Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Nogales public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
9 issues with critical priority
Employee Benefit Trust Financial Performance & Audit
Blue Cross Blue Shield is phasing out its current network leasing model in favor of a Joint Administrative Agreement (JAA) starting January 2027, bringing higher administrative fees but added national access benefits.
Nogales Wash Flood Damage and Long-Term Mitigation
County officials reviewed major flood mitigation projects like Ephraim Canyon and upcoming feasibility studies for the Nogales Wash to protect homes from severe storms.
Public Safety Operations Center (PSOC) Remodel
The city approved major technology and power upgrades for the police department, including a $732,858 fiber network extension and a $149,800 backup generator, funded largely through state and federal grants to ensure 911 reliability during storms.
Home Rule Expenditure Limitation Renewal
The city is asking voters to extend its Home Rule spending authority in November so local leaders can continue managing the municipal budget based on actual projected revenues instead of rigid state caps from 1980.
City Management and Administrative Leadership
The city council voted to terminate City Manager Joel Kramer amid debates over project delays, employee morale, and administrative transparency, subsequently appointing the city attorney as temporary interim manager.
City Manager Recruitment
The city council is actively working to fill the permanent City Manager position, consulting with recruitment specialists to evaluate candidates and procedures.
FY 2026-2027 Tentative Budget and Reserve Deficit
The city council officially adopted the final municipal budget for the upcoming fiscal year after months of workshops and review, balancing revenues and operational expenses across general and enterprise funds.
Water Fund Solvency and Proposed Rate Increase
The city is applying for a $10 million WIFA loan to help secure an $8 million matching grant from the NAD Bank to replace century-old, asbestos-lined water pipes in the Nogalitos area.
City Software Modernization and ERP Implementation
The city is replacing its aging financial, utility billing, and permitting software with a unified Workday and Cloud Permit platform to improve efficiency and audit compliance.