CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2023
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
211 WEST ASPEN AVE
3:00 P.M.
TUESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2023
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
211 WEST ASPEN AVE
3:00 P.M.
MINUTES
1.
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Daggett called the meeting of the Flagstaff City Council held August 28, 2023, to order at 3:02 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 discussion and consultation 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 through other technological means.
NOTE: One or more Councilmembers may be in attendance through other technological means.
| PRESENT: MAYOR DAGGETT VICE MAYOR ASLAN COUNCILMEMBER HARRIS COUNCILMEMBER HOUSE COUNCILMEMBER MATTHEWS COUNCILMEMBER MCCARTHY COUNCILMEMBER SWEET |
ABSENT: |
Others present: City Manager Greg Clifton; City Attorney Sterling Solomon.
3.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE, MISSION STATEMENT, AND LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The Council and audience recited the pledge of allegiance, Councilmember House read the Mission Statement of the City of Flagstaff, and Councilmember McCarthy read the Land Acknowledgement.
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the City of Flagstaff is to protect and enhance the quality of life for all.
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The Flagstaff City Council humbly acknowledges the ancestral homelands of this area’s Indigenous nations and original stewards. These lands, still inhabited by Native descendants, border mountains sacred to Indigenous peoples. We honor them, their legacies, their traditions, and their continued contributions. We celebrate their past, present, and future generations who will forever know this place as home.
4.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM PREVIOUS MEETINGS
A.
Consideration and Approval of Minutes: City Council Regular Meeting of May 3, 2022, Regular Meeting of May 17, 2022, Work Session of May 31, 2022, Budget Retreat of April 27, 2023, Budget Retreat of April 28, 2023, Regular Meeting of May 2, 2023, Special Meeting of May 3, 2023, Work Session of May 9, 2023, Work Session of May 30, 2023, Special Meeting (Executive Session) of June 13, 2023, Special Meeting (Executive Session) of June 20, 2023, Special Meeting (Executive Session) of June 27, 2023, and Special Meeting (Executive Session) of July 3, 2023.
Moved by Councilmember Khara House, seconded by Councilmember Deborah Harris to approve the minutes of the City Council Regular Meeting of May 3, 2022, Regular Meeting of May 17, 2022, Work Session of May 31, 2022, Budget Retreat of April 27, 2023, Budget Retreat of April 28, 2023, Regular Meeting of May 2, 2023, Special Meeting of May 3, 2023, Work Session of May 9, 2023, Work Session of May 30, 2023, Special Meeting (Executive Session) of June 13, 2023, Special Meeting (Executive Session) of June 20, 2023, Special Meeting (Executive Session) of June 27, 2023, and Special Meeting (Executive Session) of July 3, 2023.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
5.
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.
Al White and Bracken Davis addressed Council about volunteer opportunities at Theatrikos. They recognized Mayor Daggett for her volunteer support and presented her with a volunteer pin.
Reverend Penni Honey addressed Council regarding the International Day of Peace. She invited the Council to participate in the September 23, 2023, events in Heritage Square.
Climate Analyst Denae Pressler addressed Council regarding upcoming lighting and weatherization updates at city facilities. Updates would be shared on social media and more information could be found on the project website www.flagstaff.az.gov/energyconservation.
Reverend Penni Honey addressed Council regarding the International Day of Peace. She invited the Council to participate in the September 23, 2023, events in Heritage Square.
Climate Analyst Denae Pressler addressed Council regarding upcoming lighting and weatherization updates at city facilities. Updates would be shared on social media and more information could be found on the project website www.flagstaff.az.gov/energyconservation.
6.
PROCLAMATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS
A.
August Work Anniversaries
Senior Deputy City Manager Shannon Anderson provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:
AUGUST EMPLOYEE WORK ANNIVERSARIES!
FIRST YEAR ANNIVERSARIES
FIVE YEAR ANNIVERSARIES
TEN YEAR ANNIVERSARIES
TWENTY YEAR ANNIVERSARIES
TWENTY-FIVE YEAR ANNIVERSARIES
AUGUST EMPLOYEE WORK ANNIVERSARIES!
FIRST YEAR ANNIVERSARIES
FIVE YEAR ANNIVERSARIES
TEN YEAR ANNIVERSARIES
TWENTY YEAR ANNIVERSARIES
TWENTY-FIVE YEAR ANNIVERSARIES
7.
COUNCIL LIAISON REPORTS
Councilmember House reported that the Commission on Diversity Awareness met and discussed working group initiatives and the proposed equitable restroom ordinance. They requested an update on the ordinance and how to continue moving it forward. She highlighted the ongoing efforts of the Housing team to move the 10-Year Housing Plan forward. She also reported that she met with the Flagstaff Sister Cities Board to discuss efforts to engage and reengage Flagstaff's sister cities.
Councilmember Sweet reported that the Beautification and Public Art Commission announced a memorial plaque for Bret Peterson on the Lone Tree Overpass project. She also reported that Mountain Line would be launching their second electric bus and would collect data on the performance of the electric fleet. She noted that NACOG's Head Start Program was struggling to find workers and their programs were at risk of being cut.
Councilmember McCarthy reported that he attended the Transportation Commission meeting and while MetroPlan did not meet over the summer, he met with Executive Director Kate Morely to discuss the goals for the next year.
Vice Mayor Aslan reported that the Tourism Commission met and discussed the Flagstaff Regional Plan. The Sustainability Commission also met and discussed post-wildfire revegetation efforts. The Coconino Plateau Water Advisory Council received a presentation from Carlotta Toulouse about the new Baaj Nwaavjo I'tah Kukveni monument. He also reported that he and Councilmember McCarthy did a tour of flood control efforts with Congressman Eli Crane; it was a great opportunity to connect and show off all the Rio de Flag efforts.
Councilmember Harris reported that she attended the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting where they discussed a new trail project that connects southern Arizona to the Nevada border. She also reported that over the break she was able to take an open space and recreation facilities tour.
Mayor Daggett reported that the Commission on Inclusion and Adaptive Living continued to seek applications to participate in the commission. At their last meeting, they presented on sidewalk accessibility, and she suggested that the presentation be given to City Council at a Council meeting. She also reported that the ECoNA Strategic Plan had been released, and they had been meeting to review key points and details.
Councilmember Sweet reported that the Beautification and Public Art Commission announced a memorial plaque for Bret Peterson on the Lone Tree Overpass project. She also reported that Mountain Line would be launching their second electric bus and would collect data on the performance of the electric fleet. She noted that NACOG's Head Start Program was struggling to find workers and their programs were at risk of being cut.
Councilmember McCarthy reported that he attended the Transportation Commission meeting and while MetroPlan did not meet over the summer, he met with Executive Director Kate Morely to discuss the goals for the next year.
Vice Mayor Aslan reported that the Tourism Commission met and discussed the Flagstaff Regional Plan. The Sustainability Commission also met and discussed post-wildfire revegetation efforts. The Coconino Plateau Water Advisory Council received a presentation from Carlotta Toulouse about the new Baaj Nwaavjo I'tah Kukveni monument. He also reported that he and Councilmember McCarthy did a tour of flood control efforts with Congressman Eli Crane; it was a great opportunity to connect and show off all the Rio de Flag efforts.
Councilmember Harris reported that she attended the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting where they discussed a new trail project that connects southern Arizona to the Nevada border. She also reported that over the break she was able to take an open space and recreation facilities tour.
Mayor Daggett reported that the Commission on Inclusion and Adaptive Living continued to seek applications to participate in the commission. At their last meeting, they presented on sidewalk accessibility, and she suggested that the presentation be given to City Council at a Council meeting. She also reported that the ECoNA Strategic Plan had been released, and they had been meeting to review key points and details.
8.
APPOINTMENTS
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 the City Council may vote to go into executive session, which will not be open to the public, for the purpose of discussing or considering employment, assignment, appointment, promotion, demotion, dismissal, salaries, disciplining or resignation of a public officer, appointee, or employee of any public body...., pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.03(A)(1).
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 the City Council may vote to go into executive session, which will not be open to the public, for the purpose of discussing or considering employment, assignment, appointment, promotion, demotion, dismissal, salaries, disciplining or resignation of a public officer, appointee, or employee of any public body...., pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.03(A)(1).
A.
Consideration of Appointments: Housing Commission
Moved by Councilmember Miranda Sweet, seconded by Councilmember Jim McCarthy to appoint Tyler Denham to a Community Representative seat with a term expiring September 2026.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
Moved by Councilmember Lori Matthews, seconded by Councilmember Jim McCarthy to appoint Nikki Sharp to a Community Representative seat with a term expiring September 2026.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
Moved by Mayor Becky Daggett, seconded by Councilmember Miranda Sweet to appoint Sandi Flores to a Community Representative seat with a term expiring September 2026.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
Moved by Councilmember Khara House, seconded by Councilmember Miranda Sweet to appoint Hayley Zoroya to a Building and Real Estate Professional -- Developer seat to a term expiring September 2026.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
Moved by Councilmember Deborah Harris, seconded by Councilmember Miranda Sweet to appoint Cory Runge to a Building and Real Estate Professional -- Other seat to a term expiring September 2026.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
Moved by Vice Mayor Austin Aslan, seconded by Councilmember Jim McCarthy to appoint Eric Brownfield to a Building and Real Estate Professional - Realtor seat with a term expiring September 2025.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
B.
Consideration of Appointments: Commission on Diversity Awareness.
Moved by Mayor Becky Daggett, seconded by Councilmember Jim McCarthy to appoint Angelica Maria Sanchez to a term expiring September 2026.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
Moved by Councilmember Khara House, seconded by Councilmember Miranda Sweet to appoint Tarang Jain to a term expiring September 2026.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
C.
Consideration of Appointments: Parks and Recreation Commission.
Moved by Vice Mayor Austin Aslan, seconded by Councilmember Miranda Sweet to appoint Austin Kerr to a term expiring August 2026.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
Moved by Councilmember Miranda Sweet, seconded by Councilmember Khara House to appoint Ryan Martin to a term expiring August 2026.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
Moved by Councilmember Lori Matthews, seconded by Councilmember Khara House to appoint Micah Smith to a term expiring August 2026.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
D.
Consideration of Appointment: Sustainability Commission.
Moved by Councilmember Deborah Harris, seconded by Councilmember Jim McCarthy to extend the term of Priscilla Boateng to October 2026.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
Moved by Councilmember Miranda Sweet, seconded by Councilmember Khara House to extend the term of Mary Ellen Metzger to October 2026.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
9.
LIQUOR LICENSE PUBLIC HEARINGS
None
None
10.
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.
Moved by Councilmember Jim McCarthy, seconded by Councilmember Miranda Sweet to approve the Consent Agenda as presented.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
A.
Consideration and Approval of Letter of Support: Ratification of Letter of Support for ADOT Wildlife Crossing Overpass Grant Application
Ratify the letter of support.
Ratify the letter of support.
B.
Consideration and Ratification of Contract: Ratify the Cooperative Purchase Contract with Empire Southwest for four pieces of Caterpillar heavy equipment for emergency response in the amount of $743,938.43, plus applicable fees and taxes, utilizing Department of Forestry and Fire Management funding.
- Ratify the Cooperative Purchase Contract with Empire Southwest for the purchase of one Backhoe, one Skid Steer with attachments, one Front-End Loader, and one Skid Steer in the amount of $743,938.43, plus applicable fees and taxes; and
- Authorize the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
C.
Consideration and Approval of Contract: Ratification of Resource Use and Sharing Agreement with Northern Arizona Intergovernmental Public Transportation Authority (hereafter “Mountain Line”) regarding installation, electrical, foundation and landscaping services for two artworks for the Downtown Connection Center (DCC): Art Glass; and Southside Grove Sculpture.
Ratify Resource Use and Sharing Agreement with Mountain Line, GEN-2014-126-AG4-SA6 in an amount not to exceed $90,490.17.
Ratify Resource Use and Sharing Agreement with Mountain Line, GEN-2014-126-AG4-SA6 in an amount not to exceed $90,490.17.
D.
Consideration and Approval of Final Plat: PZ-20-00216-05, Ben Fimbrez requests Final Plat approval for Fimbrez Estates located at 1300 W Lower Coconino Avenue, a six-lot, single-family subdivision on 10.04 acres in the Estate Residential (ER) Zone within the Resource Protection Overlay (RPO).
Approve the Final Plat and authorize the Mayor to sign the Final Plat and City/Subdivider Agreement when notified by staff that all documents are ready for signature and recordation.
Approve the Final Plat and authorize the Mayor to sign the Final Plat and City/Subdivider Agreement when notified by staff that all documents are ready for signature and recordation.
E.
Consideration and Approval of Contract: Ratification of the Emergency Construction Contract #2023-153 and subsequent Change Order 1 with Joe Dirt Excavating for the dredging and repair of Frances Short Pond in the amount of $414,484.44.
- Ratify and approve the Emergency Construction Contract #2023-153 in the amount of $397,784.44 and the subsequent Change Order 1 in the amount of $16,700.00 for a total contract amount of $414,484.44 with Joe Dirt Excavating for the dredge and repair of Frances Short Pond after the post-wildfire flood events of 2022.
- Ratify the authorization to the City Manager to execute all necessary documents.
F.
Consideration and Approval of Ratifying Grant Agreement: Between FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and the City of Flagstaff for the Regional Training Grant.
Approve the ratification of the Grant Agreement to FEMA (Assistance to Firefighters) for grant funds totaling in the amount of $676,422.40 (Federal share $615,293.09, City/Fire District Share $61,529.31) to improve regional operational efficiency and scene safety.
Approve the ratification of the Grant Agreement to FEMA (Assistance to Firefighters) for grant funds totaling in the amount of $676,422.40 (Federal share $615,293.09, City/Fire District Share $61,529.31) to improve regional operational efficiency and scene safety.
11.
ROUTINE ITEMS
A.
Consideration and Approval of Contract: Consideration and Approval of Second Amendment - GMP 3 for Final Engineering Design and Construction Phase Repair Services with Hunter Contracting Co. for a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) in the amount of $2,425,978.03 for the Inner Basin Waterline Restoration Project
Capital Improvements Project Manager David Pedersen provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:
INNER BASIN WATERLINE RESTORATION PROJECT
PROJECT STAKEHOLDERS
EXCITING NEWS
GUARANTEED MAXIMUM PRICE
CONTRACT & PROJECT TIMELINE
PROJECT SITE I -- THEN & NOW
PROJECT SITE 7 -- THEN & NOW
PROJECT SITE 9 -- THEN & NOW
Councilmember McCarthy asked if Site 9 would be more resistant to erosion in the future. Mr. Pedersen explained that they were able to get the road to a condition that was passable to gain access to the larger project site. However, the completed project would include additional gabion baskets and a larger concrete cap that would include a channel.
INNER BASIN WATERLINE RESTORATION PROJECT
PROJECT STAKEHOLDERS
EXCITING NEWS
GUARANTEED MAXIMUM PRICE
CONTRACT & PROJECT TIMELINE
PROJECT SITE I -- THEN & NOW
PROJECT SITE 7 -- THEN & NOW
PROJECT SITE 9 -- THEN & NOW
Councilmember McCarthy asked if Site 9 would be more resistant to erosion in the future. Mr. Pedersen explained that they were able to get the road to a condition that was passable to gain access to the larger project site. However, the completed project would include additional gabion baskets and a larger concrete cap that would include a channel.
Moved by Councilmember Jim McCarthy, seconded by Councilmember Miranda Sweet to approve the Second Amendment - GMP 3 for Final Design and Construction Phase Repair Services with Hunter Contracting Company for a GMP of $2,425,978.03 and a contract duration of 160- calendar days for a total Agreement amount of $5,836,052.90 and authorize the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
B.
Consideration and Approval of Contract: FY23/24 Insurance Program Renewal
Risk Management Director Maria Robinson provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:
INSURANCE POLICY RENEWALS FY 23-24
ARIZONA MUNICIPAL RISK RETENTION POOL
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
AMRRP ANNUAL DIVIDEND
AMRRP MEMBERSHIP FEES
AVIATION LIABILITY/FOREIGN LIABILITY
FF CANCER REIMBURSEMENT FUND
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
INSURANCE POLICY RENEWALS FY 23-24
ARIZONA MUNICIPAL RISK RETENTION POOL
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS
AMRRP ANNUAL DIVIDEND
AMRRP MEMBERSHIP FEES
AVIATION LIABILITY/FOREIGN LIABILITY
FF CANCER REIMBURSEMENT FUND
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Moved by Councilmember Jim McCarthy, seconded by Councilmember Khara House to accept the renewal premiums for FY 2023-24 submitted by the Arizona Municipal Risk Retention Pool (AMRRP) for General Liability, E&O, SAM, Property, Auto, Marine, Crime, Cyber, Excess, and Worker's Compensation coverage; AON/Chubb/Travelers for Airport Liability and International Travel; and Industrial Commission of Arizona to fund the Firefighters Presumptive Cancer Claims (statutorily required).
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
12.
REGULAR AGENDA
A.
Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2023-46: A resolution for the renewal of an Administrative IGA with Summit Fire & Medical District for the term of one-year.
Deputy Fire Chief Chris Fennell addressed Council and stated that the IGA had been in place for
seven years and allowed the agencies to pool their resources during emergency responses. Staff
was seeking a one-year extension to complete a feasibility analysis to evaluate the model, best
practices, and develop recommendations for the future. Summit Fire and Medical District had also
approved the IGA.
Moved by Councilmember Khara House, seconded by Councilmember Miranda Sweet to read Resolution No. 2023-46 by title only.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
A RESOLUTION OF THE FLAGSTAFF CITY COUNCIL, APPROVING AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF AND SUMMIT FIRE AND MEDICAL DISTRICT FOR SHARED SERVICES
Moved by Councilmember Khara House, seconded by Councilmember Miranda Sweet to adopt Resolution No. 2023-46.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
B.
Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2023-43: A resolution of the Flagstaff City Council, approving an Intergovernmental Agreement between Coconino County and the City of Flagstaff for the Application for the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program FY 2023 Local Solicitation/ CFDA #16.738
Police Department Support Services Manager Allison Hughes addressed Council and stated that
the Police Department had utilized JAG grant funds to help with community policing activities such
as the New Year's Eve festivities, Block Watch meetings, National Night Out, and car seat safety
prevention. The JAG program was created in 1984 to provide federal leadership and allow
agencies to support a broad range of activities based on their local needs. The requested amount
for the current year is $30,185 to be divided between the City of Flagstaff and the Coconino County
Sheriff's Office. The city share was slated to be used for discretionary overtime to carry out
community policing programs and COMSTAT initiatives. Ms. Hughes also noted that the JAG Grant
had been utilized by the Police Department for over twenty years.
Moved by Councilmember Miranda Sweet, seconded by Councilmember Khara House to read Resolution No. 2023-43 by title only.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
A RESOLUTION OF THE FLAGSTAFF CITY COUNCIL, APPROVING AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN COCONINO COUNTY AND THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF FOR THE APPLICATION FOR THE EDWARD BYRNE MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT (JAG) PROGRAM FY 2023 LOCAL SOLICITATION/ CFDA #16.738
Moved by Councilmember Miranda Sweet, seconded by Councilmember Khara House to adopt Resolution No. 2023-43.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
C.
Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2023-45: A resolution of the Flagstaff City Council, adopting the Public Safety Personnel Retirement System 457(b) Deferred Compensation Program.
Human Resources Director Randy Tracy addressed Council and stated that the resolution would provide a PSPRS deferred compensation program to Public Safety employees similar to that provided to the typical ASRS employee. There was some confusion when a similar plan was introduced last year; that plan was intended only for ASRS employees and now the public safety employees must be moved to their own plan.
There were questions concerning the funds put into the wrong plan by the employee. Mr. Tracy and Management Services Director Rick Tadder assured that all funds contributed by the employee would remain and transferred over in their entirety to the correct plan.
There were questions concerning the funds put into the wrong plan by the employee. Mr. Tracy and Management Services Director Rick Tadder assured that all funds contributed by the employee would remain and transferred over in their entirety to the correct plan.
Moved by Councilmember Jim McCarthy, seconded by Councilmember Deborah Harris to read Resolution No. 2023-45 by title only.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
A RESOLUTION OF THE FLAGSTAFF CITY COUNCIL, ADOPTING THE PUBLIC SAFETY PERSONNEL RETIREMENT SYSTEM SUPPLEMENTAL SALARY DEFERRAL PLAN
Moved by Councilmember Jim McCarthy, seconded by Vice Mayor Austin Aslan to adopt Resolution No. 2023-45.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
D.
Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2023-44: A resolution approving the Intergovernmental Agreement between the City of Flagstaff and Coconino County for election services for the November 7, 2023 Special Election
City Clerk Stacy Saltzburg addressed Council and state that the IGA would authorize Coconino
County to administer the ballot-by-mail election of November 7, 2023.
Moved by Councilmember Deborah Harris, seconded by Councilmember Khara House to read Resolution No. 2023-44 by title only.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF AND COCONINO COUNTY FOR ELECTION SERVICES FOR THE NOVEMBER 7, 2023 SPECIAL ELECTION
Moved by Councilmember Deborah Harris, seconded by Councilmember Khara House to adopt Resolution No. 2023-44.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
13.
DISCUSSION ITEMS
A.
Wildland Fire Management Program - Forest Health and Operations Update
Wildland Fire Operations Captain Neil Chapman and Wildland Fire Operations Captain Dylan Guffey provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:
2023 FOREST HEALTH AND OPERATIONS UPDATE
WILDLAND FIRE MANAGEMENT STAFF
2023 TREATMENT AREAS
ECOLOGICAL THINNING
RX: OBSERVATORY MESA SECTION 8
RX: THORPE PARK
RX: NOFS
ONGOING: FLAGSTAFF WATERSHED PROTECTION PROJECT
FUTURE WFM DISCUSSIONS
Councilmember Harris asked how it was determined what trees to thin out. Mr. Chapman stated that they keep the big trees as they were generally fire-tolerant. They removed the smaller, less fire-tolerant trees to prevent fire from running up the larger trees.
Mr. Chapman discussed the Wood for Life program that provided wood from thinning projects to the public.
Councilmember McCarthy stated that the city also had a program where the Fire Department would come and do an inspection of a person's property and provide recommendations to make it more fire-safe.
Mayor Daggett asked how partnerships with other agencies assisted with projects and how the funding worked. Mr. Chapman stated that partnerships had existed for many years. The city provided the skill set and capacity to do the projects and contracts were put in place that outlined roles, responsibilities, and shared funding for the project.
2023 FOREST HEALTH AND OPERATIONS UPDATE
WILDLAND FIRE MANAGEMENT STAFF
2023 TREATMENT AREAS
ECOLOGICAL THINNING
RX: OBSERVATORY MESA SECTION 8
RX: THORPE PARK
RX: NOFS
ONGOING: FLAGSTAFF WATERSHED PROTECTION PROJECT
FUTURE WFM DISCUSSIONS
Councilmember Harris asked how it was determined what trees to thin out. Mr. Chapman stated that they keep the big trees as they were generally fire-tolerant. They removed the smaller, less fire-tolerant trees to prevent fire from running up the larger trees.
Mr. Chapman discussed the Wood for Life program that provided wood from thinning projects to the public.
Councilmember McCarthy stated that the city also had a program where the Fire Department would come and do an inspection of a person's property and provide recommendations to make it more fire-safe.
Mayor Daggett asked how partnerships with other agencies assisted with projects and how the funding worked. Mr. Chapman stated that partnerships had existed for many years. The city provided the skill set and capacity to do the projects and contracts were put in place that outlined roles, responsibilities, and shared funding for the project.
14.
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 titled Mitigation of Impact of Pickleball Courts in Bushmaster Park
Audria Smith addressed Council and requested a review and discussion about the noise impacts of pickleball. She requested that the city halt construction until a qualified acoustic firm could be hired and recommendations provided. The sound impact of pickleball negatively impacted the quality of life and people were not able to enjoy their outdoor spaces due to the noise. She spoke about the sound study conducted by Forest Highlands regarding pickleball after threats of litigation. The results were impactful and Forest Highlands was only contemplating six courts whereas the city was considering 16.
Written comments in support of the citizen petition were submitted by Michael Chizhov and Mila Dunbar-Irwin.
Councilmember Matthews stated that pickleball courts had been at Bushmaster Park for a number of years without any issue, she asked Ms. Smith what had changed. Ms. Smith stated that two years ago there were 8.9 million pickleball players, and now there were 48 million players. Even up to last year, the sound was relatively tolerable but it had grown incessant.
Councilmember McCarthy stated that pickleball was a good sport if it could be done in a location that did not destroy a person's quality of life. It made sense to have a study done that considered the noise generated by the courts and the impact it may have on nearby residents. He did not think that Bushmaster Park was the right location for pickleball courts.
Vice Mayor Aslan expressed concern about the topic becoming a circular discussion over and over again, and he did not want to halt the current project at the expense of another discussion.
Councilmember McCarthy stated that the petition should advance to a future meeting for discussion so the details could be fleshed out and Council would have information to make a decision.
There was not requisite Council support to advance the item to a future agenda for discussion.
Written comments in support of the citizen petition were submitted by Michael Chizhov and Mila Dunbar-Irwin.
Councilmember Matthews stated that pickleball courts had been at Bushmaster Park for a number of years without any issue, she asked Ms. Smith what had changed. Ms. Smith stated that two years ago there were 8.9 million pickleball players, and now there were 48 million players. Even up to last year, the sound was relatively tolerable but it had grown incessant.
Councilmember McCarthy stated that pickleball was a good sport if it could be done in a location that did not destroy a person's quality of life. It made sense to have a study done that considered the noise generated by the courts and the impact it may have on nearby residents. He did not think that Bushmaster Park was the right location for pickleball courts.
Vice Mayor Aslan expressed concern about the topic becoming a circular discussion over and over again, and he did not want to halt the current project at the expense of another discussion.
Councilmember McCarthy stated that the petition should advance to a future meeting for discussion so the details could be fleshed out and Council would have information to make a decision.
There was not requisite Council support to advance the item to a future agenda for discussion.
15.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
None
None
16.
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS TO/FROM MAYOR, COUNCIL, AND STAFF, AND FUTURE AGENDA ITEM REQUESTS
Councilmember Harris suggested that the City Council take a field trip to Picture Canyon. She shared that she had such a great experience with the Parks, Recreation, Open Space, and Events staff on her tour. They shared with her their plans and vision for the community, and she again recommended that all of Council take the opportunity to schedule a tour.
Vice Mayor Aslan requested the following two FAIR items:
Councilmember Sweet reminded everyone of the upcoming First Friday Artwalk downtown. She also mentioned that the City Council was co-sponsoring the movie Princess Bride with the county for Movies on the Square.
Councilmember House shared that she sent follow-up comments and questions to staff concerning the T21 ordinance. She would be attending the League of Arizona Cities and Towns Annual Conference that week and was looking forward to the educational sessions. She emphasized the importance of ongoing discussions within the community, particularly surrounding the celebration and visibility of various cultural heritages and traditions. There was a need for representation of communities that were often marginalized, and she was committed to being part of those conversations. She also addressed the recent mass shooting that targeted Black individuals and stressed the importance of confronting and addressing hatred and discrimination. Lastly, she highlighted her participation in welcoming Erika Alexander, a renowned actress and philanthropist, back to her hometown of Flagstaff, and emphasized the impact of the community on her life and career.
Mayor Daggett recognized artist Duane Koyawena for his recent mural on Steves Blvd. next to Chocolita and encouraged everyone to go see it. She also reported that she attended the Police Academy graduation ceremony. She also did a press conference about smart agriculture as part of the Inflation Reduction Act. She, along with Councilmembers House and Matthews attended the Indigenous Code Talkers Celebration. It was a great event, and she learned a lot about the work done by Indigenous soldiers and marines in World War I and World War II. Lastly, she reported that she and Councilmember Matthews attended the Morrison Institute retreat; it was great to meet colleagues from around the state and share collective challenges and approaches.
Vice Mayor Aslan requested the following two FAIR items:
- Discussion about developing court amenities for city parks, specifically basketball and Bankshot.
- Discussion about local breweries and increasing the square footage for retail space in light industrial zones.
Councilmember Sweet reminded everyone of the upcoming First Friday Artwalk downtown. She also mentioned that the City Council was co-sponsoring the movie Princess Bride with the county for Movies on the Square.
Councilmember House shared that she sent follow-up comments and questions to staff concerning the T21 ordinance. She would be attending the League of Arizona Cities and Towns Annual Conference that week and was looking forward to the educational sessions. She emphasized the importance of ongoing discussions within the community, particularly surrounding the celebration and visibility of various cultural heritages and traditions. There was a need for representation of communities that were often marginalized, and she was committed to being part of those conversations. She also addressed the recent mass shooting that targeted Black individuals and stressed the importance of confronting and addressing hatred and discrimination. Lastly, she highlighted her participation in welcoming Erika Alexander, a renowned actress and philanthropist, back to her hometown of Flagstaff, and emphasized the impact of the community on her life and career.
Mayor Daggett recognized artist Duane Koyawena for his recent mural on Steves Blvd. next to Chocolita and encouraged everyone to go see it. She also reported that she attended the Police Academy graduation ceremony. She also did a press conference about smart agriculture as part of the Inflation Reduction Act. She, along with Councilmembers House and Matthews attended the Indigenous Code Talkers Celebration. It was a great event, and she learned a lot about the work done by Indigenous soldiers and marines in World War I and World War II. Lastly, she reported that she and Councilmember Matthews attended the Morrison Institute retreat; it was great to meet colleagues from around the state and share collective challenges and approaches.
17.
ADJOURNMENT
The Regular Meeting of the Flagstaff City Council held August 28, 2023, adjourned at 5:22 p.m.
The Regular Meeting of the Flagstaff City Council held August 28, 2023, adjourned at 5:22 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 August 28, 2023. I further certify that the Meeting was duly called and held and that a quorum was present.
| DATED this 19th day of March, 2024 | |
________________________________________ CITY CLERK |