Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Tempe public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
17 issues in development
Indoor Vehicle Sales Expansion on Hardy Drive
A high-end specialty car dealer is opening inside an existing industrial park on Hardy Drive, bringing low-impact commercial activity to the area.
FY 2026-2027 Public Housing Agency Annual Plan and Administrative Plan
Tempe's Housing Authority is performing well — 1,032 vouchers leased, a 6.4% attrition rate, and high-performing HUD status — but high local rents raise the per-household subsidy cost, limiting how many vouchers the budget can support. Board members expressed concern about possible federal funding cuts.
Cross-ક્ત Wireless Telecommunications Facility Relocation
SRP needs to relocate an existing cell tower to make room for a new subdivision near Washington Street. The new tower will be slightly shorter and moved further back from the street, ensuring neighborhoods don't lose cell coverage.
Emerald Center Mixed-Use Redevelopment
A developer is seeking to transform a 25-acre vacant industrial site at Priest Drive and Ruby Drive into a modern 376-unit multi-family mixed-use community with a four-story layout. Commissioners debated energy efficiency, green construction codes, and existing high-water landscaping constraints tied to older master plans.
Tenant Protections and Housing Affordability
A former resident described being evicted and owing over $8,000 after the city's temporary two-year voucher program ended with little guidance or transition support, prompting a call for stronger safeguards and follow-up.
Affordable housing development at 950 East Baseline Road
The city secured $1.7 million in congressional grants for predevelopment of an affordable housing and public infrastructure project on a city-owned site at 950 East Baseline Road.
Commercial Drive-Thru Traffic and Congestion at Southern and McClintock
A proposed Dutch Bros Coffee drive-thru raised concerns among local residents about traffic backups, vehicle emissions, and safety near McClintock High School, though city staff confirmed the traffic study met requirements.
Packard Place Boutique Hotel Development
A new seven-story Marriott hotel is coming to the ASU campus Novus corridor, bringing 170 rooms, restaurants, and rooftop amenities to support visitors and local businesses.
Tempe Oasis Multifamily Conversion
City staff updated the commission on the progress of the Tempe Oasis project as it moves toward final city council hearings.
Community Engagement and Civic Participation Recommendations
A council subcommittee recommended establishing a civic engagement academy, improving digital search tools, and creating clearer feedback loops for public input.
1st & Farmer Development Agreement and Property Transfer
The council finalized property interest transfers and an amended development agreement for the 1st & Farmer project at 1st Street and Farmer Avenue.
Legend City District at Papago Park Center Development
The council approved general plan and zoning changes to allow a new mixed-use residential and live/work development at 1600 North Priest Drive.
Stabilization of the Gonzales-Martinez House
City staff and developers are working on a development agreement for First and Farmer to move forward with stabilizing and rehabilitating the historic Gonzales-Martinez house.
Hayden Flour Mill Redevelopment and City Funding
Following the collapse of the developer agreement, the city is pursuing a basic green space and warm shell design for the Hayden Flour Mill without a dedicated funding source for full restoration.
Affordable Housing Development Bonus Program
City staff presented a new program aimed at encouraging affordable housing development through density bonuses and incentives.
Adaptive Reuse of Marlott's Garage
A proposal to rezone and revitalize the historic 1922 gas station at 1249 East 8th Street into a commercial hub and food truck gathering space.
Affordable Housing and Public Safety
Tempe is adding new affordable housing and building a brand-new fire station to make living here safer and more accessible. These projects mean you'll have better neighborhood safety and quicker emergency response times right where you live.