Tempe City Council - Regular Session - April 30, 2026

The Tempe City Council held a regular session on April 30, 2026, addressing several procurement and budget-related matters. A key focus was the consideration of a proposed 0.5% sales tax measure to be placed on the November 2026 ballot, intended to address a structural deficit caused by state legislative revenue losses and to fund public safety, transit, and community services. Presentations detailed the need for additional funding to support police, fire, and emergency services, as well as transit infrastructure improvements. The council also discussed an amendment to allocate a portion of the proposed tax revenue to expand early childhood education programs. Public testimony included both support and opposition to the tax measure and concerns about community safety and homelessness. Additionally, the council approved the use of a 20-month Sourcewell cooperative contract with National Automotive Parts Association for an on-site inventory parts store and considered ordinances related to nuisance enforcement and speed limit reductions on certain corridors. The meeting included multiple public hearings and extensive community input on these issues. No final vote on the sales tax measure was taken, with discussion about the timing and public outreach for potential amendments.