2017-09 (Sep) Council Executive Reportdocserve.sierravistaaz.gov/Home/City Council/Council...

P a g e | 1 Council Executive Report, September 2017

Council

Executive Report

Charles P. Potucek, City Manager September 2017

Highlights Year to date, the City has initiated

999 code enforcement cases, of which 90% have been brought into code compliance.

The 22nd Annual Oktoberfest showed a 3.1% overall increase in sales and a 310% carnival pre-sale increase.

The new SVFMS Patient Transport Engine arrived in mid-September.

On September 26, Sun Corridor Inc. signed the contract to serve as the lead for Sierra Vista Technical Assistance Program (SVTAP).

An article in Where to Retire named Sierra Vista as one of the nation’s top eight low-cost places to retire.

Departments Page Police 3 Fire and Medical 6 Community Development 7 Leisure & Library 12 Public Works 14 Economic Development 17 Marketing & Public Affairs 19 Administration 22

City Manager's Message

At September’s Cochise Conservation & Recharge Network meeting, I learned they are applying for grants to assist with the Bella Vista Wash recharge project, which runs north of the Environmental Operations Park. City staff are assisting in those efforts. As reported a few months back, the recharge project would take urban enhanced runoff (UER) and recharge it close to the San Pedro River. If the grants are received, the project would assist in replenishing the groundwater supply in Cochise County, and protecting the flow of the river.

Staff and I have been working on the upcoming visit by our state legislators planned for November 6. Senator Griffin and Representatives John and Nutt have each confirmed their availability, and will arrive mid-morning. After discussion on the City’s priorities, and the delegation’s priorities, lunch will be hosted by the City.

In addition, the following highlights the major activities for the month of September:

Just after your joint work session with Cochise County, staff learned that the final Balmer property at 309 N 6th Street closed on September 28. This completes the joint project with the County, and staff will continue to keep an eye out for other properties and situations that a similar partnership may occur.

Staff have received the draft of the Fort IGSA for ambulance services and are discussing the final version while we continue to wait for approval. Interviews for paramedic and EMT positions has begun.

The budget book was completed by Linda Jones, and sent to the publisher. Copies will arrive in mid-October, but the final version is available on the website now.


Upcoming Council Meetings (City Hall Council Chambers except where noted) Oct. 3, 11:00 a.m. – Special City Council Meeting to Adjourn into Executive Session to Conduct Annual Evaluation of City Manager Oct. 9 – City Offices closed in observance of Columbus Day Oct. 10, 3:00 p.m. - Work Session City Manager Update

Oct. 12, 5:00 p.m. – Council Meeting Oct. 24, 3:00 p.m. – Work Session

City Manager Update Oct. 26, 5:00 p.m. – Council Meeting Nov. 07, 3:00 p.m. – Work Session

City Manager Update Nov. 09, 5:00 p.m. – Council Meeting

Other Meetings and Events

Oct. 16, 10:00 a.m. – Industrial Development Authority at First West Properties Corporation Conference Room

Nov. 16, 3:30-5:00 p.m. – Sierra Vista Metropolitan Planning Organization Board of Directors Meeting

City Manager's Office Contacts [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 520-439-2147 www.SierraVistaAZ.gov

The Cox license has been temporarily extended until April 2018 to give both Cox and the City enough time to review and discuss any changes before the final version is presented to Council. Staff expect minimal changes, and for Council to see the license renewal by the end of the year or early 2018.

Staff are working on some minor remodeling plans for City Hall that would enable Human Resources to move into a more private area with better records storage, while still allowing other teams to remain located together. The remodeling would primarily entail some added walls and moving some doors, but would also require the relocation of the Council Reading Room to the space adjacent to the Mayor’s office. If you have any concerns about this move, please don’t hesitate to let me know.

Chuck Potucek, City Manager


Police Department With the adoption of a new city council strategic plan, the police department has been tasked with

assessing the number of police personnel required to maintain the current level of service provided by the department. Depending on the outcome of this assessment, the department is also tasked with identifying potential cuts to services and impacts to community public safety if staffing levels remain the same. This council executive report serves as a prelude to the finalized report, providing background information on current staffing levels and department organization, with completion of the full report anticipated prior to budget discussions in early 2018.

Current Sworn Officer Staffing Levels The police department is currently authorized 66 sworn officer positions. This figure was set during Fiscal Year (FY) 2007-2008 and accounts for every sworn officer position from the police chief through patrol officer. Below is the department’s current organizational chart for all authorized sworn officer positions.

Chief of Police (1)

Deputy Chief of Police (1)

Administrative Services Division Commander(1‐Commander)

Administrative Services Bureau Commander

(1‐Lieutenant)

Police Division Commander

(1‐Commander)

Patrol Bureau Commander(1‐Lieutenant)

Specialty Assignment Sergeant

(1)

Traffic(1‐Vacant) School

Resource Officers1‐SRO(1‐SRO)

Community Resource Officer(1)

Patrol Volunteers

Patrol Shift A

1‐Sergeant2‐

Corporals8‐Officers(1‐Military Leave)

(1‐FMLA)(1‐

Academy)

Patrol Shift B

1‐Sergeant2‐

Corporals8‐Officers(1‐Field Training)(1‐FMLA)

Patrol Shift C

1‐Sergeant2‐

Corporals8‐Officers(1‐FMLA)

(1‐Academy)

Special Operations Bureau Commander

(1‐Lieutenant)

Special Operations

Bureau Sergeant(1)

Major Crimes4‐

Detectives

(1‐Vacant)

Property Crimes1‐

Corporal2‐

Detective(1‐Vacant)

Community Response Team

Sergeant(1)

Community Response Team

1‐ Detective

(2‐Vacant)


The department currently has 61 officers, but only 54 of these officers are available to assign to duty. The remaining twelve positions are classified as “unavailable for assignment” (depicted in red above). Specifically, two are in the academy, one is in field training, one is on military leave, three are on FLMA leave or light duty status, and the remaining five are vacancies. Historically, the department has operated with 85% to 92% of its authorized staffing, leaving between 8% and 15% unavailable for assignment at all times. These figures are consistent with law enforcement agencies nationwide. However, due to the greater number of vacancies and officers on FLMA, the department currently has 18.2% of authorized sworn positions listed as “unavailable for assignment,” placing a strain on operational capabilities. Due to these shortages, the department has left multiple positions vacant or unassigned. These positions include seven patrol assignments, one traffic unit assignment, one major crimes detective assignment, one property crimes detective assignment, and two community response team (CRT) assignments. Additionally, one school resource officer (SRO) is only available to teach G.R.E.A.T. to elementary school children twice per week, while working patrol the remainder of the week; this position is traditionally a full-time assignment at Joyce Clark Middle School. Current staffing prohibits achieving and maintaining full assignment of the authorized positions. Injuries, leave time (sick/vacation/military), and regular training time are inevitable. Additional burdens on the department are the time demands of the hiring process and upcoming retirements. The process of hiring and fully training a new officer is between 12 and 18 months, yet personnel are only required to provide a two-week notice before resigning. The length of the hiring and training process is necessary; however, this gap necessitates having new personnel in the pipeline so the department is not caught short with staffing. The department has also determined that 19 of the 61 officers (31%) are eligible for retirement between 2018 and 2023, and another 12 (20%) will be eligible between 2024 and 2028. This equates to a potential loss of 50% of the current sworn personnel in the next ten years. Thus, the department assesses the number of assigned sworn personnel required to maintain current service levels, an accounting must be made for future retirements and for positions that will inevitably be unavailable for assignment. Current Civilian Staffing Levels In addition to sworn officer staffing levels, the department will be evaluating civilian staffing as well. Below is the department’s current organizational chart for civilian positions.

Administrative Services Division Commander(1‐Commander)

Administrative Services Bureau Commander

(1‐Lieutenant)

Records Supervisor(1‐Vacant)

Records Section1‐Senior

Records Clerk5‐Records Clerks I/II2‐Part‐time Records Clerks

Animal Control Section

1‐ Supervisor4‐ACO

1‐Part‐time Kennel Tech.(1‐CSR Frozen)

Police Resource Specialist

(1)

Patrol Bureau Assistant

(1)

Mgmt Analyst/ CALEA

Administrator(1)

CommunicationsSupervisor

(1)

Communications Section

8‐Dispatcher I/II

(2‐Dispatcher Trainees)

(2‐Vacant)

Management Support Specialist

(1)

Evidence Section (1)


As can be seen from the chart above, the department is in a much better position regarding civilian staffing. The civilian positions have fewer issues with vacancies, light-duty assignments, and initial training time. The department’s communications section is authorized twelve total positions and currently has only two dispatcher vacancies; however, only seven of the nine dispatchers are fully trained. Since the signing of the joint communications agreement with Cochise County, future dispatcher openings will be filled by the Southeastern Arizona Communications Center (SEACOM). SEACOM operations will augment dispatcher staffing levels by combining dispatchers from the Cochise County Sheriff’s Office with dispatchers from the police department. SEACOM is tentatively set to open in the first quarter of 2018. The department’s records section is currently authorized seven full-time positions and two part-time positions. The section has one vacancy at this time, the records supervisor, which is currently open for applicants. The department anticipates filling this vacancy within the next month. The department will evaluate workloads on the records section to include preparing reports for the County Attorney’s Office and public information requests, transcribing interviews, redacting videos, conducting background requests, and completing crime statistic reporting. The department’s animal care and control section is authorized five full-time positions and one part-time position. The section has one customer service representative position, which has been frozen during this budget year. The department will evaluate workloads on the animal care and control section to include calls for service, adoptions, shelter operations, and potential proactive enforcement.


Fire and Medical New Patient Transport Engine Arrives

The new patient transport engine arrived and it is a beautiful, unique rig given its ability to serve as both a fire engine and patient transport vehicle.

Delivery was the first step; now staff are hard at work finishing up equipment mounting, applying branding elements and logos, licensing, and completing all state inspections and approvals.

Normally, fire apparatus does not fall under state regulation; however, the Department of Health Services must ensure it meets all requirements due to it also being an “ambulance”.

Fire Support Provided A multiple-structure fire occurred in Garden Canyon Mobile Home Park that involved 6 double wide trailers, only one of which was occupied. Two mutual aid water tenders were called in to assist due to multiple engines using multiple hose lines, a ladder pipe, multiple locations, and some very long hose lays. The investigation ruled out natural or accidental causes. Interviews with eyewitnesses and local residents are continuing. SVFMS advised Community Development and they have assessed the scene. EMS Through county-wide mutual aid, SVFMS assisted with the disturbance at the Douglas prison. One ambulance transported one patient to Canyon Vista Medical Center.


Communications Cochise County dispatchers have started their ride-time training and are enjoying it, according to early reports. This training seeks to increase their knowledge and understanding of fire/EMS operations and expectations prior to the opening of SEACOM. Cochise County dispatchers currently do not monitor or follow up on incidents that they dispatch for fire districts, which means they have a steep learning curve regarding fire and EMS incidents. The Smoke Alarm blitz took place the weekend of September 30 through October 1. The Red Cross and Citizens Fire Academy Alumni used Station 203 as headquarters and lunch on Saturday, while the duty crew volunteered to cook hot dogs and assist with lunch. Approximately 75 smoke alarms were installed in the Montebello, Sierra Vista Mobile Home Village, and Fry Townsite areas. Recruitment/Hiring SVFMS is recruiting a grant-funded PT EMS Community Paramedic – C.A.R.E. Provider to provide integrated health services to the community such as post-hospital release follow up care like monitoring medications and changing bandages, conducting patient education, and coordinating appointments with doctors and hospitals. Over time, staff expect the impact of this position to reduce return visits to the emergency room and doctor’s offices. The 19.5 hour position requires a paramedic certification. The grant was received from the Dr. Vandivort Group.


Community Development Planning & Administration Fry Townsite Annexation Process. On September 14, 2017, the City Council authorized staff

to proceed with the annexation process. Petitions will be mailed to property owners within each of the nine petition areas in early October. Staff anticipates the process to be completed by next summer.

West Sierra Vista Partnership Program. On September 12, 2017, staff updated the City Council on the status of the City's effort to establish a redevelopment area as the legal basis for implementing the small business incentive fund provided in the budget. Staff conveyed the support of property owners along West Fry Boulevard, between North Garden Avenue and Carmichael Avenue as being the target area for moving forward. A public meeting on the revised Finding of Necessity Study is scheduled for October 26, 2017.

Community Baptist Church. On September 28, 2017, the City Council approved a conditional use permit allowing a place of worship to occupy a portion of the building located at 1763 Paseo San Luis with conditions.

Building & Inspection Services

In the month of September, Staff worked on the following projects: Plans Under Review:

AAA Fort Storage - Addition Commercial - 255 W Kayetan Drive Coldstone Creamery - Tenant Improvement - 440 N Highway 90 C1 New Apostolic Truth Tabernacle - New Commercial - No address at the moment New Era Med Clinic - Tenant Improvement - 126 S. Coronado Drive Patio Pools - Tenant Improvement - 1160 E Fry Blvd Sky Island Church - Commercial Addition - 4533 N Commerce Drive #A

Approve Plans: Nova Home Loans - Tenant Improvement - 77 Calle Portal A140

Current Projects Under Construction:

AZ Auto Collision Center - TI - Paint Booth - 598 Bartow Drive AZ Kidney Disease Medical Center - New Commercial - 5555 Mesa Verde Drive Boys & Girls Club - Interior TI - 1746 Paseo San Luis Buena High School – Addition Commercial – 5225 Buena School Rd Candlewood Suites - Interior TI - 1902 S Hwy 92 Canyon Vista Dialysis Center - Tenant Improvement - 5555 Mesa Verde Drive Chiricahua Pharmacy - Tenant Improvement - 155 Calle Portal 600 Cochise County Complex - Tenant Improvement - 4115 Foothills Drive Cochise Co. Joint Communications Facility - Interior TI - 1728 Paseo San Luis CofSV Library - Accessory Commercial - 2600 E Tacoma Street Coronado Surgery Center - Interior TI - 150 S. Coronado Drive Dept of Child Safety - Tenant Improvement - 157 N Coronado Drive Flora's Dry Cleaners - Tenant Improvement - 970 E Fry Blvd Holiday Inn Express - Tenant Improvement - 1902 S Hwy 92 IHOP - Tenant Improvement - 1906 S Highway 92


Lawley Collision Center - Commercial Addition - 3200 E. Fry Boulevard Lawley Nissan - Commercial Addition - 2960 E. Fry Boulevard Laus Deo Fidelity - Tenant Improvement - 550 W Fry Blvd Masonic Lodge - Tenant Improvement - 219 S Garden Ave Sierra Bella Apartments - Tenant Improvement - 1555 E Busby Drive Sierra Cycles - Commercial New - 555 S Highway 92 South Plaza Vista Mall - Tenant Improvement - 493 N. Hwy 90 SSVEC - Commercial Addition of Large Bay - 1348 Giulio Cesare Ave. U of A South - Commercial Accessory - 1140 N Colombo Ave Westwood Village Apts - Exterior TI - 201 N. Garden Avenue

Projects completed:

Bealls - TI for Retail Store - 493 N Hwy 90 Buena High School - Exterior TI - 5225 Buena School Blvd Chiricahua Community Center - Tenant Improvement - 155 Calle Portal Ste. 200/300 Elioenai Enterprises - TI - ADA bathroom - 550 W Fry Blvd Huachuca Mountain Elementary - Tenant Improvement - 3228 St Andrews Drive Village Meadows Elementary- Tenant Improvement - 905 El Camino Real


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130

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163

250

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YEAR OVER YEAR PERMIT HISTORY

JAN - SEPT 2016 JAN - SEPT 2017


Code Enforcement

Year to date the City has initiated 999 cases, of which 90% have been brought into code compliance. Code Enforcement Officers completed proactive inspections in Grid 2 in September and will turn their focus towards properties located within Grid 9 in October 2017.


Abatements Completed in September

Property on Prince Drive

Property on Peterson Street

Property on Sunset Vista


Leisure and Library September Dashboard

Library circulation 30,023 Total Monthly revenue

$93,089

Library program attendance

950 Leisure class/program participation

13,310

Early literacy attendance

179 Facility/field/room rentals

14,797

New library cards 367 Library meeting room use

63 Groups

Quick Fact Oktoberfest carnival presales increased 310% over last year,

festival proceeds increased 3.1% overall 22nd Annual Oktoberfest an Enormous Success

The 22nd Annual Oktoberfest on September 8-9 was an enormous success.The Leisure Services and Sister Cities bratwurst booths both sold out without a decrease in preorders from previous years. Although Friday evening showers threatened to slow attendance, the residents of Sierra Vista continued to attend and support

the Oktoberfest over the course of the day and a half event. Significant increases occurred in the pre-sale of carnival wristbands, commercial vendor participation went up, and small but observable increases in both carnival and bratwurst sales. Despite the weather, the numbers demonstrate the impact the event had on the community, and the staff are commended for their hard work, excellent planning, effective marketing, and over all city-wide team unity.

2016 2017 CHANGE % CHANGE

Carnival Pre-Sales

123

505

382 310.6%

Commercial Vendors

23

36

13 56.5%

Carnival Sales

9,475

9,768

293 3.1%

Bratwurst Sales

1,481

1,543

62 4.2%


Mom & Son Discover A Passion For Archery

Liliana and Jack Roser moved to the Sierra Vista area 5 years ago. When Jack was 11 years old, he wanted to try something different and found the Leisure Services archery recreation class. After 4 years of participating, Jack has honed his skills and has become an accurate archer. Now at age 15, he is giving back by volunteering to help others learn about the sport he has come to love.

Jack is working on his Level I instructor certification through US Archery. Once completed, Jack will be able to assist the Master Coach and Level IV Coach. A little over 2 years ago, Jack’s mother, Liliana, noticed how disciplined Jack had become and wanted to try the sport herself. She now absolutely loves the sport for the challenges and opportunity to share something fun and interesting with her son. Liliana continues to be reminded of the discipline her son has gained from archery. It is not uncommon for Jack to remind his mother, “Don’t forget to remove your arrows.” Not something a mother hears every day from her son, yet, common for the both of them. They are a wonderful example of how sharing experiences through community programs helps to strengthen family bonds.

Library Participates in "Banned Books" Week The library was featured in a Herald article this month regarding the importance of "Banned Books Week", which is sponsored by the American Library Association. Librarians put together a festive display in the center of the library, showing off several famous books that have been banned over the years. Patrons were able to take photos with the books for social media purposes, or just peruse some titles for their own enjoyment. Banning books continues to be an issue in schools and libraries across the nation. Celebrate your freedom to read by checking out one of your favorite titles at the library this month! October Events

Oct. 5-6: Laughlin Trip Oct. 6-7: Sister Cities 2017 Annual Conference, Pueblo del Sol Country Club & Cochise College Oct. 10-13: Kids WORLD Fall Break Recreation Camp, 6:40am-5:45pm, Bella Vista Oct. 12: Dine-A-Night: Landmark Café, 4pm

Oct. 13: Pot Luck, 12pm-1:30pm, EBC Oct. 13: Dive-In Movie Night, 7pm– 10pm, Cove Oct. 15: Sunday Concert: Army Band, 3pm, EBC Oct. 31: Fall Harvest Festival, 5pm–7pm, VMP


Public Works Engineering ADOT Projects. The Arizona Department of Transportation began work on a major capacity improvement project at the SR 90 Bypass/Hatfield/Buffalo Soldier Trail/SR 90 intersection the first week in October. This project is necessary due to significant capacity issues at the intersection, made evident by long turning bay queues and excessive wait times. The project will reconfigure the intersection to add dual left turn lanes on the north and south legs, free-flow right turns, revised pavement grading, and ADA improvements. ADOT has made some changes to the project in the last few weeks that will minimize the need for a complete closure of the SR 90 Bypass. However, the number of traffic lanes will be reduced on all four approaches to the intersection, and significant delays are anticipated. Residents are encouraged to utilize alternate routes, when feasible. Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) Funding. Staff recently submitted a grant application through the HSIP to upgrade traffic signals around the City if received. HSIP funds have been used by the City on a variety of projects in the past, including upgrading regulatory signs, installing “countdown” pedestrian indicators at traffic signals, and constructing a traffic signal at the Avenida Cochise/Oakmont intersection. Although HSIP funds tend to be more readily available than other grants and have a low match amount, they are difficult to use because qualified projects have to meet a specific set of criteria based on measurable safety improvements. Working with the SVMPO, staff was able to determine that traffic signal upgrades which will make City signals more responsive to changing traffic conditions would qualify as a system-wide improvement. If awarded, the project will likely be completed in phases over the course of several years. Cove Repairs. Engineering staff is coordinating with Leisure and Library Services on projects which will be completed during the annual shut-down at the Cove. The two highest priority projects are recoating of the wave chambers and replacement of the pool heaters. Procurement is currently in the process of gathering bids/quotes for the work to help refine the scope of this year’s efforts. In addition to the repair projects, Facilities will also conduct a deep cleaning of the building during the shut-down. Parks

Pedro Castro Center Landscaping. Great news! The rose bushes which were mentioned in last month’s executive report have new leaves! Staff was hopeful that the rose bushes would be able to survive the transplanting process, and it appears likely at this point that the majority of them are alive and healthy. Parks staff have worked hard to care for the rose bushes at their new home and give them the best chance of success. The rose bushes still have to make it through the upcoming winter, but staff is looking forward to flowers in the spring.


Veteran’s Memorial Park. September marks the start of the busy events season at Veteran’s Memorial Park, with the park booked for a major event on every weekend through the end of October. In response to inadvertent damage to a variety of sprinklers, valve boxes, and other equipment last year, staff has worked during the off-season to better delineate the locations of these items to protect them from additional damage. Thus far, the rate of damage appears to be far below last year, which helps the City to both manage costs and avoid inconvenience to upcoming events. Fleet New Vehicles. The new SVFMS Patient Transport Engine arrived in mid-September, and the Fleet staff is currently in the process of completing the final items needed to get the vehicle out on the road. This vehicle was a long time in the making, with the process from the initial order until the final delivery taking well over a year. Suffice it to say that the vehicle was worth the wait and will be an asset to the community when it makes its appearance on the streets of Sierra Vista in mid-October. Refuse

West End Clean-Up. Refuse staff assisted the Community Development Department with the West End clean-up on Saturday, September 23rd. A total of 6.6 tons of debris was collected and hauled to the County landfill, including a significant number of large and bulky items which would normally only be accommodated through a special pick-up. Through targeted events such as this one, residents are able to get rid of unwanted items without having to arrange a special pick-up or pay a separate fee. Also, the removal of the large debris makes a noticeable impact on the appearance of the community.

Transit Front Counter Remodel. The project to remodel the front counter at the Transit Center has been completed. The finished product resolves ADA accessibility issues while also creating a larger and more user friendly workspace, and improves safety for staff. The final look of the project is “industrial” in nature to match the character of the surrounding building. The project was completed ahead of schedule and under-budget.


Ridership Data. The below chart provides a three year comparison of ridership on Vista Transit. Although ridership numbers were running below 2015/2016 figures for the early part of the year, the trend seems to have stabilized starting in May, and passenger counts are now tracking very similar to last year’s numbers.

Streets Weed Control. Staff has seen an increase in the last few weeks in the number of weed complaints around the City. The majority of these complaints are for detention basins and drainage ways. When addressing weeds and other landscaping issues within publically owned areas, the highest priority goes to streets, medians, and other highly visible areas. Drainage ways and detention basins are generally trimmed once per year, and this work takes place in the spring immediately in advance of fire season. Although a more frequent schedule of maintenance is often desired by residents for detention basins and drainage ways, it is unfortunately not feasible given current resources. It is important to note, however, that many of these areas are available for adoption by neighborhood or community groups. Staff sincerely appreciates the efforts of residents who are willing to lend a hand to help keep our community looking beautiful!

6,000

8,000

10,000

12,000

14,000

16,000

18,000

20,000

22,000

Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep

Ridership Comparison

FY 16/17 FY 15/16 FY 14/15


Economic Development

Business of the Month Recognition Councilwoman Alesia Ash nominated Martin Cleaners as the September Business of the Month. Recently celebrating 50 years of being in business, Martin Cleaners is owned by Ray Moses. Economic Framework Strategy Development Instituting the City Manager’s guidance to follow a more holistic staff approach with Economic Development, the Economic Development Manager organized the initial tiger team meeting in updating the City’s framework. The team includes the Assistant City Manager, Community Development, Tourism, Public Information, Leisure and Library Services, and the Economic Development team. Staff’s initial task was to identify the planning process and also the external advisory group to bring a diverse community voice into the planning process. Next steps for the staff will be inviting the key members representing specific segments of the City to begin collaborative planning. Staff will begin the planning process with an analysis of the Plan for Prosperity to inform the process. Office of Economic Adjustment (OEA) Grant Progress Staff completed and submitted the initial performance report to OEA as directed within the grant requirements. In the process, staff identified that the selection process took longer than originally planned so a six month no-cost extension has been submitted to OEA. The closeout of the grant was initially scheduled for completion by March 2019, but the amendment adds six additional months for the Sierra Vista Technical Assistance Program (SVTAP) to assist company clients. Staff selected Sun Corridor Inc. to serve as the lead for the SVTAP and the contract was signed on September 26th. The Technical Support initiative will connect small to mid-size businesses with expertise to enable local growth and diversification. SVTAP operations will link client companies with mentors and advisors with hands on assistance to local companies. Staff continues to coordinate with Sun Corridor Inc. on the initial kick-off, marketing, and business applications for inclusion in the SVTAP. The airport consultant remains on track and is continuing his evaluation of the assets and potential opportunities on the city side of Libby Army Airfield. A third visit by Jeff Donohoe is scheduled for October 16 – 17 as a progress review with City and Fort stakeholders. Staff remains in close contact providing data and contact information as requested. Retention/Expansion Activities Economic Development staff continues to work with businesses, both the Sierra Vista and Hispanic Chambers, and others to explore and develop a program to attract and support more business in Sierra Vista. Currently, staff is collaborating with the Hispanic Chamber in an effort to find ways to attract Mexican consumers from Sonora to the community for shopping. Part of the discussion also involves ways in which Mexican businesses could be attracted to have a presence in Sierra Vista. To that end, staff is identifying those requirements that control cross border trade and are working with the prospective businesses. Economic Development and PAO staff were represented at a commerce expo in Nacozari, Mexico, sponsored by Grupo Mexico in late September. Mr. Valle from the Hispanic Chamber made the


City’s material available which described the opportunities for Mexican businesses to consider Sierra Vista, as well as visitor information. The result of this effort has already resulted in a meeting in Sierra Vista with a Mexican custom leather business and ED staff. The business walk program has been temporarily suspended in partnership with the Greater SV Chamber of Commerce. Staff and the Chamber will meet in October to address the Business Walk program in an effort to increase its value in terms of the data collected and impact to our businesses. New Business Licenses June/July There were 21 new business licenses issued in September. Four of the licenses are based in Sierra Vista, 8 were home based and the remaining nine were out of town companies working locally. These licenses include those issued to businesses that are in town for a specific job and as a result do not depict new commercial storefronts per se. Staff continues the process of proactively visiting these businesses as an introduction and open invitation to contact ED staff in the event questions arise. This activity in concert with the business walks will serve to create additional avenues for city businesses to discuss issues and express their concerns. Other Highlights Economic Development and Community Development staff continues to attend the Carmichael Homeowners Association meetings on the first Thursday of each month as well. This is a meeting that has been well received by the community and has resulted in a significant follow on support in regard to city initiatives. Because of the close relationship between Economic Development and Community Development staff, their presence at these meetings is informative and serves to be cohesive with the efforts of the city. ED staff attend the Small Business, Chamber, and other stakeholder meetings on a monthly basis. This month included a meeting with Southeastern Arizona Governments Organization (SEAGO) to discuss regional economic development projects such as a potential targeted industry study across the region. Other key engagements includes attendance at the Southeastern Arizona Contractors Association (SACA) luncheon, meeting with the Arizona Association for Economic Development (AAED), and participation in the Pima County ED quarterly meeting.


Marketing and Public Affairs Citizen communications. The Marketing and Public Affairs division is generally very busy in the fall, and this year is no exception. The staff has been focusing on providing communications support to other departments within the City. Special effort has been made in assisting the Fire & Medical Services Department in recruiting EMS personnel as they prepare to launch the ambulance service to Fort Huachuca. Additionally, many other City-sponsored programs pick up speed, such as animal adoption programs at the Nancy J. Brua Animal Care Center, the airport Fly-In, National Night Out, and other fall events and activities. In addition to special efforts produced for the Fire & Medical Services recruitment campaign, the division has been developing a recruitment video for the Police Department. The 14-minute video, which features officers talking about the personal rewards of a career in law enforcement along with the joys of living in Sierra Vista, is in the process of receiving final approval. Once approved, the video will be used on social media, the City’s website, and during recruitment events. Awards. The Marketing & Public Affairs division won two awards from the City-County Communications & Marketing Association (3CMA). The awards were announced at the annual conference in September. The division won a Silver Circle (second) for the Bike-Friendly Business program and an Award of Excellence (third) for the Police Department’s Mannequin Challenge video.

Economic Development. Judy Hector, the marketing and public affairs manager, and Adam Curtis, the public information officer, are meeting regularly with the economic development team to ensure coordinated efforts. As well, Ms. Hector is participating in economic development events, including business meetings with Sonoran artisans who have expressed interest in opening a retail operation in Sierra Vista. The vision is to establish a cluster of Sonoran artisan retail storefronts. The benefits of a commercial district like this not only fills empty storefronts, it also will create an in-community destination for tourists. Other wins by the Marketing and Public Affairs division for Economic Development include an article published in Where to Retire, which names Sierra Vista as one of the nation’s top eight low-cost places to retire, putting Sierra Vista in company with Pueblo, Colorado; Moses Lake, Washington; Tampa, Florida; and Tupelo, Mississippi, among others. Sierra Vista was also featured in an article

in Innovation & Technology Today. The article (along with a full-page ad) was included in an Arizona section, which includes

articles on Phoenix, Flagstaff, and Mesa. The Sierra Vista article emphasized our cyber efforts and tech readiness.

Screen capture of the Sierra Vista Police Department recruitment video.

Sierra Vista was featured in these two national publications recently.


Tourism. In July, the City assumed full responsibility for tourism marketing for the Cochise County Tourism Council. To fulfill that agreement, staff graphic designers have been creating banner and print ads. Additionally, social media content was provided to the Arizona Office of Tourism, and a new project was launched. The project, called Outdoor Adventure Quest, will challenge travelers to any of several tasks in the County, such as hiking to the top of Miller Peak, riding the stagecoach in Tombstone, or finding John Slaughter’s gravesite. Along the way, participants take photos of their adventures and post them on social media using a specified hash tag. The potential exposure is staggering. In addition to providing County-wide challenges, the City of Sierra Vista also provided challenges, as did Bisbee, ensuring good coverage of the region. The City also provided social media content to the Arizona Office of Tourism, to include social media posts and trivia-style questions, which will be used for online interaction. Additionally, Ms. Hector coordinated a media tour for food and travel writer Michael Fagin of Redmond, Washington, with Visit Phoenix, Visit Mesa, Visit Benson, and Discover Bisbee. Mr. Fagin, who writes for a food blog, will be in Sierra Vista in late October. Other tourism efforts by the City include coordinating additional media buys that were awarded as part of the Grand Pitch win for the “That’s How We Roll” campaign. The bulk of the media will run from January through June, targeting the Pacific Northwest, upper Midwest, and Phoenix metro area. Visitor Data Below is a comparative graph illustrating the total number of visitor contacts made the Visitor Center and through literature fulfillment on a rolling annual basis for the month of August, comparing year over year. Please note that the 2015 data totals do not include the additional fulfillment from groups and meeting, literature racks placed in local hospitality businesses, and mailed fulfillment.

Total Visitor Center Interactions, YoY

0

500

1000

1500

2000

2500

3000

3500

4000

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Au Sep Oct Nov Dec

2016

2017


Administration

Sales Tax Collection. Gross privilege tax collections for July 2017 were $21,036, or 1%, above last July. Total retail sales, including retail and food for home consumption, was up $23,042 from last year. For August, gross privilege taxes were up $40,213, or 3%, over last August. Total retail sales was up $3,914 over last August. For the fiscal year, privilege tax revenues are 2.0% ahead of last year’s revenues and 3.9% above budget.

The chart below provides a monthly comparison of FY18 actual, FY18 budget, and FY17 actual.

The chart below provides a monthly comparison of FY18 actual, FY18 budget, and FY17 year to date.

$0

$200,000

$400,000

$600,000

$800,000

$1,000,000

$1,200,000

$1,400,000

$1,600,000

$1,800,000

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

FY17 Actual FY18 Actual FY18 Budget

$0

$500,000

$1,000,000

$1,500,000

$2,000,000

$2,500,000

$3,000,000

$3,500,000

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

FY17 Actual FY18 Actual FY18 Budget


Descr

iption

Jul-16

Aug-1

6Se

p-16

Oct-1

6No

v-16

Dec-1

6Jan

-17Fe

b-17

Mar-1

7Ap

r-17

May-1

7Jun

-17Jul

-17Au

g-17

Utilitie

s101

,299.7

0

97,747

.09

79,

177.31

84,940

.56

75,

334.24

76,867

.0930,

031.79

153,42

8.39

94,267

.3785,

001.28

79,691

.6080,

330.23

88,294

.59107

,301.4

1Co

mmuni

caiton

s19,

640.72

19,071

.03

19,

412.21

17,932

.31

18,

695.36

18,313

.2118,

285.22

17,723

.8917,

772.42

17,363

.8617,

264.88

17,608

.5219,

887.24

17,516

.04Pu

blicatio

n3,6

98.69

3,933.

37

4,0

55.74

3,638.

74

3,9

48.72

4,030.

923,7

97.93

5,480.

843,3

54.82

4,247.

993,6

08.39

3,556.

843,2

61.04

3,827.

09Re

staura

nt & Ba

r177

,762.8

3

176,82

4.84

174

,575.0

9

174,51

7.38

171

,721.8

4165

,252.7

9196

,872.8

1172

,346.2

8176

,780.9

8194

,806.3

5199

,491.9

9195

,982.7

7185

,918.2

9178

,250.1

0Co

ntract

ing - P

rime

66,918

.11

57,

064.76

68,703

.75

49,

061.77

39,170

.3023,

966.76

38,029

.2333,

469.99

37,841

.5611,

242.18

41,769

.4152,

614.03

72,383

.5560,

014.07

Retail

Sales

779,60

6.02

750

,339.5

5

720,56

5.09

761

,902.7

8

706,94

9.29

799,96

3.16

970,81

5.57

681,90

2.61

686,31

2.15

836,44

9.02

751,34

2.89

783,88

3.04

808,43

3.37

747,37

4.51

Use T

ax Pu

rchase

s55,

241.64

23,405

.25

44,

235.52

36,007

.42

36,

345.82

45,406

.9846,

307.49

38,674

.7542,

653.27

45,839

.2560,

724.91

35,061

.6042,

391.83

48,746

.66Us

e Tax

from i

nvento

ry821

.27

1,937.

70

382

.94

1,865.

47

249

.68809

.98972

.36443

.03238

.62492

.55317

.03444

.70818

.261,2

92.26

Resid

ential

Renta

l32,

964.57

31,419

.81

28,

336.65

31,835

.47

38,

454.12

29,041

.5432,

763.67

32,860

.0234,

223.85

34,689

.3237,

158.86

35,494

.4034,

977.17

44,324

.21Re

tail Fo

od for

home

consu

mption

182,36

8.44

171

,600.3

5

174,60

3.58

171

,815.7

4

165,50

1.84

177,94

0.49

264,24

5.33

182,41

8.95

166,95

9.15

155,64

5.65

212,13

2.84

180,42

5.58

176,58

2.62

178,47

9.00

Comm

ercial

Renta

l29,

757.27

38,853

.57

27,

407.28

22,232

.39

32,

774.68

34,459

.2732,

752.36

28,249

.4730,

846.26

31,535

.7433,

196.98

28,430

.0228,

692.09

26,644

.80Tan

gible P

ropert

y Rent

al18,

530.24

16,906

.85

18,

418.33

16,858

.53

17,

225.48

18,225

.2416,

492.50

18,364

.3916,

047.81

21,540

.6220,

429.28

22,983

.1618,

911.13

19,456

.59Ext

ended

Stay

71,065

.99

77,

727.61

74,818

.46

56,

221.41

78,885

.6759,

509.31

57,390

.0469,

396.99

87,396

.1496,

663.74

85,060

.1983,

543.77

80,754

.2974,

275.83

Other

21,657

.29

15,

835.78

27,599

.26

10,

978.44

(11,73

7.25)

8,7

69.07

36,815

.60

37,

405.29

33,

721.15

18,187

.15

33,557

.37

14,

559.13

21,063

.78

15,

376.37

2017-09 (Sep) Council Executive Reportdocserve.sierravistaaz.gov/Home/City Council/Council...

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