Moved by Vice Mayor Miranda Sweet, seconded by Councilmember Anthony Garcia to approve the minutes of the meetings of City Council Regular Meeting of February 3, 2026, Budget Retreat of February 5, 2026, City Council Work Session of February 10, 2026, City Council Regular Meeting of February 17, 2026, City Council Special Meeting Executive Session of February 24, 2026, and City Council Work Session of February 24, 2026.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

Colleen Maring, Chief People Officer for Northern Arizona Healthcare, addressed Council to explain the recent decision to pause planning for a new regional referral facility due to Medicaid cuts and financial challenges, highlighting the hospital's role as the only level one trauma center north of Phoenix and its commitment to serving a large, rural, and economically challenged region. 

Mayor Daggett read and presented the proclamation.

Councilmember Aslan shared that the Tourism Commission met and focused more on discussion among commissioners rather than simply reviewing reports, which made the meeting feel more productive. The Coconino Plateau Water Advisory Council received a presentation about the impacts of the 2025 Dragon Bravo and White Sage wildfires on North Rim water resources. The Sustainability Commission heard presentations about fare-free public transit programs, including examples from Missoula and Kansas City. Both cities reported mixed results, and Kansas City plans to transition back to a fare structure in June 2026. Lastly, he announced two events scheduled for March 21: a Southside community cleanup at the NAU Health and Learning Center followed by a seed-starting workshop for high-elevation climates at the NAU Slug Garden.

Vice Mayor Sweet shared that the MetroPlan Board will meet later that week. She also highlighted a new Safe Routes to School initiative in partnership with Flagstaff Unified School District that will provide kits to elementary school physical education teachers. The kits will help facilitate bicycle and pedestrian safety lessons and will include helmets and other materials for students.

Councilmember House reported that the Commission on Diversity Awareness approved the Women’s History Month proclamation and emphasized a goal of encouraging more community engagement, so proclamations inspire action rather than simply serving as statements. The commission also participated in community events related to the Lunar New Year celebration held downtown. She also reported that the Housing Commission discussed proposals for adaptive reuse and preservation of the El Pueblo Motel, including its historic connection to the Navajo Code Talkers. The commission plans to bring the topic back for further discussion.

Councilmember Spence shared that the Parks and Recreation Commission and the Open Space Commission recently held a joint meeting. One of the topics discussed was the PROSE Master Plan which would be presented later in the agenda.

Moved by Councilmember Khara House, seconded by Councilmember Lori Matthews to appoint Robert Vane to the Water Commission.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

Moved by Councilmember Lori Matthews, seconded by Councilmember Anthony Garcia to appoint Haley Paul to the Water Commission.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

Moved by Vice Mayor Miranda Sweet, seconded by Councilmember Khara House to appoint Caroline Reed to the Water Commission.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

Moved by Councilmember Lori Matthews, seconded by Councilmember Austin Aslan to appoint Amy Wolkowinsky to the Sustainability Commission.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

Moved by Mayor Becky Daggett, seconded by Councilmember Khara House to appoint Rodger Scurlock to the Sustainability Commission.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

Moved by Councilmember David Spence, seconded by Councilmember Anthony Garcia to appoint Alyssa Kuzukian to the Sustainability Commission.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

Moved by Councilmember Khara House, seconded by Councilmember Anthony Garcia to appoint Audrey Ridge to the Sustainability Commission.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

Moved by Councilmember Khara House, seconded by Vice Mayor Miranda Sweet to appoint Rebecca Coppa to the Planning and Zoning Commission.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

Moved by Councilmember David Spence, seconded by Councilmember Anthony Garcia to approve the Consent Agenda as presented.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

Parks, Recreation, Open Space, and Events Director Rebecca Sayers provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:

PROSE MASTER PLAN CONTRACT
BACKGROUND AND HISTORY
PROCESS
PROPOSED PLAN
PROPOSED TIMELINE AND BUDGET
STAFF RECOMMENDED ACTION

Moved by Councilmember David Spence, seconded by Councilmember Anthony Garcia to approve the contract with Kimley-Horn and Associates for a PROSE Master Plan for an amount not to exceed $199,530 and authorize the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.

Councilmember House thanked staff for all of the work getting to this point and she looked forward to hearing more as the process moves forward.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

Moved by Councilmember Anthony Garcia, seconded by Councilmember Lori Matthews to read Ordinance No. 2026-02 by title only for the final time.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

Moved by Councilmember Lori Matthews, seconded by Councilmember Khara House to adopt Ordinance No. 2026-02.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

Moved by Councilmember Lori Matthews, seconded by Councilmember Anthony Garcia to read Ordinance No. 2026-03 by title only for the final time.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

Moved by Councilmember Anthony Garcia, seconded by Councilmember Lori Matthews to adopt Ordinance No. 2026-03.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

Mayor Daggett opened the public hearing.

Current Planning Manager Alax Pucciarelli provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:

LONE TREE RANCH DIRECT TO ORDINANCE ZONING MAP AMENDMENT
REQUEST OVERVIEW
VICINITY MAP
PROPOSAL
PROPOSED DENSITY
AFFORDABLE HOUSING UNITS
PROPOSED UNIT MIX
SITE PLAN REVIEW
PROPOSED FLOOR PLAN – APARTMENT
PROPOSED ELEVATION – APARTMENT
PROPOSED FLOOR PLAN – CLUB HOUSE
PROPOSED ELEVATION – CLUB HOUSE
RESOURCE PROTECTION
COMMON SPACE
PEDESTRIAN & BICYCLE FACILITIES
LANDSCAPING
PARKING
PUBLIC SYSTEMS IMPACT ANALYSIS
FINDINGS
FINDING #1: CONFORMANCE WITH THE GENERAL PLAN
FINDING #2: COMMUNITY BENEFITS AND PUBLIC GOOD
FINDING #3: SITE IS PHYSICALLY SUITABLE
DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT
CITIZEN PARTICIPATION
RECOMMENDATION

Lindsay Schube with Gammage and Burnham, on behalf of the developer, answered questions about the proposed project. She explained that the gated design is intended to create a safer internal environment for residents, many of whom may be single parents, by keeping children within the property near amenities like the playground and clubhouse. The gates would also help manage parking due to the site’s proximity to Northern Arizona University and event-related overflow. She emphasized the gates are on private property and will not affect traffic on public roads.

Ms. Schube indicated that the project does not follow the “building forward” standard mainly because of the site’s steep slope, which has made the property difficult to develop since its 1997 rezoning. To address the intent of the standard, the design places the clubhouse on the corner to help activate that space. She also confirmed the development agreement requires rentals of at least 30 days, consistent with federal funding requirements.

In response to design questions regarding the windows within the project, Ms. Pucciarelli explained that recessed windowpanes are less common in modern construction and can increase maintenance costs in harsh climates, so the project will instead use trim details to create visual depth. 

Ms. Schube explained that the project will remain affordable for at least 30 years, with the developer required to own and manage the property for the first 15 years. The project also includes transportation features such as a nearby bus stop and a connection to the FUTS trail system.

Ms. Schube then provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:

LONE TREE RANCH
LINCOLN AVENUE COMMUNITIES
PROJECT LOCATION
CONTEXT MAP
PROJECT PROPOSAL – OVERHEAD VIEW
PROPERTY PROFILE VIEW
PROJECT PROPOSAL – APARTMENT BUILDINGS
PROJECT PROPOSAL – COMMUNITY SPACE
ZONING MAP AMENDMENT
REQUIRED FINDINGS
REGIONAL PLAN CONFORMANCE
PUBLIC BENEFITS
SUITABILITY OF LOCATION
SUMMARY
DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT
FINAL THOUGHTS

Councilmember Garcia thanked the developer for proposing a high-density affordable housing project in a location close to schools and suitable for families. He asked why the development was designed as 100% affordable housing rather than the more common model where developers include only a small percentage of affordable units within a larger project.

Matthew Klein of Lincoln Avenue Communities explained that their company specializes exclusively in affordable housing developments nationwide. The project will be financed through the federal 4% Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program established in 1986, which combines private investment with federal tax credits to fund affordable housing. Using this Section 42 financing model allows the entire development to remain fully affordable for 30 years.

There being no further comment, Mayor Daggett closed the public hearing.

Moved by Councilmember Lori Matthews, seconded by Councilmember Khara House to read Ordinance No. 2026-05 by title only for the first time.

Councilmember House expressed support for the proposed project and thanked the team for bringing forward a 100% affordable housing community. She stated that it is an exciting opportunity for Flagstaff that addresses long-standing community housing needs in a unique way. She believes that the project helps advance goals the city has pursued for years and appreciated how it brings together multiple community priorities.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

Councilmember House provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:

RECOVERY-READY COMMUNITY
WHAT IS A RECOVERY-READY COMMUNITY
RECOVERY-READY COMMUNITY MATTERS FOR FLAGSTAFF
KEY PILLARS OF RECOVERY-READY COMMUNITIES
CHARACTERISTICS OF RECOVERY-READY COMMUNITIES
COMMUNITY BENEFITS FOR FLAGSTAFF
A VISION FOR RECOVERY-READY COMMUNITY IN FLAGSTAFF
RECOVERY-READY FLAGSTAFF: FIRST STEPS
LET’S CREATE A FLAGSTAFF WHERE RECOVERY LIVES!

Councilmember Matthews asked whether the proposal would require funding, noting that many of the terms used, such as partnerships, collaboration, and needs assessments, often imply financial commitments. 

Councilmember House explained that the current request is not a funding proposal but rather an offer for the city to support and participate in a partnership. Because the City of Flagstaff does not operate a Health and Human Services department, it would not lead or financially manage a community needs assessment. Instead, the city could participate in discussions with local agencies and help facilitate conversations about a potential Healing or Wellness Center. Conducting a needs assessment is considered a best practice to better understand community needs before developing services, and it may primarily involve time and engagement rather than direct funding. She noted that Northern Arizona University is already working on such a needs assessment.

Councilmember Garcia also expressed support, noting that substance abuse and related challenges have long affected members of the community and can lead to broader life disruptions

Councilmember House added that many local organizations, including the Guidance Center, Flagstaff Shelter Services, the Coconino County Crisis Coordinating Council, and the Coconino County Children and Youth organization, have contributed to conversations about the effort. She emphasized that the initiative reflects a broader community collaboration aimed at improving recovery-ready and trauma-informed services.

Moved by Vice Mayor Miranda Sweet, seconded by Councilmember Anthony Garcia to read Resolution No. 2026-11 by title only.

Vote: 6 - 0

Moved by Vice Mayor Miranda Sweet, seconded by Councilmember Anthony Garcia to adopt Resolution No. 2026-11.

Vote: 6 - 0

City Manager Joanne Keene begins by sharing that the city has been working on immigration-related concerns since the previous year. During that time, the police chief has met with community and immigrant groups to understand their concerns, while city leadership and a stakeholder group reviewed the city’s immigration directive. The police department also created an incident action plan outlining how the city would respond if immigration enforcement actions occurred in the community; this plan was adopted in July 2025.

She acknowledges that the proposal may not satisfy everyone, some may think it does not go far enough, while others may think it goes too far, but she believes the approach is one the city can support and implement immediately. She also noted that the city has coordinated with neighboring cities, including Tucson and Phoenix, and their approaches are largely aligned.

Ms. Keene emphasized the city’s strong relationship with federal partners, noting that federal agencies support many aspects of the community, from wildfire response and disaster assistance to major infrastructure projects. The city has received tens of millions of dollars in federal funding in recent fiscal years, and large projects like the Rio de Flag flood control project exceed $200 million.

Ms. Keene, Assistant City Manager Shannon Anderson, and Interim Deputy City Manager Kevin Fincel provided a PowerPoint presentation that covered the following:

PROTOCOLS FOR INTERACTIONS WITH FEDERAL AGENCIES
ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION TODAY
CITY’S ROLE IN IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT
REPORTING ISSUES OF CONCERN
PROTOCOLS FOR INTERACTIONS WITH FEDERAL AGENCIES
PARTNER ENTITY USE OF CITY PROPERTY
CLARIFYING PROCESS FOR PARTNER ENTITY REQUESTS
SHARING GUIDANCE WITH PARTNERS AND COMMUNITY

Councilmember Aslan begins by thanking staff for the significant work and energy that went into preparing the directive and responding to community concerns. He asks Ms. Keene to explain what a City Manager directive is, how it differs from a Council policy, where these directives are published, and how durable they are if future leadership changes. Ms. Keene explains that directives are administrative rules issued by the City Manager rather than policies approved by the Council. They are posted on the city website and typically guide internal operations and employee practices. She gives examples such as directives on remote work, threat management, service animals in city facilities, vacation leave, and employee ethics. While acknowledging that a future City Manager could technically change a directive, she states that she intends to keep existing directives in place and would inform Council if changes were considered.

Councilmember Garcia thanks staff for listening to the Council and the community throughout the process and recognizing the significant behind-the-scenes work that has been done over the past year. He notes that some community members felt they did not have enough time to review the directive because it is being implemented quickly through an administrative action. He asks how the city plans to continue community engagement and whether feedback could lead to future improvements. Ms. Keene stated that community meetings are being organized, including sessions at the Murdoch Center and with various neighborhood groups, and she emphasizes that she is open to strengthening the directive if suggestions remain consistent with state and federal law.

Councilmember House raises concerns she has heard from residents about public safety and the potential impacts of federal immigration enforcement within the community. She asks whether the directive adequately addresses those concerns. Ms. Keene points to the Police Department’s Incident Management Plan adopted the previous July, explaining that it outlines how the city would respond if immigration enforcement activity occurred in the community.

Councilmember Matthews expresses appreciation for the staff’s work and for the effort to craft a solution that complies with state and federal law. She believes that implementing the directive administratively may actually be beneficial because it allows the city to adjust quickly if real situations arise that were not anticipated. She also emphasizes the importance of maintaining functional relationships with federal agencies, noting that the city relies on federal partners during emergencies such as fires, floods, and disasters.

Vice Mayor Sweet also thanks the team and suggests creating a public information sheet or packet to distribute at community meetings. She explains that such materials could introduce Councilmembers, explain how residents can contact them, and summarize the directive so community members feel heard and informed. Ms. Keene indicates that staff will work on producing materials and linking residents to online resources.

Mayor Daggett voiced her support for implementing the directive quickly but also would like it codified through an ordinance after further public outreach. She asks whether other Arizona cities are taking similar approaches. City Attorney Solomon shared that the city’s approach is largely aligned with those of Phoenix and Tucson, noting that Tucson is considering a similar administrative directive at its council meeting that same evening.

Council consensus was supportive of implementing the directive while continuing community outreach and leaving open the possibility of strengthening or formally codifying it in the future. 

Ace Overman provided public comment in support of the City Manager directive. He emphasized that federal immigration enforcement actions across the country have caused fear and anxiety, leading people to avoid public spaces like City Hall, libraries, parks, and courthouses. He stressed that Flagstaff residents want to feel safe accessing city services without intimidation. He noted that other communities have addressed this by posting signage on city property stating that civil immigration enforcement is prohibited without valid judicial warrants, citing examples from Rhode Island and New Mexico. He feels that such signage provides clarity, reassurance, and a sense of security, encouraging civic participation and well-being. He requested that Council consider adding similar signs under the City Manager directive to ensure all Flagstaff residents feel safe and able to fully participate in the community.

Kira Russo submitted a written comment with questions about election security. and Sharlee (Li) Carrole Lin submitted written comments encouraging a stronger directive.

Ms. Keene clarified that the City Manager directive applies city facilities, but the City Court operates under a separate administrative order managed by the Administrative Office of the Courts, so different guidance applies there.

Phil Goldblatt addressed Council in opposition to the two petitions. He stated that cooperation between city, state, and federal authorities has long existed for public safety, and that the petitions would be largely symbolic with little practical effect. He noted that ICE typically operates independently, that the petitions would not prevent violations of city, state, or federal law, and that any concerns about ICE abuse should be addressed by enforcing existing laws or passing ordinances that fill actual gaps. He urged the Council to avoid spending time on what he sees as politically motivated actions.

The following individuals addressed the Council in support of the petition:

• Kim Curtis
• Frederica Hall
• Daniel Davis
• Crystal Diaz
• Brent Simmons
• Maria Villasenor
• Sarah Regala
• Claire Wagoner
• Jill Stephenson
• Kyle Nelson
• Peggy Sheldon-Scurlock
• Alec (Ace) Overmann
• James Cosby
• Rhiannon Colvin

The following comments were received:

• Move the citizen petition forward as a future agenda item.
• Hundreds of residents have signed the petition, showing strong public support.
• The public wants debate and discussion on this issue.
• Other cities and counties have taken similar actions, including Providence, Minneapolis, Pima County, and Tucson.
• Flagstaff residents should feel safe accessing public spaces like libraries, parks, and city offices.
• Fear caused by ICE and federal immigration enforcement is preventing people from using public services.
• Posting signs on city property stating ICE cannot operate without a judicial warrant would reduce fear.
• Signs are both symbolic and practical for reassuring residents.
• Existing city protocols and directives are not enough; they can be changed or rescinded.
• An ordinance would provide long-term protections that cannot be easily removed.
• ICE has acted outside the law in many cases across the country.
• Immigrant and Indigenous communities are particularly vulnerable to enforcement actions.
• Many people affected by ICE have no criminal record.
• The petition and ordinance would clarify standards for how federal agents can interact with city property.
• Protecting residents’ mental health is as important as physical safety.
• The city has the authority to regulate how public property is used.
• Community members want clear, consistent rules for ICE interactions.
• Local ordinances can create a legal pathway to hold federal agencies accountable if laws are violated.
• Public signage and communication show that the city supports safety and inclusion.
• Proactive measures, like “know your rights” training, are important for community preparedness.
• Residents and students need clear protocols in case federal enforcement comes to city property.
• The ordinance supports trust between residents and city services.
• The measure aligns with the city’s mission to protect and enhance quality of life for all.
• Historical civil rights examples show the importance of proactive protection policies.
• Even if enforcement is federal, local measures can prevent intimidation and fear in public spaces.
• An ordinance would give stability regardless of future changes in federal administration.
• Public discussion and debate are necessary to ensure proper consideration of these issues.
• Council action would affirm Flagstaff as a welcoming and inclusive community.
• The measure is a preventive step to act before harm occurs, not just a reaction afterward.
• Some commenters asked about city responsibilities if someone is injured during enforcement actions.
• Passing the petition and ordinance could help the community feel safer and more engaged.
• Protecting immigrant neighbors is a priority for community cohesion.
• Federal enforcement actions are seen as violating civil rights and creating fear.
• The ordinance is intended to establish safety, trust, and clarity in public spaces.
• The city should act morally, not just legally.

The following individuals submitted written comments in support of the petition:

• Carson Redmon
• Bonnie Feather
• Dave Fronske
• Kevin White
• Keara Hudler
• Amy Perry
• David Prieb
• Alice Bauman
• Margie Goulden
• Mare Schumacher
• Catherine Thebert
• Emma Nesteruck
• Maria Castillo-Rincon
• Mare Schumacher

Steven and Joan Harris submitted a written comment in opposition to the petition.

Councilmember House thanked the community and city leadership for engaging in the discussion. She believes that federal law and morality do not always align, citing historical examples like the Fugitive Slave Act and Japanese internment, and stressed the importance of examining the city’s role in immigration enforcement while protecting trust and community well-being. She supported moving forward with discussion on agenda Item 14A but did not support Item 14B, viewing it as a question rather than an actionable item, and advocated for clarity, transparency, and policies that balance legal requirements with community safety.

Ms. Keene offered clarifications on some of the public comments. She noted that SB1070 does not allow the city to ban ICE from facilities, that Pima County’s ordinance would likely face legal challenges, and that Tucson is handling the issue through a City Manager directive rather than an ordinance.

Councilmember Spence voiced his support for moving the petition forward to a formal agenda to allow citizen voices to be heard and to explore ways to keep the community safe and healthy. 

Councilmember Matthews thanked staff and the community for the conversation but cautioned against passing any ordinance that would violate state or federal law, warning about potential danger to law enforcement and residents. She emphasized that disagreements with laws should be addressed through lobbying or legal change, not through actions that could put people at risk.

Councilmember Aslan acknowledged the efforts of petition organizers but noted that a literal ban on ICE would be legally untenable under Arizona law. He supported the city staff’s proposed plan as a strong, enforceable alternative, and recommended drafting an ordinance based on the City Manager’s directive, clarifying the city court processes, and supporting signage to enhance public safety. 

Vice Mayor Sweet highlighted the importance of community input and city leadership responsiveness, stressing the need to operate within the law and protect both employees and residents. She supported the City Manager’s directive and requested that information be shared in English and Spanish, proactive outreach be conducted to community groups and neighborhood associations, and smaller community meetings be held to foster dialogue.

Councilmember Garcia expressed gratitude to the community for protecting due process and human dignity. He acknowledged the region’s Indigenous, Hispanic, Basque, and multicultural heritage and highlighted the importance of Flagstaff’s diversity. He emphasized that local law enforcement is effectively keeping the community safe, that there is no major immigration issue in Flagstaff, and that the city should work respectfully with federal agencies. He supported the City Manager’s directive over the petition.

Mayor Daggett acknowledged the need to comply with SB1070 while protecting civil rights and outlined steps already taken, including revising and reinforcing police administrative orders, incorporating community feedback, and completing staff training. She proposed continuing the discussion through the City Manager’s directive, a subsequent ordinance to codify the directive, clarifying city court processes, implementing safety signage, providing bilingual information packets, holding community group meetings, and reviewing law enforcement mask policies. 

There was not requisite support to advance the item to a future agenda for discussion.

The following individuals addressed Council in support of the petition:

• Blake Scott
• Samuel Butler

The following comments were received:

• Urge the Council to advance both petitions to protect neighbors and the community from ICE actions.
• The city needs to prevent violence and discourage ICE enforcement within the city.
• Use city resources, including legal counsel and tax dollars, to defend the community and challenge harmful federal actions.
• This is an opportunity to continue important protective work without limiting the city’s authority.
• Law enforcement has discretion in cooperating with ICE and can take actions to protect community members.
• Recognize the powers the Police Department has to safeguard residents.
• This issue cannot be ignored and will eventually impact the community, calling for moral and principled leadership in addressing it.

Kevin White submitted a written comment in support of the petition.

There was not requisite support to advance the item to a future agenda for discussion.
 

None

Councilmember Garcia asked for an update on the plan for the Joel Montalvo baseball field that is not being used.

The Regular Meeting of the Flagstaff City Council held March 3, 2026, adjourned at 6:35 p.m.