Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Goodyear public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
17 issues in public safety
Goodyear Municipal Court Caseload Growth and Facility Needs
The current court facility is dangerously overcrowded — staff tripled since 2008, jury quarters are cramped, and secure parking is inadequate. Old City Hall won't work without a $71.2 million gut renovation, so council is leaning toward exploring a new purpose-built courthouse and a facility master plan.
Participation in Arizona Child Abduction Response Team
The Council will consider an IGA to have Goodyear police participate in the Arizona Child Abduction Response Team, a multi-agency team that responds to child abduction cases. Joining gives local detectives access to specialized resources and regional coordination when the worst happens.
Leadership conduct, candidate fairness and menorah placement
Resident speakers criticized the mayor over a campaign ad, candidate events that left out a sitting council member, and three years of resistance to displaying a menorah with the city's Christmas decorations. They asked for empathy, fairness and equal treatment of all traditions.
Changes to retirement board member terms
Staff reported the City Council recently passed an ordinance removing term limits for civilian members of the Local PSPRS board and standardizing term end dates across city boards and commissions.
Police Personnel Retirement and New Hires
Seven lateral police hires still haven't officially entered the state retirement system because medical records are incomplete — the item was tabled to the next meeting.
Kyle Cluff disability pension review
The board ordered an independent medical examination for Kyle Cluff's disability case, pending additional medical records. The outcome will determine his disability retirement benefits.
In Re: Fire Apparatus Antitrust Litigation
City officials discussed ongoing antitrust litigation involving fire apparatus manufacturers to protect municipal interests and equipment purchasing costs.
Public Concerns Regarding Flock Automated License Plate Reader Cameras
A resident raised privacy and Fourth Amendment concerns regarding the city's use of Flock automated license plate readers, requesting a dedicated public discussion and contract cancellation. Council directed staff and the city attorney to provide a formal response.
Fire Resource Management Building Replacement
The fire department presented plans for a new 30,000-square-foot facility funded by voter-approved general obligation bonds to replace outdated and environmentally constrained space. The project is slated to come before council for funding consideration during the fiscal year 2028 budget cycle.
Firefighter separation — Darrin Green
The board acknowledged the departure of Darrin Green, who exited through the Deferred Retirement Option Plan on August 27, 2026. This formalizes the end of his active service with the fire department.
Firefighter Pension System Enrollments
Four new Goodyear firefighters were formally entered into the state public safety pension system, which secures their retirement benefits. Three had pre-existing medical conditions documented as part of enrollment. This is routine but essential paperwork that protects both the firefighters and the city.
Electric Motorcycles Safety and Regulations
With e-bike activity up since school started, the city is handing out safety pamphlets and the police department is hosting seminars at three Goodyear locations.
School Resource Officer Agreements
The city renewed its partnerships with local high school districts to keep school resource officers stationed at area high schools, ensuring campus safety.
Workplace Injury Protocols and Care Coordination
Goodyear's public safety retirement board reviewed enhanced medical provider networks and new care coordination tools for police and fire personnel dealing with work-related hand injuries. The updates aim to streamline treatment and ensure faster access to necessary medical imaging and physical therapy.
Public Safety Staffing and Equipment
Council discussed expanding police and fire personnel, adding new traffic and patrol officers, and investing in advanced technology like body-worn camera AI software and drone programs.
Police Department FY 2027-2031 Strategic Plan and Technology
The police department outlined a five-year roadmap to keep pace with rapid population growth by adding patrol officers, building new precincts and a real-time crime center, and prioritizing officer mental health and wellness.
Police Chief Appointment
Goodyear just hired Brian Issitt as its new police chief after a nationwide search. You might see some fresh faces and new priorities in local law enforcement soon.