🌱 Phoenix City Council Approves Backyard Dwellings + Record Evictions

Hello, everybody. It's Friday in Phoenix and I'm back in your inbox with everything that's fit to print about what's happening in our community today.

But first, today's weather:

Hot. High: 109 Low: 83.

Here are the top three stories today in Phoenix:

1. In an 8-1 decision on Wednesday (Sep. 6), the Phoenix City Council approved homeowners to construct guest homes or additional suites on their premises, with the stipulation that these units must not exceed 75 percent of the main residence's size. This move aims to address the Valley's affordable housing deficit, while detractors argue it might exacerbate issues tied to short-term housing. The city has clarified these auxiliary units cannot serve as short-term rentals, and homeowners must secure a permit prior to construction. (12news.com KPNX)
2. In August, Maricopa County recorded its third-highest number of eviction cases at 7,693, surpassed only by counts from August and September of 2005. While Scott Davis of the Maricopa County Justice Courts doesn't see it as the anticipated "tsunami" from the pandemic, he acknowledges a growing trend over the past two years. Presiding Justice of the Peace, Anna Huberman, urges renters to promptly seek rental assistance if they fear falling behind on rent, emphasizing the swift nature of eviction processes. (Arizona's Family)
3. Tomorrow, Sep. 9, the Phoenix Art Museum will unveil the renovated Yayoi Kusama's "You Who Are Getting Obliterated in the Dancing Swarm of Fireflies" infinity mirror room with a "Creative Saturday" event featuring activities like a fireflies-themed scavenger hunt, art sessions, and special performances. The restored installation, a museum favorite since 2006, now offers a richer experience from its central location on the first floor and promises visitors a mesmerizing experience with its darkened space punctuated by strands of color-changing lights. Additionally, the event will introduce a new Art of Asia exhibition adjacent to Kusama's immersive artwork. (ABC15)

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Today in Phoenix:

Friday, September 8

• 2023 Fall Arizona Restaurant Week At Various Locations (All Day)
• Stranger Ranger At Linger Longer Lounge (8:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• Phoenix and surrounding areas are grappling with severe drought conditions, with Maricopa County recently upgraded to "severe drought" by the U.S. Drought Monitor. This weekend, an excessive heat warning is in effect as temperatures are anticipated to surpass 110 degrees, raising fire risks and posing threats to humans and animals. (12news.com KPNX)
• The Phoenix Police Department offered congratulations to Sgt. Sarager who received the Employer Support of The Guard and Reserve's Patriot Award! (Phoenix Police Department via Facebook)
• If you've been waiting to join the Section 8 waitlist, now is your chance! The City of Phoenix is accepting pre-applications for the Housing Choice Voucher Program from Sep. 12-26. (City of Phoenix, AZ USA via Facebook)

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That's it for today. See you all tomorrow morning for another update!

— Miranda Fraraccio

About me: Miranda Fraraccio is a staff writer for content creation agency Lightning Media Partners. She is a graduate of the University of Rhode Island, where she earned degrees in Writing & Rhetoric and Communication Studies. In her free time, you can find her traveling, drinking tea, or practicing film photography.