Tempe City Council - Regular Session - Aug. 31, 2026

The Tempe City Council held a regular session on August 31, 2026, addressing various city governance matters including contract approvals, community concerns, and public safety issues. Key procurement actions included approval of a one-year cooperative contract for office furniture with multiple vendors, ratification of an insurance renewal program, a contract increase for cloud-based utility billing software implementation, utilization of a cooperative contract with DHPace Company, an addendum to a contract for asset maintenance at the South Tempe Water Treatment Plant, and awarding a change order for bike lane and pedestrian improvements on Scottsdale Road. The council also introduced several lease agreements for city-owned commercial properties and easement grants, with final votes scheduled for September. Notably, the council removed an agenda item related to a five-year cooperative contract with Axon for police equipment and software due to a clerical error and reaffirmed the decision to end the use of automated license plate readers (ALPRs) and not seek replacements. Public testimony heavily focused on police oversight, community safety, housing, and concerns about surveillance technology. The council discussed the importance of community engagement and safety in upcoming development projects and emphasized ongoing efforts to balance economic development with neighborhood character and safety. No votes were taken on new ALPR contracts, and the council committed to further community involvement on several issues.