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Chandler approves Phase 1 turf‑to‑xeriscape construction contract; retains small turf areas after neighbor compromise
Summary
The Chandler City Council unanimously approved construction agreement ST2405.401 with ELS Construction on June 26 to begin Phase 1 of the Turf to Xeriscape program, adopting a staff‑negotiated compromise that retains small turf islands in response to resident concerns.
The Chandler City Council unanimously approved construction agreement ST2405.401 with ELS Construction on June 26 to begin Phase 1 of the city’s Turf to Xeriscape program.
Staff presented a compromise developed after resident concerns about the planned removal of turf in an existing basin labeled 418B. The compromise retains the equivalent of approximately 2,500 square feet of turf by adding two roughly 40‑foot‑diameter circular turf areas (shape to be adjusted to landscaping needs) in the bottom of the basin, while still removing about 110,000 square feet of turf citywide in the project area, staff said.
“From a square footage perspective, that’s what we agreed on,” a staff member identified as Jeremy told the council, describing the change as a balance that met project intent while addressing nearby residents’ concerns.
Council members emphasized outreach and transparency. Council member Harris asked that completed designs be shared with neighbors and asked staff to continue direct conversations so residents understand what the altered green belt will look like. “I just want to make sure that when you go out there that you talk… don’t dismiss, but make sure you come back,” Harris said.
Council member Martinez asked whether staff contacted the remaining residents with concerns; Jeremy said staff made contact with six residents who had expressed concerns and that those contacts informed the compromise.
Staff also said design materials and basin concepts will be posted on the city’s website so residents can view proposed options. Staff reported there is not an HOA for the specific site being discussed and that the site is along Chandler Boulevard.
A motion to approve the construction agreement ST2405.401 with ELS Construction for Turf to Xeriscape Program Phase 1 was made and seconded; the council voted unanimously to approve the contract.
