Chair Simukonda called the meeting to order 11:03 a.m. 

None

Recreation Manager Tyrone Johnson provided a presentation that covered the following: 

RECREATION COMMUNITY FEEDBACK 2024 
DATA TRENDS 
AGE GROUP 
WHICH CITY OF FLAGSTAFF RECREATION FACILITY DO YOU USE? 
UTILIZATION OF RECREATION FACILITIES 
HOURS OF OPERATION 
QUESTIONS 

Ms. Reyes asked if Hal Jensen Recreation Center could be open on Sundays. Mr. Johnson responded that survey feedback did not show enough demand, but they may revisit the idea with another survey in the future. 

Chair Simukonda asked if the Aquaplex accepts Renew Active. Mr. Johnson confirmed that it has accepted Renew Active since April, but it is currently the only city facility that does so. 

Ms. Reyes also inquired about the possibility of a universal recreation pass. Mr. Johnson noted that while it is not currently being considered, the Aquaplex’s membership-based model makes that approach more complex. 

Chair Simukonda raised concerns about Hal Jensen’s lack of weekend hours, especially since it serves many youth in the area. She suggested shifting hours to accommodate when kids are out of school. Mr. Johnson said weekend openings were not prioritized based on feedback, but the idea of shifting hours could be reviewed. 

Commissioner Becker requested attendance data, emphasizing that Saturdays and Sundays could better serve students and youth. Mr. Johnson explained that Hal Jensen uses manual sign-in sheets and that historical weekend data would be from before the pandemic. He added that passes are specific to areas like the weight room and that expanding access could be challenging. 

Commissioner Dorman thanked staff for their work and encouraged creative thinking to work around budget constraints. Mr. Johnson acknowledged the concern and said he would explore possible solutions, keeping in mind staffing and budget limitations. 

Chair Simukonda suggested utilizing empty weekend parking lots for events like a swap meet with table fees. Mr. Johnson responded that all parts of the facility are rentable, and the idea has potential. 

When asked about a community survey for the old fire station being converted to a rec center, Parks and Recreation and Open Space (PROSE) Division Director Rebecca Sayers clarified it is not a PROSE-run facility. The project is managed by Public Works, and there is a public design meeting scheduled to gather community input. 

Commissioner Becker asked about accessibility at facilities. Mr. Johnson confirmed that all city facilities are compliant and welcome individuals of all abilities. 

Ms. Sayers addressed affordability by highlighting a scholarship program that aims to be user-friendly. Mr. Johnson encouraged community members to apply, and Ms. Sayers clarified the available discounts. 

Chair Simukonda said the scholarship program should be discussed at the next Coordinated Mobility Council meeting. Ms. Reyes agreed that it would be a good topic. 

Chair Simukonda recognized the PROSE department and its staff for their continued support and availability. 

ACCESSIBLE TRAIL INFORMATION 
INTENT AND PURPOSE 
OTHER USES FOR INFORMATION 
CITY EXAMPLES 
ARIZONA TRAIL 
BUFFALO PARK ACCESSIBLE LOOP 
OTHER EXAMPLES 
INFORMATION PROVIDED 
LENGTH 
WIDTH AND CROSS SLOPE 
SURFACE 
FEATURES 
DESTINATIONS 
GRADES AND SLOPES 

Commissioner Becker suggested that providing an explanation would be helpful, as many people may not understand percentages. Mr. Ince agreed, adding that clear wording would be beneficial and could improve understanding. 

Commissioner Becker recommended including that information in brochures for the public. Mr. Ince also noted the importance of presentation, explaining that using terms like "average grade" might be confusing since people may not know what a "typical" grade means either. 

HILLS 
GRADE INFORMATION 
TABLE 
CHART 

Chair Simukonda asked if there is clear signage in place ahead of trail sections that may be inaccessible for power chairs or wheelchairs, so users have the option to turn around. Mr. Ince responded that current signage is placed at the top of the hill for those descending, but agreed it is a great idea to add signs at the bottom as well, so users know what to expect in advance. 

PROFILE 

Chair Simukonda suggested placing a sign at the Crescent Bridge and additional signage warning of a steep grade ahead, allowing users time to turn around before reaching challenging terrain. Mr. Ince agreed it was worth exploring the capabilities of power chairs in such areas. Commissioner Becker added that off-road power chairs are also available, which may handle tougher terrain better. 

MAP 
HOW THIS INFORMATION IS USED 
NEXT STEPS 

Chair Simukonda mentioned involving Commissioner Susan Purrington in the conversation and noted Truman Shoaff’s upcoming graduation. She asked if website updates would accompany the description updates. Deputy City Clerk Georganna Staskey confirmed they are working internally to align everything with guidelines. 

Mr. Ince offered to bring back an interactive map for future discussions. 

Chair Simukonda asked what the commission or private citizens can do about infrastructure improvements, like extending sidewalks at the center of the FUTS trail to address issues. Mr. Ince said he will visit the site soon and explained that ramps on University Avenue need work. The current design has unintended consequences, with steep drops making conditions worse. A two-part fix is needed: first, better awareness of the consequences, and second, a long-term redesign with improved grading. 

Commissioner Becker asked if the city has considered a FUTS app. Mr. Ince said it is a good idea but would require finding experts familiar with app development to make it available. 
 

Mayor Daggett shared that Amanda Bosh from Lowell presented at the City Council meeting the previous night and highlighted the Commission’s award given to Lowell. She expressed appreciation for the positive recognition and feedback received by local organizations. 

Ms. Reyes gave a brief update on the last Coordinated Mobility Council meeting, which focuses on addressing transportation gaps in Flagstaff. Chair Simukonda was featured in the spotlight segment, along with Flagstaff All Abilities. 

She asked for help distributing WAVE flyers and encouraged anyone interested to email her. She also shared that Mountain Line is relocating to the Downtown Connection Center in June. 

Joseph Spence stated he may not be able to attend Commission meetings during summer months. Alida Pfeil added that NACOPTT is on summer break and will be voting on positions soon. 

Mr. Martinez is working with Code Compliance and the City to address citywide issues such as improperly placed trashcans that create barriers and the impact of bulk pickup on differently abled residents. He encouraged others to report any such concerns they see around the city. 

Chair Simukonda raised a concern about excessive construction in front of her office, noting a lack of sidewalk access and missing signage. Mr. Martinez acknowledged the issue and said signage needs to be improved. 

Mr. Ince added that the construction is part of the Huntington project, with recent work on curb ramps. He suggested doing one curb ramp at a time to maintain accessibility and agreed signage should be in place. 

Commissioner Becker noted that signage may be legally required, and Chair Simukonda emphasized the importance of reporting these issues to help with citywide education and awareness. 

Chair Simukonda shared that a new crossability committee is being formed in collaboration with the Police Department to provide additional ADA training and serve as a sounding board for situations involving differently abled citizens. Community members who are not City employees or Commission members are welcome to join by emailing Shelly O’Connell or herself. The committee also includes the new Deputy Chief of Police Charles Hernandez. 

Commissioner Dorman shared an exciting opportunity for youth to attend a leadership forum at NAU later this month, which will include help with interviewing skills. She encouraged anyone interested to reach out to her to get involved. 

She also mentioned that the Arizona Developmental Disabilities Council will be holding a focus group in June and encouraged participation. Additionally, the Northern Arizona Disability Resource Fair is coming up in the fall. If the group wants a table at the event, they need to act quickly to secure a spot. 

Chair Simukonda noted that the fair was well-received, especially due to the Mayor's presence, which many attendees appreciated. 

Ms. Reyes announced that the next WAVE meeting has not yet been scheduled but will transition to a quarterly format. A focus group will also be formed in connection with this change. 

Chair Simukonda asked about an accessibility walkthrough, Ms. Reyes confirmed that one has taken place and offered to provide more details to her at a later time. 

Ms. Staskey will follow up on next month’s agenda items once the staff liaison and City Clerk Stacy Saltzburg  returns to the office so the tentative items can be confirmed. 

The Commission of Inclusion and Adaptive Living meeting adjourned at 12:50 p.m.