CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2020
CITY HALL STAFF CONFERENCE ROOM
211 WEST ASPEN
3:00 P.M.
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2020
CITY HALL STAFF CONFERENCE ROOM
211 WEST ASPEN
3:00 P.M.
MINUTES
1.
CALL TO ORDER
Vice Mayor Shimoni called the meeting of the Flagstaff City Council held September 1, 2020, to order at 3:00 p.m.
Vice Mayor Shimoni called the meeting of the Flagstaff City Council held September 1, 2020, to order at 3:00 p.m.
NOTICE OF OPTION TO RECESS INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION
Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.02, notice is hereby given to the members of the City Council and to the general public that, at this regular meeting, the City Council may vote to go into executive session, which will not be open to the public, for legal advice and discussion with the City’s attorneys for legal advice on any item listed on the following agenda, pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.03(A)(3).
2.
ROLL CALL
| NOTE: One or more Councilmembers may be in attendance telephonically or by other technological means. |
| PRESENT: MAYOR EVANS (virtually) (arrived at 4:22 p.m.) VICE MAYOR SHIMONI (virtually) COUNCILMEMBER ASLAN (virtually) COUNCILMEMBER MCCARTHY (virtually) COUNCILMEMBER ODEGAARD (virtually) COUNCILMEMBER SALAS (virtually) COUNCILMEMBER WHELAN (virtually) |
ABSENT: |
Others present: City Manager Greg Clifton; City Attorney Sterling Solomon.
3.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND MISSION STATEMENT
The Council and audience recited the pledge of allegiance and Councilmember Salas read the Mission Statement of the City of Flagstaff.
The Council and audience recited the pledge of allegiance and Councilmember Salas read the Mission Statement of the City of Flagstaff.
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the City of Flagstaff is to protect and enhance the quality of life for all.
4.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Public Participation enables the public to address the Council about an item that is not on the agenda. Comments relating to items that are on the agenda will be taken at the time that the item is discussed. If you wish to address the Council at tonight's meeting, please complete a comment card and submit it to the recording clerk as soon as possible. Your name will be called when it is your turn to speak. You may address the Council up to three times throughout the meeting, including comments made during Public Participation. Please limit your remarks to three minutes per item to allow everyone an opportunity to speak. At the discretion of the Chair, ten or more persons present at the meeting and wishing to speak may appoint a representative who may have no more than fifteen minutes to speak.
Public Participation enables the public to address the Council about an item that is not on the agenda. Comments relating to items that are on the agenda will be taken at the time that the item is discussed. If you wish to address the Council at tonight's meeting, please complete a comment card and submit it to the recording clerk as soon as possible. Your name will be called when it is your turn to speak. You may address the Council up to three times throughout the meeting, including comments made during Public Participation. Please limit your remarks to three minutes per item to allow everyone an opportunity to speak. At the discretion of the Chair, ten or more persons present at the meeting and wishing to speak may appoint a representative who may have no more than fifteen minutes to speak.
Volunteer and Event Coordinator Maggie Twomey addressed Council inviting them, and the public, to participate in 30 days Albert’s Way Litter Clean Up.
Coordinator for Indigenous Initiatives Rose Toehe addressed Council to provide an update on the preliminary planning for Indigenous People’s Day.
Coordinator for Indigenous Initiatives Rose Toehe addressed Council to provide an update on the preliminary planning for Indigenous People’s Day.
5.
CONSENT ITEMS
All matters under Consent Agenda are considered by the City Council to be routine and will be enacted by one motion approving the recommendations listed on the agenda. Unless otherwise indicated, expenditures approved by Council are budgeted items.
Councilmember Whelan asked to pull items 5B and 5C for discussion.
Moved by Councilmember Charlie Odegaard, seconded by Councilmember Jim McCarthy to approve Consent Items 5A and 5D.
Vote: 6 - 0 - Unanimously
A.
Consideration of Appointment: Magistrate for the Flagstaff Municipal Court.
Approve the appointment of Honorable James Speed as Magistrate.
B.
Consideration and Approval of Contract: Purchase of one (1) 2020 Caterpillar 730 EJ Articulated Haul Truck (Haul Truck).
Councilmember Whelan asked why an RFP was not done. Solid Waste Director Todd Hanson stated that it was done through a Cooperative Purchase Agreement that allowed better leverage of buying power because a number of cities participated in the contract.
Councilmember Whelan asked where the funding for the purchase was coming from. Mr. Hanson explained that the Landfill’s Capital Fund would be covering the purchase cost.
Councilmember Whelan asked where the funding for the purchase was coming from. Mr. Hanson explained that the Landfill’s Capital Fund would be covering the purchase cost.
Moved by Councilmember Jamie Whelan, seconded by Councilmember Jim McCarthy to approve the purchase of one (1) Caterpillar 730 EJ Articulated Haul Truck (Haul Truck) in the amount of $573,585.00 (Page 2 of CAT 730 Quote) from Empire Machinery/Caterpillar Inc.; and authorize the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
C.
Consideration and Approval of Contract: Independent Contract Agreement (ICA) with Salt River Project (SRP) to continue the Upper Lake Mary Watershed (ULM) Monitoring Project.
Councilmember Whelan had questions relating to the data needed by SRP. Water Resources Manager Erin Young explained that the contract is for the instrumentation associated with collecting the data and that there is cost sharing with other entities.
Moved by Councilmember Jamie Whelan, seconded by Councilmember Jim McCarthy to approve the ICA with SRP for scope-of-work (schedule A) proposals for FY21-FY23, not-to-exceed $105,000 annually as has been approved by City Council in prior budget year and authorize the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
D.
Ratification: Staff's action to send a letter in response to a request from ADEQ for public comment on a permit for helium drilling within the Holbrook Basin, Aquifer Protection Permit No. P-513196.
STAFF RECOMMENDED ACTION:
STAFF RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Ratify staff's action in sending a letter in response to a request from ADEQ for public comment on a permit for helium drilling within the Holbrook Basin, Aquifer Protection Permit No. P-513196.
6.
ROUTINE ITEMS
A.
Consideration and Adoption of Ordinance No. 2020-22: An ordinance granting to UNS Gas, Inc. an Arizona Public Service Corporation, its legal representatives, successors, lessees and assigns, certain powers, licenses, rights-of-way, privileges and franchise to construct, operate and maintain in the City of Flagstaff, State of Arizona, as now or hereafter constituted, works, systems and plans for the handling, production, manufacturing, transporting, storing, sale and distribution of gas into, out of, and through said municipality, and for the distribution and sale of such gas to said municipality, its inhabitants and others, including customers inside, beyond, and outside of the limits of said municipality; and to use the streets, avenues, easements, rights-of-way, alleys, highways, sidewalks, bridges and other structures and places and public grounds in said municipality for a period of twenty-five (25) years; and prescribing in connection therewith certain rights, duties, terms and conditions herein mentioned; and providing for the payment to said municipality of a percentage of certain revenues of grantee from its operations therein; and declaring an emergency
Moved by Councilmember Charlie Odegaard, seconded by Councilmember Regina Salas to read Ordinance No. 2020-22 by title only for the final time.
Vote: 6 - 0 - Unanimously
AN ORDINANCE GRANTING TO UNS GAS, INC. AN ARIZONA PUBLIC SERVICE CORPORATION, ITS LEGAL REPRESENTATIVES, SUCCESSORS, LESSEES AND ASSIGNS, CERTAIN POWERS, LICENSES, RIGHTS-OF-WAY, PRIVILEGES AND FRANCHISE TO CONSTRUCT, OPERATE AND MAINTAIN IN THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF, STATE OF ARIZONA, AS NOW OR HEREAFTER CONSTITUTED, WORKS, SYSTEMS AND PLANTS FOR THE HANDLING, PRODUCTION, MANUFACTURING, TRANSPORTING, STORING, SALE AND DISTRIBUTION OF GAS INTO, OUT OF, AND THROUGH SAID MUNICIPALITY, AND FOR THE DISTRIBUTION AND SALE OF SUCH GAS TO SAID MUNICIPALITY, ITS INHABITANTS AND OTHERS, INCLUDING CUSTOMERS INSIDE, BEYOND, AND OUTSIDE OF THE LIMITS OF SAID MUNICIPALITY; AND TO USE THE STREETS, AVENUES, EASEMENTS, RIGHTS-OF-WAY, ALLEYS, HIGHWAYS, SIDEWALKS, BRIDGES AND OTHER STRUCTURES AND PLACES AND PUBLIC GROUNDS IN SAID MUNICIPALITY FOR A PERIOD OF TWENTY-FIVE (25) YEARS; AND PRESCRIBING IN CONNECTION THEREWITH CERTAIN RIGHTS, DUTIES, TERMS AND CONDITIONS HEREIN MENTIONED; AND PROVIDING FOR THE PAYMENT TO SAID MUNICIPALITY OF A PERCENTAGE OF CERTAIN REVENUES OF GRANTEE FROM ITS OPERATIONS THEREIN; AND DECLARING AN EMERGENCY
Moved by Councilmember Jim McCarthy, seconded by Councilmember Regina Salas to adopt Ordinance No. 2020-22.
Vote: 6 - 0 - Unanimously
7.
PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS
A.
Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2020-51: A resolution of the Flagstaff City Council, adopting a Minor Plan Amendment to Chapter IX: Growth and Land Use of the Flagstaff Regional Plan 2030, in association with the Southside Community Specific Plan, and establishing an effective date
and
Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2020-52: A resolution of the Flagstaff City Council, adopting a Minor Plan Amendment to adopt the Southside Community Specific Plan, and establishing an effective date
and
Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2020-52: A resolution of the Flagstaff City Council, adopting a Minor Plan Amendment to adopt the Southside Community Specific Plan, and establishing an effective date
Vice Mayor Shimoni opened the public hearing.
Comprehensive Planning Manager Sara Dechter provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:
CITY COUNCIL HEARING FOR THE SOUTHSIDE COMMUNITY SPECIFIC PLAN
PRESENTATION OBJECTIVES
HIERARCHY OF PLANNING DOCUMENTS
USES OF A SPECIFIC PLAN
PARTS OF A SPECIFIC PLAN
APPENDICES
OTHER DOCUMENTS
REGIONAL PLAN AMENDMENT
GOALS, POLICIES, AND STRATEGIES
TOP PRIORITIZED STRATEGIES
SOUTHSIDE SUBAREAS
SOUTHSIDE PLAN PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION METHODS
THE SOUTHSIDE STAKEHOLDER GROUP
DRAFT TO FINAL PLAN
REQUIRED FINDINGS
COMMUNITY BENEFITS AND CONSIDERATIONS
PLAN CONFORMANCE
IMPACTS OF THE SPECIFIC PLAN
SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC
TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING
INFRASTRUCTURE – WATER SERVICES AND SOLID WASTE
SCHOOLS, POLICE AND FIRE
Dan Hall addressed Council speaking in opposition to the Plan; he was concerned about a devaluation of his property should there be a rezone.
Robert Rosell addressed Council in opposition to the Plan; his property was not included despite being one of the first houses built on the street. He also asked about the plans for the apartments on the northeast corner of Verde and Franklin.
There being no further comments, Vice Mayor closed the public hearing.
Council expressed their appreciation for all the work done by staff. They acknowledged that there is more work to be done before any rezoning is approached and they encouraged staff to continue conversations with the community to that regard.
Comprehensive Planning Manager Sara Dechter provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:
CITY COUNCIL HEARING FOR THE SOUTHSIDE COMMUNITY SPECIFIC PLAN
PRESENTATION OBJECTIVES
HIERARCHY OF PLANNING DOCUMENTS
USES OF A SPECIFIC PLAN
PARTS OF A SPECIFIC PLAN
APPENDICES
OTHER DOCUMENTS
REGIONAL PLAN AMENDMENT
GOALS, POLICIES, AND STRATEGIES
TOP PRIORITIZED STRATEGIES
SOUTHSIDE SUBAREAS
SOUTHSIDE PLAN PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION METHODS
THE SOUTHSIDE STAKEHOLDER GROUP
DRAFT TO FINAL PLAN
REQUIRED FINDINGS
COMMUNITY BENEFITS AND CONSIDERATIONS
PLAN CONFORMANCE
IMPACTS OF THE SPECIFIC PLAN
SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC
TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING
INFRASTRUCTURE – WATER SERVICES AND SOLID WASTE
SCHOOLS, POLICE AND FIRE
Dan Hall addressed Council speaking in opposition to the Plan; he was concerned about a devaluation of his property should there be a rezone.
Robert Rosell addressed Council in opposition to the Plan; his property was not included despite being one of the first houses built on the street. He also asked about the plans for the apartments on the northeast corner of Verde and Franklin.
There being no further comments, Vice Mayor closed the public hearing.
Council expressed their appreciation for all the work done by staff. They acknowledged that there is more work to be done before any rezoning is approached and they encouraged staff to continue conversations with the community to that regard.
Moved by Councilmember Austin Aslan, seconded by Councilmember Jamie Whelan to read Resolution No. 2020-51 by title only.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
A RESOLUTION OF THE FLAGSTAFF CITY COUNCIL, ADOPTING A MINOR PLAN AMENDMENT TO CHAPTER IX: GROWTH AND LAND USE OF THE FLAGSTAFF REGIONAL PLAN 2030, IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE SOUTHSIDE COMMUNITY SPECIFIC PLAN, AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
Moved by Councilmember Jim McCarthy, seconded by Councilmember Jamie Whelan to adopt Resolution No. 2020-51.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
Moved by Councilmember Jamie Whelan, seconded by Councilmember Austin Aslan to read Resolution No. 2020-52 by title only.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
A RESOLUTION OF THE FLAGSTAFF CITY COUNCIL, ADOPTING A MINOR PLAN AMENDMENT TO ADOPT THE SOUTHSIDE COMMUNITY SPECIFIC PLAN, AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
Moved by Councilmember Jim McCarthy, seconded by Councilmember Regina Salas to adopt Resolution No. 2020-52.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
8.
REGULAR AGENDA
A.
Consideration and Adoption of Ordinance No. 2020-21: Direct to Ordinance Zoning Map Amendment, by applicant Flagstaff at 4th, LLC, of approximately 13.65 acres of real property located at 1002 N Fourth Street (APN 106-08-005J) from Medium Density Residential (MR) to Highway Commercial (HC), for purposes of a horizontal mixed-use development containing commercial retail and multi-family residential uses. The development site is located in the Resource Protection Overlay (RPO).
Councilmember Odegaard indicated that he had concerns about the parking. Planning Development Manager Patrick St. Clair explained that the applicant has met all parking requirements and there was no discussion about additional parking onsite.
Councilmember Whelan asked about the affordable housing component and if there was any room to bring the AMI down to 60% or 70%. Housing Analyst Jennifer Mikelson explained that the project did not partake in any incentives so they had more flexibility. It is possible that they could have a tenant at 60% AMI, 50% AMI, and 90% AMI; the requirement is that they meet a total of 80% AMI collectively.
Councilmember Aslan expressed concern about the location due to traffic, the existing neighbors in the general area, as well as the commercial space not being utilized in an appropriate and timely manner. He also expressed concerns about the viewshed in the area.
Councilmember Whelan asked about the affordable housing component and if there was any room to bring the AMI down to 60% or 70%. Housing Analyst Jennifer Mikelson explained that the project did not partake in any incentives so they had more flexibility. It is possible that they could have a tenant at 60% AMI, 50% AMI, and 90% AMI; the requirement is that they meet a total of 80% AMI collectively.
Councilmember Aslan expressed concern about the location due to traffic, the existing neighbors in the general area, as well as the commercial space not being utilized in an appropriate and timely manner. He also expressed concerns about the viewshed in the area.
Moved by Councilmember Jamie Whelan, seconded by Vice Mayor Adam Shimoni to read Ordinance No. 2020-21 by title only for the final time.
Vote: 6 - 1
- NAY:
-
Councilmember Austin Aslan
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF, AMENDING THE FLAGSTAFF ZONING MAP TO REZONE APPROXIMATELY 13.65 ACRES OF REAL PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1002 NORTH FOURTH STREET ON PARCEL NUMBER 106-08-005J FROM MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL ("MR") TO HIGHWAY COMMERCIAL (HC"), WITH CONDITIONS, AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
Moved by Councilmember Jamie Whelan, seconded by Councilmember Regina Salas to adopt Ordinance No. 2020-21.
Vote: 6 - 1
- NAY:
-
Councilmember Austin Aslan
B.
Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2020-50: A resolution authorizing the execution of a Development Agreement between Flagstaff at Fourth, LLC and the City of Flagstaff related to the development of approximately 13.65 acres of real property (APN 106-08-005J) located at 1002 N Fourth Street. (Flagstaff at Fourth Development Agreement)
Mr. St. Clair provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:
FLAGSTAFF @ FOURTH
LOCATION & SURROUNDING USES
DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL
DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT
PURPOSE OF THE AGREEMENT
COUNCIL OPTIONS
FLAGSTAFF @ FOURTH
LOCATION & SURROUNDING USES
DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL
DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT
PURPOSE OF THE AGREEMENT
COUNCIL OPTIONS
Moved by Councilmember Jamie Whelan, seconded by Councilmember Regina Salas to read Resolution No. 2020-50 by title only with the amendment of 70% AMI.
Vote: 6 - 1
- NAY:
-
Councilmember Austin Aslan
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF, ARIZONA, AUTHORIZING THE EXECUTION OF A DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN FLAGSTAFF AT 4TH, LLC AND THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF RELATED TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF APPROXIMATELY 13.65 ACRES OF REAL PROPERTY GENERALLY LOCATED AT 1002 NORTH FOURTH STREET AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
Moved by Councilmember Regina Salas, seconded by Councilmember Jamie Whelan to adopt Resolution No. 2020-50.
Vote: 6 - 1
- NAY:
-
Councilmember Austin Aslan
A break was held from 4:45 p.m. through 4:55 p.m.
C.
Consideration and Adoption of Ordinance No. 2020-23: An ordinance amending the Flagstaff City Code, Chapter 1-14, Personnel System, and the Flagstaff Employee Handbook of Regulations, Chapter 1-10-070, Employee Advisory Committee.
Human Resources Director Jeanie Gallagher indicated that the ordinance is primarily minor administrative changes that were initiated by the EAC to improve their ability to represent the employee population.
Moved by Councilmember Jim McCarthy, seconded by Councilmember Charlie Odegaard to read Ordinance No. 2020-23 by title only for the first time.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF, ARIZONA, AMENDING THE FLAGSTAFF CITY CODE, CHAPTER 1-14, PERSONNEL SYSTEM, AND THE FLAGSTAFF EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK OF REGULATIONS, SECTION 1-10-070, EMPLOYEE ADVISORY COMMITTEE; PROVIDING FOR PENALTIES; REPEAL OF CONFLICTING ORDINANCES; SEVERABILITY; AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
D.
Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2020-13 and Ordinance No. 2020-10: A resolution of the Flagstaff City Council declaring as a public record that certain document filed with the City Clerk and entitled "Street Lighting and Traffic Signals, Signing, and Pavement Markings Code Amendments"; and an ordinance of the City Council of the City of Flagstaff amending the Flagstaff City Code, Title 13, Engineering Design Standards and Specifications for new infrastructure, by adopting by reference that certain document entitled "Street Lighting and Traffic Signals, Signing, and Pavement Markings Code Amendments"; providing for penalties, repeal of conflicting ordinances, severability, and establishing an effective date
Moved by Councilmember Jamie Whelan, seconded by Councilmember Austin Aslan to read Resolution No. 2020-13 by title only.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
A RESOLUTION OF THE FLAGSTAFF CITY COUNCIL DECLARING AS A PUBLIC RECORD THAT CERTAIN DOCUMENT FILED WITH THE CITY CLERK AND ENTITLED
“STREET LIGHTING AND TRAFFIC SIGNALS, SIGNING, AND PAVEMENT MARKINGS CODE AMENDMENTS”
Moved by Councilmember Jim McCarthy, seconded by Councilmember Jamie Whelan to read Ordinance No. 2020-10 by title only for the first time.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF AMENDING THE FLAGSTAFF CITY CODE, TITLE 13, ENGINEERING DESIGN STANDARDS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR NEW INFRASTRUCTURE, BY ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THAT CERTAIN DOCUMENT ENTITLED “STREET LIGHTING AND TRAFFIC SIGNALS, SIGNING, AND PAVEMENT MARKINGS CODE AMENDMENTS”; PROVIDING FOR PENALTIES, REPEAL OF CONFLICTING ORDINANCES, SEVERABILITY, AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
A break was held from 5:04 p.m. through 5:10 p.m.
E.
Consideration and Approval of Preliminary Plat: Request from JP325, LLC. for Juniper Point, Phase 1, a 38-unit single-family residential subdivision. The site is 105.8 acres in size, of which 17.23 acres are being developed for this subdivision. The subdivision is located at 2000 John Wesley Powell Boulevard in the RR, Rural Residential zoning district.
Planning Development Manager Neil Gullickson provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:
JUNIPER POINT, PHASE 1 PRELIMINARY PLAT
SITE
LOCATION MAP
PRELIMINARY PLAT
SPECIFIC PLAN
ZONING
OPEN SPACE AND RESOURCES
RESOURCES
IMPACT ANALYSIS
RECOMMENDATION
Councilmember McCarthy noted that there was a dissenting vote at the Planning and Zoning Commission and asked if there was any reason given by the commission member. Mr. Gullickson stated that there were concerns about recycling and wiser use of resources.
JUNIPER POINT, PHASE 1 PRELIMINARY PLAT
SITE
LOCATION MAP
PRELIMINARY PLAT
SPECIFIC PLAN
ZONING
OPEN SPACE AND RESOURCES
RESOURCES
IMPACT ANALYSIS
RECOMMENDATION
Councilmember McCarthy noted that there was a dissenting vote at the Planning and Zoning Commission and asked if there was any reason given by the commission member. Mr. Gullickson stated that there were concerns about recycling and wiser use of resources.
Moved by Vice Mayor Adam Shimoni, seconded by Councilmember Charlie Odegaard to approve the preliminary plat for Juniper Point, Phase 1, a 38-unit single-family residential subdivision.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
9.
DISCUSSION ITEMS
A.
Citizen Petition - Placement of three “15 MPH 7am – 5pm School Days” signs with corresponding “End School Zone” signs on Pine Cliff Drive and Gemini Road
The petitioner Kerry Richardson introduced the topic and asked the Council to consider
superseding any restrictions that prohibit the installation of additional signage. He indicated that the State’s guidelines are outdated. There is heavy concern about the safety of students in the area.
Councilmember Whelan noted her support of the petition and shares the concerns of the people who signed the petition.
Vice Mayor Shimoni stated that the topic is part of a larger discussion he would like to have but he feels that the discussion should include all schools and their related traffic concerns. He will not support moving the petition forward because he would like to see staff bring forward the larger discussion.
Councilmember Salas noted her support to move the petition forward, she noted that she lives in the area so she sees and experiences the issues that are being raised.
Councilmember McCarthy stated that he would like to move the topic forward which would allow staff to present additional information.
Mayor Evans stated that she would like to see the Traffic Commission look into the issue. There are other areas and other schools that are struggling from similar challenges and the ability to have a broader discussion would be beneficial from a community perspective.
The Council agreed that the matter should start with the Traffic Commission who could expand it further into the community and report back to Council.
Councilmember Whelan noted her support of the petition and shares the concerns of the people who signed the petition.
Vice Mayor Shimoni stated that the topic is part of a larger discussion he would like to have but he feels that the discussion should include all schools and their related traffic concerns. He will not support moving the petition forward because he would like to see staff bring forward the larger discussion.
Councilmember Salas noted her support to move the petition forward, she noted that she lives in the area so she sees and experiences the issues that are being raised.
Councilmember McCarthy stated that he would like to move the topic forward which would allow staff to present additional information.
Mayor Evans stated that she would like to see the Traffic Commission look into the issue. There are other areas and other schools that are struggling from similar challenges and the ability to have a broader discussion would be beneficial from a community perspective.
The Council agreed that the matter should start with the Traffic Commission who could expand it further into the community and report back to Council.
10.
COUNCIL LIAISON REPORTS
Councilmember Whelan reported that NACOG had their Executive Council meeting and Head Start met to discuss the Economic Development Council’s scope of work. She reported that Head Start has been struggling within the context of the pandemic and they have not been able to open yet. They continue to work toward providing online options.
Councilmember Aslan reported that he attended the Open Space and Sustainability Commission meetings. He also attended the Coconino County Water Advisory Council who appointed Mr. Clifton as the new Co-Chair.
Councilmember Odegaard reported that the Beautification and Public Art Commission is working on scheduling a budget retreat where they will focus their attention around prioritizing projects for funding.
Councilmember Aslan reported that he attended the Open Space and Sustainability Commission meetings. He also attended the Coconino County Water Advisory Council who appointed Mr. Clifton as the new Co-Chair.
Councilmember Odegaard reported that the Beautification and Public Art Commission is working on scheduling a budget retreat where they will focus their attention around prioritizing projects for funding.
11.
FUTURE AGENDA ITEM REQUESTS
After discussion and upon agreement by three members of the Council, an item will be moved to a regularly-scheduled Council meeting.
After discussion and upon agreement by three members of the Council, an item will be moved to a regularly-scheduled Council meeting.
A.
Future Agenda Item Request (F.A.I.R.) A Citizens' Petition requesting that the Council consider changes to the US-89 and Smokerise Drive Intersection to "help patrons crossing street and vehicles leaving KOA more efficient and safer."
Petitioner Alex Russell stated that he is concerned about the intersection of Highway 89 and Smokerise. He would like to have the city evaluate the area for possible improvements.
The City Council agreed that the matter was best suited to start at the Traffic Commission and asked staff to bring it forward to them in the near future.
The City Council agreed that the matter was best suited to start at the Traffic Commission and asked staff to bring it forward to them in the near future.
B.
Future Agenda Item Request (F.A.I.R.) A Citizens' Petition requesting that the Council consider building "a second tunnel/bridge on west side of town that would help with Milton congestion and connect Thompson St. to Lower Coconino St."
Mr. Russell indicated that he would like to see a tunnel or bridge to relieve stress for access and emergency response.
Council noted that this is something that should be presented to the La Plaza Vieja neighborhood for possible inclusion in their official neighborhood plan. Council also noted concerns with possible conflicts with BNSF.
There was not enough Council support to move the item forward to a future agenda.
Council noted that this is something that should be presented to the La Plaza Vieja neighborhood for possible inclusion in their official neighborhood plan. Council also noted concerns with possible conflicts with BNSF.
There was not enough Council support to move the item forward to a future agenda.
C.
Future Agenda Item Request (F.A.I.R.): A request by Councilmember Aslan to place on a future agenda a discussion about developing specific recommendations for Halloween night to ensure and encourage that trick or treaters and neighborhoods are engaging in concert in an agreed upon way that keeps everyone out and having fun but socially distant and safe or providing alternatives that keeps Halloween fun.
There was not enough Council support to move the item forward to a future agenda but the Council agreed that a safe event is warranted and asked staff to look into ways to help the community celebrate Halloween in a safe manner.
D.
Future Agenda Item Request (F.A.I.R.): A request by Councilmember Whelan to place on a future agenda a discussion to consider changing the Zoning Code to allow for the commercial mixed-use areas in student housing developments to be converted to permanent Affordable Housing.
Councilmember Whelan explained that there is a lot of unused commercial space in the mixed-use student housing developments and rather than sitting vacant she thought that modifying the zoning code to allow for the spaces to be used as affordable housing may be a way to utilize the space.
Devonna McLaughlin addressed Council in support of moving the item forward for further discussion and consideration.
Sandra Flores submitted a written public comment expressing support for the FAIR item.
Three members of Council were supportive of moving the item forward to a future agenda for discussion. A majority of Council was supportive of expediting the item in the queue for after the Police Department discussions.
Devonna McLaughlin addressed Council in support of moving the item forward for further discussion and consideration.
Sandra Flores submitted a written public comment expressing support for the FAIR item.
Three members of Council were supportive of moving the item forward to a future agenda for discussion. A majority of Council was supportive of expediting the item in the queue for after the Police Department discussions.
12.
CITY MANAGER REPORT
A.
City Manager Report
Mr. Clifton briefly reviewed his report.
Vice Mayor Shimoni asked if there were any crossing alternatives being evaluated by Knoles and Sinagua High School. Traffic Engineer Jeff Bauman indicated that a lot of work has been done in coordination with the school district on the Butler school zone. There are likely more improvements coming in the future.
Vice Mayor Shimoni asked if there were any crossing alternatives being evaluated by Knoles and Sinagua High School. Traffic Engineer Jeff Bauman indicated that a lot of work has been done in coordination with the school district on the Butler school zone. There are likely more improvements coming in the future.
13.
COVID-19 UPDATES
A.
Re-Entry Updates
Deputy City Manager Shannon Anderson provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:
RE-ENTRY UPDATES
AGENDA
UPDATES FROM COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Ms. Anderson introduced Flagstaff Unified School District Superintendent Mike Penza who provided a brief update on school operations. He highlighted the following points:
The Council thanked Mr. Penza and FUSD for their continued dedication to students during a very difficult time.
Ms. Anderson introduced NAU Associate VP for Community Relations Joshua Maher who provided an update on NAU operations. He highlighted the following points:
Ms. Anderson continued the presentation.
THE DATA
CCHHS: COVID-19 CASES
CCHHS: COVID-19 HOSPITAL ADMISSIONS
CCHHS: COVID-19 RELATED DEATHS
CCHHS: COMMUNITY TRANSMISSION
ADHS DASHBOARD
NAH: HOSPITAL CENSUS
SPECIAL EVENTS
PHASE 3 – SPECIAL EVENTS ON CITY PROPERTY
TEMPORARY USE PERMIT CRITERIA
COUNCIL DISCRETION
Council discussed special events and agreed that they should remain in accordance with the Governor’s Executive Order limiting them to groups of 50 or less. Council also expressed a desire to hear from the County on how they plan to address public events. They agreed that no change in protocol should occur just yet and that they continue to evaluate the data on a regular basis.
Ms. Anderson concluded the presentation.
RE-ENTRY TEAM UPDATE
RE-ENTRY UPDATES
AGENDA
UPDATES FROM COMMUNITY PARTNERS
Ms. Anderson introduced Flagstaff Unified School District Superintendent Mike Penza who provided a brief update on school operations. He highlighted the following points:
- FUSD has provided a full remote learning platform during the closures associated with COVID.
- There is continued collaboration between staff and the School Board to prepare safe learning environments, quality education, and consistent communication with families.
- The district is preparing for a return to in-person learning.
- ipads were purchased for all students prior to the pandemic which made the transition to online learning much easier.
- Safe school spaces have been established at six different schools to allow a place for students who are unable to stay at home or do not have access to the interned, a place to access their online learning platforms.
- The breakfast and lunch program has resumed after a successful grab-and-go program was in place from May and throughout the summer.
The Council thanked Mr. Penza and FUSD for their continued dedication to students during a very difficult time.
Ms. Anderson introduced NAU Associate VP for Community Relations Joshua Maher who provided an update on NAU operations. He highlighted the following points:
- Fall semester started in an online environment and they just transitioned back to in-person classes on August 31, 2020.
- There are just over 21,000 students enrolled at the mountain campus, 4,000 of which have opted in to remote learning.
- They continue to implement safety protocols and infrastructure improvements to ensure the safety of staff and students.
- They are coordinating with businesses and offsite housing facilities to ensure that all messaging is the same.
- Move-in was spaced over three weeks to increase social distancing and better distribute students.
- All students living on campus were required to test for COVID and they recommended that students living off campus isolate in advance of entering campus.
- They provided all students with face coverings, hand sanitizer, and a thermometer.
- There are disciplinary actions associated with non-compliance with the rules and procedures.
- Free testing is available for the NAU community with over 3,000 individuals test in the last three weeks.
- Random testing will be starting later in the week with 2,000 students and staff being tested each week.
- They continue to be a partner with the state-wide testing program.
Ms. Anderson continued the presentation.
THE DATA
CCHHS: COVID-19 CASES
CCHHS: COVID-19 HOSPITAL ADMISSIONS
CCHHS: COVID-19 RELATED DEATHS
CCHHS: COMMUNITY TRANSMISSION
ADHS DASHBOARD
NAH: HOSPITAL CENSUS
SPECIAL EVENTS
PHASE 3 – SPECIAL EVENTS ON CITY PROPERTY
TEMPORARY USE PERMIT CRITERIA
COUNCIL DISCRETION
Council discussed special events and agreed that they should remain in accordance with the Governor’s Executive Order limiting them to groups of 50 or less. Council also expressed a desire to hear from the County on how they plan to address public events. They agreed that no change in protocol should occur just yet and that they continue to evaluate the data on a regular basis.
Ms. Anderson concluded the presentation.
RE-ENTRY TEAM UPDATE
14.
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS AND REPORTS FROM COUNCIL AND STAFF, FUTURE AGENDA ITEM REQUESTS
Vice Mayor Shimoni reported that he has been working with legal and leadership to consider putting forward a letter of support to continue the protection of the San Francisco Peaks. He asked for Council to contact Mr. Clifton if they are interested in submitting such a letter.
Councilmember Whelan requested a FAIR item to have a discussion about Property Maintenance requirements outside of Title 6 and Title 7 of the city code.
Mayor Evans reported that she had the opportunity to meet with the Mayor of Tucson who mentioned that they are studying Flagstaff’s Climate Action and Adaptation Plan in preparation of creating their own plan. It is exciting to see Flagstaff as a leader in climate action efforts. She also reported that Amtrak services have been cut to three days per week and there is serious concern about the service being shut down completely. She indicated that and Councilmember McCarthy are working with the city’s federal lobbyist to determine best next steps to garner attention at the federal level. Lastly, she reported that she did a site visit of the Veterans Home which is coming along on schedule with a proposed opening in September of 2021; a video was posted on her Facebook page if anyone was interested in seeing the tour.
Councilmember Whelan requested a FAIR item to have a discussion about Property Maintenance requirements outside of Title 6 and Title 7 of the city code.
Mayor Evans reported that she had the opportunity to meet with the Mayor of Tucson who mentioned that they are studying Flagstaff’s Climate Action and Adaptation Plan in preparation of creating their own plan. It is exciting to see Flagstaff as a leader in climate action efforts. She also reported that Amtrak services have been cut to three days per week and there is serious concern about the service being shut down completely. She indicated that and Councilmember McCarthy are working with the city’s federal lobbyist to determine best next steps to garner attention at the federal level. Lastly, she reported that she did a site visit of the Veterans Home which is coming along on schedule with a proposed opening in September of 2021; a video was posted on her Facebook page if anyone was interested in seeing the tour.
15.
ADJOURNMENT
The Regular Meeting of the Flagstaff City Council held September 1, 2020, adjourned at 8:24 p.m.
The Regular Meeting of the Flagstaff City Council held September 1, 2020, adjourned at 8:24 p.m.
| _______________________________ MAYOR |
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| ATTEST: |
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_________________________________ CITY CLERK |
CERTIFICATION
I, STACY SALTZBURG, do hereby certify that I am the City Clerk of the City of Flagstaff, County of Coconino, State of Arizona, and that the above Minutes are a true and correct summary of the Meeting of the Council of the City of Flagstaff held on September 1, 2020. I further certify that the Meeting was duly called and held and that a quorum was present.
| DATED this 17th day of May, 2022. | |
________________________________ CITY CLERK |