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.

Nadine Hart requested an amendment regarding councilmember conduct, expressing concern about extended partisan commentary on national and global political issues on social media. She stated that such discussions detract from the City of Flagstaff’s local priorities and emphasized that councilmembers are expected to serve in a bipartisan, community-focused capacity. She added that if members are unable to remain unbiased and focused on local governance, they should consider stepping down, noting the public trust placed in elected officials.

Economic Development Manager Jeff McCormick expressed strong support for the Green Business Bootcamp and shared that the current cohort will conclude in early March with a graduation event at the Moonshot Center; a formal invitation will be forthcoming. He noted that 10 local businesses participated, receiving training, tools, and strategic guidance to strengthen their operations. Each business will deliver a five-minute pitch as part of the program, presenting their concepts to peers and potential investors. Participants are also eligible for microloans, and Mr. McCormick expressed appreciation for the continued support of the program.

Presley Vaughn submitted a written comment regarding google reviews. 

Councilmember Aslan read and presented the Proclamation. 

None.

Assistant City Manager Shannon Anderson highlighted those employees who have work anniversaries in February. 

Senior Accountant Glorice Thousand expressed her appreciation for the City of Flagstaff, noting her experience beginning with the Parks, Recreation, Open Space, and Events Division and her current role within the Finance Division. 

Management Services Director Rick Tadder clarified that there is no ongoing financial parking fund; the program was intended to be funded with existing funds to launch and evaluate how enhanced services improve quality. He noted the program was included in the rate study and does not negatively impact a fund, referencing the fee adoption last October.

Councilmember Spence thanked staff and suggested considering an alternative start date, allowing March and April for the contractor to demonstrate enhanced amenities, with increased parking fees beginning in May to generate additional revenue.

Mr. Tadder explained that the initial two months are intended for program setup and implementation, and enhanced services would not be fully realized immediately; the phased timing aligns fee increases with service delivery.

Vice Mayor Sweet stated she had been involved in prior discussions and emphasized the importance of local businesses seeing the enhanced services alongside the parking fee increase, thanking staff for the clarification.

Moved by Councilmember Lori Matthews, seconded by Vice Mayor Miranda Sweet to read Ordinance No. 2026-04 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 3 BUSINESS REGULATIONS, CHAPTER 3-10 USER FEES, SECTION 3-10-001-0010 PARKING FEES-PARKFLAG DISTRICT, SUBSECTION A PARKING FEES TO AMEND THE EFFECTIVE DATE OF PARKING FEES INCREASES; PROVIDING FOR PENALTIES, 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. 2026-04.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

None.

Councilmember Spence reported on the joint meeting of the Parks and Recreation and Open Space Commissions, where five-year projects were reviewed and discussion focused on Flagstaff Urban Trail Systems (FUTS) and improving community connectivity. Both commissions expressed a desire for clearer definitions of trail systems and better planning as new developments come online. He noted the ongoing challenge of strengthening and expanding the FUTS system. Councilmember Spence also shared that former commissioner Nat White highlighted the historical significance of the 1986 voter-approved initiative establishing Buffalo Park, noting the upcoming 40-year anniversary of the park.

Councilmember House shared that she recently participated in a ride-along with the Fire Department, responding to two calls and gaining valuable insight into their work and interactions with the community. She also noted an upcoming Black History Month Dinner and Dialogue event at the community college. Additionally, she announced that next week is Love of Reading Week and that she will be reading to students at a local school on Monday to help encourage a love of reading among youth.

Councilmember Garcia highlighted his attendance at the annual celebration and board meeting of the Diablo Trust, noting it was his first time participating. He shared that, unlike many climate change discussions that can become politically charged, the meeting focused strictly on science. He observed that attendees from diverse perspectives found common ground through science-based data and research. He described the discussion as enlightening and noted how evolving scientific findings have positively informed ranchers’ land, crop, and cattle management practices. Councilmember Garcia stated he plans to attend the event annually moving forward.

Councilmember Matthews reported on the recent Mountain Line board meeting, noting that a key highlight was the approval of the purchase of two refurbished hybrid buses. She explained the buses will serve as additional vehicles for community events and as backups, representing another step forward in advancing the City’s sustainability goals.

Mayor Daggett shared that she attended the Northern Arizona University women’s basketball game last week. She also recognized Chief Connolly, the Police Deputy Chiefs, and the Police Department Honor Guard for attending the funerals of the fallen DPS officers. She described the services as moving experiences and noted it was clear both officers loved their work and led exemplary lives, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to attend and honor them.

City Manager Keene provided a brief update that BNSF repaired the wayside horns on the east side, which are now operating properly. She also announced that Mary Goodman will join as Deputy City Manager in April, bringing 12 years of experience in a similar role, and will be relocating with her family. She thanked all participants involved in the hiring process.

The meeting of the Flagstaff City Council held February 24, 2026, adjourned at 3:37 p.m.