US Army Military Training Exercises
At a glance
- City authorized short-term licenses for US Army military training exercises on city-owned property through December 31, 2029
- No fee; US Army responsible for all exercise costs
- Council debate centered on public notification, transparency, and potential Immigration and Customs Enforcement involvement
- Hernandez dissented; Hodge Washington approved with transparency conditions
Background
US military branches periodically conduct training on city-owned property in coordination with Police and Fire departments to assist in responding to national security defense incidents. City enters license or use agreement for each training exercise. Terms include insurance and indemnification acceptable to Risk Management and Law Department.
Authorization
City Manager or designee authorized to execute short-term licenses with United States for use and access to city-owned property for military training exercises and activities, January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2029. City Manager also authorized to grant exception to Phoenix City Code 42-20 to include indemnification and assumption of liability provisions if required.
Council Concerns and Questions
Notification and Transparency
Hernandez raised concerns about notification of exercises to affected neighborhood residents and city leadership. Assistant Chief Brian Lee described trainings as "low-visibility" to minimize neighborhood disruption. After item passed, stated public message would be conveyed to public if item passed, with goal of informing community that trainings were not related to immigration enforcement.
Immigration Enforcement Questions
Hernandez specifically questioned whether Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or National Guard would participate. Assistant Chief Lee clarified no mention of ICE or National Guard; event has no connection to immigration enforcement or investigations. Described as scheduled routine military exercise performed regularly by several branches.
Hernandez noted concern with federal government administration that increased use of federal agencies for immigration enforcement across country.
Policy Transparency
Hodge Washington asked whether policy requiring information be shared with district council members would constitute best practice. Assistant Chief Lee stated it would be responsible approach; noted current practices of notifying public or city leadership already implemented.
Hodge Washington inquired about contract termination if exercises did not align with community values. City Attorney Julie Kriegh stated most if not all city contracts include provisions allowing termination if necessary.
Historical Context
Robinson questioned longevity of agreements with US Army. Assistant Chief Lee provided estimated time trainings had been conducted. Robinson asked whether complaints had been received in past years. Assistant Chief Lee stated not aware of any citizen complaints.
Robinson directly requested full transparency from Chief Matthew Giordano regarding federal government intentions and concerns.
Council Positions
- Hernandez: Expressed disapproval (voted no)
- Hodge Washington: Expressed concerns but approved with conditions of community value alignment and transparency
- Robinson: Expressed concerns; requested transparency from Police Chief
Decision
Passed 6-1 on January 7, 2026 via Ordinance S-52523.
Yes (6): Hodge Washington, Pastor, Robinson, Stark, Waring, O'Brien
No (1): Hernandez
Absent (2): Guardado, Gallego
Mayor Gallego departed from voting body during item.
Log
2026-01-07 - City Council
- Item 68: Authorization to Execute Short-term Licenses with United States for Military Training (Ordinance S-52523) passed 6-1, with Hernandez dissenting