Staff Reports
SAFFORD – The City of Safford is embarking on an essential update to its General Plan, a comprehensive document that shapes the community’s future for the next decade. This update, targeted for 2026, ensures the plan remains relevant amid evolving needs, growth patterns, and priorities in this Graham County community.
Arizona state law requires municipalities to review and update their general plans every 10 years and to follow prescribed public involvement procedures. Safford’s previous General Plan was adopted in 2016, making this refresh timely and required. The General Plan serves as the foundational guide for key aspects of city life, including:
- Land use and development/redevelopment
- Housing
- Transportation
- Infrastructure
- Environmental considerations
- Public services
- Economic growth
- Parks, recreation, trails, and open space
- Historic preservation
- Cost of development
- Overall community character
It also designates growth areas to accommodate future expansion responsibly. Given Safford’s current population — estimated around 10,200–10,300 residents based on recent data and projections — Arizona Revised Statutes require that the updated plan be submitted to voters for ratification. This democratic step ensures broad community support for the vision outlined in the document.
To gather diverse perspectives and develop a plan that truly reflects Safford’s values and aspirations, the city is actively inviting participation from residents, property owners, businesses, employers, community and service providers, regional partners, special interest groups, and all other stakeholders. The process emphasizes inclusive engagement, providing multiple ways for people to share their thoughts.
Central to this effort are upcoming public meetings focused on the 2026 Safford General Plan Update. These sessions will feature interactive elements, including a survey and visioning exercises, to capture what matters most to the community.
Key questions guiding the conversation include:
- What do you love most about Safford?
- What do you want to see happen within the next 10 years?
These meetings offer both in-person and virtual options to accommodate as many participants as possible:
- In-Person Meeting
Date: Tuesday, Jan. 20
Time: 5:30 to 7 p.m.
Location: Safford Library Program Room, 808 S. 7th Ave., Safford, Arizona - Virtual Meeting
Date: Wednesday, Jan. 21
Time: 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Platform: Online via Zoom
Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/9844761151?omn=82287887563
Meeting ID: 984 476 1151
The City of Safford encourages everyone to “engage in Safford’s future” by attending one or both meetings, completing the interactive survey, or sharing input through other available channels. Broad participation will help create a forward-looking plan that balances growth with the preservation of what makes Safford exceptional — its natural surroundings, community spirit, and quality of life — and addresses emerging opportunities and challenges.
For more information or to get involved, contact:
Jaime L. Embick
Planning and Community Development Director
City of Safford, Arizona
Phone: 928-432-4299
Office Hours: Monday–Thursday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Email: jembick@saffordaz.gov
Your voice matters. Help shape the Safford of tomorrow by contributing today!
