Matthew Dyer addressed Council with concerns about the liquor license for Baddies Food Joint. He stated that despite having an expired liquor license the establishment was still planning to serve alcohol. He would be contacting the Arizona Department of Liquor and encouraged others to reach out and express their concerns.

Blake Whitten addressed Council with concerns about noise and expressed disappointment about the failure to establish a noise ordinance. He explained that the noise coming from the Tavern bar is disruptive during late night hours. The city had a responsibility to protect the health and property values for all their citizens.

Convention and Visitor Bureau Director Trace Ward addressed Council to share that Discover Flagstaff had successfully renewed their accreditation as a certified destination marketing organization.

MaryAnn Deminsky, a new employee with the Arizona Attorney General's Office, introduced herself as part of the community engagement team based in Northern Arizona. She lived in Prescott and was assigned to Coconino, Yavapai, and Mojave counties. She expressed interest in participating in or helping plan any city outreach events or activities. She also offered to assist the City Council in elevating any concerns to the Attorney General's Office.

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Mr. Clifton honored Councilmember Jim McCarthy for his eight years of service to the city. Councilmember McCarthy consistently fought for funding for daily Amtrak service through Flagstaff and contributed to the city's involvement with All Aboard Arizona. He supported the Rio de Flag flood control project which was expected to break ground in 2026. Councilmember McCarthy served as liaison to the Transportation Commission and Chair of the MetroPlan organization, which reflected his strong commitment to transportation. He played an active role in shaping noise regulation policy and championed discussions around advanced water treatment solutions. His dedication and long-term advocacy in these areas were deeply appreciated by his colleagues and the community.

Deputy City Manager Joanne Keene added that Councilmember McCarthy was also known for his love of The Beatles and guitar playing, he even recreated the iconic Abbey Road crosswalk photo during a recent trip to Washington, D.C. He had spent significant time advocating for the Grand Canyon National Park and had been a dedicated supporter of various causes throughout his career. Councilmember McCarthy was appreciated for bringing humor and levity to City Council meetings, often catching even the smallest details, especially missing commas or punctuation. As an engineer, he was comfortable with technical discussions and was known for his thoughtful, kind interactions with city staff. His many years of leadership and service to the Flagstaff community have left a lasting impact.

Councilmember Sweet thanked Councilmember McCarthy for all his years of service. She thanked him for his support and the time he took to help her get up to speed when she was first elected. She appreciated his willingness to take field trips and go on site to get perspective on matters that were coming before them for decisions. She wished him well as he moved on to his next adventure.

Councilmember House shared that she remembered when she was first appointed to Council that Councilmember McCarthy was so welcoming and kind. She appreciated his willingness to support her and all the learning that had to go into the appointment process. He encouraged her to use her voice and step into the fray regardless of the outcome. She thanked him for his kindness, his words, his wisdom and his guidance over the past couple of years.

Vice Mayor Aslan spoke about Councilmember McCarthy’s significant contributions and institutional memory that predated his eight years on the Council. He expressed gratitude for Councilmember McCarthy’s even-keeled, clear communication style, and his ability to provide historical context in discussions. He also acknowledges Councilmember McCarthy’s sense of humor, musical contributions, and passion for trains and Amtrak. Vice Mayor Aslan also extended gratitude to Councilmember McCarthy’s wife Kathy for her support during his public service, especially amid personal and family challenges. He expressed appreciation for the resilience, positive spirit, and exemplary character Councilmember McCarthy brought to the Council.

Councilmember Matthews expressed appreciation for Councilmember McCarthy’s knowledge, insight, and respectful approach to the work of Council. She noted how, despite differing views at times, Councilmember McCarthy helped maintain a culture of mutual respect and professionalism, never letting disagreements become personal. Councilmember Matthews acknowledged how Councilmember McCarthy’s experience and historical perspective had guided her as a new member of the Council. She hoped that he would remain engaged with the city and continue to offer his insights.

Mayor Daggett shared that she appreciated sitting next to Councilmember McCarthy each Tuesday; she enjoyed his quiet humor. She offered that Councilmember McCarthy was consistent, prepared, and reliable, particularly on complex or technical issues, and how he had been a helpful and knowledgeable resource. She was grateful for his respectful and dignified demeanor, even during contentious discussions, and noted his ability to separate debate from personal relationships. She hoped that he would stay involved in the community and thanked him sincerely for his service.

Councilmember McCarthy reflected proudly on his time in public service, especially highlighting his role in hiring City Manager Greg Clifton, a decision he was particularly proud of. He acknowledged that his time on Council earned him both supporters and critics, but he remained proud of making informed, rational decisions after listening to all sides, regardless of popularity. He expressed gratitude for the many thank-you notes, emails, and familiar faces showing support, and shared pride in his service on various commissions including Planning and Zoning, Water, and the Mountain Line Board. He commended the city staff; he called them exceptional and a major reason for Council’s ability to make sound decisions. He noted that he was looking forward to more free time but that he would continue to support the Council.

Coordinator for Indigenous Initiatives Rose Toehe presented Councilmember McCarthy with cultural gifts and thanked Councilmember McCarthy for his service to the entire community. She honored his inclusive leadership and commitment. She offered him a blessing for continued health, presence, and the ability to share his wisdom with others for many years to come.

Senior Deputy City Manager Shannon Anderson and City Manager Clifton recognized Councilmember Harris. They praised her for an impactful two-year tenure, marked by deep community involvement and heartfelt leadership. Some of her key accomplishments included her championing of the Murdoch Center and the Cleo Murdoch Park, her active participation in the Southside Neighborhood Plan, and strong advocacy for the civic plaza at the Downtown Connection Center. She consistently pushed for inclusive outreach to underserved community members and was a steadfast advocate for equity and inclusion. Councilmember Harris’ professional background in academia enriched Council discussions, and she was known for being a thoughtful listener, often speaking last to ensure all voices were heard. Councilmember Harris was described as the voice of those not present, always speaking with candor, compassion, and a smile. She fostered connections between people and resources, strengthened relationships with Northern Arizona University, and served as liaison to the Parks and Recreation Commission. Though her term was relatively short, her contributions were substantial and long-lasting, and her leadership was recognized as part of a continuous cycle of positive civic engagement. 

Vice Mayor Aslan expressed deep gratitude for Councilmember Harris’ lifelong civic service, both in Flagstaff and beyond. He recognized her simultaneous role in raising a family and a community. He highlighted her courageous decision to step into public service during a difficult time for the city and noted the significant impact she made in a relatively short term. He stated that her voice was particularly valued for consistently advocating for those not present or unable to speak for themselves. She brought strength, clarity, and compassion to the Council, and her presence would be missed. He emphasized the importance of carrying forward her spirit of inclusivity and advocacy, and expressed confidence that she would continue to stay engaged with the community.

Councilmember Sweet expressed appreciation for Councilmember Harris and how much she had learned from her over the past two years. She emphasized that her voice stood out and continued to influence her thinking on major issues which were testament to her lasting impact. Councilmember Sweet promised to carry her wisdom and deep care for the community into her future decisions. She acknowledged Councilmember Harris’ contributions not just as a Councilmember, but as a dedicated community member who had poured her heart and soul into serving Flagstaff.

Councilmember Matthews expressed a deep personal connection with Councilmember Harris and described a special bond that was formed over their shared lived experience and time on the Council. She appreciated how Councilmember Harris broadened the conversation and reminded her colleagues to consider those often overlooked, especially individuals without access to common communication tools or from underrepresented groups. She was grateful for the valuable lessons learned from Councilmember Harris and promised to carry forward her perspective. She noted that she would miss being a partner with Councilmember Harris and hoped that their connection would continue well beyond their time in office.

Councilmember House shared a personal poem that she wrote in honor of Councilmember Harris. 

Councilmember McCarthy offered his appreciation to Councilmember Harris. He mentioned a song he recently wrote about kindness, caring for others, and doing the right thing, which were qualities that he strongly associated with her. While the song was not originally about her, he felt compelled to dedicate it to her. He recognized Councilmember Harris as a true leader and thanked her for being an essential and impactful member of the Council.

Mayor Daggett offered praise for Councilmember Harris’ powerful example of principled leadership. She highlighted her ability to maintain strong personal values while gracefully embracing new perspectives and information in a collaborative setting. She described Councilmember Harris as a model for how to balance personal beliefs with the diverse views of fellow Councilmembers and the broader community, all while navigating complex issues like financial constraints. Her consistent effort to represent those not physically present in the room was especially appreciated, and she noted how much she had grown and improved as a result of Councilmember Harris’ thoughtful and inclusive leadership.

Councilmember Harris expressed deep gratitude for her time on Council. She appreciated receiving kind words while still alive to hear them and referenced a song about giving people their “flowers” now rather than after they are gone. She thanked city staff, praising their excellence, patience, and the support they had given her as she learned and grew in her role. She offered appreciation for Mr. Clifton’s calm leadership and openness, and for Mr. Solomon’s subtle guidance and honesty. She expressed deep trust in both staff and colleagues, noting that while they did not always agree, they remained respectful and unified. Even though she was stepping away from the dais, she would still be involved and continuing her commitment to the community.

Ms. Toehe presented Councilmember Harris with cultural gifts and thanked her for her service. She thanked her for her unwavering commitment to the voices not present and for teaching the other members of Council to do the same. Ms. Toehe offered her a blessing of a rich life.

Anthony Garcia addressed Council and offered words of gratitude and appreciation to Councilmembers Harris and McCarthy for their public service.

The Special Meeting recessed at 4:10 p.m.

The Special Meeting reconvened at 4:30 p.m.

Grants, Contracts, and Emergency Management Director Stacey Brechler-Knaggs stated that the city previously had a long-standing agreement with the State of Arizona for emergency resource sharing, which expired in December 2023. Staff recently learned a new agreement was required. Many cities across the state participated, and approval of the contract would allow continued inclusion in the program.

Moved by Councilmember Lori Matthews, seconded by Councilmember Miranda Sweet to authorize the Arizona Mutual Aid Compact (Compact) between the City of Flagstaff and the Arizona Department of Military Affairs.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

Moved by Councilmember Lori Matthews, seconded by Councilmember Khara House to appoint Cherylee Francis to a term expiring in December 2026.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

Moved by Councilmember Lori Matthews, seconded by Councilmember Miranda Sweet to appoint Josh Maher to a term expiring in December 2027.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

Moved by Vice Mayor Austin Aslan, seconded by Councilmember Jim McCarthy to appoint Mary Norton to a term expiring in December 2026.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

Moved by Vice Mayor Austin Aslan, seconded by Councilmember Jim McCarthy to appoint Karin Wadsack to a term expiring in December 2025.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

The Special Meeting of December 10, 2024 adjourned at 4:35 p.m.

Mr. Clifton briefly reviewed his report.

Beautification, Arts & Sciences Project Administrator Cristen Crujido provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:

MULTICULTURAL COUNTY PARK SCULPTURE EXHIBITION
PRESENTATION OVERVIEW
PROJECT VIDEO
OUTREACH
SELECTION PANELISTS
PROJECT VISION
2025/26 ARTWORKS
EXHIBITION PREVIEW
ATI-TIACHINOLLI BY OLIVERIO BALCELLS
WINGS OF ANCESTORS BY ISAAC CARUSO
CELESTIAL JUGGLER BY JOE RAY
THUNDERSTORM BY ADRIAN WALL
ASDZAA NADLEEH (CHANGING WOMAN) BY LANCE YAZZIE

Councilmember Sweet offered appreciation to everyone involved in the project and emphasized her pride in serving as the Beautification and Public Art Commission liaison and witnessing the project from start to finish. She noted the project's importance to Flagstaff and acknowledged its celebration of cultural diversity, its value to the community, and its potential to put Flagstaff on the map.

Councilmember House expressed appreciation for the presentation and work that had gone into the project. She offered support for continuing the project beyond the initial three years. She encouraged expanded outreach, especially to neighborhood associations, local schools, and underrepresented communities. The project offered a powerful platform for youth to share their stories and cultural perspectives. 

Councilmember Harris suggested finding ways to support young or inexperienced artists who may struggle with proposal paperwork. She noted that many talented individuals did not submit their work because they did not know how to navigate the application process. Offering that kind of assistance may increase participation and diversity in the project. Ms. Crujido appreciated the suggestion and noted that over the past two years, she had been informally supporting artists, particularly those in Flagstaff by guiding them through the transition from 2D to 3D public art. She had connected artists with fabricators to develop their ideas and provided practical resources along with outreach in communities with limited access to technology, such as the reservations, to ensure broader participation in future project cycles.

Councilmember Matthews further emphasized the importance of outreach to local tribal communities She noted that many talented artists may not be connected to public art opportunities or know how to transition their work into outdoor public formats. She expressed support for the ongoing efforts to engage those communities and provide resources to help artists participate. There was untapped potential among artists who may not see themselves as professionals and encouraged the continuation and expansion of the project as a valuable enhancement to the city.

Vice Mayor Aslan expressed his support for continuing the public art project indefinitely. He felt that it was a valuable and essential program for the community. He emphasized that public art in Flagstaff is underrepresented and underutilized and urged efforts to expand and scale up the initiative.

Management Services Director Rick Tadder provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:

BANKING SERVICES PROCUREMENT UPDATE
CITY OF FLAGSTAFF BANKING
BANKING SERVICES PROCUREMENT OVERVIEW
UTILIZING A REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP)
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
BANKING SERVICES
SUSTAINABLE PROCUREMENT

Councilmember Matthews asked how scoring would be applied. She researched major banks who were likely to respond to an RFP and she found all had strong sustainability and climate action goals. However, many still maintained ties to fossil fuel industries, which remained essential to many products and sectors. It was a challenge of balancing the two factors.

Mr. Tadder explained that the scoring would total ten points, with proposers required to address both their relationships with fossil fuel industries and their commitments to climate action as separate questions in the RFP. A review panel of city staff would evaluate responses holistically, considering overall procurement needs, services, and those criteria. Reviewers will not be directed to split the points evenly but will use their judgment to determine the balance between the two factors when scoring.

Councilmember Matthews noted the importance of selecting reviewers who understand the complexity of municipal banking needs. While some had suggested using local banks or credit unions, she did not believe that was feasible, as such institutions likely lacked the capacity to meet requirements. It was critical that reviewers recognized the specialized demands involved in municipal banking.

Mr. Tadder agreed and shared that the review team would have the financial background and would likely include staff from Finance and Customer Service who do a lot of transactional work with the banks. 

TOTAL EVALUATION RATING
NEXT STEPS

Vice Mayor Aslan recommended sharing the timeline with interested members in the community. He asked the likelihood that the current banking institution would be the successful bidder. Mr. Tadder stated that the process was open, fair, and equitable. He would not be able to speculate who would submit bids or who would be the successful vendor.

Councilmember Harris expressed concern that once news spread about the update, many community members may speak out. She was worried that a few vocal individuals whose views do not represent the broader community would dominate the discussion and pressure Council to halt progress. Mr. Tadder responded that it was Council’s decision on awarding the contract. If Council determined that they did not want to go forward with a contract, a new RFP would be developed, and the process would start over.

Mayor Daggett thanked staff for their work since the petition discussion. She clarified that Council did not reject changing banks outright but instead required a policy framework before seeking new banking services. While some in the public were frustrated by the delay, Council listened and responded by establishing a policy. She acknowledged that many in the community ultimately want the city to avoid banks tied to fossil fuels and would likely remain vocal if that outcome was not achieved.

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Councilmember Matthews shared that she attended a productive meeting with the Mayor, staff, and the Navajo Nation Human Rights Commission. They discussed challenges faced by the Navajo community in town, identified potential solutions, and committed to ongoing collaboration through quarterly meetings.

Councilmember Harris thanked staff and all those who supported her over the last two years. She would be working at the Murdoch Center and would be available for people to drop by and grab some tea or coffee. She also thanked staff for all the work that had been done on the Murdoch Center and how nice it looked.

Vice Mayor Aslan requested information on a wildlife expert that he could meet with regarding bats.

Councilmember McCarthy reported that he had attended a MetroPlan meeting, a Transportation Commission meeting, and a Bicycle Advisory Committee meeting. He also was invited to speak to a senior high school class about government.

Councilmember Sweet highlighted recent and upcoming community events: the Stone Soup gathering at the Market of Dreams, the Aspen Niche ribbon cutting with the Mayor to celebrate downtown improvements, and encouraged attendance at the upcoming Parade of Lights on Saturday.

Councilmember House shared that she attended the Stone Soup dinner, participated in the Christmas tree lighting with other Councilmembers, and noted a memorable moment with a young child excited to see Santa. She highlighted the upcoming gun violence victims remembrance event at the Murdoch Center and invited Council to join a Christmas caroling walk organized by Canyon Chapel. She again thanked Councilmembers McCarthy and Harris for their service and looked forward to seeing them in the community.

Mayor Daggett also attended the Stone Soup dinner. She also praised the new, larger Market of Dreams, which would open soon for local entrepreneurs, and reminded residents that it was the last week to donate to Toys for Tots in the City Hall lobby or other city locations. She also mentioned upcoming weekend events downtown, including the holiday Parade of Lights, a Master Chorale concert at Flagstaff High School, and Culture Connection’s winter market.

The meeting of the Flagstaff City Council held December 10, 2024, adjourned at 7:04 p.m.