Globe local news summary

Supervisors Clash Over Development Fees and Taxpayer Subsidies

$3.4 Million Allocated for Pleasant Valley Veterans Retreat Upgrades

Designs Unveiled for Michaelson Business Incubator

Short-Term Rental Enforcement Begins September 1st

Globe Skate Park Project Delayed, Forced to Rebid

1. Supervisors Clash Over Development Fees and Taxpayer Subsidies

GILA COUNTY - A Gila County fee study revealing that the Community Development department recoups only about 40% of its operational costs sparked a significant debate among the Board of Supervisors on August 26. Community Development Director Randy Pluimer noted the county still uses a 2004 valuation table, which significantly underprices the cost of construction services. This shortfall means the general fund, supported by all taxpayers, subsidizes new development. The presentation highlighted a philosophical split: one perspective argued that existing residents should not subsidize new construction and fees should rise. Conversely, Supervisor Woody Cline argued that fees should be kept minimal to encourage building, asserting that property taxes are intended to cover these services and that new construction eventually benefits the tax rolls. The board will decide on future rates when the fee study is finalized.

2. $3.4 Million Allocated for Pleasant Valley Veterans Retreat Upgrades

GILA COUNTY - The Pleasant Valley Veterans Retreat is slated for major capital improvements utilizing approximately $3.42 million in state and federal funding. County staff updated the Board on the projects, which balance historic preservation with modernization. Funding includes a $3 million state budget line item via an IGA with the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services and a $333,000 federal Congressionally Directed Spending appropriation (with a 25% local match requirement noted by USDA). The federal funds are specifically designated for a new ADA-compliant cabin. State funds will support infrastructure modernization, including electrical upgrades, solar installations, and backup generators to address frequent power outages, as well as structural enhancements to historic cabins and the barn. Officials indicated they will prioritize these renovations before committing funds to a large, new multi-use facility.

3. Designs Unveiled for Michaelson Business Incubator

GILA COUNTY - Conceptual designs for the revitalization of the Michaelson building into a co-work space and business incubator were presented to the Gila County Board of Supervisors on August 26. The project is a collaboration between the county, which owns the building, and the City of Globe. GH2 Architects showcased plans aiming to create an economic hub in the historic district. The first floor is designed for public engagement with retail space, flexible conference rooms, a catering kitchen, and a podcast studio. The second floor will feature seven private offices for lease and open co-working areas for daily use. The design incorporates modern accessibility, including an elevator, while highlighting historic features and copper accents.

4. Short-Term Rental Enforcement Begins September 1st

GILA COUNTY - Gila County is set to begin active enforcement of its short-term rental (STR) ordinance on September 1. Community Development Director Randy Pluimer reported that the registration portal is operational, with about 60 owners registered during a “soft opening.” Using monitoring technology, the county has identified approximately 500 to 600 STR locations. Starting September 1, the county will send notification letters to unregistered owners, followed by two subsequent warning letters over 90 days. After this period, fines may be issued for non-compliance with the $225 annual registration (Ordinance 2025-01). Registration data will be shared with the Assessor’s office for tax purposes and the Sheriff’s department for emergency response.

5. Globe Skate Park Project Delayed, Forced to Rebid

GLOBE - The rehabilitation of the Globe skate park has been delayed after the initial round of bidding failed. City staff reported that of the two bids received in July, one was deemed non-responsive due to incorrect paperwork, and the second exceeded the available Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding. The project includes replacing aging skate equipment and installing an ADA-accessible sidewalk and picnic pads. The rebid notice is scheduled for release on September 3, with bids due September 29. The new solicitation clarifies material requirements, emphasizing durability (such as steel or concrete) and adherence to public use safety standards.

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