Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Tempe public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues with critical priority
City Budget Shortfall Following Prop 424 Defeat
Following the defeat of Proposition 424, Tempe faces a $25 million budget shortfall for the upcoming fiscal years. City leaders announced plans to review long-term budget forecasts and evaluate potential spending reductions.
Mass Surveillance and Automated License Plate Readers
Tempe is considering becoming the first city in the nation to pass an ordinance banning automated license plate readers to protect citizen privacy. While residents strongly support the ban, police warn it could hamper investigations and solve fewer crimes.
Public Safety Oversight and Data Transparency
The Tempe Police Department shared positive end-of-year crime statistics showing a 14% drop in major Group A offenses and decreases in both violent and property crime. Officials highlighted the success of the new Strategic Response Section in tackling quality-of-life and neighborhood complaints.
FY 2026/27 Tentative Budget and Capital Improvements Program
The city reviewed a $1.84 billion 5-year capital improvement plan focusing on infrastructure maintenance, pavement preservation, public safety facilities, and parks. Residents heard about project prioritization and funding allocations across enterprise and general government funds.
Nuisance Ordinance and Homeless Outreach Regulations
The city proposed a new nuisance ordinance targeting recurring distributions of food, merchandise, or services on private property that cause public disorder or interfere with neighboring properties.
Proposed 0.5% Sales Tax Increase Ballot Measure
To combat ongoing revenue losses from state legislation, the city is placing a 0.5% sales tax increase on the November ballot. Funds will support public safety, transit, and early childhood education through Tempe Pre, though some critics argued for budget line-by-line cuts instead of tax hikes.