CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION
TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
211 WEST ASPEN AVE
3:00 P.M.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2026
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
211 WEST ASPEN AVE
3:00 P.M.
MINUTES
1.
Call to Order
Mayor Daggett called the Work Session of the Flagstaff City Council held January 13, 2026, to order at 3:00 p.m.
Mayor Daggett called the Work Session of the Flagstaff City Council held January 13, 2026, to order at 3:00 p.m.
NOTICE OF OPTION TO RECESS INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION
Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.02, notice is hereby given to the members of the City Council and to the general public that, at this work session, 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. |
- Present:
-
- Becky Daggett, Mayor
- Miranda Sweet, Vice Mayor
- Austin Aslan, Councilmember
- Anthony Garcia, Councilmember
- Khara House, Councilmember
- Lori Matthews, Councilmember
- David Spence, Councilmember
- Staff:
- City Manager Joanne Keene; City Attorney Sterling Solomon
3.
Pledge of Allegiance, Mission Statement, and Land Acknowledgement
The Council and audience recited the pledge of allegiance, Councilmember Matthews read the Mission Statement of the City of Flagstaff, and Councilmember House read the Land Acknowledgement.
LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The Council and audience recited the pledge of allegiance, Councilmember Matthews read the Mission Statement of the City of Flagstaff, and Councilmember House 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.
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.
Sustainability Analyst Genevieve Pearthree announced the launch of the City of Flagstaff’s Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Model Plans Library, including 10 preapproved, fully accessible ADU designs. The library is intended to reduce the cost and complexity of building ADUs in Flagstaff, supporting housing accessibility and availability across the community. Staff are actively sharing the opening with community networks and encouraged others to help spread the word. The library will continue to be expanded and improved over time, with updates to be provided as they become available.
Link: www.flagstaff.az.gov/ADUs
Matthew Dyer raised concerns regarding a house on Benton Street, noting that the owner is attempting to put a fence in the alleyway, noting the obstruction to access it would cause. He provided a handout showing the property’s prior designation as commercial and its current residential use, referencing specific pages that included permit and tax record information. He expressed concern that the build-out could restrict access for emergency vehicles and limit access to dumpsters.
Link: www.flagstaff.az.gov/ADUs
Matthew Dyer raised concerns regarding a house on Benton Street, noting that the owner is attempting to put a fence in the alleyway, noting the obstruction to access it would cause. He provided a handout showing the property’s prior designation as commercial and its current residential use, referencing specific pages that included permit and tax record information. He expressed concern that the build-out could restrict access for emergency vehicles and limit access to dumpsters.
5.
PROCLAMATIONS
A.
Proclamation: Flagstaff Human Trafficking Awareness and Prevention Month
Mayor Daggett read and presented the Proclamation.
6.
Review of Draft Agenda for the January 20, 2026 City Council Meeting
Citizens wishing to speak on agenda items not specifically called out by the City Council may submit a speaker card for their items of interest to the recording clerk.
None.
7.
Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC) Overview and Update
Criminal Justice Coordinating Council Director Dianne Kalandros, Coconino County Attorney Ammon Barker, Legal Defender Joseph Carver, and Coconino County Superior Court Presiding Judge Ted Reed provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:
THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM AND ITS IMPACTS – IMPROVING COMMUNITY SAFETY AND WELLNESS
STOP AND INVESTIGATION
ARREST
DETENTION
INITIAL APPEARANCE
CHARGING
ARRAIGNMENT
DISCLOSURE
CHANGE OF PELA
…OR JURY TRIAL
NAVIGATING THE SYSTEM
TELLING THE STORY
THE DECISION: TRIAL VS. PLEA
SENTENCING
CHILDREN OF INCARCERATED PARENTS
HOW CAN WE BETTER IMPROVE COMMUNITY SAFETY AND WELLNESS
HOPE SENTER BEFORE AND AFTER
400 YOUTH SERVED
JUVENILE COURT DIVERSIONS
CARE
ARIZONA STATE CRISIS SYSTEM
EXODUS
COCONINO COUNTY HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
PATHWAYS
PATHWAYS DIVERSION PROGRAM
Mayor Daggett asked whether the individuals were incarcerated at the time this is offered. Mr. Barker explained that the contract is made at the time of arrest, before release.
Councilmember Matthews asked if this is the same as court-ordered or voluntary detox or treatment. Mr. Barker clarified that this is not court-ordered; it occurs prior to any court involvement. The individual may later be ordered to treatment by the court, but at this stage, the court is not involved.
PROBATION AS AGENTS OF CHANGE
WHAT QUESTIONS DOES THE RISK NEEDS- RESPONSIVITY MODEL ASK?
TREATMENT COURTS
SUPERIOR COURT
LIMITED JURISDICTION TREATMENT COURTS
EASIEST POINT TO EXIT THE RIVER
QUESTIONS
Councilmember House thanked staff and emphasized the importance of deflection and diversion work, noting the challenge of ensuring behavioral health resources are available pre-arrest. She asked whether the Mental Health Board primarily addresses co-occurring mental health and substance abuse issues.
Judge Reed confirmed that co-occurring disorders are common and described programs connecting individuals with resources, including felony and justice court cases, emphasizing the integrated approach to probation and treatment.
Councilmember House asked about treatment fees and resources to assist those who cannot pay. Judge Reed explained recovery court fees are manageable and not a barrier to participation; participants earn credits through civic engagement and community service.
Councilmember House also asked about integrating strength-based frameworks in trauma-informed care. Judge Reed explained presentence reports assess both risk and strengths, informing probation plans while respecting individual rights.
Councilmember Garcia asked about the juvenile process and the Exodus program. Judge Reed explained the juvenile facility is necessary, the Hope Receiving Center incorporates trauma-informed design, and early intervention reduces recidivism.
Councilmember Garcia also inquired about City partnerships for the Hope Receiving Center. Ms. Kalandros described grants and art partnerships with the Beautification and Public Art Commission that help stabilize the court environment, and Mr. Barker encouraged community engagement and feedback.
Councilmember Matthews reflected on the CJCC liaison experience, probation fees, and innovative programs like CARE, the Justice Bus, and Exodus, asking if such programs exist in other counties. Mr. Barker noted the Justice Bus is first in the state, while other counties have some resources, but Coconino’s programs are cutting-edge and still expanding.
Councilmember Aslan praised the humanizing approach to justice, emphasizing the importance of perspective and legacy. He asked about optimism for changing mandatory sentencing minimums. Mr. Barker noted advocacy efforts exist, but short-term changes are unlikely; much depends on judicial discretion and collaboration between prosecution and defense.
Councilmember Aslan followed up on coordination with other states. Mr. Barker described involvement in statewide committees, focusing on diversion and reducing system recidivism. Mr. Carver noted mandatory minimums provide consistency but could be made more human-centered.
Vice Mayor Sweet highlighted learning from touring recovery pathways and asked if people already in the system are offered services. Mr. Barker explained pathways are tied to arrests and exiting jail; no system currently exists for those coming directly from the community. Judge Reed emphasized the value of lived-experience mentorship in these programs.
Vice Mayor Sweet asked what success would look like for CJCC in five years. Mr. Barker described goals of creating holistic care spaces, fewer people in the justice system, and ensuring all residents—especially in remote areas—feel seen, supported, and able to access justice and resources.
THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM AND ITS IMPACTS – IMPROVING COMMUNITY SAFETY AND WELLNESS
STOP AND INVESTIGATION
ARREST
DETENTION
INITIAL APPEARANCE
CHARGING
ARRAIGNMENT
DISCLOSURE
CHANGE OF PELA
…OR JURY TRIAL
NAVIGATING THE SYSTEM
TELLING THE STORY
THE DECISION: TRIAL VS. PLEA
SENTENCING
CHILDREN OF INCARCERATED PARENTS
HOW CAN WE BETTER IMPROVE COMMUNITY SAFETY AND WELLNESS
HOPE SENTER BEFORE AND AFTER
400 YOUTH SERVED
JUVENILE COURT DIVERSIONS
CARE
ARIZONA STATE CRISIS SYSTEM
EXODUS
COCONINO COUNTY HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
PATHWAYS
PATHWAYS DIVERSION PROGRAM
Mayor Daggett asked whether the individuals were incarcerated at the time this is offered. Mr. Barker explained that the contract is made at the time of arrest, before release.
Councilmember Matthews asked if this is the same as court-ordered or voluntary detox or treatment. Mr. Barker clarified that this is not court-ordered; it occurs prior to any court involvement. The individual may later be ordered to treatment by the court, but at this stage, the court is not involved.
PROBATION AS AGENTS OF CHANGE
WHAT QUESTIONS DOES THE RISK NEEDS- RESPONSIVITY MODEL ASK?
TREATMENT COURTS
SUPERIOR COURT
LIMITED JURISDICTION TREATMENT COURTS
EASIEST POINT TO EXIT THE RIVER
QUESTIONS
Councilmember House thanked staff and emphasized the importance of deflection and diversion work, noting the challenge of ensuring behavioral health resources are available pre-arrest. She asked whether the Mental Health Board primarily addresses co-occurring mental health and substance abuse issues.
Judge Reed confirmed that co-occurring disorders are common and described programs connecting individuals with resources, including felony and justice court cases, emphasizing the integrated approach to probation and treatment.
Councilmember House asked about treatment fees and resources to assist those who cannot pay. Judge Reed explained recovery court fees are manageable and not a barrier to participation; participants earn credits through civic engagement and community service.
Councilmember House also asked about integrating strength-based frameworks in trauma-informed care. Judge Reed explained presentence reports assess both risk and strengths, informing probation plans while respecting individual rights.
Councilmember Garcia asked about the juvenile process and the Exodus program. Judge Reed explained the juvenile facility is necessary, the Hope Receiving Center incorporates trauma-informed design, and early intervention reduces recidivism.
Councilmember Garcia also inquired about City partnerships for the Hope Receiving Center. Ms. Kalandros described grants and art partnerships with the Beautification and Public Art Commission that help stabilize the court environment, and Mr. Barker encouraged community engagement and feedback.
Councilmember Matthews reflected on the CJCC liaison experience, probation fees, and innovative programs like CARE, the Justice Bus, and Exodus, asking if such programs exist in other counties. Mr. Barker noted the Justice Bus is first in the state, while other counties have some resources, but Coconino’s programs are cutting-edge and still expanding.
Councilmember Aslan praised the humanizing approach to justice, emphasizing the importance of perspective and legacy. He asked about optimism for changing mandatory sentencing minimums. Mr. Barker noted advocacy efforts exist, but short-term changes are unlikely; much depends on judicial discretion and collaboration between prosecution and defense.
Councilmember Aslan followed up on coordination with other states. Mr. Barker described involvement in statewide committees, focusing on diversion and reducing system recidivism. Mr. Carver noted mandatory minimums provide consistency but could be made more human-centered.
Vice Mayor Sweet highlighted learning from touring recovery pathways and asked if people already in the system are offered services. Mr. Barker explained pathways are tied to arrests and exiting jail; no system currently exists for those coming directly from the community. Judge Reed emphasized the value of lived-experience mentorship in these programs.
Vice Mayor Sweet asked what success would look like for CJCC in five years. Mr. Barker described goals of creating holistic care spaces, fewer people in the justice system, and ensuring all residents—especially in remote areas—feel seen, supported, and able to access justice and resources.
8.
Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Solid Waste Update
Public Works Director Scott Overton and Solid Waste Section Director Sam Beckett provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:
SOLID WASTE PROGRAM UPDATES 2026
AGENDA
STATE OF THE SOLID WASTE
RECYCLING TRANSFER FACILITY
RECAP OF PROGRAM CHANGES 2025
HOLIDAY SCHEDULES
COMMERCIAL COLLECTIONS
HOIST AND HAUL SERVICES
BULK TRASH SERVICES
RESIDENTIAL COLLECTIONS
COMMUNITY COMMUNICATIONS
CURRENT FINANCIAL STATE
FINANCIAL STATE
2026 PROPOSED OPERATIONAL CHANGES FOR CONSIDERATION
RESIDENTIAL RECYCLING
CURBSIDE GLASS RECYCLING
QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSION
Vice Mayor Sweet stated that she asked for this to come back for an update about a year ago when the bulk trash schedule changed, she wanted to understand what optional changes have delivered the biggest cost savings over the last year. Mr. Beckett noted flexible holiday scheduling reduced overtime and operational adjustments significantly lowered maintenance costs, allowing residential trucks to efficiently service about 1,200 homes per day.
Vice Mayor Sweet asked how Flagstaff compares to peer cities; Mr. Beckett explained most peers provide only core residential services, with commercial collection handled by private providers. On contamination, he said it can be traced to specific routes, though most issues are isolated. He also noted that community engagement would be needed for proposed changes such as biweekly recycling.
Councilmember Matthews emphasized that core services are the priority, asking whether changes like biweekly recycling would meaningfully reduce the deficit. Mr. Beckett and Mr. Overton explained that savings are difficult to quantify, considering operational costs, vehicle wear, and efficiency improvements.
Councilmember House asked how Flagstaff’s contamination rates compare nationally and about the behavioral impact of changing curbside glass recycling to drop-off. Mr. Beckett said public education is key, and community outreach would help manage expectations. Mr. Overton added that encouraging residents to break down boxes increases efficiency and reduces costs.
Mayor Daggett stressed that no operational changes should occur before a rate study, financial analysis, and public outreach, noting that solid waste is a core service. Management Services Director Rick Tadder confirmed that a cost recovery plan and rate study schedule would be presented next week.
Councilmember Spence supported biweekly recycling and eliminating curbside glass pickup for 300 customers, emphasizing clear public communication.
Councilmember Garcia supported every-other-week recycling, suggesting bulk drop-off stations and additional outreach for residents without email access.
Councilmember Matthews requested further discussion on anticipated savings, fire risks from bulk trash, and broader operational impacts.
Vice Mayor Sweet highlighted the importance of resident input and noted prior pilot programs in Ponderosa Trails. Sustainability Climate Section Director Jenny Niemann described the “pay-as-you-throw” pilots that tested incentives, bin sizes, and pickup frequency to reduce contamination and waste.
Councilmember Aslan reiterated the community’s strong value on recycling and emphasized ensuring materials are properly converted into new products.
Mayor Daggett reinforced that no changes should occur until a detailed plan with financials and public outreach is provided.
Mr. Overton summarized that staff would digest feedback and return with a comprehensive plan over the next few months, including financial analysis and a communication strategy.
Council supported returning with a detailed plan before implementing any changes, stressing urgency, impacts, and clear communication with the community.
SOLID WASTE PROGRAM UPDATES 2026
AGENDA
STATE OF THE SOLID WASTE
RECYCLING TRANSFER FACILITY
RECAP OF PROGRAM CHANGES 2025
HOLIDAY SCHEDULES
COMMERCIAL COLLECTIONS
HOIST AND HAUL SERVICES
BULK TRASH SERVICES
RESIDENTIAL COLLECTIONS
COMMUNITY COMMUNICATIONS
CURRENT FINANCIAL STATE
FINANCIAL STATE
2026 PROPOSED OPERATIONAL CHANGES FOR CONSIDERATION
RESIDENTIAL RECYCLING
CURBSIDE GLASS RECYCLING
QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSION
Vice Mayor Sweet stated that she asked for this to come back for an update about a year ago when the bulk trash schedule changed, she wanted to understand what optional changes have delivered the biggest cost savings over the last year. Mr. Beckett noted flexible holiday scheduling reduced overtime and operational adjustments significantly lowered maintenance costs, allowing residential trucks to efficiently service about 1,200 homes per day.
Vice Mayor Sweet asked how Flagstaff compares to peer cities; Mr. Beckett explained most peers provide only core residential services, with commercial collection handled by private providers. On contamination, he said it can be traced to specific routes, though most issues are isolated. He also noted that community engagement would be needed for proposed changes such as biweekly recycling.
Councilmember Matthews emphasized that core services are the priority, asking whether changes like biweekly recycling would meaningfully reduce the deficit. Mr. Beckett and Mr. Overton explained that savings are difficult to quantify, considering operational costs, vehicle wear, and efficiency improvements.
Councilmember House asked how Flagstaff’s contamination rates compare nationally and about the behavioral impact of changing curbside glass recycling to drop-off. Mr. Beckett said public education is key, and community outreach would help manage expectations. Mr. Overton added that encouraging residents to break down boxes increases efficiency and reduces costs.
Mayor Daggett stressed that no operational changes should occur before a rate study, financial analysis, and public outreach, noting that solid waste is a core service. Management Services Director Rick Tadder confirmed that a cost recovery plan and rate study schedule would be presented next week.
Councilmember Spence supported biweekly recycling and eliminating curbside glass pickup for 300 customers, emphasizing clear public communication.
Councilmember Garcia supported every-other-week recycling, suggesting bulk drop-off stations and additional outreach for residents without email access.
Councilmember Matthews requested further discussion on anticipated savings, fire risks from bulk trash, and broader operational impacts.
Vice Mayor Sweet highlighted the importance of resident input and noted prior pilot programs in Ponderosa Trails. Sustainability Climate Section Director Jenny Niemann described the “pay-as-you-throw” pilots that tested incentives, bin sizes, and pickup frequency to reduce contamination and waste.
Councilmember Aslan reiterated the community’s strong value on recycling and emphasized ensuring materials are properly converted into new products.
Mayor Daggett reinforced that no changes should occur until a detailed plan with financials and public outreach is provided.
Mr. Overton summarized that staff would digest feedback and return with a comprehensive plan over the next few months, including financial analysis and a communication strategy.
Council supported returning with a detailed plan before implementing any changes, stressing urgency, impacts, and clear communication with the community.
9.
Film Regulations - Discussion on making Flagstaff a film-ready community
Media Relations and Marketing Project Manager Ryan Randazzo provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:
FLAGSTAFF FILM COMMISSION FAIR ITEM
FLG FILM IN FY25
PERMITTING IN FLG
PERMITTING IN PHOENIX
EXPLORE ACT
EXAMPLE 1
EXAMPLE 2
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.
PAGE, ARIZ.
BOZEMAN, MONT.
PARK CITY, UTAH
COUNCIL DISCUSSION AND QUESTIONS
Councilmember Garcia asked about personal insurance coverage and requested a briefing on how city insurance works.
Risk Manager Aaron Kiminski explained that insurance is designed to protect city assets. He evaluates exposures and potential damage, and if risk is low, the City may waive coverage requirements.
Councilmember Aslan emphasized the importance of establishing Flagstaff as a “film-ready” location to generate economic activity, highlighting both tangible revenue and intangible value from building a reputation among filmmakers. He noted specific locations, such as Red Gap Ranch, and stressed the goal of reasonable policies for all parties.
Mayor Daggett echoed support and asked whether Council action or ordinance changes would be needed to facilitate filming.
Mr. Randazzo clarified that the system they use is working but expanding to other locations would require Council guidance on acceptable sites.
Economic Vitality Director Heidi Hansen noted some areas are currently off-limits, and permitting fees are minimal. Expanding filming opportunities could generate revenue to cover costs, such as police support, without burdening the City.
Councilmember Aslan highlighted new state legislation encouraging filming in Arizona and called for clear guidance on allowed activities, emphasizing the potential for revenue without city costs.
Councilmember House expressed interest in learning more and exploring a program that is financially self-sustaining, including funding for necessary city services.
Councilmember Garcia supported thoughtful planning, including Parks and Recreation input to assess capacity.
Vice Mayor Sweet supported gathering more information while emphasizing manageable operations, citing past experiences filming downtown.
Councilmember House inquired about Northern Arizona University’s (NAU) involvement.
Mr. Randazzo explained that NAU manages its own film permits, He noted that recently they declined a project with Nike which ended up filming at Flagstaff High School. He added that the City has invited them to join marketing efforts for scouts.
FLAGSTAFF FILM COMMISSION FAIR ITEM
FLG FILM IN FY25
PERMITTING IN FLG
PERMITTING IN PHOENIX
EXPLORE ACT
EXAMPLE 1
EXAMPLE 2
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.
PAGE, ARIZ.
BOZEMAN, MONT.
PARK CITY, UTAH
COUNCIL DISCUSSION AND QUESTIONS
Councilmember Garcia asked about personal insurance coverage and requested a briefing on how city insurance works.
Risk Manager Aaron Kiminski explained that insurance is designed to protect city assets. He evaluates exposures and potential damage, and if risk is low, the City may waive coverage requirements.
Councilmember Aslan emphasized the importance of establishing Flagstaff as a “film-ready” location to generate economic activity, highlighting both tangible revenue and intangible value from building a reputation among filmmakers. He noted specific locations, such as Red Gap Ranch, and stressed the goal of reasonable policies for all parties.
Mayor Daggett echoed support and asked whether Council action or ordinance changes would be needed to facilitate filming.
Mr. Randazzo clarified that the system they use is working but expanding to other locations would require Council guidance on acceptable sites.
Economic Vitality Director Heidi Hansen noted some areas are currently off-limits, and permitting fees are minimal. Expanding filming opportunities could generate revenue to cover costs, such as police support, without burdening the City.
Councilmember Aslan highlighted new state legislation encouraging filming in Arizona and called for clear guidance on allowed activities, emphasizing the potential for revenue without city costs.
Councilmember House expressed interest in learning more and exploring a program that is financially self-sustaining, including funding for necessary city services.
Councilmember Garcia supported thoughtful planning, including Parks and Recreation input to assess capacity.
Vice Mayor Sweet supported gathering more information while emphasizing manageable operations, citing past experiences filming downtown.
Councilmember House inquired about Northern Arizona University’s (NAU) involvement.
Mr. Randazzo explained that NAU manages its own film permits, He noted that recently they declined a project with Nike which ended up filming at Flagstaff High School. He added that the City has invited them to join marketing efforts for scouts.
10.
Information Regarding the Potential Purchase of Property Identified as 320 North Humphreys Street; Assessors Parcel Number (APN) 101-13-008A.
Real Estate Manager Bryce Doty and Community Investment Director David McIntire provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:
320 S. HUMPHREYS ACQUISITION 1/13/2026
LOCATION – 320 S. HUMPHREYS (FSL PARCEL)
PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND
REASONS FOR ACQUISITION
NEW OPPORTUNITY
NEW OPPORTUNITY CONTINUED
OPTIONS
City Manager Keene noted that both purchase agreements and potential development plans would be brought back to Council for review.
Councilmember House expressed support for Option One, emphasizing the need to weigh potential benefits and risks, including the possible loss of an affordable housing opportunity, and clarified that Allthrive365 has no obligation to sell to an affordable housing developer.
Mr. McIntire explained that Allthrive365 is offering the property out of community interest, not obligation, and it could go to market if the City does not pursue it.
Vice Mayor Sweet and Councilmember Garcia expressed support for continuing the discussion and moving forward with Option one.
Councilmember Matthews asked about the $6.3 million budget, noting any amount over that would return to Council for approval. Mr. McIntire confirmed terms are not fully finalized but the budget should be close, with final amounts and uses to come back to Council.
Michele James on behalf of Friend’s of Flagstaff’s Future voiced disappointment that Allthrive365 could not complete the affordable housing project, urging the City to explain the project’s failure, assess feasibility for affordable housing or parking, and evaluate whether the $3 million purchase is the best use of public funds or if alternative community uses should be considered.
Mayor Daggett highlighted interest in the property, noting it could be sold to a developer and that potential uses, including a parking garage, remain undecided.
Mr. McIntire added that the City would return with a purchase agreement and proposed uses for Council consideration, with the option to proceed using Allthrive365’s approved plans.
Councilmember Matthews stressed the importance of exploring all housing types—affordable, workforce, and mixed-income when the proposal comes back, while Councilmember Aslan noted the value of understanding the original unit count to calibrate expectations.
Housing Director Sarah Darr clarified that Allthrive365 had plans for 139 units (69 family, 70 senior) and explained that while the state the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program was not renewed, federal credits remain available.
Councilmember House noted the risk of not pursuing Option One: losing influence over the property if a private developer acquires it.
Overall, there was broad support for Option One to move forward while continuing discussions on potential uses, financing, and housing options.
Michele James on behalf of Friend’s of Flagstaff’s Future submitted a written comment on this item.
320 S. HUMPHREYS ACQUISITION 1/13/2026
LOCATION – 320 S. HUMPHREYS (FSL PARCEL)
PROCEDURAL BACKGROUND
REASONS FOR ACQUISITION
NEW OPPORTUNITY
NEW OPPORTUNITY CONTINUED
OPTIONS
City Manager Keene noted that both purchase agreements and potential development plans would be brought back to Council for review.
Councilmember House expressed support for Option One, emphasizing the need to weigh potential benefits and risks, including the possible loss of an affordable housing opportunity, and clarified that Allthrive365 has no obligation to sell to an affordable housing developer.
Mr. McIntire explained that Allthrive365 is offering the property out of community interest, not obligation, and it could go to market if the City does not pursue it.
Vice Mayor Sweet and Councilmember Garcia expressed support for continuing the discussion and moving forward with Option one.
Councilmember Matthews asked about the $6.3 million budget, noting any amount over that would return to Council for approval. Mr. McIntire confirmed terms are not fully finalized but the budget should be close, with final amounts and uses to come back to Council.
Michele James on behalf of Friend’s of Flagstaff’s Future voiced disappointment that Allthrive365 could not complete the affordable housing project, urging the City to explain the project’s failure, assess feasibility for affordable housing or parking, and evaluate whether the $3 million purchase is the best use of public funds or if alternative community uses should be considered.
Mayor Daggett highlighted interest in the property, noting it could be sold to a developer and that potential uses, including a parking garage, remain undecided.
Mr. McIntire added that the City would return with a purchase agreement and proposed uses for Council consideration, with the option to proceed using Allthrive365’s approved plans.
Councilmember Matthews stressed the importance of exploring all housing types—affordable, workforce, and mixed-income when the proposal comes back, while Councilmember Aslan noted the value of understanding the original unit count to calibrate expectations.
Housing Director Sarah Darr clarified that Allthrive365 had plans for 139 units (69 family, 70 senior) and explained that while the state the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program was not renewed, federal credits remain available.
Councilmember House noted the risk of not pursuing Option One: losing influence over the property if a private developer acquires it.
Overall, there was broad support for Option One to move forward while continuing discussions on potential uses, financing, and housing options.
Michele James on behalf of Friend’s of Flagstaff’s Future submitted a written comment on this item.
11.
Open Call to the Public
None.
12.
Informational Items To/From Mayor, Council, and City Manager; future agenda item requests
Vice Mayor Sweet announced the State of the City address later that week, expressing excitement and noting it will include a special video to highlight ongoing activities and progress across the City.
Mayor Daggett shared upcoming community events, including the centennial celebration for Our Lady of Guadalupe in May, which will include Mass followed by a fiesta. She also recognized the grand opening of Tynkertopía’s Makerspace. Legislative updates included the start of the session, with the Governor proposing fees on short-term rentals and the League of Cities and Towns seeking greater local authority. Mayor Daggett also reminded the community of the Martin Luyther King Jr. Gala and breakfast at Northern Arizona University for the coming weekend.
Assistant City Manager Shannon Anderson noted that 31,000 people attended the New Year’s Eve Pinecone Drop downtown.
City Manager Keene noted upcoming events for the week including the Police Department Promotion Ceremony, the Citizen of the Year Award, and the upcoming Council Retreat.
Mayor Daggett shared upcoming community events, including the centennial celebration for Our Lady of Guadalupe in May, which will include Mass followed by a fiesta. She also recognized the grand opening of Tynkertopía’s Makerspace. Legislative updates included the start of the session, with the Governor proposing fees on short-term rentals and the League of Cities and Towns seeking greater local authority. Mayor Daggett also reminded the community of the Martin Luyther King Jr. Gala and breakfast at Northern Arizona University for the coming weekend.
Assistant City Manager Shannon Anderson noted that 31,000 people attended the New Year’s Eve Pinecone Drop downtown.
City Manager Keene noted upcoming events for the week including the Police Department Promotion Ceremony, the Citizen of the Year Award, and the upcoming Council Retreat.
13.
Adjournment
The meeting of the Flagstaff City Council held January 13, 2026, adjourned at 7:54 p.m.
_____________________________________ MAYOR |
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| ATTEST: |
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_____________________________________ CITY CLERK |