Lake Havasu Council hears progress report on 2026 general plan update; staff seeks more public participation

City planning staff on Tuesday updated the Lake Havasu City Council on the 2026 general plan update, outlining outreach results, public feedback themes and the next steps in the two‑year process. "The general plan update is a long range planning effort that will shape the city's goals and objectives for growth and development over the next decade and beyond," Staff member Mister Gilbert said in his presentation. The update, he said, does not change current development code or zoning maps and will require future legislative actions should any code changes be proposed. Gilbert told the council the project website has received more than 18,800 views and 148 subscribers, the first public survey collected 831 responses, and in‑person outreach events reached roughly 750 residents. He also reported a first visioning workshop that drew 63 in‑person attendees and 85 virtual participants. The outreach produced seven recurring themes: preserving the city's small‑town character; affordable housing; attracting higher‑paying jobs and diversifying beyond tourism; traffic and mobility (including transit and bike infrastructure); access to health care and specialists; more recreational and youth facilities; and shoreline and environmental protection. Gilbert said the consultant team and city staff have condensed public input into five aspirational themes that align the 17 state‑required planning elements. Looking ahead, Gilbert said staff and consultants will analyze the plan audit, continue listening sessions, draft a future land use map, hold the steering committee's third meeting on Oct. 15 and host a second public workshop in October. He said the council could consider adoption early next year, with a potential voter ratification in November 2026. Council members and residents urged more outreach. Councilor Martinez said turnout felt low given the city's population and asked the staff and consultant to explore additional engagement methods. "What can we do to get more people other than — some of these people don't use the internet," Councilmember Martinez said, urging alternatives for seniors and others who lack online access. Resident Emiliano Torres, a member of the steering committee, told the council he sees mostly seniors at meetings and urged efforts to reach younger residents. Bonnie Toye, another resident, asked about accessibility and ADA issues; Gilbert and staff said ADA topics are included within the state's planning elements and are expected to produce goals and objectives addressing handicapped access. Questions also addressed energy planning: a resident asked whether renewable or nuclear power options would be included. Gilbert and staff replied that energy and environmental planning are part of the state elements but that specific utility decisions would involve conversations with providers and the Arizona Corporation Commission. The council did not take formal action on the plan at Tuesday's meeting; the item was presented as a public hearing progress report and is being continued through scheduled committee meetings and forthcoming workshops.