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Hello District 3,  

In this newsletter you will find the latest news, announcements, and event details I want to share with you.

As always, please do not hesitate to contact my office with questions, comments, or concerns at 602-262-7441 or council.district.3@phoenix.gov.

Respectfully, 

Councilwoman Debra Stark 

District 3 Community Meeting

Please join us for the District 3 Community Meeting on Tuesday, March 19th, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the North Mountain Visitor Center (12950 N. 7th Street).

We are pleased to welcome guest speakers from the Budget and Research Department, who will provide insights into the upcoming budget season, and the Planning and Development Department, who will discuss the General Plan.

Food and refreshments will be provided.

Please RSVP by March 17th by calling 602-262-7441 or council.district.3@phoenix.gov!

Phoenix Police Honor Run/Walk

Last Sunday, Councilwoman Debra Stark was proud to support the Phoenix Police Foundation Honor Run/Walk in downtown Phoenix. This annual event is held to honor and remember Phoenix Police officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

This year's Honor Run/Walk supported the Phoenix Police Foundation’s efforts to send the squad of fallen Officer Zane Coolidge to Police Week in Washington, D.C. During this special event, Officer Coolidge’s name will be permanently engraved on the National Memorial Wall, recognizing his service and dedication to our community.

Phoenix Police Department Implements New "Use of Force" Policy

The Phoenix Police Department is implementing its new “Use of Force” policy. The purpose of this new policy is to clearly define when it is permissible for officers to use force and an officer’s duties before, during, and after a force encounter. 

You can read more about the changes to the Use of Force Policy here.

Enhancing Safety Along the I-17 Corridor

The City of Phoenix remains committed to improving safety and quality of life along the Interstate 17 (I-17) corridor, with a focus on reducing violent crime, sex trafficking, and drug-related offenses.

For several years, Phoenix has implemented strategic, multi-department initiatives spanning across four City Council districts. These collaborative efforts bring together City officials, law enforcement, and community stakeholders to address public safety concerns effectively.

In 2022, building on the efforts of the City Council and community members, the Phoenix City Council allocated nearly $9 million in resources to support the Phoenix Community Safety Plans (CSP). This funding is dedicated to enhancing safety measures in key areas along the I-17 corridor, stretching from Indian School Road to Bell Road, as well as along Hatcher Road in west Sunnyslope.

These investments reflect the City’s ongoing commitment to fostering safer neighborhoods and ensuring a higher quality of life for residents and businesses in the area.

To read more about the community safety action plans, please visit here.

Free Morning Yoga with FitPHX at Encanto Park

FitPHX is offering free morning yoga sessions at the Encanto Park Clubhouse on the second Saturday of each month from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM on the following dates:

February 8, March 8, April 12, and May 10, 2025
Location: Encanto Park Clubhouse (2499 N. 15th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85007)

Pre-registration is required. Community members can sign up at phoenix.gov/fitphx.

For questions, please contact FitPHX@phoenix.gov or call 602-262-6862.

Budget For Fiscal Year 2025-2026

Budget season is almost here and our office is seeking valuable input from the community on funding priorities. We want to hear your thoughts on where resources should be allocated to best serve our residents and address key community needs.

All information about the budget process can be found here.

Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department is Hiring Summer Lifeguards

The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department is currently hiring lifeguards for the summer season and is encouraging community members to help spread the word.

Individuals interested in becoming a lifeguard can take the following steps:

• Sign up for a Lifeguard Certification Class at phoenix.gov/lifeguard
• Apply for the position at phoenix.gov/hr/current-jobs

This opportunity provides valuable training, competitive pay, and a chance to serve the community by ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience at Phoenix’s public pools.

Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month

February marks Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, a time to educate and empower young people about healthy relationships. The Strategic Initiatives team collaborates with local organizations and high schools to provide resources, special events, and presentations focused on fostering safe and respectful relationships.

Community groups and schools interested in hosting a free youth presentation can reach out for more information at copstrategicinitiatives@phoenix.gov.

Your Voice: 2020-2025 Consolidation Plan

Every five years, the City of Phoenix collaborates with the community to develop a strategic Consolidated Plan, guiding how federal funding is used to support housing and community development needs.

The 2025-2029 Consolidated Plan will help the City make informed decisions on the allocation of approximately $130 million in HUD grant funding. These grants include:

• Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
• Home Investment Partnership (HOME)
• Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA)
• Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG)

This funding will be invested over the next five years to strengthen communities and enhance neighborhoods, supporting vital services provided by the Housing Department, Human Services Department, Office of Homeless Solutions, and Neighborhood Services Department.

For more information and to get involved, visit phoenix.gov/nsd/yourvoice.

City Launches New Tool for Finding Parking in Downtown Phoenix

The City of Phoenix has introduced ParkPHX, a new web-based application designed to help residents and visitors easily find parking in downtown Phoenix. This convenient tool provides access to all public parking facilities in one place, allowing users to search based on their preferences, such as cost or availability of electric vehicle charging stations.

ParkPHX offers a comprehensive inventory of downtown parking options and provides real-time updates on daily, monthly, and event parking, including valet services. The tool makes it easier for drivers to plan ahead and spend more time enjoying downtown rather than searching for parking.

To learn more and start using ParkPHX, visit here.

City of Phoenix Seeks Community Input Ahead of Police Chief Finalist Forum

Phoenix residents have an opportunity to play a key role in the hiring process for the city's next Police Chief. The City is seeking public feedback on the priorities for this important leadership position and inviting residents to submit questions for candidates.

After more than two years with an interim chief, the City is conducting a nationwide search in partnership with an executive search firm to select a permanent leader for the Phoenix Police Department. Community participation is a vital part of this process.

By March, the City plans to announce a list of finalists who will be introduced to the public. To ensure a transparent and inclusive process, the City will host a Finalist Forum, where residents can submit questions online or in person. The community survey, available in both English and Spanish, allows residents to share their opinions on the leadership qualities needed for the next Police Chief, priorities for building trust and improving safety, and suggested questions for the forum.

The public can attend the forum at the City Council Chambers or watch live on PHXTV and YouTube.

To participate in the survey and learn more, visit phoenix.gov/newsroom/human-resources/3355.

The City launched a website where residents can get additional information on the hiring process. 

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