zimmerman Public Service Awards will be awarded
Emerging Leader - Rocky Brown, Recreation Manager, City of Maricopa
Civic Leader - Dawn Melvin, Native American Tourism Development Manager,
Arizona Office of Tourism
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Community Builder - Robert Pickels, Former County Administrator, Yuma County
(Current City Attorney, Sedona)
2:30 p.m. – CONCURRENT SESSIONS
10:00 a.m. – CONCURRENT SESSIONS
THURSDAY AGENDA
Concurrent Sessions
Community-Based Entrepreneurship
2:30 p.m. – San Luis
Communities can play a role in creating an entrepreneurial-friendly environment.
This presentation explores the key elements necessary to encourage new
business start-ups, including the physical infrastructure, financial resources,
commercial/professional infrastructure, human resources, and the community
environment and design. Recognizing that resources vary among communities,
each entrepreneurship development effort considers basic, advanced and
high-performing strategies for success.
Presider: Linda Kavanagh, Mayor, Fountain Hills
Speaker: Dr. David Ivan, Community & Economic Development Programs,
Michigan State University
Railroads: Their History in AZ and How Cities Are
Successfully Working With Them
2:30 p.m. – San Pedro
This session is a two-part program. The first part will be a fun overview and
history of rail transportation in Arizona. The second portion of the session
will conclude with two communities discussing their successes and challenges
of working with rail in their cities. If your city or town has rail lines that run
through it or if you are just curious about trains in Arizona then this session
is for you.
Presider: Jerry Nabours, Mayor, Flagstaff
Speakers: Dan Cook, City Engineer, Chandler
David Devine, Author & Historian
Kenneth V. Karrels, Ph.D., Chairman, Southern Arizona
Transportation Museum
2:30 p.m. – SESSIONS
THURSDAY AGENDA
League of Arizona Cities and Towns – How Can We
Better Serve You?
2:30 p.m. – Arizona 12
The League wants to hear from you! All 91 cities and towns in Arizona are
members of the League and we want to give you the maximum value for your
membership. All city and town elected officials and employees are welcome
to stop by and let us know how we can better serve your city or town.
Speaker: Ken Strobeck, Executive Director, League of Arizona Cities
and Towns
Affiliate Group Meetings
Arizona COG Directors
2:30 p.m. – Arizona 8
Annual Business Meeting
4:00 p.m. – Arizona 5
The annual business meeting is held each year at the conference to elect
members to the executive committee and to ratify the resolutions passed at the
Resolutions Committee meeting.
Presiders: Mark Mitchell, Mayor, Tempe, President, League of Arizona Cities and Towns
John Lewis, Gilbert, Chairman, League Nominating Committee
Doug Von Gausig, Mayor, Clarkdale, Chairman, League
Resolutions Committee
Showcase of Cities and Towns
6:00 p.m. – Tucson Ballroom
Arizona City Attorneys Association
2:30 p.m. – San Xavier
Mobile Tour
McKale Memorial Center Arena Behind-the-Scenes Tour
2:30 p.m. – Meet at League Registration Desk
The University of Arizona Department of Intercollegiate Athletics' facilities
help UA student-athletes become well-rounded individuals - academically,
athletically and personally. You will have the opportunity to see, firsthand,
the state-of-the-art facilities offered to student-athletes. Attendees will be
treated to a unique enhanced experience during the tour!
Note: There is a cost of $15 to attend this mobile workshop. Pre-registration
is required and space is limited.
17
FRIDAY AGENDA / conference at a glance
FRIDAY, August 21
conference at a glance
Speed Networking Breakfast for Municipal Officials
TUESDAY, August 18
8:00 a.m. - Arizona 12
1:30 p.m. - Pre Conference Session - Leading Together
Join your fellow city and town elected officials and staff in a speed networking session.
1:30 p.m. - Resolutions Committee
This session is designed to give you multiple ideas on how to deal with an issue in
your community as well as introduce you to new colleagues throughout the state. Come
and enjoy breakfast while discussing current issues with other municipal officials.
4:00 p.m. - AMRRP Annual Meeting Closing General Session
9:30 a.m. - Arizona 7
Sense of Place: The Value of Local Government
Speaker: Patrick Ibarra, Co-Founder and
Partner, The Mejorando Group
Besides its function as a democratic institution, the role of city
government is to be the protagonist for a better quality of
life for citizens. In that pursuit, beyond the delivery of public
services and programs, government also creates a sensory
experience, which requires the investment of tax dollars.
In this session Patrick Ibarra will provide a roadmap on transitioning the discussion
from the cost or price of government toward the value of government.
Affiliate Group Meeting
Arizona Rural Transportation Advocacy Council
9:30 a.m. - Arizona 6
Conference Adjourned
18
8:00 a.m. - Golf Tournament Facilitator: Jerry Nabours, Mayor, Flagstaff
12:00 p.m.
Starr Pass Golf Club
4:00 p.m. - AFFILIATE GROUP MEETING
• GAMA 5:30 p.m. - Welcome Reception 6:30 p.m. - APS Dinner at the League Annual Conference This dinner is open to all government (city/town, county, state and association) conference attendees and is included as part of your conference registration.
Arizona 12
Arizona 6 and 7
San Xavier
Arizona 5
Arizona Foyer
Tucson Ballroom
WEDNESDAY, August 19
8:30 a.m. - Youth Program 9:00 a.m. - Opening General Session Arizona 5
Arizona 6 and 7
12:00 p.m. - Lunch On Your Own
1:30 p.m. - CONCURRENT SESSIONS
• Forest Health and Its Impact on Cities and Towns
•
•
•
•
PSPRS Task Force Update and Recommendations Arizona Council on Transportation Innovation Exchange
Fundamentals of Local Government
Legislative Update & How You Can Make an Impact at the Capitol Tucson J
Tucson E
Tucson F
Tucson A and B
Tucson C and D
conference at a glance
3:15 p.m. - CONCURRENT SESSIONS
•
•
•
•
•
•
Zoning/Code Enforcement and Blight Control Issues
Schools and Cities/Towns: Innovative Ideas and Strategies for Success
Social Media and Cities: The Pros and Cons
Basics of Budgeting for Small Communities
TPT Reform: What to Expect in 2016
Helping Arizona’s Veteran Population
6:30 p.m. - Dinner and Entertainment Tucson J
Tucson F
Tucson E
Tucson A and B
Tucson C and D
Arizona 8
Arizona Ballroom
THURSDAY, August 20
8:00 a.m. - Spouse Guest Mobile Tour: Downtown
Tucson on Board Sun Link Streetcar 8:15 a.m. - CONCURRENT SESSIONS
• Lifesavers in the Pool: AMRRP Services • Can Small Towns Be Cool?
•
•
•
•
Marijuana Legalization: the Colorado Experience Emergency Preparedness Arizona’s Open Meeting Law
Media Relations for Elected Officials: Avoiding Common Pitfalls 10:00 a.m. - CONCURRENT SESSIONS
•
•
•
•
•
•
Effective Mayor, Council and Manager Relationships Water Issues: The Crisis in California and its Impact on Arizona Downtown Success Strategies From Around the Country
Business Beyond Borders Reading the Tea Leaves: Pundits Discuss the Current Politics Great Ideas That Work: Current Innovative Programs and Solutions 12:00 p.m. - General Luncheon 2:30 p.m. - CONCURRENT SESSIONS
• Community-Based Entrepreneurship
• Railroads: Their History in AZ
• League of Arizona Cities and Towns – How Can We Better Serve You?
2:30 p.m. - AFFILIATE GROUP MEETINGS
• Arizona COG Directors • Arizona City Attorneys Association Arizona 8
San Xavier
2:30 p.m. - Mobile Tour: Mckale Memorial Center Arena
4:00 p.m. - Annual Business Meeting 6:00 p.m. - Showcase of Cities and Towns
Arizona 5
Tucson Ballroom
FRIDAY, August 21
8:00 a.m. - Speed Networking Breakfast for Municipal Officials Arizona 12
San Ignacio
Tucson A and B
San Luis
Tucson C and D
Arizona 12
Arizona 8
San Pedro
9:30 a.m. - Closing General Session
Arizona 7
9:30 a.m. - AFFILIATE GROUP MEETING
• Arizona Rural Transportation Advocacy Council Arizona 6
Sense of Place: The Value of Local Government
12:00 p.m. - Adjourn Conference
Tucson A and B
San Pedro
San Luis
Arizona 8
Tucson C and D
Arizona 12
Arizona Ballroom
San Luis
San Pedro
Arizona 12
19
YOUTH PROGRAM
WEDNESDAY
AUGUST 19, 2015
Registration
8:30 a.m. – Arizona 1-5
Networking – Learning From Other Councils
11:30 a.m. – Arizona 1-5
Youth who are participating in the Parade of Flags should go directly
to the practice at 7:30 a.m. and will be able to check in with the Youth Program
after the Opening General Session.
Youth will have an opportunity to network with other students and display poster
boards that highlight unique programs or ideas from the various youth councils.
Parade of Flags and Opening General Session
9:00 a.m. – Arizona 6 and 7
As a group, the youth will go to the Opening General Session. There will be
seats reserved for the youth in the back. After the League President recognizes
the youth, we will head back together.
Ice Breaker – Leadership, Listening and Laughs
10:00 a.m. – Arizona 1-5
Facilitator: Elizabeth Sparks, Assistant Agent, 4-H Youth Development,
University of Arizona
Students will spend the session engaged in problem-solving that will promote
communication and teamwork.
Youth Session: The Entrepreneurial Civic Leader
10:45 a.m. – Arizona 1-5
Facilitator: Nancy Welch, Vice President Arizona Center for Civic Leadership,
Flinn Foundation
Today’s cities and towns face many complex issues. At the same time, they
have many opportunities to take advantage of local assets. The session will
cover the characteristics of effective civic leaders and show how creativity,
the willingness to take risks, and doing things differently can benefit communities.
The fast-paced interactive session will involve students in thinking about their
leadership in their communities.
20
Lunch
12:15 p.m. – Arizona 1-5
Elected officials will be invited to attend this lunch and interact with the youth.
Fun with Science and Math
1:15 p.m. – Arizona 1-5
Speaker: Bruce Bayly, President, The Physics Factory
Math and science are a lot more fun when they get to leave the classroom and
go out to play. With a few simple gadgets and materials we can stretch our
imaginations in unexpected ways. During this session students will do some
experiments with flying objects, airflow and pressure, sound and vibration, and
ultra-low temperatures that will entertain, instruct, and inspire.
Youth Session: 101 Ways to Change the World
2:15 p.m. – Arizona 1-5
Speaker: Amy Armstrong, Founder & President, Support My Club
In this session Amy Armstrong will engage students in learning how your role
in the community is shaping the future and how to increase your footprint
in society. Amy will explain why you are the next philanthropist in your city
or town!
Youth Program Concludes
3:00 p.m.
THURSDAY
August 20, 2015
SPOUSE/GUEST PROGRAM
Tour Downtown Tucson on Board the Sun Link
Streetcar
8:00 a.m. – San Ignacio
Tucson's new Sun Link streetcar system has sparked an urban renaissance as
development booms along the four-mile route that connects five central districts.
View new hotels, restaurants, office space, retail and public investment from the
comfort of a modern streetcar, while city staff and local developers serve as
your guides.
This tour is also available for any conference attendee to attend for a $25 fee.
The spouse/guest mobile tour is open to spouses and guests who are signed up
for the spouse/guest full packet registration.
21
SERVICE AWARDS
28 Year Award Recipient
12 Year Award Recipients
8 Year Award Recipients
Ed Honea, Mayor, Marana
Felix Callicotte, Mayor, Clifton
Ruben Jauregui, Councilmember, Cottonwood
Diane Joens, Mayor, Cottonwood
Billy Waters, Mayor, Duncan
Tom Rankin, Mayor, Florence
Tom Smith, Former Councilmember, Florence
Roxanne Ziegler, Councilmember, Marana
Jerry Hooper, Vice Mayor, Parker
Marion Shontz, Councilmember, Parker
Sal DiCiccio, Councilmember, Phoenix
Greg Stanton, Mayor, Phoenix
Steve Blair, Councilmember, Prescott
James Lamerson, Councilmember, Prescott
Lora Lee Nye, Vice Mayor, Prescott Valley
Olga Lopez, Vice Mayor, Superior
Kenneth Larson, Councilmember, Thatcher
Jeff Serdy, Councilmember, Apache Junction
Chip Wilson, Councilmember, Apache Junction
Glenn Miller, Councilmember, Carefree
Robert "Bob" M. Jackson, Mayor, Casa Grande
Mary Kortsen, Councilmember, Casa Grande
Karl Montoya, Mayor Pro Tempore, Casa Grande
Thomas McGuire, Councilmember, Cave Creek
Tim Elinski, Councilmember, Cottonwood
Terence Pratt, Councilmember, Cottonwood
Ben LaForge, Councilmember, Douglas
Denise Ice, Vice Mayor, Duncan
Marilyn Davis Thorne, Councilmember, Duncan
Yvonne Knaack, Former Councilmember, Glendale
Joanne Osborne, Councilmember, Goodyear
Rhonda Gault, Councilmember, Hayden
Maria Munoz, Vice Mayor, Hayden
Phil Cobb, Former Councilmember, Holbrook
Jeff Hill, Former Mayor, Holbrook
David McAtlin, Former Councilmember, Lake Havasu City
Mark Nexsen, Mayor, Lake Havasu City
Dan Beaver, Mayor, Parker
Marlin Kuykendall, Mayor, Prescott
Luis Galindo, Councilmember, Somerton
Laura Ramirez, Councilmember, Somerton
Michael Cirivello, Councilmember, St. Johns
Albert Mendoza, Councilmember, Tolleson
Chris Band, Councilmember, Wickenburg
20 Year Award Recipients
Vincent Francia, Mayor, Cave Creek
Jay Tibshraeny, Mayor, Chandler
Gene Kelley, Councilmember, Show Low
16 Year Award Recipients
Robin Barker, Vice Mayor, Apache Junction
John Insalaco, Mayor, Apache Junction
Anna Cline, Councilmember, Bisbee
Gilbert Lopez, Councilmember, Coolidge
John Kocjan, Vice Mayor, Page
Carlo Leone, Councilmember, Peoria
Kathie Farr, Councilmember, Tolleson
22
LEGISLATIVE CHAMPIONS AND FRIENDS 2015
The League will honor the following legislators for their outstanding public service and dedication to local governance.
CHAMPIONS
Rep. Mark
Cardenas
Rep. Doug
Coleman
Sen. Lupe
Contreras
Rep. Karen
Fann
Rep. Eric
Meyer
Rep. Rebecca
Rios
Sen. Bob
Worsley
Rep. Jay
Lawrence
FRIENDS
Rep. John Christopher Ackerley ● Rep. Lela Alston ● Rep. Brenda Barton ● Rep. Sonny Borrelli ● Rep. Russell Bowers ● Rep. Paul Boyer
Rep. Kate Brophy McGee ● Sen. Olivia Cajero Bedford ● Rep. Noel Campbell ● Rep. Heather Carter ● Sen. Andrea Dalessandro
Sen. Jeff Dial ● Sen. Adam Driggs ● Rep. Diego Espinoza ● Sen. Steve Farley ● Rep. Charlene Fernandez ● Rep. Randall Friese
Rep. Rick Gray ● Sen. Katie Hobbs ● Sen. John Kavanagh ● Rep. Jonathan Larkin ● Sen. Debbie Lesko ● Rep. Stefanie Mach
Rep. Debbie McCune Davis ● Rep. Justin Olson ● Rep. Lisa Otondo ● Sen. Lynne Pancrazi ● Sen. Steve Pierce ● Rep. Frank Pratt
Sen. Martin Quezada ● Rep. Bob Robson ● Rep. Andrew Sherwood ● Rep. T.J. Shope ● Rep. Victoria Steele
Rep. Bob Thorpe ● Rep. Kelly Townsend ● Rep. Michelle Ugenti ● Rep. Jeff Weninger ● Rep. Bruce Wheeler
23
MEETING ROOM MAP
League Registration Desk
San Ignacio
Arizona Ballroom
San Luis
Tucson Ballroom
Executive Boardroom 1
San Pedro
Executive Boardroom 2
M
San Xavier
W
FOYER
FOYER
EXECUTIVE
BOARDROOM
1
EXECUTIVE
BOARDROOM
2
SAN PEDRO
1
SAN LUIS
2
1
SAN
SAN
XAVIER IGNACIO
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2
JW Marriott Starr Pass Resort & Spa
1
2
3
8
ARIZONA BALLROOM
6
7
9
10
A
11
4
G
TUCSON BALLROOM
B
H
12
5
C
E
F
I
FOYER
J
D
FOYER
League Registration Desk
25
LOOKING FOR
SOLUTIONS?
WATER SCARCITY IS A SERIOUS CONCERN
THE GOOD NEWS?
NATIONAL WATER EXPERTS
ARE IN YOUR BACKYARD
UA works with communities across Arizona on urban planning,
stormwater mitigation systems, and community education,
so we can all do things like turn a one-inch rainstorm
into 600 gallons of water.
Learn how UA is making an impact in our state at
arizona.edu/impact-map