Category: Government

City of Flagstaff launches revised public input process for the Greater Observatory Mesa Trail Plan Draft

The City of Flagstaff is revising the public input process for the Greater Observatory Mesa Draft Trail Plan. As part of the revised process, City staff will schedule additional meetings with adjacent neighborhoods and stakeholders to allow for in-depth discussions on initial feedback. The current survey on the Flagstaff Community Forum site will be closed and previously announced public meetings will be rescheduled to a later date. An updated version of the draft plan will then be shared with the public for review and feedback.

United Way of Northern Arizona — How Agencies Came Together During This Fire Season

In less than two months this spring, three major wildfires dominated our news as they charred land, displaced residents, and destroyed structures in their path.

One of the few silver linings during those eight weeks was how well individuals, nonprofit organizations and local governments came together to deal with the crises.

“What I find in Coconino County is that everyone works together like a family,” said Joel Bunis, who joined Coconino County Health and Human Services in January as its Outbreak Response Division Manager. “It’s all about connecting people with what they need.”

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Early registration ends on July 24 for First Things First’s Early Childhood Summitt on Aug. 18

By First Things First

You have two weeks left to register at the early registration rate of $45 for the virtual First Things First Early Childhood Summit 2022. The standard registration rate increases to $55 on July 24.

FTF EARLY CHILDHOOD SUMMIT | AUGUST 18, 2022

You won’t want to miss keynote speakers Liz + Mollie. Based on their book, “Big Feelings,” their session will provide participants with tactical tips for how to combat burnout and effectively navigate uncertainty.

All Summit attendees will have access to all of the recorded sessions up to 60 days after the event.

Register today!

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Grand Canyon National Park ALERT: Roaring Springs System Failure to Meet Water Treatment Requirements; No potable water available along North Kaibab Trail

Grand Canyon National Park’s water system recently violated a drinking water requirement. Although this incident was not an emergency, as our customers, you have a right to know what happened and what we did to correct this situation.

On the morning of July 13, 2022, for more than 4 hours, we did not meet one or our treatment requirements to provide sufficient levels of disinfectant due to a waterline break near Ribbon Falls on the North Kaibab Trail. The break triggered loss of the chlorination and pressure for pumping in sections of the waterline, impacting the following areas: Manzanita, Cottonwood, Phantom Ranch, and the North Rim.

What should I do?

Grand Canyon National Park’s North Rim returns to normal water operations

Park staff and contractors have successfully repaired the electrical system that supports water delivery from the Roaring Springs Pumphouse to the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. Water restrictions have been removed and the park has resumed basic water conservation measures.

An electrical failure north of Roaring Springs was identified on June 26, resulting in limited water services and water conservation measures. 

Grand Canyon National Park always operates under water conservation measures, encouraging all residents, visitors, and businesses to mindfully use water and adopt basic water conservation practices. 

Invasive smallmouth bass found in Colorado River below Glen Canyon Dam

On July 1, 2022, juvenile smallmouth bass were found in the Colorado River below the Glen Canyon Dam. Smallmouth bass are a predatory non-native fish that have adversely impacted native and federally protected fish in the upper basin of the Colorado River over the last 20 years. The National Park Service (NPS) is working closely with partners and stakeholders to coordinate rapid response actions to address this finding in accordance with previously approved management plans.

Early Voting For State Primary Election Has Begun

Early voting for the August 2, 2022 Primary Election started Wednesday, July 6.  The Coconino County Recorder’s office mailed out over 47,000 early ballots to voters on the active early voting list (AEVL) and those who have requested a single election early ballot for the Primary Election.    

“Early voters decide how they want to return their voted early ballot:  by mail; by dropping it off in a ballot drop box or at an early voting location; or dropping it off at any polling location in the county on Election Day.  There has been a lot of misinformation about fraud associated with early voting.  This is just not true,” states Coconino County Recorder Patty Hansen.  “We have numerous safeguards and procedures in place that would catch anyone trying to cast fraudulent early ballots.” 

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future — Mayoral Forum Recording, City Bonds, JW Powell and more!

It’s been a packed couple of months and there’s a lot of information in this newsletter. This newsletter contains important updates and multiple opportunities for community input into important city projects. I encourage you to take time to read it!

In This Issue:
F3 Mayoral Candidate Forum Recording Available
Pipeline Fire Flooding Updates
City Bonds on November Ballot
Update: JW Powell Blvd Extension
Update: Pilot Bike Lanes Program, Beaver and Butler Avenues
Lone Tree Overpass Design Public Meetings in July
Apply for Flagstaff’s Climate Equity Advisory Committee
Community Input Sought
Featured Nonprofit: Townsite Community Land Trust

Urgent Call for Sandbag Volunteers

Coconino County’s Flood Control District, in partnership with the United Way of Northern Arizona, are once again making an urgent request for volunteers to help fill and place sandbags to mitigate the serious threat of post-wildfire flooding threatening homes in the Timberline, Wupatki Trails, Fernwood and Doney Park areas.

Beginning Saturday July 9, and operating daily through at least July 17, the United Way will be organizing volunteer events in an ongoing effort to meet the anticipated need of 800,000 sandbags as soon as possible.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: July 4-8, 2022

Masking requirement indoors remains in place

Grand Canyon NP has been directed by the Department of Interior (DOI) to use Center of Disease Controls (CDC) COVID Community Levels to put in place guidance and masking requirements to protect our community, park employees, and visitors. Last week the CDC COVID Community Levels were High for the first time since this metric was used. Consequently, we were required to implemented masking for all individuals over the age of two, regardless of vaccination status, in all park buildings and in public transportation per DOI policy. As of Thursday, July 7, Coconino County has transitioned into Medium Community Level.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — ​​​​​​​Arizona Voter Information Portal — Are you ready to vote?

By the Arizona Voter Information Portal

The Arizona Primary Election is coming up on Tuesday, August 2! Take a moment to get ready to vote.

Check your registration status ASAP to make sure it matches your current address: https://tvote.org/3czO01W.
Still need to register to vote? Go to your state’s registration website.
Register online on or before Tuesday, July 5 to vote in this election.
Request your mail ballot; or
Any voter in your state can request an early/mail-in ballot. You can request an early/mail-in ballot online: https://tvote.org/2uFCvpc.
We recommend you request your early/mail-in ballot at least two weeks before the Friday, July 22 deadline to make sure you have time to receive and cast your ballot before the election.
Make a plan to vote in person.
Did you know you can vote early from Wednesday, July 6 to Friday, July 29? (Dates and times may vary by location.) Learn more about where you can vote early in your area: https://tvote.org/2Wn1pp9.
Planning to vote on Election Day? Great. We’ll send info about your voting location the day before the election so you know where to go.
Read More

Flood risk assessment map available for Pipeline West area

Some homes and businesses in Flagstaff face a heightened risk of post wildfire flooding due to the Pipeline Fire. Residents who live in the northwest area of Flagstaff, including the neighborhoods of Creighton Estates, Forest Hills, Lynwood, Cheshire, Valley Crest, Coyote Springs, Ridge Crest, Coconino Estates, and Rock Ridge Estates are encouraged to visit flagstaff.az.gov/PipelineWest to view the flood risk assessment map and determine how their residence is impacted. 

United Airlines suspending service at Flagstaff Pulliam Airport beginning Oct. 30, 2022

United Airlines has announced plans to suspend service at Flagstaff Pulliam Airport and will review after six months. United Airlines currently provides direct service to and from Denver, Colorado and will continue service through the end of October 2022.

“We are disappointed to hear that United Airlines has plans to suspend service in and out of Flagstaff,” said Barney Helmick, Flagstaff Pulliam Airport Director. “Unfortunately, the airline industry is seeing service reductions nationwide due to increasing fuel prices and staffing issues. United flights out of Flagstaff are at 90% load capacity, meaning 90% of the seats are filled which is viewed as very successful in the commercial airline industry. We will continue to stay in contact with United during 2022 in hopes we can reestablish service in 2023.”

Voter Registration Deadline is July 5 for August 2 Primary Election

The deadline for Coconino County residents to register to vote in the Aug. 2 Primary Election is Tuesday, July 5. 

The qualifications to become a registered voter are:  You must be a U.S. citizen; be 18 years old by Election Day; reside within Coconino County; and not have any felony convictions, unless your civil rights have been restored. 

Registered voters who have moved, changed their name or wish to change their political party affiliation must re-register by the voter registration deadline. 

Testing of Voting Equipment Resumes Tuesday

The Arizona Secretary of State’s office, in cooperation with the Coconino County Elections Department, is in the process of conducting its mandated Logic and Accuracy Test of the ballots, tabulation equipment, program, and accessible voting equipment for the August 2, 2022, Primary Election in Coconino County.

Board of Supervisors Adopts FY 2023 Budget, New Fiscal Year Begins

The Coconino County Board of Supervisors adopted the Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 budget during a Special Session on Tuesday, June 28.

The Coconino County Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted a $408.8 million budget for FY 2023 during a Special Session on Tuesday, June 28. The FY 2023 budget includes strategic investments for public health and safety, mental health services, flood control, forest restoration, prosecutorial diversion, staffing resources, and leveraging significant federal funds to meet strategic and programmatic goals across Coconino County operations.

Flagstaff celebrates 4th of July with a new laser light show

Experience oohs and aahs or hoots and hollers along with big laughs, giggles, and smiles as you look up to an amazing night sky on the 4th of July in Flagstaff. This new laser light show will captivate your attention replacing the standard fireworks with a stunning display of multicolored lights and lasers in sync to fun music. “The shift from traditional fireworks to a laser light show was the responsible action to take due to extreme fire risk with the dry and hot conditions in the northland. It is extremely important to have a safe celebration and be fire aware,” said Flagstaff City Manager Greg Clifton. “And it is also important to have a yearly celebration that we can all anticipate and rely upon, without the disappointment that comes from frequent cancellation of fireworks.”

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: June 27-July 1, 2022

Town of Tusayan July 4th Events

The Town of Tusayan has many events planned for July 4th, including music, food vendors, a kids corner, Native American Dancers, and a silent auction.

There will be a bike decorating contest and activities for kids at 3:30 p.m., a parade at 4:40 p.m., live music from 5:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m., and a drone and laser show beginning at dusk.

More information is available at the Town of Tusayan website here.

City of Flagstaff Fourth of July closures

Flagstaff City Hall offices at 211 W. Aspen Ave. will be closed July 4, 2022 in honor of the Fourth of July holiday. City Hall offices will reopen July 5 from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

City of Flagstaff facilities that are also closed on the Fourth of July include:

East Flagstaff Community Library (3000 N. Fourth St.)
Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library (300 W. Aspen Ave.)
Hal Jensen Recreation Center (2403 N. Izabel St.)
Joe C. Montoya Community and Senior Center (245 N. Thorpe Rd.)

Young Bi-Lingual Latino Professionals sought for Latino Loud PSA voting campaign

orres Multicultural Communications is seeking young Latino professionals to participate on a Latino Loud PSA campaign to get out the vote. The campaign is funded by Chicanos por la Causa, through Torres Multicultural Communications and produced by Randy Murray Productions.

Creative Flagstaff — Kick off your holiday weekend at ArtWalk!

July’s ArtWalk is this Friday, July 1st!
Join us for ArtWalk this Friday, July 1st! Visit our info booth in Heritage Square from 4:30-8 pm to pick up an ArtWalk Map – your guide to downtown during First Friday! Go digital and use the online map here. Use the official ArtWalk map to make your way around downtown to our more than 20 participating galleries and businesses.

Coconino County Removes Fire Restrictions

In cooperation with the U.S. Forest Service on the Coconino and Kaibab National Forests, at noon on Tuesday, June 28, 2022, Coconino County removed all staged fire restrictions formerly in place in unincorporated communities and recreation areas.

Most Forest Service restrictions and related forest closures on the Coconino and Kaibab National Forests, as well as City of Flagstaff restrictions, will expire at that time as well. Forest closures in and near the Pipeline and Haywire Fire zones will remain in place. (https://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/coconino/landmanagement/?cid=stelprdb5331631&width=full)

Flagstaff Pulliam Airport advises you arrive 90 minutes early

Ahead of the upcoming Fourth of July weekend, Flagstaff Pulliam Airport reminds travelers to arrive 90 minutes before departure to ensure a seamless experience during this busy travel period. New regulations, implemented by the airlines, require passengers to check in or check bags at least 45 minutes prior to departure.

“In order for the airlines to run required reports regarding the aircraft’s weight, airlines are unable to accept baggage less than 45 minutes before departure, so it’s important travelers arrive with plenty of time before takeoff,” said Barney Helmick, Flagstaff Pulliam Airport Director. “Flying out of Flagstaff is still your easiest option for northern Arizona travelers, we just ask that folks arrive with plenty of time to check in and check any bags.”

Fire restrictions lifted at Grand Canyon National Park

Effective immediately, Stage 2 fire restrictions are rescinded for the entire Grand Canyon National Park. Increased monsoonal activity throughout northern Arizona has significantly lowered the fire danger risk within the last week.

Grand Canyon National Park will remain in Stage 1 fire restrictions which requires that a campfire always be in a designated fire ring within a maintained campground. Inner canyon users can use gas cook stoves, but campfires and other open fires are never allowed below the rim. River users should continue to follow the conditions of their permit regarding fires along the Colorado River.

City of Flagstaff lifts fire restrictions

The City of Flagstaff will lift current fire restrictions and return to Stage 0 fire restrictions on Tuesday, June 28 at 12 p.m. (noon).

Under Stage 0 fire restrictions,

Smoking and use of electronic cigarettes are prohibited in all public places within the City of Flagstaff, including City Parks, Open Spaces, and the Flagstaff Urban Trail System (FUTS) at all times.

Tourism to Grand Canyon National Park contributed $710 million to local economy in 2021

A new National Park Service (NPS) report shows that 4.5 million visitors to Grand Canyon National Park in 2021 spent an estimated $710 million in gateway regions near the park. That spending supported 9,390 jobs in the local area.’

“Grand Canyon is proud to be welcoming back more visitors from across the country and world since the beginning of the pandemic,” said superintendent Ed Keable. “We appreciate and rely on the partnership and support of our neighbors and are glad to be able to give back by helping to sustain local communities.” 

Creative Flagstaff — June Updates from Coconino Center for the Arts

The Sonnet Man has arrived in Flagstaff! Come set Shakespeare sonnets to hip hop music with rap artist Devon Glover, better known as the Sonnet Man. In this 5-day series of workshops, students will learn the ins and outs of Shakespeare’s writing before transforming his works into their own original projects. The residency will include 4 workshops each day, 9AM-12PM, for students ages 12-18. Hosted July 11th-15th, 2022. Members save $25. 

North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park Implements Stage 1 Water Conservation Measures

Effective immediately, Grand Canyon National Park is initiating water conservation measures on the North Rim due to an electrical failure serving the Roaring Springs pumphouse.

Park staff and contractors are working to investigate the extent and location of damage to the system. The estimated timeline for repair and replacement of the electrical system is unknown and water conservation measures will remain in effect for the North Rim until further notice. Visitor facilities on the North Rim will remain open with water limitations for some services.

Self-fill sandbag stations available in west Flagstaff for residents impacted by Pipeline Fire  

The City of Flagstaff has established two self-filling sandbag stations for those impacted by the Pipeline Fire who live on the west side of Flagstaff. The first station is in Thorpe Park, at the parking lot at the north end of N. Aztec St. between Frances Short Pond and the softball fields. The second station is located at the intersection of Schultz Pass Rd and E Mt Elden Lookout Rd. (commonly called the Schultz “Y”). Maps of these locations are attached.  

BAER team completes Soil Burn Severity map for Pipeline Fire

Forest Service Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) specialists recently completed their field data evaluation to produce the Soil Burn Severity (SBS) map for the Pipeline Fire, which delineate unburned, low, moderate, and high SBS categories.

The BAER team assessing the Pipeline Fire determined that approximately 1,310 acres (1%) of the fire is unburned, approximately 15,004 acres (56%) have low soil burn severity, approximately 9,141 acres (34%) sustained a moderate SBS and approximately 1,315 acres (5%) were identified as having high SBS.

Grand Canyon National Park — ALERT: Drinking Water Advisory for North Kaibab Trail in Grand Canyon National Park

Effective immediately, the National Park Service (NPS) is issuing a drinking water advisory for Manzanita Rest Area, Cottonwood Campground, and Phantom Ranch along the North Kaibab Trail within the backcountry of Grand Canyon National Park. 

All drinking water in these areas should be treated or boiled. These processes should be applied to water for any consumptive use including drinking, making ice, preparing food, brushing teeth, and washing dishes. All other park drinking water is safe for consumption.  

If treating water:  

Follow manufacturer’s instructions on water filtration systems. 
Follow manufacturer’s instructions on water treatment tablets. 
To boil water, fill a pot with water, heat at ground level and allow bubbles to form. Allow water to boil for at least one (1) minute. Cool completely before drinking. 

The ECoNA Q&A: NAU President José Luis Cruz Rivera

José Luis Cruz Rivera recently completed his first year as the 17th President of Northern Arizona University (NAU). To mark this anniversary, we asked him about key initiatives during his first year, NAU’s niche in the higher ed marketplace, what local restaurants he’s discovered, and his upcoming formal installation in September. You can see the full interview here.

Q: What do you feel your biggest success has been this first year?
A: Well, that’s an easy answer. The fact that I survived the Running of the Freshman at the first home football game!

In all seriousness, while there have been many success stories, I think my biggest success has been learning about and connecting with the people and organizations who live and work at NAU, in Flagstaff and throughout northern Arizona. It has been important to me from day one to understand the values here. Time will be the judge of my success leading and supporting the efforts of our awesome university community, but I have truly enjoyed listening and learning and still feel it is a privilege to serve as the President of NAU and live is this amazing and beautiful community.

Voto Latino — Latinos in Battleground States support gun control & abortion rights

Also see:

NBC News — Poll: Majority of Latinos in battleground states support abortion rights, gun reform

By Voto Latino

Latinos are the second largest voting bloc in the country and disproportionately reside in critical battleground states where they are also the fastest growing voting bloc. Candidates hoping to win in November and beyond will need to appeal to Latinos and the issues that matter to them. In order to understand how Latinos feel about two of the most salient issues in the country – abortion rights and mass shootings – Change Research surveyed 1,033 registered Hispanic and Latino voters in the seven key battleground states of Texas, Arizona, Nevada, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania from June 2-7, 2022 on behalf of Voto Latino.1

A strong majority of Latinos are concerned about their personal safety from gun violence and believe weak gun laws are a major reason why perpetrators are capable of inflicting such carnage. Overwhelming majorities support many common sense gun safety laws Democrats have proposed and believe there would be fewer mass shootings if they were to be enacted. Latinos are also ready to reward leaders who take action on gun laws: an overwhelming 69% are more likely to support candidates who support the gun laws tested in this poll, including roughly half of Republican Latinos.

Latinos also fear for their reproductive freedoms as the conservative majority on the Supreme Court indicates it is prepared to overturn Roe v. Wade. Over two-thirds of Latinos support the right to an abortion in all or most cases.

Deadline for submission of Thorpe Park Annex Property design concept is July 18

The deadline for submission of Thorpe Park Annex Property design concept is July 18.

The City of Flagstaff is conducting a broad community outreach to develop a concept plan for an 8.5 acres parcel (Thorpe Park Annex) on the southeast side of Thorpe Park to incorporate into the larger regional park.

Since the 1950s, the Thorpe Park Annex is dedicated to the “exclusive use of Park, Recreational and Museum Purposes” by ordinance, but for the last 75 years the Thorpe Park Annex has been used as a Public Works yard and currently houses the Sustainability Program offices, parking in existing garage bays, and a few businesses.

United Way of Northern Arizona — A Crowning Achievement — UWNA Grant Helps Launch New Shelter Service

When COVID-19 made congregant shelter living a dangerous option for those experiencing homelessness, Flagstaff Shelter Services (FSS) stepped up by renting hotel rooms for their most immunocompromised clients. It was a successful – if expensive – way to continue to serve the homeless at the height of the pandemic.

It also led to an innovative idea: tap into funds available through the American Rescue Plan Act to acquire a hotel and rehab the units into emergency housing. With the support of the Arizona Department of Housing, FSS purchased a Route 66 hotel that years ago was the The Crown Motel and more recently operated as a Howard Johnsons.

Other groups helped support the launch of the new site, including the Forest Highlands Foundation and the Arizona Diamondback. A grant from United Way of Northern Arizona allowed FSS to hire a full-time manager for the new shelter complex, which is being renamed The Crown in a nod to the building’s history.

Grand Canyon National Park Weekly Wrap-up: June 20-24, 2022

Grand Canyon Star Party 2022 underway for 2022

The 32nd annual Grand Canyon Star Party is currently underway and is being held through Saturday, June 25, on both South and North rims. National parks such as Grand Canyon are protective havens for some of the last remaining dark skies in the United States. This is the first onsite event since 2019.

The event is sponsored by the National Park Service, the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association (South Rim), and the Saguaro Astronomy Club of Phoenix (North Rim), with funding from Grand Canyon Conservancy and in partnership with the International Dark-Sky Association.

Amateur astronomers from across the country are volunteering their telescopes and expertise for the enjoyment of park visitors. Numerous telescopes offer views of planets Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars, as well as double stars, star clusters, nebulae, distant galaxies—and the Moon, earlier in the week. By day, keep an eye out for solar telescopes pointed at the sun. Weather permitting, expect spectacular views of the universe!

For additional information on the Grand Canyon Star Party visit http://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/grand-canyon-star-party.htm, or contact Rader Lane at 928-638-7641.

Burned Area Emergency Response team assessing Pipeline Fire damage

A Forest Service Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team has started surveying the fire-affected areas located within the Pipeline Fire perimeter.

BAER team assessments are rapid evaluations of post-fire conditions of the burned landscape. These assessments determine the level of risk from potential flooding and debris flow, and calculate how these risks will affect both human safety and the natural and cultural resources in the area.

The team, led by Forest Service Soil Scientist Eric Schroder, began conducting field surveys yesterday. In addition to field surveys, BAER teams use science-based models to rapidly evaluate and assess the burned area.

2021 Grand Canyon Drinking Water Quality Report now available

Grand Canyon National Park is required to annually distribute a consumer confidence report for the park’s drinking water. This year Grand Canyon Water Utilities is distributing this report electronically to reduce paper consumption. The purpose is to allow consumers to make educated decisions regarding any potential health risks pertaining to the quality, treatment, and management of your drinking water supply.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — CCC&Y Participates in 2022 Juneteenth Celebration

A couple of pre-monsoon season downpours didn’t dampen the spirits of participants of the 2022 Juneteenth Celebration held Saturday, June 18 at the Flagstaff Murdoch Center.

The event featured musical performances, food, games, arts, crafts and information booths including Building Community, Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth, Coconino Community College, Coconino County including its African Diaspora Advisory Council and Coconino Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) diversity councils, Flagstaff Police Dept., Friends of Flagstaff Future, Northland Family Health Center, Northern Arizona University and North Country Healthcare.

Hosted by the Coconino County African Diaspora Advisory Council, the Flagstaff Lived Black Experience Project, and the Southside Community Association (SCA).

The Juneteenth celebration commemorates the day Texas slaves learned of the Emancipation Proclamation, granting them freedom. Juneteenth today, celebrates African American freedom and achievement, while encouraging continuous self-development and respect for all cultures. 

Sponsored by Northern Arizona University, APS, Historic Route 66 Association of Arizona, Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra, Southside Community Association (SCA), African Diaspora Advisory Council, Findlay Toyota, the Arizona Community Foundation, Coconino County and the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth.

City of Flagstaff requests arguments for and against proposed election questions

Prior to the Nov. 8, 2022 election, each household with a registered voter will receive an informational pamphlet that includes arguments for and against proposed questions that have a local impact. Any person interested in submitting an argument is required to do so before 5p.m., Arizona time on Aug. 10, 2022.

The questions are as follows:

Grand Canyon implements Tuweep pilot day-use reservation system

Grand Canyon National Park will implement a new pilot advance day-use ticket reservation system for the Tuweep Visitor Use Area, July 21, 2022. Park staff are managing for significant and steadily increasing visitation at Tuweep since 1995, along with limited park staffing in the area, ongoing vehicle safety, and natural and cultural resource concerns.

There will be two types of reservations available. One ticket will be for private vehicles and the other will be for authorized Tuweep tour Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) permit holders. The day-use reservation system will apply to the Tuweep area of Grand Canyon National Park, including all park areas within Toroweap Valley and on the Kanab Plateau. It excludes the North and South rim developed areas and overlooks.

Notice of Flood Control District Public Outreach Meeting on June 23

On Thursday June 23, 2022, at 6:30 p.m., the Coconino County Flood Control District will hold a virtual meeting to present important information to the communities of Timberline, Wupatki Trails, Fernwood, and Doney Park regarding flood threat, risk, and mitigation efforts as a result of the Pipeline, Tunnel, and Schultz Fires.

This outreach meeting will be held via webinar using Zoom video conferencing software, members of the community are encouraged to participate via the following url: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87072153234 or toll-free via telephone: (833) 548 0282, Webinar ID: 870 7215 3234.

Creative Flagstaff — ArtWalk Call for Entries – Deadline Approaching!

Creative Flagstaff invites organizations and artists to submit a proposal for an art/science/culture performance or exhibition for First Friday Artwalk programming in Heritage Square to take place in one of the following months: September, October, or November of 2022. Three proposals will be selected, one each for September, October, November, and and with compensation of $1,500. Don’t wait – the deadline for submissions is June 24, 2022! 

Coconino County Parks & Recreation — Stage 3 Fire Restrictions in place

For County park and natural areas, the following restrictions apply: 
• The following County amenities are closed: Trails, Disc Golf Course, Archery Range, and Bike Park.
• No camping is allowed outside of campground area.
• All campfires are prohibited.
• Charcoal/wood or liquid fuels grills are prohibited.
• Liquid fuels and/or liquid petroleum gas fire rings are prohibited.
• Smoking is prohibited outdoors.
• No vehicle parking and/or driving on grassy, forested, and unimproved/undeveloped areas.
• Chainsaws and other small, motorized equipment are prohibited by park users.
• Previously scheduled events to be approved by Department at least one week prior to the event.

Reminder: Mayoral Candidate Forum this Wed. 6/22 @ 6:30 pm

Mayoral Candidate Forum:  This Wednesday 6:30-8:00 pm

Join Friends of Flagstaff’s Future as we hear from the three candidates running for Flagstaff mayor (incumbent Paul Deasy, and challengers Becky Daggett and Daniel Williamson). The Forum will be at the Lone Tree Campus of Coconino Community College on June 22.

At 6:30 pm, join us as attendees mix with the candidates and learn more about local nonprofit organizations who will have tables at the venue. The Forum will start at 7:00 pm and end at 8:00 pm.

City of Flagstaff Truth in Taxation Hearing on June 28 – Notice of Tax Increase

All interested citizens are invited to attend the public hearing on the tax increase that is scheduled to be held virtually via the Zoom platform on Tuesday, June 28, 2022, at 6:00 pm.  People can join the meeting by link or phone listed below. 

Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85261923910 or call Dial 833 548 0282 (Toll Free), Webinar ID: 852 6192 3910.

Coconino County Flood Control District mobilizing flood mitigation effort

As Coconino County residents begin to return to their homes in the aftermath of the Pipeline and Haywire fires, the County’s Flood Control District would like to make the entire community aware of the potential risk of flooding, and the steps the public can take to mitigate their property and be Flood Aware.

Residents may already be familiar with the 3 Step “Ready, Set, Go” wildfire system of preparedness and evacuation. For the risk of flooding, a similar, easy-to-remember system of “Ready, Set, Shelter” is helpful to prepare for and respond to flood events:

City of Flagstaff hosts community volunteer day on June 25 in areas impacted by Museum Fire flooding

The City of Flagstaff is hosting a community volunteer day in areas downstream of the Museum Fire burn scar on Saturday, June 25. Volunteers will be assisting residents who are elderly or have a disability repair their emergency sandbag mitigation.To request volunteer assistance, please call 928-213-2102 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Resources are limited, and crews will address as many properties as time and resources allow.

Volunteers should meet at the Coconino County Health and Human Services building, located at 2625 N. King St. The event will take place from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. There will be no afternoon shift during this event. Volunteers are encouraged to wear sturdy shoes, pants, and sun protection, and to bring a refillable water bottle, a face covering for dust, and work gloves if available.

Evacuation Orders Lifted for Crater Estates, Moon Crater, West Alpine Ranchos & Other Areas

he Coconino County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to announce the following areas will be downgraded from “GO” to “SET” status.

The areas identified as Crater Estates, Moon Crater, West Alpine Ranchos, the Private Properties along Hwy 89 north from Wupatki Trails to Sacred Mountain Trading Post will be downgraded from “GO” to “SET” status. It is important to note that much of the National Forest Land in that area remains closed due to the Coconino National Forest Emergency Fire Closure Order.

In addition, the following areas will be downgraded from “SET” to “READY” status: East Alpine Ranchos and Hwy 89 north from Sacred Mountain Trading Post/Medicine Valley.

CDC Authorizes COVID-19 Vaccine for Children 6 Months and Older

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) joined the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in authorization of the Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines for infants and young children.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) joined the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in authorization of the Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccines for infants and young children. 

The CDC approved Emergency Use Authorization for the vaccines as follows: 

Coconino County enters into Stage 3 Fire Restrictions

Coconino County entered Stage 3 Fire Restrictions at 3 p.m. Friday, June 17, 2022. The restrictions apply for all of Coconino County.

Fire restrictions are enacted to help protect public health and safety by reducing the number of human-caused wildfires.

This ordinance applies to unincorporated areas, namely that part of Coconino County outside the corporate limits of any municipality, federally owned land, or any federally recognized tribe in accordance with 25 Code of Federal Regulations part 83.

Stage 3 Fire Restrictions prohibit any combustion, open fire, charcoal, propane, and campfires in unincorporated areas and residences in the County.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: June 13-17, 2022

Grand Canyon Star Party 2022

The 32nd annual Grand Canyon Star Party will be held from Saturday, June 18, 2022, through Saturday, June 25, 2022, on both South and North rims of Grand Canyon National Park. National parks such as Grand Canyon are protective havens for some of the last remaining dark skies in the United States. This is the first onsite event since 2019.

The event is sponsored by the National Park Service, the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association (South Rim), and the Saguaro Astronomy Club of Phoenix (North Rim), with funding from Grand Canyon Conservancy and in partnership with the International Dark-Sky Association.

Amateur astronomers from across the country will volunteer their telescopes and expertise for the enjoyment of park visitors. Numerous telescopes will offer views of planets Jupiter, Saturn, and Mars, as well as double stars, star clusters, nebulae, distant galaxies—and the Moon, earlier in the week. By day, keep an eye out for solar telescopes pointed at the sun. Weather permitting, expect spectacular views of the universe!

For additional information on the Grand Canyon Star Party visit http://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/grand-canyon-star-party.htm, or contact Rader Lane at 928-638-7641.

Flagstaff hosts community volunteer day on June 18 in areas impacted by Museum Fire flooding

The City of Flagstaff is hosting a community volunteer day in areas downstream of the Museum Fire burn scar on Saturday, June 18. Volunteers will be assisting residents who are elderly or have a disability repair their emergency sandbag mitigation. To request volunteer assistance, please call 928-213-2102 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Resources are limited, and crews will address as many properties as time and resources allow.

Residents in Schultz Creek Watershed and the Rio de Flag floodplain are encouraged to immediately purchase and maintain flood insurance

Preliminary flood hazard modeling of areas impacted by the Pipeline Fire indicates an increased risk of flooding for some neighborhoods within Flagstaff City limits. Specifically, residents whose homes are in the neighborhoods of Creighton Estates, Forest Hills, Cheshire, Coyote Springs, Anasazi Ridge, Coconino Estates, Ridge Crest, North End, Downtown Flagstaff or Southside and whose homes are located within a FEMA Zone A, AE, AH, or shaded X should immediately purchase or maintain flood insurance. Homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage and coverage must be purchased separately.

A map of Flagstaff neighborhoods is available at https://bit.ly/3xWzDSF. A map of FEMA floodplain designations by address is available at https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home.