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Category: Government
Put your waste in the right place during the Fall of Reuse!
FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff Sustainability Office invites you to celebrate the changing seasons through a series of opportunities focused on preventing and diverting waste from the landfill throughout October and November. Read on for details about upcoming Drop-off Day, Fix it Clinic, and Pumpkin Drop events.
Prescribed fire planned for North Rim of Grand Canyon beginning Oct. 16
GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park fire managers—working with staff from the Kaibab National Forest and Bureau of Land Management, anticipate initiating prescribed fire treatments from October 16-31, on the North Rim, as weather and fuel moisture conditions allow.
On Thursday, Oct. 16, ignitions will occur on the Atoko Point unit, located on the far eastern edge of the Walhalla Plateau. The north and east boundary consist of the canyon rim edges and encompass Roosevelt Point, Atoko Point, and Naji Point. The southern boundary will be ~300ft of handline where the plateau necks down tightly between Cape Royal Rd. and canyon rim edge. The western edge is bound by the Cape Royal Road from Roosevelt Point to the handline segment. This project totals an area of 1,700 acres and is anticipated to conclude on or around Tuesday, Oct. 31.
Coconino County — Ballots Mailed for the Nov. 7, 2023, Special Election
FLAGSTAFF — Ballots for the Nov 7, 2023, Special Election have been mailed to all eligible registered voters. This is a ballot-by-mail election so registered voters residing in the City of Flagstaff, Sedona-Oak Creek Joint Unified School District, Ash Fork Joint Unified School District, Grand Canyon Unified School District, Pinewood Sanitary District, Williams Hospital District, and Highlands Fire District will be receiving their ballots in the next few days.
Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y presents free webinars on understanding how emotions impact adult and child relationships
COCONINO COUNTY —
CCC&Y shares this free online opportunity to ease some of the daily stress during this busy time of year.
Motivated by a long wait list for behavioral health services, and aware of challenging adult and child emotions causing behavior difficulties, Bethany Camp put this two part training together for CCC&Y to help meeting a wide-spread community need.
First we learn to understand our emotions and then we can understand and respond to the big emotional responses of children.
Watch Webinar – Managing Adult Emotional Responses, Part One
Watch Webinar – Helping Children Manage Their Emotions, Part Two
These videos are meant to help support our community. Having the tools to take care of ourselves and respond to children, is a great resource.
City of Flagstaff Water Conservation program wins 2023 WaterSense® Excellence Award
FLAGSTAFF — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has honored the City of Flagstaff with a WaterSense Excellence Award for the City’s work promoting WaterSense and water efficiency in 2022. WaterSense, a voluntary partnership program sponsored by the EPA, is both a label for water-efficient products, programs, and homes and a resource for helping consumers learn about ways to save water.
Firing operations on Still Fire resuming along Highway 87
HAPPY JACK — Still Fire managers plan to resume firing operations Thursday and Friday along Highway 87 following several days of preparations during scattered showers and higher humidities.
Fire managers plan to use strategic firing operations to increase containment and protect values at risk. The Still Fire is located 4 miles northeast of the Highway 87 and Lake Mary Road junction on the Coconino National Forest’s Mogollon Rim Ranger District (MRRD).
Once firing operations resume, local areas – including Highway 87, the Blue Ridge communities and the Little Springs area – will see heavy smoke impact.
Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Join Us (Oct. 11) for a Webinar on Prop 480
You are cordially invited to join us tomorrow for a special webinar on Prop. 480, the citizens of Flagstaff’s referendum on the re-zoning of the proposed Northern Arizona Hospital site. The re-zoning of the site was approved by the Flagstaff City Council earlier this year.
This Arizona Civic Exchange (CivEx) event, which will be held from 2 – 3 p.m. (MST), is being sponsored by the Arizona Center for Civic Leadership, a part of the Flinn Foundation. The webinar is being presented in conjunction with the Northern Arizona Leadership Alliance Community Civility Project.
Coconino County Supervisor Matt Ryan Announces Retirement
Coconino County Supervisor Matt Ryan, who has represented District 3 for 27 years, has submitted a formal letter to his colleagues on the Board of Supervisors (Board) indicating his intention to retire from the Board effective Dec. 31, 2023.
District 3 includes the Town of Williams, portions of Flagstaff and Sedona along with Kachina Village, Mountainaire, Munds Park and other unincorporated communities in southwestern Coconino County.
Full closure of Columbus Avenue scheduled for Oct 12 and Oct. 20
FLAGSTAFF — As part of Phase II of the 2023 Road Repair and Street Safety (RRSS) program, a full closure of Columbus Avenue between N Humphreys Street and N San Francisco Street is scheduled on Thursday, Oct. 12 from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. to allow for asphalt work. Beaver Street south through Columbus Avenue will remain open with flaggers. Early warning message boards and detours will be established, however travelers should expect delays in the area.
Still Fire at 9,101 acres, firing operations on hold
HAPPY JACK — Fire managers are pausing firing operations on the Still Fire for the next several days due to predicted rain and humidity but are hoping to resume those operations later this week when weather conditions allow.
The Still Fire is a lightning-caused wildfire located 4 miles northeast of the Highway 87 and Lake Mary Road junction on the Coconino National Forest’s Mogollon Rim Ranger District (MRRD).
During the pause on firing operations, crews will continue to hold existing line while also preparing the fire area – including areas along Highway 87 – for firing operations.
Still Fire at 7,781 acres, smoke impact to continue
Smoke impact will linger despite a pause on Highway 87-adjacent firing operations on the Still Fire, a lightning-caused wildfire located 4 miles northeast of the Highway 87 and Lake Mary Road junction.
Smoke impact will remain noticeable along Highway 87, in the Blue Ridge communities, the Little Springs area, and possibly in the Camp Verde, Cottonwood, Pine, Strawberry and Payson areas.
Smoke will settle into low-lying areas overnight.
Driving conditions in the fire area may remain hazardous, and possible intermittent closures may be implemented along area roads, including Highway 87, for public safety.
United Way of Northern Arizona — Recommitting to Positive Youth Development
focus to Stepping Up for Our Youth and Communities, we have successfully rallied around early childhood development with programs like KinderCamp™ and the Dolly Parton Imagination Library.
This year with our annual campaign theme of United in Purpose – 365 Days a Year, we are recommitting to the goal of also supporting programs and initiatives that promote positive youth development and refocusing our efforts on a comprehensive approach that encompasses our youth from birth through early adulthood.
From the desk of:
Liz Archuleta
President & CEO
At our annual campaign kickoff last week, I had a chance to provide a detailed vision of how United Way of Northern Arizona can support our community and partners to foster opportunities for our youth at all ages. I envision it as a circle where we as a community wrap ourselves around our youth and can step in at any point of a youth’s development and make a difference.
Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Oct. 2-6, 2023
We’re getting a new look!
Beginning next week, the Grand Canyon Office of Communications will be transitioning to a new email distribution platform. The Wrap Up as well as news releases from our office will have a new layout and feel. If you are not receiving email communications from our office (through the Wrap Up or news releases), please check your junk email folder or email us directly at grca_public_affairs@nps.gov.
Cecil Fire containment at 67%; area closure removed
FLAGSTAFF — Containment on the 2,180-acre lightning-caused Cecil Fire, located southwest of Flagstaff, is at 67% following yesterday’s containment and suppression repair efforts.
The Coconino National Forest has removed the emergency area closure for the Cecil Fire.
The Type 3 Incident Management Team that has been managing this fire since Sept. 28 will return the fire back to the Coconino NF this evening.
Forty-two personnel remain assigned to the Cecil Fire, including one 20-person crew, three engines and miscellaneous overhead.
Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — F3’s VOTER GUIDE to Flagstaff Propositions: November 2023 Special Election
Flagstaff’s Special Election is November 7, 2023. This is a Ballot-by-Mail Election and there will be no polling places on Election Day. All registered voters in the City of Flagstaff will automatically receive a ballot in the mail approximately three weeks prior to election day. You are able to check your voting status here.
F3 has thoroughly reviewed the 20 propositions that will be on the ballot and we have created a Voter Guide to this year’s election. The summary of the Voter Guide is available in graphic form below. A description of the propositions, accompanied by F3’s reasoning for our voting recommendations, are provided on our website.
Nineteen of the propositions on the ballot are proposed amendments to the City of Flagstaff Charter. The City Charter is the basic law of a city as established by a majority of voters. The Charter defines the powers and functions of the city and serves as the foundation of government for the city.
Phase 2 of the Schultz Creek Watershed Restoration Project Begins This Week
COCONINO COUNTY — The Schultz Creek Watershed Restoration Project, a $5.4 million joint effort of the Coconino County Flood Control District and the Coconino National Forest, will enter its second and final phase of construction.
The Schultz Creek Watershed Restoration Project, a $5.4 million joint effort of the Coconino County Flood Control District and the Coconino National Forest, will enter its second and final phase of construction as contractors begin channel stabilization in roughly 4 miles of upper Schultz Creek.
The Schultz Creek Watershed is one of nine watersheds that were badly burned during the 2022 Pipeline Fire. Post-wildfire flooding and erosion through Schultz Creek contributed to repeated flooding and destructive sediment deposition in downstream Flagstaff neighborhoods.
City of Flagstaff — Update on City Road Repair and Street Safety Phase II
FLAGSTAFF — Phase II of the 2023 Road Repair and Street Safety (RRSS) program is well underway as crews work to complete the work prior to winter. Crack sealing operations have been completed throughout the project area.
During the week of Oct. 2, work to replace damaged concrete will continue on Columbus Avenue and N Switzer Canyon Drive with lane shifts present. Asphalt work will also take place during the week of Oct. 2 on S Fremont Drive, W Mars Hill Road, S Babbitt Drive and N Switzer Canyon Drive.
Voter Registration Deadline for the Nov. 7, 2023, Special Elections is Oct. 10, 2023
COCONINO COUNTY — The City of Flagstaff, Sedona-Oak Creek Joint Unified School District, Ash Fork Joint Unified School District, Grand Canyon Unified School District, Pinewood Sanitary District, Williams Hospital District, and Highlands Fire District are holding Special Elections on November 7, 2023. The November 7 Special Elections are being conducted as ballot-by-mail elections. All registered voters in these jurisdictions will automatically be mailed a ballot and there will not be any polling places on Election Day.
Crews continue Cecil Fire prep work in anticipation of resuming burning operations this week. Public meeting on Oct. 2
FLAGSTAFF — The slight rain that fell on the Cecil Fire yesterday morning helped keep the lightning-caused Cecil Fire, located southwest of Flagstaff, at 2,180 acres as of Monday morning.
The Cecil Fire is burning on both Coconino National Forest and Arizona State Trust lands, and a closure order has been issued for the fire area.
Resources assigned to the Cecil Fire include one Hotshot crew, two hand crews, 10 engines, a dozer, a water tender and miscellaneous overhead for a total of 112 personnel.
This week’s weather forecast looks favorable to possibly resume firing operations. In addition to holding existing lines, crews plan to spend today prepping lines for potential firing operations north of Black Pass on the north side of the fire, off Woody Ridge toward Forest Road (FR) 532B on the east side of the fire, and from Woody Ridge to just south of Eightynine A Tank.
District 1 Coconino County Supervisor Patrice Horstman Appointed to Arizona Resource Advisory Council
COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County Board of Supervisors is pleased to announce one of their members, Supervisor Patrice Horstman representing District 1, has been appointed by Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland to serve on the Arizona Resource Advisory Council.
The Council is a 15-member statewide advisory council, which provides advice and recommendations to the Bureau of Land Management on resource and land management issues for approximately 12.1 million acres of federal surface and 36 million acres of subsurface mineral estate in Arizona.
Firing operations paused on Cecil, Still fires in advance of weekend winds
FLAGSTAFF — Firefighters are halting firing operations on both the Cecil and Still fires in advance of forecast increased wind speeds.
Both fires have been staffed with additional firefighters who plan to spend the weekend holding and securing existing fire line.
So far, crews have successfully treated a combined 2,500 acres of Coconino National Forest land on both the Flagstaff Ranger District and the Mogollon Rim Ranger District due to both lightning-caused fires.
Land treatment removes fuels – such as dead trees and pine needle accumulation – from the forest floor to reduce the risk of high-intensity wildfire.
Both the Cecil and Still fires are being managed to reduce those hazardous fuels and improve forest health as guided by Forest Service’s 10-year Wildfire Crisis Strategy.
Coconino County Leadership Contributes to National Wildland Fire Commission Report
COCONINO COUNTY — The Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission released their report to Congress this week, urging “swift action to advance the holistic solutions needed to reduce the risk of wildfire to the nation.”
The Commission, which included Coconino County Deputy Manager and Flood Control District Administrator Lucinda Andreani and a bipartisan group of 52 other leaders from governmental, tribal, scientific, private industry and nonprofit backgrounds, spent the last year conducting a “sweeping review” of the wildfire system in the United States. The fruits of this review have now been released in a report that includes 148 recommendations for Congressional action.
Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up Sept. 25-29, 2023
Superintendent’s Corner: UPDATE-Potential Lapse in Appropriations
The federal government, including the National Park Service, is currently funded through midnight September 30. We remain hopeful that Congress and the President can agree on a budget or continuing resolution that would keep the government open.
Based on my time in Washington, I know that a lot of people in the Administration and in Congress are working to fund the government. However, if we are not funded by Sunday and there is a resulting lapse of appropriations, we will begin to significantly reduce operations of the federal government. We have experience in implementing an orderly shutdown, most recently in 2018-19.
If you are a resident of Grand Canyon, you will be able to stay in your assigned housing in the event of a lapse. Family and friends will be able to visit you, and you will be able to come and go from the park as you normally would. For those of you concerned about your personal finances if you do not get paid during a shutdown, Congress passed a law in 2019 requiring backpay for federal employees after a shutdown. You will get paid.
City of Flagstaff announces scheduled lane closures on Lake Mary Road
FLAGSTAFF — Lane closures on Lake Mary Road and Anita Avenue are scheduled for Oct. 2 through Oct. 14. The closures will allow the installation of water lines across Lake Mary Road to the Home2 Suites and Tru by Hilton hotel development site at the corner of Lake Mary Road and High Country Trail.
The project will begin with the closure of the westbound lane of Anita Avenue, followed by the closure of the eastbound lane of Anita Avenue. Crews will then close the northbound lanes of Lake Mary Road, followed by the southbound lanes. Lane shifts will be in place to allow traffic to travel through the area. The work is expected to be completed on or before October 14th.
Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — View Webinars Providing Insights to 5-Year Strategic Plan
Good afternoon,
Late last month, we released our comprehensive 5-year Strategic Plan, a roadmap for economic growth in northern Arizona that was created for ECoNA by Elliott D. Pollack & Co. and IO, Inc.
Over the past few weeks, representatives of those companies have been leading a series of webinars that drill down on three key aspects of the plan: housing challenges, the local labor shed, and sectors that northern Arizona should be targeting for greater prosperity.
What’s made these webinars fascinating is not only the in-depth analysis provided by Danny Court and Ioanna Morfessis, the principal authors of the roadmap, but also the insightful questions from webinar participants as we study where northern Arizona is now – and where we want to be headed.
Firing operations continue on Cecil Fire; beginning on Still Fire
FLAGSTAFF — Following a day of successful management actions on the Cecil Fire, located southwest of Flagstaff, crews plan to continue firing operations on the Cecil while also beginning firing operations on the Still Fire, located on the Coconino National Forest’s Mogollon Rim Ranger District.
Both the Cecil and Still fires are lightning-caused wildfires being managed to reduce hazardous fuels and improve forest health as guided by Forest Service’s 10-year Wildfire Crisis Strategy.
Due to the accumulated fuels in the fire areas, both wildfires will generate significant smoke during planned firing operations.
District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler latest news — Navajo Broadband Conference Oct. 16-17
BUILDING A CONNECTED NAVAJO FUTURE
NAVAJO NATION BROADBAND CONFERENCE
OCTOBER 16-17, 2023
SAN JUAN COLLEGE, HENDERSON CENTER,
FARMINGTON, NEW MEXICO
Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Slight drizzle didn’t dampen excitement for families at Snook’s Science in the Park. More Festival of Science events to come
By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth
A slight drizzle on the first day of Fall didn’t dampen the fun when families came out to the annual Snook’s Science in the Park on Sept. 23, 2023 at Wheeler Park in downtown Flagstaff.
Part of the annual Flagstaff Festival of Science, which continues through Oct. 1, the park event featured a number of hand-on activities for young people.
Youth had the opportunity to explore life-saving medical devices with innovators and engineers under the W. L. Gore & Associates tents, view the talented athletes from Momentum Aerial as they leap and spin above the ground, with young people launching their own mini rockets and learning about the science behind rocket propulsion at the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth exhibit.
The 10-day festival features a mix of in-person activities, live streamed webinars and pre-recorded videos. A full listing of events is available by going to scifest.organd clicking on the 2023 digital passport. Events that require a reservation are denoted on the passport.
All Festival events are FREE.
Coconino NF begins management of two lightning-caused beneficial wildfires on Flagstaff and Mogollon Rim ranger districts
FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest is responding to two separate lightning-caused wildfires: the Cecil Fire, located on the Flagstaff Ranger District, and the Still Fire, located on the Mogollon Rim Ranger District.
The Coconino NF often strategically manages lightning-caused wildfires to benefit the overall health of the fire-adapted forest and plans to use the natural ignitions of both the Cecil and Still fires in this manner.
Wildfires are a natural part of the Coconino NF’s ecosystem, and when managed diligently and properly following the requisite planning process, improve the landscape long-term in several ways.
District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler Newsletter
Dear District 5 Residents,
As the morning air becomes cooler and more refreshing, it signals that autumn has arrived. Use this opportunity to enjoy a bountiful harvest with your loved ones. Next month is the Navajo New Year -Gháájí, which means ‘The joining of season.’ It is a time for harvesting and getting ready for the upcoming season. This year, preparing for inclement weather during the colder seasons is crucial. It’s critical for our communities to take essential measures to ensure safety, security, and structure. Before traveling, please seek weather advisories. Start preparing your homes for the cold by weatherizing them for safety and comfort.
Coconino County Treasurer Statement on 2023 Tax Season
COCONINO COUNTY — Property tax notices will be mailed out the week of September 24, 2023. Property owners may view their property tax information online at the County Treasurer’s website, www.coconino.az.gov/treasurer.
In August of this year, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors (Board) approved and adopted the 2023 property tax rate schedule for all taxing jurisdictions within the County.
City of Flagstaff — Full nighttime closure of Cedar Avenue planned for Sept. 25 – Sept. 27, 9 p.m. to 6 a.m.
FLAGSTAFF — As part of the Spruce Wash Improvements Grandview Drive Reconstruction Project Utility Phase, crews will be installing sewer utilities across Cedar Avenue, necessitating a full nighttime closure of part of Cedar Avenue on Monday, Sept. 25 through Wednesday, Sept. 27 from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. This work is being performed through the night to maintain the safety of the traveling public and construction crews, while allowing for the high-volume flow of daytime traffic along Cedar Avenue.
The following traffic impacts are expected:
Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Sept. 18-22, 2023
Federal agencies need appropriations to operate. You may have seen news accounts as we approach the new fiscal year of the possibility of a lapse in appropriations, which would lead to a government shutdown. Based on my years as the senior appropriations lawyer for the Department of the Interior, I can tell you that a lot of people in the Administration and Congress are working hard to avoid a shutdown.
The Park Leadership Team and I are watching this situation closely along with our regional and Washington office colleagues. We will be ready if there is a shutdown.
I understand that many employees depend on their biweekly paycheck to meet their families’ expenses and there may be some anxiety about the possibility of a shutdown. In case it helps, in 2019, Congress passed the Government Employee Fair Treatment Act ensuring full pay for federal employees during government shutdowns. Everyone will be paid, and retroactive pay will also reflect what is typically withheld from checks such as rent, insurance and retirement contributions.
For the time being, park operations are continuing as normal, and we encourage you to check on our park website at www.nps.gov/grca for the most up to date information on park operations. As we get additional information from the Department, we will keep employees and residents updated through this newsletter and the weekly employee, community, and stakeholder call. Thank you to all employees who have been fielding visitor questions and concerns over the last several days; it is important work that you do.
Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y supports positive experience for families at Flagstaff Festival of Science (Sept. 22-Oct. 1)
“The Mammoth World of Science” is the theme of this year’s Flagstaff Festival of Science (Sept. 22 through Oct. 1, 2023).
This year’s theme has been designed to showcase the fascinating research and scientific discovery of Beth Shapiro, PhD, who will give the W. L. Gore & Associates Keynote Presentation from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22 at the Ardrey Auditorium at Northern Arizona University, 1115 Knoles Drive, Flagstaff.
Shapiro, a pioneer and global leader in the high-profile field of ancient DNA, will share her expertise on the science of de-extinction.
Click here to see ticket availability. All Festival events are FREE.
Read More
City of Flagstaff Housing Section Notice of Funding Availability Homeless Shelter and Services Funds
FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff Housing Section is pleased to announce the availability of Homeless Shelter and Services Funds (HSSF), made available by the City of Flagstaff with funding from the Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH), for programs that provide shelter and services to unsheltered persons who are experiencing homelessness.
The City of Flagstaff will prioritize proposals serving unsheltered persons who are impacted by one of the following challenges: the ruling on Freddy Brown, et al. v. City of Phoenix (court decision to clear and clean “The Zone”); the expiration of the Public Health Act (Title 42) as it pertained to the border between Arizona and Mexico; or the closure of sober living homes and residential facilities.
District 1 Supervisor Patrice Horstman — August/September 2023 District 1 Newsletter
Hello from Supervisor Horstman
Grand Canyon National Monument-Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni
Short Term Rental Ordinance Passed
County Strengthens Dark Sky Zoning
Lowell Observatory Reaches for the Stars with Astronomy Discovery Center
It’s Time for Rural Groundwater Management
Flagstaff Community Meeting on Spruce Watershed/ Museum Fire Update
Senator Sinema Meets to Discuss Wildland Firefighter Paycheck Protection
Tusayan Experiences Unprecedented Rainfall and Flooding
Mountain Line Bus Awarded Federal Grant for Bus Maintenance Building
Williams Senior Center Celebrates Re-opening of New Kitchen
Congressman Eli Crane Joins Flagstaff and County for Flood Mitigation Tour
Envision 2045 by Participating in the 2025 County Comprehensive Plan
Veterans Helping Veterans: Matthew J. Boehner Memorial Williams Stand Down
74th Annual Coconino County Fair
Community Events and Resources
City of Flagstaff Proclaims Sept, 15 through Oct. 15, 2023 as National Hispanic Heritage Month
“The City of Flagstaff observes, embraces, respects, and celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month. Hispanic Heritage Month also called “Yes de Herencia Hispana”, is celebrated nationwide from September 15th through October 15th each year to commemorate the history, culture, and contributions of Hispanic, Latino, and Latinx peoples whose ancestors originated the Caribbean, Central and South America, Mexico, and Spain. …”
Water restrictions lifted in Grand Canyon
GRAND CANYON, Ariz. – Effective immediately, mandatory water restrictions have been lifted in Grand Canyon National Park.
On September 5, park managers implemented mandatory water restrictions for the South Rim when water levels fell below an acceptable level due to a failure in the system. Water utilities crews immediately began working to address the problem, and were able to get the water flowing again within a few days. However, until water storage levels were adequate, park managers did not feel comfortable lifting restrictions.
Coconino County Board of Supervisors Honors Hispanic Community With Heritage Month Proclamation
FLAGSTAFF — At their regular meeting on Tuesday, September 12, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors (Board) unanimously adopted a proclamation recognizing September 15 through October 15, 2023 as Hispanic Heritage Month in Coconino County.
The proclamation, drafted by County Human Resources staff and members of the Coconino Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC), reads in part “Hispanics and Latinos are some of the earliest native residents of the southwestern United States and Hispanics in Coconino County were amongst the first pioneers in Flagstaff and Coconino County. Many working in the sawmill and railroad industry as an integral piece of establishing our mountain town of Flagstaff and the continued development of Coconino County.”
“It’s always our great pleasure to help celebrate the great diversity of Coconino County,” said Jeronimo Vasquez, Chair of the Board and Supervisor for District 2. “Being Latino, I’m proud to be a part of this tradition and feel it’s very important to take time to learn about the contributions of Latinos and Hispanics in the county throughout our history.”
Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Sept. 11-15, 2023
Governor Katie Hobbs visits Grand Canyon
Governor Katie Hobbs and Arizona tribal leaders met in the park this past Tuesday, September 12, to foster meaningful dialog about Arizona’s economic development and how to best work with tribal governments and communities. Superintendent Ed Keable and Grand Canyon Conservancy CEO Theresa McMullen participated in the meeting, discussing the work the park and GCC are doing relative to indigenous programs.
The highlight for most participants was getting a tour of the work being done at Desert View to re-imagine the site as an Inter-tribal cultural heritage site.
Thanks to all who helped make this a successful visit, especially the Desert View staff and FMD folks (trails) who are working on the next phase of paving the new trail system.
You can learn more about Gov. Hobbs’ visit and its purpose on her website.
Public Input Sought for Amendments to County Dark Sky Ordinance
COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County Board of Supervisors is asking for the public’s input into proposed amendments to the County’s Outdoor Lighting Standards Zoning Ordinance, commonly known as the Dark Sky Ordinance.
These amendments were recommended by the County’s Community Development staff and the Planning and Zoning Commission after recent studies suggested the Ordinance be brought up to date with current lighting technology, and to mirror standards already implemented by the City of Flagstaff.
Discover Flagstaff — Pickin’ in the Pines Bluegrass & Acoustic Music Festival, Pepsi Ampitheater (Sept. 15-16) and more events
A 3 day music festival in the cool pines of Flagstaff, AZ! Voted “BEST FLAGSTAFF FESTIVAL” for the last 5 years by readers of the Arizona Daily Sun. 10 a.m.
Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y seeks to connect community with help through variety of resource guides
By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth
COCONINO COUNTY — Whether it’s connecting families with local representatives from the Coconino County Health & Human Services’ Women’s, Infants and Children (WIC) program, to helping foster care families learn about potential scholarship programs for their youth, resource guides provide a valuable assistance to residents throughout Coconino County and Northern Arizona.
To spread the word about these valuable information options, CCC&Y has compiled a listing and link to a variety of resource guides throughout the region including CCC&Y’s created Page/Fredonia and Tuba City resource guides and the recently updated Williams Area Community Resource Guide.
Do you have a new or updated resource guide you would like to add to our listing posting? Please send an email to frank@coconinokids.org
Read More
Coconino County Public Works Online Surplus Property Auction Underway
Coconino County Public Works’ Fall online surplus property auction is now underway. The auction is open to the public and features items such as used trucks, heavy equipment, and other surplus County property that has met replacement guidelines.
The auction consists of three separate periods, each of which includes approximately 15 available vehicles/equipment.
Prescribed burns planned within Flagstaff City limits this fall
FLAGSTAFF — Prescribed burns will be conducted by the Flagstaff Fire Department on City-owned parcels within City limits this fall. While exact dates of the prescribed burns are weather-specific and cannot be established far in advance, these prescribed burns are generally anticipated to take place from mid-September to mid-November. More information on locations and dates will be shared on flagstaff.az.gov as dates become available.
Residents and visitors can expect smoke to be present in the area of prescribed burns. Fire managers will coordinate with neighboring national forests, national parks, fire districts, and the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality to monitor smoke impacts.
Inflation Reduction Act provides $258,000 to help protect native species in Grand Canyon National Park
GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park is working to remove invasive species and protect native species of fish in the Colorado River with $258,000 from the Inflation Reduction Act. This project is part of a nationwide effort to restore natural habitats and address climate change impacts.
In fiscal year 2023, President Biden’s Investing in America, through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act, will provide $52 million to the National Park Service to fund projects throughout the country related to ecosystem resilience, restoration, and environmental planning needs.
City of Flagstaff Neighborhood Sustainability Grants Open Sept. 1-30
FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff Sustainability Office and Sustainability Commission is pleased to announce that the annual application period for the Neighborhood Sustainability Grants Program is open from September 1st – 30th. The program inspires projects that enhance sustainability and foster community partnerships.
City begins Schultz Creek Channel Stabilization Project
FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff is pleased to announce the groundbreaking of the Schultz Creek Channel Stabilization Project between Elden Lookout Road and Highway 180. This stream restoration project will stabilize and restore the Schultz Creek channel, which was severely degraded during the 2022 Pipeline Fire and subsequent flooding events.
Channel stabilization restores the stream bank and bed, preventing erosion from moving sediment and debris into the Rio de Flag and Frances Short Pond. Frances Short Pond received over 5,000 cubic yards of ash, sediment, and debris since the Pipeline Fire, requiring a complete dredge and repair this year. The Schultz Creek Channel Stabilization Project will reduce the risk of further repairs at the pond and will also help to keep stormwater infrastructure clear and flowing.
Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up — Sept. 4-8, 2023
Water conservation measures remain in place for South Rim as tanks fill
On Tuesday, September 5, park managers implemented mandatory water conservation for the South Rim due to diminished water supplies in the South Rim holding tanks. This week, crews began to successfully pump water from Roaring Springs to the South Rim to replenish water stores. If tanks continue to fill, the NPS Water Utilities team anticipates being able to lift water conservation measures as early as next week. As a reminder, the following measures are in place for residents and all facilities on the South Rim.
County Recorder Patty Hansen Receives 2023 Leadership Award
COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Recorder, Patty Hansen, has been recognized as a 2023 Leader of the Year in Government by the Arizona Capitol Times. This award recognizes her recent achievements in her position as County Recorder.
Hansen has served as the Coconino County Recorder since 2013. She has over 36 years of experience working in election administration. She is a tireless advocate for striking down barriers for voting and expanding the voting franchise to all eligible citizens.
“It’s an honor to be recognized for recent accomplishments,” said Hansen. “My name may be on the award, but it really is a recognition of the hard work of the entire team in the Recorder’s office.”
Discover Flagstaff — Marauda on Sept. 7 at The Orpheum Theater and more events
Marauda, The Orpheum Theater
Hamish Prasad, also known as MARAUDA, is a bass music producer and DJ currently based in Sydney, Australia. MARAUDA creates tearout, deathstep, dubstep, trench and melodic dubstep. 8 p.m.
City of Flagstaff — Restoration work continues at Frances Short Pond
FLAGSTAFF — Restoration work at Frances Short Pond is ongoing and is scheduled to continue into the fall. This summer, the City removed over 5,000 cubic yards of ash and debris from post-wildfire flooding that had settled into Frances Short Pond. The City also repaired the retaining wall and improved drainage into the pond. This fall, the City is working to install electricity to deliver dissolved oxygen to the pond for fish. A valve will also be added to the pond to connect it with a future channel downstream. After this work is completed, the pond will be refilled and reopened to the public.
City of Flagstaff to begin Road Repair and Street Safety Program Phase II
FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff Streets Section will begin the second phase of the 2023 Road Repair and Street Safety (RRSS) program on Sept. 11. This program will address a number of roads in the City that have deteriorated and are in need of repair. In addition to street repairs, damaged multimodal infrastructure, such as sidewalks will also be repaired. The project will begin with the crack sealing, patching, utility lowering and concrete work. Once this initial work is completed, milling and paving operations will begin. The program is anticipated to last eight weeks, depending on weather conditions.
Logging, resurfacing operations continue along Rim Road
FLAGSTAFF — Motorists are asked to remain cognizant of log trucks, heavy machinery and timber debris as both logging and resurfacing operations continue along Rim Road (Forest Road 300) of the Coconino National Forest’s Mogollon Rim Ranger District (MRRD).
Resurfacing work is expected to last through mid-October.
Logging operations will run throughout the next decade as part of a long-term project aimed at restoration of the C.C. Cragin watershed.
Free use firewood collection area open near Flagstaff
FLAGSTAFF — Free firewood is available on a new area of the Coconino National Forest’s Flagstaff Ranger District for valid permit holders.
The free use area is located roughly 1.5 miles down Little Elden Springs Road (Forest Road 556). Directions are included in the attached map.
Collection areas are clearly marked. Free use permits are needed to collect wood and can be obtained by calling or visiting the Coconino National Forest’s Flagstaff Ranger Station located at 5057 N. Highway 89 during business hours.
The Flagstaff Ranger Station is open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday excluding federal holidays.
Due to limited staffing, permit seekers are advised to call the Flagstaff Ranger Station at 928-526-0866 before arrival to ensure permits can be processed that day.
Grand Canyon National Park initiates water conservation measures for South Rim
GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Effective immediately, Grand Canyon National Park will implement mandatory water conservation measures for the South Rim of the park. This is due to diminished water supplies. Crews continue to investigate challenges with water treatment and cannot pump water from Roaring Springs to the South Rim to replenish water stores. They are working to reestablish water treatment and ensure drinking water is safe for the public.
Water conservation measures require all park residents and visitors to conserve and reduce water usage wherever possible in homes, hotel rooms and campgrounds.
District 2 Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez July — August Newsletter
Message from Jeronimo
Visit the Coconino County Fair
District 2 Highlights
Preparation, Prevention, and Information
Service Positions & Job Listings
Services and Programs
And more!
Coconino County Parks & Recreation 2023 Update
Book Corner
After a long weekend at the Fair, relax with a good book!
Were you inspired by the animals at the Fair and also want a cozy book for the transition to autumn? All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot is the classic, heartfelt story of a Yorkshire veterinarian.
Children may like the timeless tale of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf, whose story of being yourself rings just as true today as in the 1920s.
Teens and tweens may enjoy Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White, the story of a farm pig’s unlikely friendship with a talented spider.
These and other great autumn reads can be found at your local library!
Flagstaff City – Coconino County Public Library — September is library card sign-up month!
September is library card sign-up month!
Visit the library to sign-up for a library card or get a free replacement card! One is never too young or too old for a library card. Check out all the fun for the entire family and spread the word to your friends and neighbors.
Look at the special events and activities we have going on throughout the month including ones commemorating our new front entrance!
LIBRARY CARDS & SERVICES ARE ALWAYS FREE