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Residents press council about ballpark subsidy, rezoning notices, noise and traffic during public comments
Summary
Multiple residents used the public comment period to urge council action on Goodyear Ballpark subsidies, expanded rezoning notice, enforcement of noise ordinances and greater police presence in entertainment areas.
During the March 24 public comment period, residents raised several recurring concerns: the financial impact of Goodyear Ballpark operations, notice and outreach for rezoning proposals, enforcement of noise ordinances and traffic/public‑safety in the city's entertainment district.
Dan Kirchoff, a Goodyear resident, urged council to seek better fiscal outcomes in upcoming ballpark contract negotiations. Kirchoff said an ASU economic study shows only visitor spending new to the state and that a five‑year overview he obtained by public records shows the city's general fund subsidy for the ballpark was about $71 million; after accounting for Arizona Sports and Tourism Authority (AZSTA) funds he estimated a net $60 million cost to the city for the five‑year period. Kirchoff said the city subsidy per attendee for spring training games is $128 and asked that future agreements be net neutral or income producing for the city.
Jeff Redmond asked the council to expand the city's 500‑foot notice radius for rezoning and major land‑use projects so more residents in adjacent communities receive mailed notices and on‑site signage is more informative. Redmond said the current 500‑foot rule leaves hundreds of nearby residents unaware of large projects along Estrella Parkway and elsewhere.
Solomon Jadidi described a March 22 neighborhood disturbance that involved a full band playing outdoors for many hours. He said multiple non‑emergency calls were placed (tracking number 2025-14379) and asked when enforcement of the municipal noise ordinance (Goodyear Municipal Code 11-1-8(c)) would be applied. He urged officers to issue citations rather than repeated warnings when appropriate.
Lacey Mason, an 18‑year resident, raised traffic and safety concerns in the GSQ entertainment area after two recent serious collisions, including a fatal motorcycle crash. Mason said she observed impaired driving and limited police presence during busy weekend hours and asked for increased public‑safety patrols when restaurants and entertainment venues are busy.
Council acknowledged the comments, asked staff and the police chief to follow up, and accepted records and contact information from speakers for staff response.
