Category: Government

Tourism to Grand Canyon National Park contributed $759 million to local economy in 2022

GRAND CANYON — A new National Park Service (NPS) report shows that 4.7 million visitors to Grand Canyon National Park in 2022 spent an estimated $759 million in gateway regions near the park. This spending supported a total of 9,990 jobs, $346 million in labor income, $576 million in value added, and $1.0 billion in economic output in local gateway economies surrounding Grand Canyon National Park.

“Grand Canyon National Park continues to be an economic linchpin for local communities and the region surrounding the park,” said Superintendent Ed Keable. “We continue to heavily rely on the support of our neighbors and are proud to be able to help sustain local communities for many years to come.”

City of Flagstaff announces Westbound University Drive from NAU Lane Closure

FLAGSTAFF — Welcome back NAU students, parents, faculty, and staff!

The City of Flagstaff is currently constructing the Beulah/University Realignment Project. This two-and half-year project began in April 2023 and will continue through fall 2025.

In the current phase of the project, the westbound lane of University Drive is closed, between Knoles Drive and the western driveway entrance to Target, due to extensive underground construction and roadway demolition.

Board of Supervisors Adopts Final Tax Rate Schedule for Fiscal Year 2024

COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County Board of Supervisors (Board) unanimously approved and adopted the tax rate schedule for Fiscal Year 2024 (FY 24) and Tax Year 2023 for all special taxing jurisdictions for which Coconino County has authority to collect taxes.

Arizona Revised Statues mandate that an ordinance levying taxes for FY 24 be adopted no later than the third Monday in August 2023, and with this administrative action the Board has concluded the 2023-24 budget process.

Special taxing jurisdictions, often referred to as special districts, are created to fill a need and to enable the provision of services in an area that might otherwise be limited from receiving those services for various reasons, including size, location, financial limitations or unavailability of other government support. The formation of a special taxing district creates a funding stream to pay for the desired or necessary services by placing the responsibility on those who benefit from that service.

Coconino County — Flood Watch Aug. 18, Impacts from Tropical Storm Hilary this weekend

Coconino County communities might see more precipitation over the weekend and into next week as the result of Tropical Storm Hilary.

The Flood Control District, Public Works, and Coconino County Emergency Management are working closely with NWS Flagstaff to monitor potential rainfall and post-wildfire flooding in our towns and neighborhoods.

Be aware and stay safe, sign up emergency alerts from Coconino County at www.coconino.az.gov/ready

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-Up Week of Aug. 14

Kane Fire wrapping up

The Kane Fire, located about 13 miles southeast of Jacob Lake on the North Kaibab Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest, is currently about 2,854 acres and 84 percent contained.

The fire was detected on August 3 after a lightning storm, and fire managers immediately implemented a full suppression strategy. Ensuing precipitation over the next several days curtailed fire activity considerably, and a Type 3 team took over on Tuesday, August 15.

Current and expected fire activity is minimal, and crews are now focused on cleanup and suppression repair.

In the interest of public safety, a portion of the Kaibab Plateau area east of Highway 67 leading to the North Rim will remain closed. Highway 67 is open.

You can visit the Kaibab National Forest website or Facebook page, or InciWeb for more information.

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Busy Summer at Northern Arizona’s Regional Airports

It’s been a busy summer at northern Arizona’s three local airports, with changes in personnel, new facilities and extensive improvement work to enable these facilities to better serve our region.

At Flagstaff Pulliam Airport, Brian Gall became the new Airport Director in late April. He had previously been the airport’s Program Manager and his career has included serving as a Development Engineering Project Manager for the City of Flagstaff and being an engineer for both the Coconino and Kaibab National Forests.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Your membership, donations support the work of CCC&Y

COCONINO COUNTY —
We imagine a world where every person lives in peace and is supported by a thriving, resilient community. The purpose of CCC&Y is bold and your help is needed.

When you become a member of CCC&Y, your financial contribution helps cultivate and strengthen well-informed communities by providing education and resources, bringing stakeholders together, building new systems of communication and more.
CCC&Y is building an inclusive movement of people dedicated to transforming and healing our communities.

Through leadership, education and advocacy. By becoming a member you add your name to an expansive list of individuals, families, businesses and organizations who are igniting collective action that creates better lives for children and families.

Please visit Membership Options

Make an Online Donation

Remember, CCC&Y is a non-profit organization with a 501(c)(3) status-so your contributions are tax deductible eligible. Please consult your tax professional.

Fire restrictions lifted across Coconino, Kaibab NFs

FLAGSTAFF — As of 8 a.m. (Tuesday, Aug. 15), the Coconino and Kaibab national forests have lifted all fire restrictions. Stage 1 restrictions had been in place across Coconino National Forest and the Williams Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest since June 29.

Fire managers continually evaluate conditions across the forest to help determine when to implement or rescind fire restrictions. Enough rain has fallen across the forest to increase fuel moisture levels and decrease fire danger. The forecast shows these improved conditions continuing.

City of Flagstaff lifts fire restrictions

LAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff will lift current firerestrictions and return to Stage 0 fire restrictions on Tuesday,August 15 at 8:00 a.m.

Under Stage 0 fire restrictions,

Smoking and use of electronic cigarettes are prohibitedin all public places within the City of Flagstaff, includingCity Parks, Open Spaces, and the Flagstaff Urban TrailSystem (FUTS) at all times.
Residents and visitors should not throw cigarettes or matches outof a moving vehicle. They may ignite dry grass on the side of theroad and become a wildfire. All outdoor fires should beextinguished properly by drowning fires with plenty of water andstirring to make sure everything is cold to the touch. Charcoalshould be dunked in water until cold. Do not throw live charcoalon the ground and leave it.

Board of Supervisors Unanimously Approves County Short-Term Rental Ordinance

COCONINO COUNTY — Following completion of their regular business Tuesday night, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors held a final public hearing regarding Ordinance 2023-22 before voting unanimously to adopt the new regulations for Short-Term Rentals in the County.

The ordinance will now take effect after 120 days on November 14, 2023. 

The ordinance clearly defines a Short-Term or Vacation Rental as the short-term rental of any dwelling or portion of any dwelling for a period of less than 30 consecutive days. Further, Vacation Rentals are only permitted in habitable dwellings permitted by the County. This means that garages, sheds, tents, temporary travel trailers and recreational vehicles, temporary structures, or other structures that do not meet the standards for a dwelling may not be rented. 

NAU conducting bilingual survey on wildfire, post-fire flooding information

FLAGSTAFF — Northern Arizona University is conducting  a study to better understand the Greater Flagstaff-area residents’ experiences and opinions of wildfire and/or post-fire flooding information. We are trying to reach as many community members as possible to understand similarities and differences experienced by different neighborhoods, demographics, and home ownerships (e.g., renter, homeowner) to inform future wildfire and flooding information and serve the diversity of people who live in the Flagstaff area.

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Last Chance to RSVP for Advisory Council Meeting with Mexico & Canada Consuls

Time is running out to RSVP for next week’s meeting of the ECoNA Advisory Council, which will feature conversation with the Consul General of Mexico in Phoenix, Jorge Mendoza Yescas, and Glenn Williamson, former Honorary Consul of Canada for Arizona and the founder and CEO of the Canada Arizona Business Council.

Grand Canyon National Park — Weekly Wrap-Up Week of Aug. 7, 2023

On Tuesday, August 8, 2023, President Biden visited the park after announcing the designation of the Baaj Nwaavjo I’tah Kukveni – Ancestral Footprints of the Grand Canyon as a National Monument.  Baaj nwaavjo means “where Indigenous peoples roam” in the Havasupai language, and i’tah kukvenimeans “our ancestral footprints” in the Hopi language. The new monument encompasses about 917,618 acres of the Kaibab National Forest (both north and south of the park) and portions of the Bureau of Land Management Arizona Strip District (BLM), lands already part of the 2012 mineral withdrawal Environmental Impact Statement.  These lands will continue to be managed by the BLM and the U.S. Forest Service, and Tribal Nations will be included in decisions about managing the areas. The national monument only includes federal lands and does not include State and private lands within the boundary.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future — Vote No on Prop. 480 Campaign Kick-off This Saturday

Flagstaff Community First will hold their No on Prop. 480 campaign kick-off on Saturday at Bushmaster Park’s Community Ramada.

Flagstaff Community First is the political action committee composed of local organizations, including F3, and individuals that spearheaded the collection and delivery of more than 5,000 voter signatures to the City Clerk in July. That effort has ensured that the citizens of Flagstaff have a voice in determining if the City Council’s approval to rezone 98 acres of land just north of Ft Tuthill will stand.

This citizens’ referendum will be included on the November 7, 2023 mail-in ballot as Proposition 480. A “NO” vote on Prop. 480 will overturn Council’s decision allowing the rezoning of the 98 acres (Phase I) of the Northern Arizona Healthcare Corporation (NAH) proposed new hospital and ambulatory care center. Phase I is the first step in NAH’s proposed two phased medical and commercial complex.

City of Flagstaff announces utility relocation project at the intersection of Fourth Street and Cedar/Lockett

FLAGSTAFF — Unisource Energy will be conducting a utilityrelocation project at the intersection of Fourth Street andCedar/Lockett. The northbound lane of Fourth Street will be closedto all traffic at the north leg of the Cedar/Lockett intersection.Traffic accessing MEMS, Puente de Hozho and residencesbetween Linda Vista Drive and the closure must utilize detourroutes to access those locations from Linda Vista Drive. Thesouthbound lane of Fourth Street will remain open throughout theduration of the project allowing traffic to exit the schools andresidences of this area to the south. The project schedule is August10 through September 8.

City of Flagstaff provides Beulah/University Realignment Project Update

FLAGSTAFF — Starting Monday, August 14, UniversityAvenue will be closed to all traffic between Yale Street and theeastern driveway entrance to the Woodlands Village Apartments.Motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists are asked to follow themarked signage to get to their destination (Map Below and Attached). This closure will allow crews to begin removing theexisting asphalt pavement along the section of University Avenuethat will connect to the future roundabout. Following roadwayexcavation, crews will begin utility installation.

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

City of Flagstaff announces Beautification in Action grant opportunity for projects that enhance, revitalize public spaces

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff’s Beautification, Arts and Sciences program invites artists, community members, community groups, schools and local businesses to apply for a Beautification in Action (BIA) grant. Applications will be accepted through Sept. 15 at 5 p.m. Up to $4,500 is available per project.

Projects that enliven and revitalize the urban environment can take the form of community gardens, neighborhood paths, benches, sculptures, murals and more. Priority will be given to community-initiated projects that provide a lasting impact—fostering cultural connections, strengthening neighborhood awareness and identity, and deepening how residents and visitors interact with the built environment. All projects must be publicly and visually accessible.

Staging to begin at the ‘wedge’ for Spruce Wash Improvements flood mitigation projects

FLAGSTAFF — In preparation for the construction of the Spruce Wash Improvements flood mitigation projects, during the week of August 14 crews will begin clearing trees and vegetation in a portion of the area known as the “wedge”. The “wedge” is the City-owned, triangle-shaped parcel bound by N West St, E Linda Vista Dr and E Cedar Ave. Crews will only be removing trees in an area within the footprint of the future Wedge Detention Basin project.

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Business Community, Please RSVP today for Aug. 16 meeting with Mexico & Canada Consuls

You are cordially invited to the next meeting of the ECoNA Advisory Council, where our featured speakers will be the Consul General of Mexico in Phoenix, Jorge Mendoza Yescas, and Glenn Williamson, former Honorary Consul of Canada for Arizona and the founder and CEO of the Canada Arizona Business Council.
We are extending this invitation to the entire business community because of the importance of these two countries to our state and regional economy.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-Up Week of July 31

   A welcome break from the summer heat

After our recent rainfall, Grand Canyon is no longer in an excessive heat warning, but Stage 1 fire and smoking restrictions are still in effect for the Coconino National Forest and the Williams Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest. Additionally, all undeveloped areas of Coconino County, the Town of Tusayan, and the City of Flagstaff are also in fire restrictions. *Please note, at this time the Tusayan Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest has no fire restrictions in effect.  

Grand Canyon National Park remains in Stage 1 fire restrictions, as it is year-round, which means fires, campfires, charcoal, coal and wood stoves are prohibited, except within a developed campground site.

Coconino County Honored Again as 2023 NACo Digital Counties Survey Winner

Coconino County is pleased to share the exciting news that we have again been recognized as one of the top counties in the United States for deploying digital technology practices for better government …

… in the 2023 National Association of Counties (NACo) Digital Counties Survey, conducted by the Center for Digital Government. 

This is the fourth consecutive year Coconino County has placed in the Top 10 counties in the up to 150,000 population category. The County is being recognized for Aligned Leadership, Cybersecurity, Constituent Centric, Data Driven Government, IT Investments, Resilience, Workforce Planning, Continuous Innovation, Connected Infrastructure, and Business Process Alignment.

Public Notice and Request for Comments – City of Flagstaff Housing Section Limited English Proficiency Language Assistance Plan – Complete Revision

FLAGSTAFF — This public notice is to inform City of Flagstaff Housing Section stakeholders of the complete revision of the Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Implementation Plan. The plan is now called Limited English Proficiency Language Access Plan (LEP LAP) and is open for stakeholder input from the date of this notice through August 31, 2023.

The complete revision was undertaken by Housing Section staff at this time primarily to continue to ensure meaningful access for LEP persons to all Housing Section programs and activities.

Coconino County Parks & Recreation July 2023 Update

Last Month Before the Coconino County Fair!

The Coconino County Fair is only one month away!

Are you exhibiting at the Fair? Don’t miss the deadlines for exhibit entries this month! Visit www.CoconinoCountyFair.com for deadlines, listed in our Fair Book!

Your last chance to get discounted tickets is now!

Online Early Bird admission tickets are SOLD OUT!

Buy Early Bird tickets (cash only) at Bookmans Flagstaff Entertainment Exchange while supplies last!

Discounted carnival wrist bands are still available at Bookmans Flagstaff and www.CoconinoCountyFair.com, while supplies last!

Don’t sleep on these discounts!

Want to save time parking? Buy your parking pass online, to hasten the wait time!

Coconino County Flood Control District Reports Successful Performance of Flood Mitigation

COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County Flood Control District (District) recently completed upwards of $35 million in on-forest watershed restoration and neighborhood flood mitigation in five flood corridors including Phase 1 of the Schultz Creek on-forest measures.

The Wupatki Trails and Brandis Way watersheds experienced 100-year rainfall events today, July 30, with a total of three inches of rainfall in two hours, with most of the rainfall concentrated in the first hour. The District is pleased to report this evening the recently completed measures both on- and off-forest performed exceptionally well with no flood impacts to roads or private property in those areas. 

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-Up Week of 7/24 – 7/28

Coconino Fire burns close to park

On Thursday, July 27, a wildfire was reported approximately 5 miles southwest of Grand Canyon Village.

The Coconino Fire is a lightning caused fire first detected around 10 a.m. on the Kaibab National Forest.  The fire is currently estimated at approximately 118 acres.

Fire crews from the Kaibab National Forest and Grand Canyon National Park responded quickly and aggressively, with containment estimated at 40%.

An Incident Management Team was mobilized in the park in case an evacuation order was given.

At this time, fire managers are confident that the fire is under control.

For more information, you can check our Facebook page or call 928-638-7688 for the latest updates.

While this fire never materialized into a credible threat, it serves as a great reminder to review the Ready-Set-Go evacuation plans and procedures for you and your family.  We would also encourage Grand Canyon and Tusayan residents to sign up for Coconino County emergency notifications. Please help yourself and the community in becoming prepared and ready for a wildland fire.

Heavy rains, flash flooding expected in Northern Arizona starting Sunday, July 30

By Coconino County

Check for a monsoon update from the US National Weather Service Flagstaff Arizona.

It looks like we may be in store for some rain soon! Visit Http://www.ready.gov/plan to learn how to make a plan in case of flooding or other emergency events. Sign up for emergency notifications from Coconino County at http://www.coconino.az.gov/ready.

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA)’s Gail Jackson to be part of the 15th cohort of the Flinn-Brown Fellowship

Typically, my e-newsletters to you are reserved to talk about our region and the work that the diverse leadership of the Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona is doing to maintain and expand economic vitality here.
Today, however, I want to share a little bit of personal news that I think will also benefit our efforts.
I’m honored to announce that starting next month, I will be part of the 15th cohort of the Flinn-Brown Fellowship. This is an extraordinary opportunity to connect with 27 other civic leaders throughout the state and gain a deeper understanding of policies as we work to address Arizona’s long-term issues.

Data Collection Project for Paved County-Maintained Roads Underway

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Public Works recently kicked off a project to inventory the condition of over 300 miles of paved roads that are maintained by Coconino County.

To accomplish the data collection component of this project, the County retained the services of Roadway Asset Services, LLC (RAS), a firm that provides professional asset management and mobile data collection services to local and state government agencies nationwide.

Coconino County Officials Remember Former Supervisor Teofilo ‘Tio’ A. Tachias

COCONINO COUNTY — Members of the Coconino County Board of Supervisors (Board) and long-serving staff members took time to remember and recognize former member of the Board, Teofilo “Tio” A. Tachias upon hearing news of his passing earlier this month.

First elected in 1965, Tachias was the first Latino in Coconino County to win a major election and the first to serve on the Board of Supervisors. In his 24 years of service on the Board, he oversaw the expansion of County facilities and services, including the growth from three-district to five-district representation in County government. Tachias left office in 1989 to pursue other interests. 

Downtown Library front entry plaza re-opens, exceeding ADA standards and featuring public art

FLAGSTAFF — The front entry plaza at the downtown location of the Flagstaff City – Coconino County Public Library (300 W. Aspen Ave.) has reopened to the public.

The project involved the installation of new gently sloping sidewalks and parking that meet and exceed accessibility standards set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Beautification elements and sculptures by artist Maria Salenger of Jones Studio trail alongside the gently sloping walkways, concluding at a new public seating area near the library entrance.

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Save the Date: Mexico & Canada Consuls in Flagstaff on Aug. 16

The Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona is pleased to announce that the featured speakers for its August 16 Advisory Council meeting will be the Consul General of Mexico, Jorge Mendoza Yescas, and Glenn Williamson, the founder and CEO of the Canada Arizona Business Council.

Both men have decades of diplomatic service between them and are uniquely versed in the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, which created one of the world’s largest free trade zones.

We are extending this invitation to the entire business community because of the importance of these two countries to our state and regional economy. The meeting will be held from 1-2:30 pm in the City of Flagstaff Council Chambers, 211 W. Aspen Ave.

Coconino County can help Income eligible individuals repair/replace utility-related appliances, systems

COCONINO COUNTY — Income eligible individuals can contact Coconino County Health and Human Services for financial assistance to repair or replace broken appliances including:

Water Heaters, Refrigerators, Cooking Stoves
Microwaves, Furnaces, Air Conditioners
Home Telephone (Landline Only), Washers/Dryers
Evaporative Coolers, Electrical Panels

Slayton Ranch Road – Rio de Flag Crossing Reopens

FLAGSTAFF — A new and improved Rio de Flag crossing at Slayton Ranch Road opened to traffic (July 20) less than four months after the old crossing was washed away by heavy snowmelt flows.

The $552,000 Slayton Ranch Road – Rio De Flag Crossing Improvement Project features an upsized drainage structure to better accommodate future flows in the Rio.     The project, which broke ground in early May, includes a cast-in-place concrete arch structure under Slayton Ranch Road along with headwalls and water inlet and outlet protection. 

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: July 17-21, 2023

Fire restrictions and heat danger continue through the weekend

Stage 1 fire and smoking restrictions remain in effect on the entirety of the Coconino National Forest and the Williams Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest. Additionally, all undeveloped areas of Coconino County, the Town of Tusayan, and the City of Flagstaff are also in fire restrictions. *Please note, at this time the Tusayan Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest has no fire restrictions in effect.
Grand Canyon National Park remains in Stage 1 fire restrictions, as it is year-round, which means fires, campfires, charcoal, coal and wood stoves are prohibited, except within a developed campground site.
Through Monday, July 24, an Excessive Heat Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service for elevations at and below 4,000 feet in the Grand Canyon.
All Xanterra passenger mule rides to Phantom Ranch continue to be cancelled through at least July 24.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y seeks to connect community with help through variety of resource guides

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

Flagstaff City – Coconino County Public Library — Happening at Your Library 7/18/23

View this email in your browser July 18th, 2023 Connect with your community Announcement Adult & All-Ages Events Youth Events Self-Paced Activities Book Clubs Technology Help To request a reasonable accommodation for any type of disability, please call 928-213-2331 (Downtown…

Flagstaff Pulliam Airport enhances travel experience with new paid parking system and economy lot

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) is pleased to announce the implementation of a new paid parking system, accompanied by the opening of the Economy Lot. The additional parking capacity aims to provide a smoother and more convenient experience for travelers, offering ample parking space and affordable rates. The opening of the additional Economy Lot more than doubles the airport’s parking.

District 1 Supervisor Patrice Horstman — June/July 2023 District 1 Newsletter

IN THIS ISSUE
Accessibility View
Text Cover Lockett Meadow pond and peaks (002)-fotor-2023071492425.jpg
June/July 2023 District 1
Newsletter
In This Issue
Hello From Supervisor Horstman
Short Term Rental Ordinance Public Hearing
Board Adopts Budget For FY 2024
Horstman Travels To DC To Advocate For Grand
Canyon National Monument
NACo Fellowship Program Brings White House
And Congressional Leadership Staff To Coconino
County
County Recognition For COVID-19 Response
Western Interstate Explores Public Lands.
Stage One Fire Restrictions In Effect NOW!
Flood Control District Update
Mount Elden Lookout Road Drainage
Improvement Project is On Schedule.
Snowbowl Rd. Drainage Improvement Project
Westwood Estates Pavement Preservation
Update
Tiny Home Village Zoning Approved In Tusayan
KinderCamp Prepares Our Preschoolers For
Kindergarten
June Celebrates Diversity, Inclusion: Juneteenth
Celebration And Pride Month
July 4th Celebrated In Coconino County Style
Community Events and Resources

Coconino County Parks & Recreation in Discussions to Manage Gonzalez Ranch Property in Williams

COCONINO COUNTY — The creation of a new County-maintained natural area is one step closer to fruition, as an agreement between the owners of Gonzalez Ranch and Trust for Public Land (TPL), a national nonprofit organization, to donate a 488-acre property and permanently preserve it as recreational open space, is expected to move forward in the next several weeks. The parcel, located adjacent to Interstate 40 north of Williams, Ariz., has been the subject of speculation over its possible development in recent years. … The future park at Gonzalez Ranch will honor the story of the Gonzalez family which immigrated from Spain and settled the land in the early 1900s.  

Board of Supervisors to Vote on County Short-Term Rental Ordinance at August 8 Public Hearing

COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County Board of Supervisors (Board) will hold a third public hearing followed by a vote on the final draft of a County-wide ordinance aimed at regulating the operation of short-term rental properties in unincorporated neighborhoods.

At their upcoming meeting August 8, 2023 the Coconino County Board of Supervisors (Board) will hold a third public hearing followed by a vote on the final draft of a County-wide ordinance aimed at regulating the operation of short-term rental properties in unincorporated neighborhoods of Coconino County. If approved by the Board, it will soon be unlawful to rent, or to offer to rent, a vacation or short-term rental property without first complying with the provisions of the ordinance. The purpose of this ordinance will be to protect the public health, safety, and welfare of owners and users of vacation and short-term rental properties in the unincorporated area of the County, and to protect the residential character of neighborhoods and surroundings that are adjacent to vacation and short-term rental use.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: July 10-14, 2023

New Trail Alert QR codes posted at trailheads

This week, in collaboration with the Grand Canyon Office of Communications and the PEP Division, the Preventive Search and Rescue (PSAR) team launched new QR codes posted to trailhead signs. Visitors can simply scan the Trail Alert barcode using a digital device that will take them to our trails webpage that is updated daily. Information on the webpage will include trail alerts, weather, safety messages, and tips on how visitors can hike smart.

If you interact with the public, feel free to disseminate and use this flyer that contains the QR code. Visit the new webpage here: https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/key-messages.htm.

Flagstaff seeking input on budgeting objectives that influence how the City spends taxpayer dollars. Online survey, meetings July 20, 27

The City of Flagstaff is seeking feedback from the public on the Objectives used in its Priority Based Budgeting (PBB) system. Public comments will be accepted through Aug. 4 via an online survey. The City also invites the public to attend two open houses where staff will be available to discuss the PBB Objectives and to answer questions. The dates, times, and locations are below:

Thursday July 20 from 4 – 6:30 p.m. at the Flagstaff Aquaplex (1702 N Fourth St,)
Thursday July 27 from 4 – 6:30 p.m. at the Murdoch Center (203 E Brannen Ave)

Grand Canyon to move overnight backcountry reservations to Recreation.gov

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park plans to move its overnight backcountry reservation system to Recreation.gov for all calendar year 2024 and later permits. This move will help streamline the backcountry permitting process by allowing around 80% of backcountry permits to be directly reserved and paid for online.

The new system will provide applicants with greater control and add additional transparency. Applicants will no longer need to submit applications by fax and wait up to a month for the thousands of requests to be considered manually by park staff.

“Moving our backcountry permits to Recreation.gov has many important advantages. We are pleased to be able to modernize our permit process while keeping visitor safety and resource preservation our top priority,” said Park Superintendent Ed Keable. 

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y thanks those who have served our community

By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth

The Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth would like to thank those individuals who have served our organization and our community in supporting our mission — We ignite collective action that creates better lives for children and families.

Special thanks go to outgoing CCC&Y Executive Committee President Peter Van Wyck, BA, Regional Director, First Things First; outgoing CCC&Y Executive Committee Vice President Jennifer Hernandez, Project Manager, Center for the Future of Arizona and outgoing CCC&Y Executive Committee Treasurer Theresa Kulpinski, Program Manager for Coconino County Health & Human Services.

Read More

Coconino County and City of Flagstaff Successfully Test Siren System Enhancements

COCONINO COUNTY — Recently, Coconino County and the City of Flagstaff completed a successful test of the flash flooding siren system along Spruce Wash. This test ensured that critical system enhancements functioned properly prior to the 2023 monsoon season.

Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS) closures scheduled near Frances Short Pond to allow for dredging

FLAGSTAFF — Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS) segments near Frances Short Pond will be closed effective Tuesday, July 11 for the safety of the public during dredging work at the pond. The impacted FUTS segments will be reopened after the dredging work is complete, which is anticipated by the beginning of August.

Biden-Harris Administration Announces $27.5 Million for Grand Canyon National Park Shuttle Bus Fleet Replacement Project as Part of President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has announced the award of $27.5 million to the National Park Service (NPS) for the Grand Canyon National Park Shuttle Bus Fleet Replacement project in Arizona. The project includes 30 new buses, including 10 new battery electric buses and 20 new compressed natural gas (CNG) buses, to replace the current aging fleet and the installation of charging infrastructure to support the new electric buses. An estimated 6 million people visit the park each year and use the free shuttle buses to access destinations throughout the Grand Canyon.

“Grand Canyon National Park is one of our most beloved national parks,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. “This grant, made possible by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will help ensure safe and reliable bus service for park visitors for decades to come.”

Lake Mary Road Mill & Fill Project Starts Monday

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County’s contractor is preparing to break ground on the Lake Mary Road Mill & Fill Project.

This $1.95 million project will replace the existing pavement in travel lanes along the 6.4-mile stretch of Lake Mary Road from the Flagstaff city limits south to approximately Milepost (MP) 333, which is just north of the Upper Lake Mary boat dock and recreation area.

C & E Paving & Grading is scheduled to work weekdays during daylight hours with some weekend work possible. Traffic control will be in place to guide vehicles through the construction zone.

Coconino National Forest and City of Flagstaff to partner on Inner Basin water pipeline repair

FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest’s Flagstaff Ranger District and the City of Flagstaff will both soon begin repairing flood damage to the Inner Basin water pipeline and along nearby forest roads.

The pipeline, which was damaged due to post-wildfire flooding caused by the 2022 Pipeline Fire, has been losing millions of gallons of water each day.

The project – formally titled the Inner Basin Waterline Post Fire Repairs Road Reconstruction Project – is outlined in a decision memo that was recently signed into effect by Coconino NF Supervisor Aaron Mayville.

Please Join Friends of Flagstaff’s Future Thursday, July 6, at 12:30 on the Steps of City Hall

Flagstaff Community First, a broad coalition of organizations (including F3) and individuals advocating for accessible, quality health care in Flagstaff and the region, will deliver of over 4,800 signatures to the City Clerk (on July 6) to place a referendum on the ballot.

The referendum will allow the public to weigh in on City Council’s June 6 rezoning decision that gave Northern Arizona Healthcare the go-ahead to move the hospital from the center of town. Flagstaff Community First launched the petition drive in order to refer the zoning decision to a vote of the public. 

Discover Flagstaff — First Friday ArtWalk, Heritage Square on July 7, other eventsStroll throughout Downtown Flagstaff to see and purchase paintings, jewelry, woodwork, ceramics, and more! 5 p.m. Free

Stroll throughout Downtown Flagstaff to see and purchase paintings, jewelry, woodwork, ceramics, and more! 5 p.m. Free.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Vitalist Spark podcast presents ‘Systems Change Takes Time: Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth’

By the Vitalist Spark podcast 

During this episode of the Vitalyst Spark Podcast, we will be exploring systems change and talking to 2023 Systems Change Grant recipient Coconino Coalition for Children and Youth to talk to us about their Self-Healing Community System and Policy Change in Coconino County initiative.

We will be joined by members of the Coalition, including Virginia Watahomigie, Executive Director; Becky Daggett, Mayor of Flagstaff; and Andrea Meronuck, Clinical Director with Northland Family Help Center.

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District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler Newsletter

Dear District 5 Residents,

As we transition into the planting season and celebrate our graduates’ achievements, I am again reminded of the Navajo teachings of T’áá hwó’ ají t’éego, “It is up to you.” Whether preparing for uncertain times ahead or getting ready for a change in season, this teaching rings true – it is up to us to take essential steps to ensure our lives’ safety, security, and structure. In this time of preparation, Coconino County and my office are committed to meeting each of you on those steps.

For those in Coconino County who need assistance in flood preparation or mitigation, looking to sign up for important emergency alerts, browse the various health and assistance programs available from Health and Human Services, or keep up with the Board of Supervisors meetings and even watch us live, please visit our website www.coconino.az.gov. For all County resources, it is a significant first step.

Discover Flagstaff — July 1-3 Flagstaff Art in the Park, Wheeler Park and other 4th of July events

Tuesday, July 4 Flag 4th Fest, Fort Tuthill County Park. Laser Light Show and family activities at Fort Tuthill County Park! Presented by City of Flagstaff. 5 p.m. Free. 928-679-8000 • flagstaff.az.gov
Tuesday, July 4 Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce Independence Day Parade, Downtown Flagstaff. Show off your red, white, and blue at the parade! 9 a.m. Free. 928-774-4505 • flagstaffchamber.com

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up — June 26-30

Fire restrictions go into effect across Northern Arizona; Grand Canyon NP remains in stage 1

Beginning Thursday, June 29, Stage 1 fire and smoking restrictions will be in effect on the entirety of the Coconino National Forest and the Tusayan and Williams Ranger District of the Kaibab National Forest. Additionally, all undeveloped areas of Coconino County, the Town of Tusayan, and the City of Flagstaff will also be in fire restrictions on this date.