Goodyear council approves $250,000 for City Hall south parking lot security upgrades

The Goodyear City Council on Jan. 27 approved a $250,000 budget amendment to add security and controlled access to the south parking lot at City Hall.

Public Works Director Sameet Mohan told the council the project will convert the lot to a single entry/exit point with an access control arm, add electrical and communications infrastructure, extend an existing canopy by one covered space and convert the easternmost spot to motorcycle parking. Mohan said "no spots will be actually lost." The council voted unanimously, 7‑0, to authorize the amendment.

Council members raised operational questions during the discussion. Council Member Gillis asked whether the city could fund a similar upgrade for the Traffic Management Center (TMC) fleet at South Litchfield that employees had sought for years; staff said they would investigate whether both projects could be coordinated or funded. Council Member Hampton asked about power‑failure contingencies; Mohan said staff would examine default‑open or fail‑safe mechanisms and that similar entrances at other city facilities include such redundancy.

Council Member Beckles asked how delivery drivers would access the lot; Mohan said the city plans to provide IDs to regular delivery providers, issue one‑time access codes when appropriate and monitor the area with cameras.

Mohan summarized the request: "...please authorize the budget amendment of $250,000 for security improvement for the South Parking Lot, City Hall." The motion and second carried by roll call, 7‑0.

Several council members noted design details staff will revisit during implementation, including canopy clearance so vehicle doors can open easily and coordination to avoid perceived inequity with other city employee locations. Staff reported the TMC project had been completed in the prior fiscal year and is secure.