Deputy Director of Engineering Chris Bridges introduced Michael LaBianca, Project Manager for HDR Engineering, Inc. to present the Goodyear Transportation Master Plan (TMP). 

Mr. LaBianca provided an overview on the project that incorporated many opportunities for community involvement with a focus on relieving congestion, safe pedestrian and bicyle facilities, safety and driver behavior and signal timing. Mr. LaBianca spoke about the recommendations of the TMP including short and long-term goals for roadway improvements and transit opportunities. The top priorities for roadway recommendations included Cotton Lane, Estrella Parkway, Yuma Road, Camelback Road and Indian School Road. He added that the plan also recommends existing transit fixed-route improvements, transit amenity enhancements and expansion of the WeRIDE microtransit program. 

Council discussion focused on prioritizing bicycle and pedestrian safety improvements and for staff to consider other modes of transportation. Council emphasized support for the expansion of the WeRIDE program, signal timing improvements, increased law enforcement for intersections and to seek grant funding opportunities through ADOT. 

Additionally, Council requested information regarding scooter usage and how to report scooters found along the road, as well as, information on how other cities spend their dedicated transportation tax funds. 

Chris Bridges clarified that all roadway improvement projects need to be approved by the MAG regional council.

Human Resources Director Lyman Locket and Finance Deputy Director Jared Askelson presented on retiree healthcare focusing on the bridge plan and is based on Council feedback during the Novemeber 13, 2023 Work Session. Mr. Locket gave an overview of the 50/50 contribution bridge plan and highlighted employee/employer cost and eligibilty requirements. Mr. Askelson addressed the fiscal impact of the bridge plan and that depending on Council direction, the full plan to fund the program will be developed as part of the FY2025 budget process. 

In response to Council inquiry, Mr. Locket clarified that the bridge plan covers the retiree until they become eligibile for Medicare (age 65), and also includes coverage for spouse and children under certain criteria. He added that once you opt out of the plan, you cannot come back. 

Council spoke in support of the pay-as-you-go funding plan, discussed lowering the eligiblity requirement regarding years of service and emphasized the importance of remaining competitive in the job market and retaining our workforce. 

There was Council consensus to revise the plan eligibility to 10 years of continuous service with the city for all employees. 

Council recessed the meeting at 7:04 p.m.

Council convened the meeting at 7:14 p.m.

Mr. Locket presented an overview on the medicare supplemental plan and requested Council direction on the item. 

Council spoke regarding secondary insurance plans available on the market and suggested the city provide retirees with the resources to assist in the transition from the bridge plan to Medicare. 

There was Council consensus not to move forward with a medicare supplemental plan.

Council adjourned the meeting at 7:18 p.m.