CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2025
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
211 WEST ASPEN AVE
3:00 P.M.
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2025
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 February 18, 2025, to order at 3:02 p.m.
NOTICE OF OPTION TO RECESS INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION
Mayor Daggett called the meeting of the Flagstaff City Council held February 18, 2025, 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 SWEET COUNCILMEMBER ASLAN COUNCILMEMBER GARCIA COUNCILMEMBER HOUSE COUNCILMEMBER MATTHEWS COUNCILMEMBER SPENCE |
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 Vice Mayor Sweet read the 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.
The Council and audience recited the pledge of allegiance, Councilmember House read the Mission Statement of the City of Flagstaff, and Vice Mayor Sweet 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
4.
OPEN CALL TO THE PUBLIC
Open Call to the Public enables the public to address the Council about an item that is not on the prepared agenda. Comments relating to items that are on the agenda will be taken at the time that the item is discussed. Open Call to the Public appears on the agenda twice, at the beginning and at the end. The total time allotted for the first Open Call to the Public is 30 minutes; any additional comments will be held until the second Open Call to the Public.
If you wish to address the Council in person at today'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 Open Call to the Public and Public Comment. 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.
Open Call to the Public enables the public to address the Council about an item that is not on the prepared agenda. Comments relating to items that are on the agenda will be taken at the time that the item is discussed. Open Call to the Public appears on the agenda twice, at the beginning and at the end. The total time allotted for the first Open Call to the Public is 30 minutes; any additional comments will be held until the second Open Call to the Public.
If you wish to address the Council in person at today'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 Open Call to the Public and Public Comment. 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.
Khara House addressed Council and wished Happy Birthday to members of the City Attorney’s office.
DJ addressed Council and spoke about a claim filed against Flagstaff Shelter Services for negligence.
Melinda Cole addressed Council with concerns about the reduction in bulky waste pickup.
Jill Dyer addressed Council regarding the noise dispute with Southside Tavern. She encouraged the Council to visit the bar and get the facts.
Matthew Dyer addressed Council and also spoke about the noise issues aimed at Southside Tavern. He indicated that he had purchased a noise meter to monitor sound all day so he could adjust as needed.
Colleen Maring, Chief People Officer and General Counsel for Northern Arizona Healthcare, addressed Council and expressed gratitude to their employees and physicians during the shortage of sterile IV fluids resulting from Hurricane Helene. She also spoke about the Nurse and Tech of the Year and thanked AZ Credit Union and Findlay Toyota for their participation and support.
Richard O’Keeffe addressed Council with concerns about changes in street signage with the use of upper- and lower-case letters and removal of directional references.
Resilience Hub Specialist Sam Wiley addressed Council announcing an upcoming emergency preparedness workshop series.
Nik Merlino addressed Council with concerns about a dumpster location in Southside that was causing private property issues.
DJ addressed Council and spoke about a claim filed against Flagstaff Shelter Services for negligence.
Melinda Cole addressed Council with concerns about the reduction in bulky waste pickup.
Jill Dyer addressed Council regarding the noise dispute with Southside Tavern. She encouraged the Council to visit the bar and get the facts.
Matthew Dyer addressed Council and also spoke about the noise issues aimed at Southside Tavern. He indicated that he had purchased a noise meter to monitor sound all day so he could adjust as needed.
Colleen Maring, Chief People Officer and General Counsel for Northern Arizona Healthcare, addressed Council and expressed gratitude to their employees and physicians during the shortage of sterile IV fluids resulting from Hurricane Helene. She also spoke about the Nurse and Tech of the Year and thanked AZ Credit Union and Findlay Toyota for their participation and support.
Richard O’Keeffe addressed Council with concerns about changes in street signage with the use of upper- and lower-case letters and removal of directional references.
Resilience Hub Specialist Sam Wiley addressed Council announcing an upcoming emergency preparedness workshop series.
Nik Merlino addressed Council with concerns about a dumpster location in Southside that was causing private property issues.
5.
COUNCIL LIAISON REPORTS
Councilmember Aslan reported that he had attended the Metro Plan Strategic Advance, there was discussion of grant opportunities for Flagstaff in terms of micro-mobility and streets projects.
Vice Mayor Sweet reported that the Mountain Line meeting was that week as was the Water Commission. She also reported that at the last Beautification and Public Art Commission meeting they approved a new color for a sculpture that's out at the airport.
Councilmember House reported that the Housing Commission met on a proposed resolution coming to Council in March. She also reported that the Commission on Diversity Awareness would be meeting to discuss proclamations and the rainbow crosswalk proposal.
Mayor Daggett reported that the Flagstaff Housing Authority meeting was that week.
Vice Mayor Sweet reported that the Mountain Line meeting was that week as was the Water Commission. She also reported that at the last Beautification and Public Art Commission meeting they approved a new color for a sculpture that's out at the airport.
Councilmember House reported that the Housing Commission met on a proposed resolution coming to Council in March. She also reported that the Commission on Diversity Awareness would be meeting to discuss proclamations and the rainbow crosswalk proposal.
Mayor Daggett reported that the Flagstaff Housing Authority meeting was that week.
6.
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: Heritage Preservation Commission
Moved by Vice Mayor Miranda Sweet, seconded by Councilmember Khara House to appoint Jose “Jesse” Dominguez to a Historic Property Owner position on the Heritage Preservation Commission with a term ending in December 2026.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
B.
Consideration of Appointments: Commission on Inclusion and Adaptive Living
Moved by Councilmember Austin Aslan, seconded by Councilmember David Spence to appoint Sarah Dorman to a term expiring in March 2027.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
Moved by Councilmember David Spence, seconded by Councilmember Austin Aslan to appoint Rasheera Dopson to a term expiring in March 2028.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
7.
CONSENT AGENDA
All matters under Consent Agenda are considered by the City Council to be routine. Unless a member of City Council expresses a desire at the meeting to remove an item from the Consent Agenda for discussion, the Consent Agenda will be enacted by one motion approving the recommendations listed on the agenda. Unless otherwise indicated, expenditures approved by Council are budgeted items.
All matters under Consent Agenda are considered by the City Council to be routine. Unless a member of City Council expresses a desire at the meeting to remove an item from the Consent Agenda for discussion, the Consent Agenda 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 Khara House, seconded by Councilmember Lori Matthews to approve the Consent Agenda as presented with the exception of Item 7D.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
A.
Consideration and Approval of Contract: Approve the Cooperative Purchase Contract with Graybar Electric Company, Inc. for SCADA/IS for Water and Wastewater treatment software and hardware in the amount not to exceed $195,152.45, annually.
- Approve the Cooperative Purchase Contract with Graybar Electric Company, Inc. ("Graybar") for SCADA/IS for Water and Wastewater treatment software and hardware in the amount not to exceed $195,152.45, annually; and
- Request the City manager to execute all the necessary documents.
B.
Consideration and Approval of Ratification: Letter of Support for the AZ SMART Fund
Retroactively approve the letter of support to the Arizona State Transportation Board.
Retroactively approve the letter of support to the Arizona State Transportation Board.
C.
Consideration and Approval of Contract: This agreement between the City of Flagstaff and the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management will allow for the implementation of a Community Wildfire Defense Grant that will fund an update of the Greater Flagstaff Area Community Wildfire Protection Plan.
Staff recommend approving this agreement. This $295,000 agreement will provide $250,000 from the AZ Department of Forestry and Fire Management to update the Greater Flagstaff Area Community Wildfire Protection Plan.
Staff recommend approving this agreement. This $295,000 agreement will provide $250,000 from the AZ Department of Forestry and Fire Management to update the Greater Flagstaff Area Community Wildfire Protection Plan.
D.
Consideration and Approval of Contract: Cooperative Purchase Contract with Phil Long Ford of Denver, LLC in the amount of $159,849.75, for the purchase of three 2024 Ford F150 Responder Units for use as Battalion Chief vehicles for the Flagstaff Fire Department.
Kelly Cullen addressed Council with concerns that Flagstaff had an ongoing practice to not purchase locally. He expressed frustration that local businesses were not included in the vehicle purchases and felt that the transportation of the vehicles should be enough to table the matter.
Facilities and Fleet Section Director Jen Brown offered that staff reached out directly to the Ford and Chevrolet dealers in Flagstaff. Babbitt Ford was not able to provide the vehicles immediately and required a lengthy order process of six months to a year. Chevrolet, on the other hand, did not manufacture a Special Services Vehicle suitable for public safety use. To meet urgent needs, especially after vehicle losses due to a collision and engine failure, they contacted a large supplier in Colorado, which had three units available for immediate purchase. Proper procurement procedures were followed for the acquisition.
Mayor Daggett asked about purchase bank ordering. Ms. Brown explained that it was the designated period when government fleet vehicles must be pre-ordered rather than bought directly from a dealership lot. For example, Ford’s ordering bank for police vehicles opens in July and closes in October, setting a cap on how many units can be manufactured. Once the window closes, no more orders can be placed, and production begins. Some large dealerships, like the one in Colorado, order extra vehicles beyond agency requests. This allowed them to have additional stock available for agencies that miss the ordering window or need urgent replacements. Their ability to pre-purchase ensures faster access to specialized vehicles when needed.
Councilmember Garcia indicated that all businesses could sign up to be included in the procurement process and notified of upcoming purchases.
Councilmember Matthews shared that the city always wanted to purchase local when they could, and staff is good about reaching out to local vendors to do what they can to facilitate that purchase locally. Vehicles in particular were in high demand, and it was important to obtain them as quickly as possible when they become available and that could mean purchasing outside of Flagstaff.
Councilmember Aslan asked about the possibility of local vendors receiving additional points in the procurement process. Purchasing Director Patrick Brown explained that there was a timing issue with dealerships because they would not hold vehicles. Often time, by the time the regular procurement process was done, the vehicles were no longer available. They have resorted to cooperatives when things were urgent, especially with public safety. In a bidding process, it was the dollar amount that determined the best bid and legally the city was unable to provide a local preference on procurements. He added that staff had been engaging with the local dealerships to try and get them onto cooperative contracts.
Councilmember Spence asked if Ford made any F150 Lightnings that met the Special Service Vehicle requirements. Ms. Brown indicated that they did not but that the Lightning did meet the needs of other areas within the city fleet and they have been introduced when available.
Facilities and Fleet Section Director Jen Brown offered that staff reached out directly to the Ford and Chevrolet dealers in Flagstaff. Babbitt Ford was not able to provide the vehicles immediately and required a lengthy order process of six months to a year. Chevrolet, on the other hand, did not manufacture a Special Services Vehicle suitable for public safety use. To meet urgent needs, especially after vehicle losses due to a collision and engine failure, they contacted a large supplier in Colorado, which had three units available for immediate purchase. Proper procurement procedures were followed for the acquisition.
Mayor Daggett asked about purchase bank ordering. Ms. Brown explained that it was the designated period when government fleet vehicles must be pre-ordered rather than bought directly from a dealership lot. For example, Ford’s ordering bank for police vehicles opens in July and closes in October, setting a cap on how many units can be manufactured. Once the window closes, no more orders can be placed, and production begins. Some large dealerships, like the one in Colorado, order extra vehicles beyond agency requests. This allowed them to have additional stock available for agencies that miss the ordering window or need urgent replacements. Their ability to pre-purchase ensures faster access to specialized vehicles when needed.
Councilmember Garcia indicated that all businesses could sign up to be included in the procurement process and notified of upcoming purchases.
Councilmember Matthews shared that the city always wanted to purchase local when they could, and staff is good about reaching out to local vendors to do what they can to facilitate that purchase locally. Vehicles in particular were in high demand, and it was important to obtain them as quickly as possible when they become available and that could mean purchasing outside of Flagstaff.
Councilmember Aslan asked about the possibility of local vendors receiving additional points in the procurement process. Purchasing Director Patrick Brown explained that there was a timing issue with dealerships because they would not hold vehicles. Often time, by the time the regular procurement process was done, the vehicles were no longer available. They have resorted to cooperatives when things were urgent, especially with public safety. In a bidding process, it was the dollar amount that determined the best bid and legally the city was unable to provide a local preference on procurements. He added that staff had been engaging with the local dealerships to try and get them onto cooperative contracts.
Councilmember Spence asked if Ford made any F150 Lightnings that met the Special Service Vehicle requirements. Ms. Brown indicated that they did not but that the Lightning did meet the needs of other areas within the city fleet and they have been introduced when available.
Moved by Councilmember Lori Matthews, seconded by Councilmember Anthony Garcia to approve Cooperative Purchase Contract with Phil Long Ford of Denver, LLC in the amount of $159,849.75, for the purchase of three 2024 Ford F150 Responder Units for use as Battalion Chief vehicles for the Flagstaff Fire Department and authorize the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
E.
Ratification and Approval for Use of Council Initiative Fund: for use of the Council Initiative Fund to support the Flagstaff Big Read 2025 in the amount of $1,400, the CocoNuts Robotics Team in the amount of $2,500, and the Downtown Movies on the Square in the amount of $3,000.
- Ratify the use of the Council Initiative Fund for the following:
- Flagstaff Big Read - $1,400
- CocoNuts Robotics Team - $2,500
- Downtown Movies on the Square - $3,000
F.
Consideration and Approval of a Contract: Purchase of Materials/Services with Summitt Forests, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $217,042 for thinning on US Forest Service Road 535 as part of Supplemental Project Agreement 22-PA-11030400-043 between the US Forest Service - Coconino National Forest and the City of Flagstaff.
- Approve the Contract for Purchase of Materials/Services with Summitt Forests, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $217,042 for thinning on US Forest Service Road 535 as part of an agreement between the US Forest Service - Coconino National Forest and the City of Flagstaff; and
- Authorize the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
G.
Consideration and Approval of Settlement: Apprpve the settlement of the Lorraine Crim Notice of Claim dated September 13, 2024, and amended on September 23, 2024.
- Approve settlement of the Lorraine Crim claim pursuant to the terms discussed in executive session, and
- Authorize and direct the City Manager and/or City Attorney to execute all documents and take other actions as are necessary to finalize the settlement.
8.
ROUTINE ITEMS
A.
Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2025-02 and Ordinance No. 2025-01: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Flagstaff, Coconino County, Arizona, declaring as a public record that certain document filed with the City Clerk entitled "PZ-24-00216 - Resource Protection Standards Applicability" and an Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Flagstaff, Coconino County, Arizona, amending the Flagstaff City Code, Title 10, Flagstaff Zoning Code.
Moved by Councilmember Lori Matthews, seconded by Vice Mayor Miranda Sweet to adopt Resolution No. 2025-02.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
Moved by Councilmember Austin Aslan, seconded by Councilmember Lori Matthews to read Ordinance No. 2025-01 by title only for the final time.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF, AMENDING THE FLAGSTAFF CITY CODE, TITLE 10, FLAGSTAFF ZONING CODE, BY ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THAT CERTAIN DOCUMENT ENTITLED “PZ-24-00216 – RESOURCE PROTECTION STANDARDS APPLICABILITY”; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF CONFLICTING ORDINANCES, SEVERABILITY, AUTHORITY FOR CLERICAL CORRECTIONS, AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
Moved by Councilmember Lori Matthews, seconded by Vice Mayor Miranda Sweet to adopt Ordinance No. 2025-01.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
B.
Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2025-03 and Ordinance No. 2025-02: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Flagstaff, Coconino County, Arizona, declaring as a public record that certain document filed with the City Clerk, entitled "PZ-24-00217 - Urban Farm Land Use" and an Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Flagstaff, Coconino County, Arizona, amending the Flagstaff City Code, Title 10, Flagstaff Zoning Code.
Moved by Councilmember Anthony Garcia, seconded by Councilmember Khara House to adopt Resolution No. 2025-03.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
Moved by Councilmember Khara House, seconded by Councilmember Anthony Garcia to read Ordinance No. 2025-02 by title only for the final time.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF, AMENDING THE FLAGSTAFF CITY CODE, TITLE 10, FLAGSTAFF ZONING CODE, BY ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THAT CERTAIN DOCUMENT ENTITLED “PZ-24-00217 – URBAN FARM LAND USE”; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF CONFLICTING ORDINANCES, SEVERABILITY, AUTHORITY FOR CLERICAL CORRECTIONS, AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
Moved by Councilmember Khara House, seconded by Councilmember Anthony Garcia to adopt Ordinance No. 2025-02.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
9.
REGULAR AGENDA
A.
Consideration and Acceptance of Highest Bids for Solicitations 2025-30 and 2025-31 for Sale of Real Property (Koch Field subdivision) and Consideration and Approval of Purchase Agreements: with Open Sky Development, LLC for sale of 9.26 acres of residential land; and with Silver Saddle Development, LLC for the sale of 12.52 acres of residential land.
Real Estate Manager Bryce Doty provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:
KOCH FIELD PARCEL SALE
VICINITY MAP
Mayor Daggett confirmed that 100% of the proceeds had to go to the Self Insurance Trust Fund to which Mr. Doty responded yes.
Councilmember Garcia asked if the sale was an adequate return on investment. Mr. Doty stated that it depended on the time value of money. It was a $1.1 million investment, and the city was selling for $1.3 million.
KOCH FIELD PARCEL SALE
VICINITY MAP
Mayor Daggett confirmed that 100% of the proceeds had to go to the Self Insurance Trust Fund to which Mr. Doty responded yes.
Councilmember Garcia asked if the sale was an adequate return on investment. Mr. Doty stated that it depended on the time value of money. It was a $1.1 million investment, and the city was selling for $1.3 million.
Moved by Councilmember David Spence, seconded by Councilmember Lori Matthews to accept the highest bid for Solicitation No. 2025-30 and approve Real Estate Purchase and Sale Contract for sale of 9.26 acres of residential land for $664,000 to Open Sky Development, LLC and accept the highest bid for Solicitation No. 2025-31 and approve Real Estate Purchase and Sale Contract for sale of 12.52 acres of residential land for $823,000 to Silver Sky Development, LLC and find that properties are not suitable for City development of affordable housing as proceeds from the sale need to be returned to Self-Insured Trust Fund.
Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously
B.
Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2025-09 and Ordinance No. 2025-03: An ordinance of the City Council of the City of Flagstaff, amending the Flagstaff City Code, Title 13-09-002-0012, Private Pressure Wastewater Mains and Services.
Moved by Vice Mayor Miranda Sweet, seconded by Councilmember Khara House to read Resolution No. 2025-09 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 “2025 - PRESSURE WASTEWATER CODE AMENDMENT
Moved by Vice Mayor Miranda Sweet, seconded by Councilmember Khara House to read Ordinance No. 2025-03 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 13-09-002-0012, PRIVATE PRESSURE WASTEWATER MAINS AND SERVICES, BY ADOPTING BY REFERENCE THAT CERTAIN DOCUMENT ENTITLED “2025 – PRESSURE WASTEWATER CODE AMENDMENT”; PROVIDING FOR REPEAL OF CONFLICTING ORDINANCES, SEVERABILITY, AUTHORITY FOR CLERICAL CORRECTIONS, AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE
10.
DISCUSSION ITEMS
A.
Discussion on reclaimed water rates following Council's request from the April 2, 2024 Council Meeting.
Water Resources Manager Erin Young provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:
RECLAIMED WATER RATES DISCUSSION
AGENDA
WHAT IS RECLAIMED WATER?
RECLAIMED WATER TRENDS
RECLAIMED WATER POLICY
EXAMPLES OF EXISTING POLICY FOR COST RECOVERY
ADOPTED RATES (EFFECTIVE SEPT 1 2024)
RECLAIMED WATER FACTS
CITY CODE 7-03-001-0014.E.1.D
RECLAIMED WATER DELIVER TO REUSE AND DISCHARGE TO RIO DE FLAG
2019 RECLAIMED WATER PRODUCTION AND DELIVERIES BY CUSTOMER TYPE
ROADMAP – TIMELINE OF DISCUSSION
GUIDANCE DOCUMENT TIMELINE
MAKEUP OF WORKGROUP
RECOMMENDATIONS OF WORKGROUP
GUIDANCE DOCUMENT
GOALS FOR AN UPDATED RECLAIMED WATER PRICING SYSTEM
TO FULFILL THE GOALS
KEY CHARACTERISTICS
KEY ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
DOCUMENT INCLUDES ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
GUIDING PRINCIPALS
RECOMMENDED ACTIONS DURING THIS 5-YEAR RATE PERIOD
CURRENT RATE STRUCTURE
WATER CONSERVATION INITIATIVES
SEEKING COUNCIL DIRECTION
The Council discussed the importance of water conservation, the potential for advanced water purification, and the need to explore water conservation and demand smoothing actions to ensure sustainable water management. Key points included the following:
Councilmember House indicated support for Option 1 and recommended getting the guiding principles in place for the preference of the use of reclaimed water for snow making.
Councilmember Aslan stated that water conservation should be top of mind with cost recovery secondary. He would like to incentivize conservation and discourage copious use. He added that remaining nimble would be important to allow for adjustments for advancement in technology. He would also like to know how fire preparedness efforts could enter into the conversation.
Vice Mayor Sweet indicated her support for Option 1 as did Councilmember Garcia who added that advanced technology should continue to be part of the discussion.
Councilmembers Matthews and Spence both noted their support for Option 1.
RECLAIMED WATER RATES DISCUSSION
AGENDA
WHAT IS RECLAIMED WATER?
RECLAIMED WATER TRENDS
RECLAIMED WATER POLICY
EXAMPLES OF EXISTING POLICY FOR COST RECOVERY
ADOPTED RATES (EFFECTIVE SEPT 1 2024)
RECLAIMED WATER FACTS
CITY CODE 7-03-001-0014.E.1.D
RECLAIMED WATER DELIVER TO REUSE AND DISCHARGE TO RIO DE FLAG
2019 RECLAIMED WATER PRODUCTION AND DELIVERIES BY CUSTOMER TYPE
ROADMAP – TIMELINE OF DISCUSSION
GUIDANCE DOCUMENT TIMELINE
MAKEUP OF WORKGROUP
RECOMMENDATIONS OF WORKGROUP
GUIDANCE DOCUMENT
GOALS FOR AN UPDATED RECLAIMED WATER PRICING SYSTEM
TO FULFILL THE GOALS
KEY CHARACTERISTICS
KEY ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
DOCUMENT INCLUDES ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
GUIDING PRINCIPALS
RECOMMENDED ACTIONS DURING THIS 5-YEAR RATE PERIOD
CURRENT RATE STRUCTURE
WATER CONSERVATION INITIATIVES
SEEKING COUNCIL DIRECTION
The Council discussed the importance of water conservation, the potential for advanced water purification, and the need to explore water conservation and demand smoothing actions to ensure sustainable water management. Key points included the following:
- Limited storage for reclaimed water.
- The need for an evaluation of reclaimed water, independent of potable water.
- The $100 to $200 million investment needed for bringing reclaimed water up to a grade for drinking water.
- The trigger points for Red Gap Ranch.
- Sinclair Wash Riparian area plans.
- Timing for a rate study.
Councilmember House indicated support for Option 1 and recommended getting the guiding principles in place for the preference of the use of reclaimed water for snow making.
Councilmember Aslan stated that water conservation should be top of mind with cost recovery secondary. He would like to incentivize conservation and discourage copious use. He added that remaining nimble would be important to allow for adjustments for advancement in technology. He would also like to know how fire preparedness efforts could enter into the conversation.
Vice Mayor Sweet indicated her support for Option 1 as did Councilmember Garcia who added that advanced technology should continue to be part of the discussion.
Councilmembers Matthews and Spence both noted their support for Option 1.
B.
Overview of the Community Fire Preparedness efforts
Fire Chief Mark Gaillard, Wildland Fire Battalion Chief Paul Oltrogge, Wildland Fire Captain Neil Chapman, Deputy Police Chief Collin Seay, Coconino County Community Development Director Jay Christelman, Interim Water Services Director Lee Williams, and Emergency Management Director Stacey Brechler-Knaggs provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:
COMMUNITY PREPAREDNESS DISCUSSION
DISCUSSION OF OBJECTIVES
WHO WE ARE
STAFFING
BUDGET
DAILY EMERGENCY RESPONSE RESOURCES
Mr. Clifton spoke about the funding of the unfunded pension liability. In 2020, the city addressed its unfunded pension liability by allocating $130 million through certificates of participation, fully paying off the public pension debt. This move demonstrated strong support for public safety personnel and significantly relieved the general fund from pension-related expenses. As a result, budget numbers showed a sharp decline, with a nearly -177% difference from 2020 to 2021. However, if fire personnel investments were isolated, there would be a positive 14% increase, reflecting consistent investment in public safety. Despite achieving a zero-vacancy rate in the Fire Department, the city acknowledges that current infrastructure and staffing levels may not fully meet future demands. He emphasized the importance of clearly representing the pension payoff in budget reports to avoid misinterpretation of the numbers.
PARTNERS IN COMMUNITY PREPAREDNESS EFFORTS
THE FIVE ES OF COMMUNITY RISK REDUCTION
EDUCATION
READY, SET, GO AND EVACUATION PREPARATION
WILDLAND FIRE ACTION GUIDE
ENFORCEMENT
FIRE RESTRICTIONS
FLAGSTAFF POLICE DEPARTMENT INVOLVEMENT
ENGINEERING
FLAGSTAFF WATER PRODUCTION AND RESILIENCY
Council briefly discussed fire insurance rates and how that corresponded to ISO ratings. Chief Gaillard explained that the increases and cancellations of fire insurance were primarily associated with wildland fire risk.
ENGINEERING THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
ENGINEERING THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
Council discussed in more detail the challenges with mitigation within city limits. Key points included the following:
ECONOMIC INCENTIVES
WILDFIRE MITIGATION GRANTS
EMERGENCY RESPONSE
FIRE DEPARTMENT STAFFING COMPONENTS
SEVERITY STAFFING – NATIONAL FIRE DANGER RATING SYSTEM (NFDRS)
LOCAL EXAMPLES OF SEVERITY STAFFING
TRAINING
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
Council highlighted concerns about wildfire preparedness and the role of federal partners in local operations. While federal layoffs raised concerns about resource availability, communication and planning with federal agencies remained intact.
Chief Gaillard further emphasized the need for community education on fire risks, particularly in multi-family housing where activities like vehicle repairs and grilling can increase hazards. Council praised the Ready, Set, Go! evacuation system and stressed the importance of ongoing public messaging, town halls, and home assessments. A communications plan was developed to provide targeted outreach, including information on evacuations, permitted activities, and emergency procedures.
There was also discussion on redevelopment policies, particularly how changes from single-family to multi-family housing impact emergency response, parking, and access for emergency vehicles. There was strong acknowledgement that those issues must be continuously evaluated in policy and code reviews.
Council asked how fire restrictions and forest closures were determined and staff noted that the decisions were largely driven by federal authorities, though efforts were made to align restrictions across different jurisdictions to reduce public confusion.
COMMUNITY PREPAREDNESS DISCUSSION
DISCUSSION OF OBJECTIVES
WHO WE ARE
STAFFING
BUDGET
DAILY EMERGENCY RESPONSE RESOURCES
Mr. Clifton spoke about the funding of the unfunded pension liability. In 2020, the city addressed its unfunded pension liability by allocating $130 million through certificates of participation, fully paying off the public pension debt. This move demonstrated strong support for public safety personnel and significantly relieved the general fund from pension-related expenses. As a result, budget numbers showed a sharp decline, with a nearly -177% difference from 2020 to 2021. However, if fire personnel investments were isolated, there would be a positive 14% increase, reflecting consistent investment in public safety. Despite achieving a zero-vacancy rate in the Fire Department, the city acknowledges that current infrastructure and staffing levels may not fully meet future demands. He emphasized the importance of clearly representing the pension payoff in budget reports to avoid misinterpretation of the numbers.
PARTNERS IN COMMUNITY PREPAREDNESS EFFORTS
THE FIVE ES OF COMMUNITY RISK REDUCTION
EDUCATION
READY, SET, GO AND EVACUATION PREPARATION
WILDLAND FIRE ACTION GUIDE
ENFORCEMENT
FIRE RESTRICTIONS
FLAGSTAFF POLICE DEPARTMENT INVOLVEMENT
ENGINEERING
FLAGSTAFF WATER PRODUCTION AND RESILIENCY
Council briefly discussed fire insurance rates and how that corresponded to ISO ratings. Chief Gaillard explained that the increases and cancellations of fire insurance were primarily associated with wildland fire risk.
ENGINEERING THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
ENGINEERING THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
Council discussed in more detail the challenges with mitigation within city limits. Key points included the following:
- Fire models that incorporated real-world scenarios like the Pipeline Fire to identify fire pathways.
- Efforts were underway to incorporate fire risk assessments into community development plans, such as working with developers on a recently sold 500-acre parcel to design safer neighborhoods.
- Wildfire mitigation efforts face unique challenges within city limits.
- Shifting the focus toward incentivizing homeowners to participate in risk reduction efforts.
- Technology was being leveraged to improve fire mitigation planning by inventorying trees which would allow for more strategic development that preserves heritage trees while considering fire risk.
ECONOMIC INCENTIVES
WILDFIRE MITIGATION GRANTS
EMERGENCY RESPONSE
FIRE DEPARTMENT STAFFING COMPONENTS
SEVERITY STAFFING – NATIONAL FIRE DANGER RATING SYSTEM (NFDRS)
LOCAL EXAMPLES OF SEVERITY STAFFING
TRAINING
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
Council highlighted concerns about wildfire preparedness and the role of federal partners in local operations. While federal layoffs raised concerns about resource availability, communication and planning with federal agencies remained intact.
Chief Gaillard further emphasized the need for community education on fire risks, particularly in multi-family housing where activities like vehicle repairs and grilling can increase hazards. Council praised the Ready, Set, Go! evacuation system and stressed the importance of ongoing public messaging, town halls, and home assessments. A communications plan was developed to provide targeted outreach, including information on evacuations, permitted activities, and emergency procedures.
There was also discussion on redevelopment policies, particularly how changes from single-family to multi-family housing impact emergency response, parking, and access for emergency vehicles. There was strong acknowledgement that those issues must be continuously evaluated in policy and code reviews.
Council asked how fire restrictions and forest closures were determined and staff noted that the decisions were largely driven by federal authorities, though efforts were made to align restrictions across different jurisdictions to reduce public confusion.
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 request by Mayor Daggett to place on a future agenda a discussion on how to organize the Fleet Electrification Policy to focus on the rightsizing of vehicles for the job.
Mayor Daggett explained that she would like to have a discussion about the Fleet Electrification Policy to better understand how requested vehicles were evaluated and right-sized based on the assigned use.
There was requisite support to advance the item forward to a future agenda for discussion.
There was requisite support to advance the item forward to a future agenda for discussion.
B.
Future Agenda Item Request (F.A.I.R.): A request by Mayor Daggett to place on a future agenda a discussion on the possibility of speed humps in Flagstaff and how they could work with snow operations.
Mayor Daggett stated that she would like to have a discussion about how speed humps may be utilized to slow traffic in neighborhoods and how snow operations could be impacted and how to mitigate those impacts if possible.
There was requisite support to advance the item forward to a future agenda for discussion.
There was requisite support to advance the item forward to a future agenda for discussion.
12.
OPEN CALL TO THE PUBLIC
DJ addressed Council about experiencing discrimination while being homeless and his challenges with finding housing in Flagstaff.
13.
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS TO/FROM MAYOR, COUNCIL, AND STAFF, AND FUTURE AGENDA ITEM REQUESTS
Councilmember Garcia reported that Flagstaff Unified School District would be holding their Board retreat that week.
14.
ADJOURNMENT
The Regular Meeting of the Flagstaff City Council held February 18, 2025, adjourned at 7:24 p.m.
The Regular Meeting of the Flagstaff City Council held February 18, 2025, adjourned at 7:24 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 February 18, 2025. I further certify that the Meeting was duly called and held and that a quorum was present.
| DATED this 15th day of April, 2025 | |
________________________________________ CITY CLERK |