InFocus - Issue 191 - June 2026

AT A GLANCE

Summer in Arizona is a season of fun in the desert, but can also bring unique challenges, and this issue of InFocus is here to help you stay informed, prepared and safe. From

Goodyear311 makes it easy to report concerns and service requests. If you notice debris in the roadway following a summer storm, report it online at goodyearaz.gov/311 or download the app.

GOODYEAR CITY COUNCIL

extreme heat to monsoon storms, you’ll find practical tips, helpful resources and a look at what the city is doing to help keep you safe during the summer months and year-round.

A B C

DROWNING IS 100 PERCENT PREVENTABLE

GOODYEAR CITY COUNCIL CALENDAR

June 8 5 p.m. Joint Community Facilities District, Work Session & Council Meeting

June 15 5 p.m. Work Session

June 22 5 p.m. Council Meeting

July 6 5 p.m. Work Session & Council Meeting

Meeting dates are subject to change. For the latest meeting information, visit goodyearaz.gov. Council meetings and work sessions are held at Goodyear City Hall at GSQ, Council Chambers, 1900 N. Civic Square.

Catch all of the council meetings streaming live on the city’s Facebook and X pages and YouTube channel.

FROM THE MAYOR

Keeping our city safe is one of the most important responsibilities we have. Here in Goodyear, we are incredibly lucky to have first responders who show up every single day with heart, skill and real courage. Whether they’re rushing to an emergency or just being a helpful presence in our neighborhoods, our public safety professionals are truly the backbone of this community.

For my family, it is a little more personal. My wife has faced some medical emergencies over the years, including serious illnesses and scary incidents at home. In those moments when we felt helpless, our first responders were there. They didn’t just provide lifesaving care; they treated her with such kindness and dignity that it calmed us down when we needed it most.

COUNCIL CORNER

Let me be direct, as you know me to be: public safety is not a background function of city government. It is the foundation upon which everything else is built. And here in Goodyear, we are not standing still.

Our Goodyear Police Department is one of the most dedicated, forwardthinking law enforcement agencies in the Valley. They show up every single day with professionalism, integrity and a genuine commitment to this community, and we are investing in them because our residents deserve nothing less.

But great policing does not happen in isolation. It happens when the community gets involved. That is why programs like our Neighborhood Watch are so powerful. When neighbors look out for neighbors, we create a network of safety that no patrol car alone can replicate. I challenge every resident in

There is no better feeling than the relief of knowing help is on the way when someone you love is in trouble. I’ve seen their dedication firsthand. To me, these men and women are more than just “personnel,” they are our neighbors and friends who step up without a second thought when we’re having our worst days.

As Goodyear grows, we will keep investing in our public safety personnel. More people mean a bigger need for fast response times, modern equipment and the best training possible so our residents continue to get the top-tier service they deserve.

I am very grateful to everyone who dedicates their life to protecting ours. A lot of their hard work happens behind the scenes, but for families

like mine, the impact is something we’ll never forget. To our first responders: thank you for everything you do to keep Goodyear safe. We are so proud to have you.

Goodyear to get involved. Sign up. Show up.

Our Citizens Police Academy is another game changer. This free program gives residents an inside look at how our police department operates, from investigations to patrol procedures. Knowledge builds trust, and trust builds safer communities. If you have not attended, make this the year you do.

We are also making measurable progress. Goodyear is consistently ranked among the safest cities in Arizona, and our police department maintains an emergency response time averaging under five minutes. With a community of 122,569 residents and counting, that kind of performance does not happen by accident. It takes strategy, investment and commitment.

We are expanding crime prevention through technology, data driven

patrol strategies and faster response capabilities because staying ahead of the curve is non-negotiable.

I will keep fighting for the resources and programs that keep you safe. I have said and will continue to say we have the best police department around.

POOLSIDE IN GOODYEAR: FUN STARTS WITH SAFETY

Summer means pool days, backyard barbecues and finding every possible way to stay cool in the heat. When everyone is relaxing and having a good time, it’s easy for distractions to happen quickly and around water, seconds matter. That’s why the Goodyear police and fire departments want water safety to be part of every summer plan.

HERE ARE COMMON SUMMER SITUATIONS THAT CAN QUICKLY TURN DANGEROUS:

HOSTING FRIENDS AND FAMILY

When everyone’s enjoying the day, it’s easy to assume someone else is watching the pool.

BE SAFE: Assign a “Water Watcher” so there’s always a set of eyes on swimmers with no distractions.

KIDS GAINING CONFIDENCE

Floaties and pool toys can give a false sense of security.

BE SAFE: Stay within arm’s reach of young or inexperienced swimmers at all times.

COOLING OFF IN EXTREME HEAT

Pool time doesn’t mean your body isn’t feeling the strain of the heat.

BE SAFE: Take breaks, drink plenty of water and watch for signs of heat exhaustion.

Drowning is often silent and can happen in seconds.

CITY RESOURCES FOR

FAMILIES TO HELP KEEP YOU SAFE ALL YEAR LONG

Child safety seat inspections

To schedule an appointment call 623-882-SEAT (7328).

Swim lessons

View lessons and register at goodyearaz.gov/aquatics.

Prescription drug disposal

Drop-off expired, unused or unwanted medication in the prescription drop box inside the police lobby at 11 N. 145th Ave.

SUMMER HEAT IN GOODYEAR:

STAY COOL, STAY SAFE

Triple-digit temperatures are part of summer life in Arizona. Whether you’re walking the dog, heading to the pool or running errands, the heat can catch up to you quickly. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are serious, but the good news is most heat-related illnesses are preventable. A little planning can go a long way toward keeping you, your family and your pets safe during the hottest months of the year.

STAY SAFE IN THE HEAT

A few simple habits can make a big difference:

Drink water throughout the day.

Don’t wait until you’re thirsty.

Save outdoor workouts, walks and yard work for early mornings or evenings.

Wear lightweight clothing, a hat and sunglasses.

Don’t forget the sunscreen.

Choose SPF 30 or higher with broad-spectrum protection.

Never leave children or pets in a parked car.

LOOK

SKIP THE HIKE

Desert trails may look inviting, but summer hiking can quickly turn dangerous when temperatures climb. Even for experienced hikers, the heat is unforgiving.

KEEPING GOODYEAR RUNNING EVEN IN THE HEAT

In rain, sunshine and heat, city employees are still out serving the community. From police officers and firefighters to parks crews, utility workers, lifeguards and more, many employees spend long hours outdoors helping keep Goodyear safe, clean and running smoothly.

To stay safe in extreme heat, crews take precautions like staying hydrated, wearing cooling gear, adjusting schedules and taking breaks when needed. Residents may also notice construction starting earlier in the morning during summer months. Arizona law allows earlier work hours through Oct. 15 to help reduce heat exposure during the hottest part of the day. Concrete work can begin as early as 4 a.m. and general construction at 5 a.m.

MONSOON READY: STAYING SAFE WHEN STORMS ROLL IN

The monsoon is part of life in Arizona, bringing dramatic skies, heavy rain, strong winds and dust storms. While these storms can be beautiful, they can also move quickly and create dangerous conditions like flooding, lightning and low visibility on the roads. With a little preparation and awareness, you can stay safe before, during and after the storm.

5 THINGS EVERY EMERGENCY KIT SHOULD HAVE

BEFORE THE STORM

Bring in or secure patio furniture, umbrellas and trash bins.

Clear gutters, drains and storm channels so water can flow properly.

Build or refresh your emergency kit.

Sign up for emergency alerts like GY Alerts.

Talk with your household about where to shelter during high winds or dust storms.

1. Water

At least one gallon per person per day (plan for several days if possible).

2. Non-Perishable Food

Ready-to-eat items like canned goods, protein bars and snacks that don’t require cooking.

3. Flashlight + Extra Batteries

Essential for power outages and nighttime emergencies.

4. First Aid Kit + Medications

Include basic supplies and any prescription medications your household needs.

5. Phone Charger / Power Bank

Keeps you connected for alerts, emergency updates and communication.

For more info on creating an emergency kit and family emergency plan, visit ready.gov

SANDBAGS AND FLOOD PROTECTION

In advance of heavy rainfall, sand and sandbags are available 24/7 at the following locations in the city.

Thomas Park

Thomas Road & 144th Avenue (east parking lot)

Roscoe Dog Park 15600 W. Roeser Road

BRING A SHOVEL TO FILL SANDBAGS!

Goodyear Fire Station 182 10701 S. Estrella Parkway

EMERGENCY ALERTS

GY Alerts is a free service that sends real-time updates via text, email and voice message. Residents can also receive severe weather alerts, road closures and safety updates from partner agencies and surrounding jurisdictions. To sign up or to learn more about this service, visit goodyearaz.gov/gyalerts.

Stay indoors and avoid travel

Never drive through flooded streets

Pull completely off the road during a dust storm, turn off your lights, set your parking brake and wait until visibility improves.

Stay away from windows and doors during high winds

Avoid using electrical equipment during lightning

DURING THE STORM AFTER THE STORM

WHAT HAPPENS BEHIND THE SCENES

During large-scale emergencies, the city activates its Emergency Operations Center (EOC). This central coordination hub brings together representatives from city departments and partner agencies to share information, deploy resources and respond quickly to community needs.

Watch for standing water and debris in roadways

Stay away from downed power lines

Inspect your home for damage such as roof leaks or blocked drains

Drive carefully—roads may still be slick or flooded

STORM CLEANUP AND YARD WASTE

Take advantage of the city’s curbside pickup! If your yard is damaged during a storm, branches and debris can be put in your trash container or on the curb on your bulk trash pickup day. For bulk pickup, branches must be shorter than four feet or you’ll need to hire a tree removal service. To check your bulk trash service day, visit goodyearaz.gov/trash

KNOW YOUR RIDE

The city of Goodyear has adopted a new ordinance to help ensure the safe operation of electric bicycles and e-scooters. These rules align with Arizona law and are designed to keep streets, sidewalks and shared paths safe for riders, pedestrians and drivers. Different types of e-bikes and e-scooters have different rules and age requirements, so it’s important to know before you ride.

E-BIKE CLASS 1

E-BIKE CLASS 2

E-BIKE CLASS 3

E-SCOOTER

Class 1 e-bikes are pedal-assist bikes that provide assistance only when the rider is pedaling. The motor assists up to a speed of 20 mph.

Class 2 e-bikes are equipped with a throttle that can propel the bike without pedaling. Like Class 1, the motor stops assisting at 20 mph.

Class 3 e-bikes are pedal-assist bikes that can reach speeds up to 28 mph. Like Class 1, they only provide assistance while the rider is pedaling.

An e-scooter is a two- or three-wheeled handlebar-equipped device powered by an electric motor. It has a speed range between 10 and 20 mph, with or without human propulsion.

RIDE SAFELY

Riders under 16 must wear a helmet.

KNOW WHERE TO RIDE

Use bike lanes when available.

Ride at a safe and controlled speed.

Watch for pedestrians and others on the path.

If no bike lane, stay near the righthand side of the roadway.

Avoid roads with speed limits above 25 mph.

SUMMER HOME & YARD CHECKLIST

1. Keep your yard clear and maintained Remove dead plants and overgrown weeds, which can become fire hazards during extreme heat.

2. Park on approved surfaces only Avoid parking on dirt, gravel or grass to help prevent damage and dust issues in your neighborhood.

3. Store trash and bulk items properly Keep containers secured and items out of public view to help maintain a clean, safe community.

4. Keep pool water clean and contained Properly maintain pool water to prevent mosquito breeding and standing water issues.

5. Prevent water runoff into streets Make sure pool water and backwash do not flow into streets, alleys or storm drains.

Thank you for doing your part, Goodyear!

Report code violations at goodyearaz.gov/311 or on the Goodyear311 app.

1. Don’t mow too short

Keeping grass slightly taller helps reduce weeds and slows water evaporation, meaning you may need to water less often.

2. Aerate your lawn

Opening up the soil helps water, air and nutrients reach plant roots more effectively.

3. Water deeply, but less often

Water about twice per week, allowing soil to dry between watering to encourage stronger root growth.

4. Keep lower branches on trees and shrubs

This helps support structure and reduces the risk of bark sunburn and wind damage during summer storms.

5. Skip the fertilizer

Most desert-adapted plants don’t need it in summer—and over-fertilizing can weaken growth and contribute to runoff pollution.

Learn more at goodyearaz.gov/water

GOODYEAR RECEIVES TOP SAFETY HONORS

The city of Goodyear is leading the way in workplace safety. Arizona Division of Occupational Safety and Health (ADOSH) awarded with the city’s Parks & Recreation, Public Works and Water Services teams with the highly coveted Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) certification.

Following a detailed review that included onsite audits and employee interviews, Goodyear earned a five-year VPP certification, making it the first municipality to receive

this extended level of recognition. The designation reflects the strength of the city’s safety systems and long-term commitment to exceeding industry standards.

ADOSH highlighted Goodyear’s strong safety culture, leadership and employee involvement at every level. The recognition reinforces the city’s ongoing focus on protecting employees while delivering essential services to the community.

ELECTION DAY STARTS WITH A PLAN

The Primary Election is on July 21. Goodyear voters will cast ballots for mayor and three council seats, along with state and federal party nominations. Making a voting game plan can make Election Day a lot easier. Here are a few questions that can help you start your plan:

Are you registered to vote?

Will you vote by mail or in person?

If voting by mail, when will you send your ballot back?

Do you know where your polling location is?

Have you checked your ballot status?

IMPORTANT DATES TO KNOW

June 22

Voter Registration Deadline

You must be registered by 11:59 p.m. to vote in the Primary Election.

June 24

Early Voting & Ballots Mailed

Mail ballots start arriving for voters on the Active Early Voting List, and early in-person voting opens.

July 21

Primary Election Day

Polls are open and registered voters can cast their ballots.

Visit goodyearaz.gov/elections to learn more about the election.

HEADING OUT OF TOWN?

If you’ll be away, you can request a one-time ballot mailing to anywhere in the United States. To request a temporary mailing address for your ballot email: evreq@maricopa.gov or visit Request.Maricopa.Vote and select “One-Time Request.” Be sure to submit your request at least 11 days before the Primary Election.

EL DÍA DE LA ELECCIÓN COMIENZA CON UN PLAN

La Elección Primaria es el 21 de julio. Los votantes de Goodyear emitirán su voto para alcalde y tres puestos del concejo municipal, además de las nominaciones de partidos estatales y federales. Hacer un plan para votar puede facilitar mucho el Día de la Elección. Estas son algunas preguntas que pueden ayudarte a comenzar tu plan:

¿Estás registrado para votar?

¿Votarás por correo o en persona?

Si votas por correo, ¿cuándo enviarás tu boleta?

¿Sabes dónde está tu centro de votación?

¿Has revisado el estatus de tu boleta?

FECHAS IMPORTANTES QUE DEBES CONOCER

22 de junio

Fecha límite para registrarse para votar

Debes estar registrado antes de las 11:59 p.m. para votar en la Elección Primaria.

24 de junio

Comienza la votación anticipada

Las boletas por correo comienzan a llegar a los votantes en la Lista Activa de Votación Anticipada, y también comienza la votación anticipada en persona.

21 de julio

Día de la Elección Primaria

Las urnas estarán abiertas y los votantes registrados podrán emitir su voto

Visita goodyearaz.gov/elections para obtener más información sobre la elección.

¿VAS A SALIR DE LA CIUDAD?

Si vas a estar fuera, puedes solicitar que tu boleta se envíe por única vez a cualquier lugar dentro de los Estados Unidos. Para solicitar una dirección postal temporal para tu boleta, envía un correo electrónico a evreq@maricopa.gov o visita Request.Maricopa.Vote y selecciona “One-Time Request.” Asegúrate de enviar tu solicitud al menos 11 días antes de la Elección Primaria.

IMPORTANT BUC-EE’S GRAND OPENING INFORMATION

There will be road restrictions around Buc-ee’s for the grand opening. To help with traffic flow, a special travel route will be in place for anyone visiting the store. There will still be an entrance open for all of the businesses in the area, that customers and employees can access. If you are visiting Buc-ee’s or traveling in the area, please plan ahead by giving yourself extra time and check the city’s social media pages and it’s dedicated webpage, goodyearaz.gov/bucees, for helpful information for street updates.

HOLIDAY TRASH SERVICE JUNETEENTH

Friday, June 19

There will be trash, recycling and bulk pickup.

INDEPENDENCE DAY

Friday, July 4

No trash, recycling or bulk pickup. Collection will resume the following day.

Not sure of your trash day? Visit goodyearaz.gov/trash.

JUNE 22 AT I-10/BULLARD AVE. GOODYEAR, AZ

6 A.M. DOORS OPEN

8 A.M. RIBBON CUTTING Watch it LIVE on the city’s social media

1900 N. Civic Square

Goodyear AZ 85395

goodyearaz.gov

623-932-3910