Category: Finance

Dragon Bravo Fire Incident update for Aug. 29, 2025 — Highway 67 is now open to Kaibab Lodge

Current Situation: With favorable weather, an infrared flight was completed which showed minimal heat and no growth of the perimeter. This new intelligence coupled with several days of precipitation and evaluation by firefighters has allowed an increase in containment for the Dragon Bravo Fire. With the successful completion of suppression repair work and hazard mitigation within the forest, Highway 67 has been reopened to Kaibab Lodge. In addition, more public lands are now accessible – please see the updated forest closure order for details.

U.S. Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) news updates for August 2025

Office of U.S. Sen. Ruben Gallego

Latest news updates for August 2025

Gallego Leads Colleagues in Demanding Answers from Navy Federal Credit Union on Overdraft Fees

Gallego Backs Bill to Reverse GOP Energy Tax Hike and Cut Americans’ Electricity Costs

Gallego Backs Legislation to Cap the Cost of Prescription Medication

MORE …

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes news updates for August 2025

Office Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes

Latest news updates for August 2025

Attorney General Mayes Wins Lawsuit Against Trump Administration, Stops $184 Million Cut to AmeriCorps Service Programs

Attorney General Mayes Announces Two Convictions for ESA Program Fraud

Attorney General Mayes Sues Hefty® Parent Company for Misleading Arizona Consumers

Attorney General Mayes Secures Full Relief for Arizona Schools in Lawsuit Challenging Withholding of Education Funding

Attorney General Mayes Joins 44 States in Demanding Tech Companies End Predatory AI Interactions with Kids

Attorney General Mayes Sues Operators of Real Estate Scam Targeting Elderly Arizonans

MORE …

Sedona Arts Center Special Update: New tax benefits for arts donations

Make Your Gift Count for Art,
Community, and Learning

Your support of Sedona Arts Center empowers creativity, community, and lifelong learning. Recent changes in tax law may provide new ways to maximize the impact of your giving—helping us continue our mission to inspire, educate, and connect artists and audiences across the Verde Valley.

The NAU Review — We are SO back

Welcome back, Jacks!

It’s been a big week for new Lumberjacks. When they weren’t toting luggage around campus and saying goodbye to loved ones, they were enjoying a Welcome Week full of music, games, meet-and-greets and more. Flip through a few photo highlights and watch this Welcome Week video.

Coconino County — In-person Small Business Administration mobile services available in fire impacted communities

COCONINO COUNTY — Businesses impacted by the Dragon Bravo and White Sage Fires can meet with representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration to learn about the Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) program and receive assistance with competing applications.

The SBA declared an economic disaster on Monday, August 18 and Coconino County Emergency Management and Economic Development teams along with Coconino County Supervisors have been on the ground since, finding dates, times and locations to host two SBA mobile service teams. 

Coconino County — SBA activates loan program for northern Arizona and southern Utah businesses

“As fire crews were on the ground, Coconino County was also thinking about economic recovery assistance for businesses who rely on tourism both on the North Rim and South Rim of the Grand Canyon,” said County Manager Andy Bertelsen. “The loss of the infrastructure at the North Rim and the fires impact on tourism have definitely affected the economy of northern Arizona. Coconino County took proactive steps to begin a process for federal resources to be made available to businesses throughout our county and surrounding counties.”  

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Aug. 11-15, 2025

Brighty prepares for his journey to the South Rim, where he will be stored in the park’s Museum Collections until a decision is made on his future. Whether he will be restored to his former appearance or replaced entirely is still under consideration. (NPS Photo)

United Way of Northern Arizona — Will We See You There? Last chance to register for kickoff!

Join us on Tuesday, August 26th at High Country Conference Center for a buffet breakfast and an inspiring panel discussion on youth mental health, spotlighting collaborative efforts to give adolescents the tools and resources they need to thrive.

Deadline to register is 5 pm tomorrow!

The kickoff marks the official beginning of our annual campaign to raise $1.2 million to fund efforts to increase youth opportunity, healthy communities, financial security and community resiliency in Coconino, Navajo, and Apache counties.

Discover treasures: August Sale at Sedona Art Center Gallery Shop

Our Gallery showcases the largest selection in Sedona of artwork by local artists. If you are seeking a rare piece of fine art, a gift of exquisite jewelry, appreciate stunning photography, or looking for a lovely keepsake from your visit to Sedona, the Arts Center has it all and more. Sedona Arts Center is a 501(c)3 organization that offers all purchases without sales tax – almost a 10% savings.

Coconino County Treasurer’s Office moves downtown

COCONINO COUNTY — Starting Monday, Aug. 18, the Coconino County Treasurer’s Office will be back in downtown Flagstaff for in-person services at 110 E. Cherry Ave. from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

The current location at Flagstaff Mall, 4650 N. N. US Hwy 89, will be open until Aug. 18.

“Having one office downtown with in-person services helps streamline our processes and will make doing business with the Treasurer’s Office simple and convenient for residents,” Coconino County Treasurer Sarah Benatar said. “We will now have a one-stop-shop for employees, meetings, partner agencies and residents.”

Coconino Center for the Arts to present Digital marketing for artists and nonprofits workshop on Aug. 9

This Saturday, join us for the next workshop in our free Professional Development Workshop Series! Explore how nonprofits can leverage marketing strategies and AI tools to enhance outreach, engagement, and efficiency. Led by artist and designer Kayley Quick and marketing professional and theater leader Caitlin Burd, this session will provide practical insights into branding, content creation, and the evolving role of AI in nonprofit marketing. Whether you’re looking to streamline operations or strengthen your organization’s presence, this workshop will offer valuable takeaways for nonprofit leaders and creatives alike.

Coconino Center for the Arts — Announcing New Professional Development Workshop Offerings – Digital Marketing for Artists and Nonprofits Next Saturday

Join us for the next workshop in our free Professional Development Workshop Series! Explore how nonprofits can leverage marketing strategies and AI tools to enhance outreach, engagement, and efficiency. Led by artist and designer Kayley Quick and marketing professional and theater leader Caitlin Burd, this session will provide practical insights into branding, content creation, and the evolving role of AI in nonprofit marketing. Whether you’re looking to streamline operations or strengthen your organization’s presence, this workshop will offer valuable takeaways for nonprofit leaders and creatives alike.

FREE Registration required

Small businesses impacted by fires encouraged to fill out worksheet

COCONINO COUNTY — Are you a small business owner impacted by the White Sage Fire or Dragon Bravo Fire? If so, the Small Business Administration has an Economic Injury Disaster Loan program that may be able to provide support.

We know the importance of economic recovery following these wildfires.  Help us tell your story as we seek recovery opportunities for small businesses throughout Coconino County.  

The first step is for Coconino County to establish a need for the program by submitting a packet of Estimated Disaster Economic Injury Worksheets to the Governor’s Office.

The Worksheet is NOT a loan application and filling out the Worksheet does NOT require participation in the program.

Dragon Bravo Fire Daily Update for July 30

Highlights: Tuesday’s infrared mapping provided updated acreage as the Dragon Bravo Fire continues its northward push amid extreme fire behavior. Operations focused on holding Forest Road 610, improving indirect lines, and firing operations to protect values at risk. Southwest Complex Incident Management Team 2 is still taking a full suppression approach to the Dragon Bravo, while prioritizing firefighter and public safety.

White Sage Fire Daily Update for July 30, 2025

Highlights

Throughout the fire footprint, crews continue to repair suppression lines using equipment to move soil and woody debris to prevent soil erosion. Firefighters are spreading seed into repair areas to promote regrowth of native plants. Crews are repairing fences along the fire perimeter.

The White Sage Fire is 58,985 acres. The Oak Point Fire, a small 85-acre fire about 8 miles south of the main fire, is 100 percent controlled. Previously, the White Sage Fire acreage had reflected the combined total for both fires. 

Highway 89A and BLM 1065/House Rock Valley Road are open. Light, individual smokes may be visible within the White Sage Fire perimeter from Highway 89A. Occasional smokes can be expected in the weeks to come as fuels continue to smolder. Drivers are advised that firefighters continue to work along roadways. Please drive with care.

The Kaibab National Forests’ North Kaibab Ranger District and Highway 67 south of Jacob Lake remain closed due to the Dragon Bravo Fire. For additional information, check the Arizona Department of Transportation website: www.az511.com

Coconino County — Now available: Regional Plan Public Hearing draft

The Public Hearing Draft of the Flagstaff Regional Land Use Plan 2045 is now available on the project website: www.flagstaff.az.gov/regionalplan2045
This draft will be discussed at a series of public hearings with the Flagstaff Planning and Zoning Commission and the Flagstaff City Council, who will vote on adopting the Regional Plan in October.
Hard copies of the plan are available for review at:
City Hall Community Development Counter
Downtown Library Information Desk
East Flagstaff Library Information Desk
To request a take-home hard copy, please email Elsa Erling at elsa.erling@flagstaffaz.gov
More updates on the City hearings, how to comment, and Coconino County’s hearing schedule will be provided via this newsletter in the coming weeks.

Museum of Northern Arizona — You can help us reach our goal today!

Thank you for your support of the Museum of Northern Arizona. This year, we are introducing many new hands-on activities at MNA – and we need your help!

From holding a fossilized dinosaur claw in your hands to making your own geology-inspired jewelry, hands-on activities provide a sense of connection that you just can’t get through a screen. That’s why we are asking you to help us reach our summer goal of raising $20,000 to support interactive elements at MNA!

Flagstaff City Manager recruitment open – Applications due Sept. 12

FLAGSTAFF — Following the announcement of City Manager Greg Clifton’s future retirement, the City of Flagstaff has partnered with Duffy Group to lead a nationwide competitive recruitment process inclusive of community input. Mr. Clifton has targeted August 29, 2025 as the end date of his employment with the City, although he will continue to serve as a contracted interim manager until such time as the next city manager is in place. 

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Northern Arizona communities make housing gains

When ECoNA released its 5-year Strategic Plan in 2023, it confirmed something many of us already knew: northern Arizona is facing a critical shortage of workforce housing.

During the decade leading up to the plan, the average price of a single family home in our region soared – by as much as 294%, depending on the community. This surge has priced many out of home ownership and pushed rental prices higher, straining families and employers alike.

Early bird tickets now on sale for the 76th Annual Coconino County Fair!

FLAGSTAFF — Mark your calendars! The 76th Annual Coconino County Fair returns to Fort Tuthill County Park over Labor Day Weekend, August 29 – September 1, and early bird tickets are now officially on sale.

Fairgoers can take advantage of discounted admission and carnival wristbands by purchasing online at www.CoconinoCountyFair.com beginning July 1. Whether you’re going for the rides, the food, the music, or the exhibits, buying early is the best way to save!

Coconino County Board of Supervisors approves budget for Fiscal Year 2026

COCONINO COUNTY — The Coconino County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a budget of $443,009,427 for FY26, which runs from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026.

The budget process with the Board of Supervisors began on May 5, with a budget development presentation, followed by department presentations, public input, board discussions, and tentative adoption, culminating on June 24, with the official vote and adoption of a balanced budget.   

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — F3’s Online Auction Closes This Saturday!

Help us raise $8,000 from our 30th Anniversary Online Auction. Place your bid online  before the auction closes!

Starting bids are set at 50% of the Value of the Item. There are some great deals here!

This auction contains diverse,and unique items including: special experiences such as  music concerts, guided tours, and interior design consultation; gift baskets for gardening and more; and gift certificates for personal training and doggy day care. Also jewelry, food, and wine.

Find all auction items at: bit.ly/F3Auction4mSJD7c

Coconino County — Supplemental Information about Truth in Taxation Notices

COCONINO COUNTY — In accordance with State statute, Coconino County has published Truth in Taxation Notices that will appear in the Arizona Daily Sun on June 10 and June 17.

Each year, during the budget process, both primary and secondary property tax rates are proposed for the coming fiscal year.    

To meet the needs of our communities, address emergencies, and provide basic services including public safety, emergency response, criminal justice, and County parks, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors is required to balance these crucial operations while maintaining our low primary and secondary property taxes, which are some of the lowest in the state. 

Sedona Arts Center — Summer ART Raffle! Enter to Win!

Support the arts and take home something beautiful! Now through June 21, 2025, enter our Summer Raffle for a chance to win one of several original works of art created by talented Sedona Arts Center artists.


Featured Artists:
Elizabeth St. Hilaire, Sandra Luehrsen, Mary Helsaple,
Michelle Held, Robert Burridge, and Bruce Gomez

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — Bidding is now open at F3’s 30th Anniversary Auction!

Celebrate F3’s 30th Anniversary by placing a bid on one or more of the awesome items on our online auction!

Find all auction items at: bit.ly/F3Auction4mSJD7c

Bidding ends on June 28 at 7:30 pm

Our goal is to raise $8000 toward our continued community work.

Bid on our exciting, diverse, and unique items including special experiences (from guided tours to personal luxuries), gift baskets (from personal care to gardening) and gift certificates (from design services to doggy day care). Also food, wine, jewelry, and more.

Sedona Arts Center — ACTION ALERT – Protect Arts Funding

As you know, the funding arts organizations and artists receive from the Arizona Commission on the Arts is something we have to fight for at the Arizona Legislature every year. We need your help to keep funding intact in the FY2026 state budget.

Specifically, we need you to contact your legislator and Governor Hobbs TODAY.

If you are a leader of an arts organization, we also need you to engage your volunteers, board members, donors, audiences and patrons in contacting their state elected officials. Often, their voices as constituents of these elected officials are the most persuasive. Please forward this message to them.

Theatrikos Theatre Company is growing!

We are thrilled to announce that we have secured a long-term lease on a dedicated rehearsal studio space right here in Flagstaff. This beautiful commercial space will become a hub of creativity and learning, allowing us—for the first time—to offer year-round classes and camps for youth and adults alike. It will also free up valuable space in our main building, giving all departments room to breathe and grow.

But we need your help to bring this vision to life.

Museum of Northern Arizona — Requesting your help with a survey

Every year we strive to gain a better understanding of our audience—who visits the Museum of Northern Arizona exhibitions, who attends our programs, and how similar or different they are from the larger community we serve.

Would you take a few minutes to complete a survey for the Museum?

Coconino County to provide court, health, and other services in Page on Thursday, June 19

This event gives Page residents and nearby areas access to services without needing to travel to Flagstaff. 

The Coconino County Attorney’s Office (CAO), Legal Defender’s Office, Public Defender’s Office, Elections Department, Recorder’s Office, and Health and Human Services (CCHHS) along with The Guidance Center (TGC), Encompass, DNA-People’s Legal Services, and Victim Witness Services of Northern Arizona (VWS) are participating. 

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3)’s 30th Anniversary Auction: Items ready to view

Celebrate F3’s 30th Anniversary by bidding on our online auction!

Help us continue our work by bidding on our exciting, diverse, and unique items including special experiences (from guided tours to personal luxuries), gift baskets (from personal care to gardening) and gift certificates (from design services to doggy day care). Bid on food, wine, jewelry, and more.

Everything is donated by local shops, businesses, restaurants, and individuals who generously contributed to this auction.

Help us kick-off of our next 30 years of community work in Flagstaff!

U.S. Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) news updates for week of June 2, 2025

Gallego Supports Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Obesity Epidemic ••• Gallego Fights to Protect Key Consumer Protection Agency ••• Gallego, Baldwin Introduce Bill to Prevent Companies from Ripping Healthcare Away from Striking Workers ••• Gallego Fights for Program That Saves Arizonans Hundreds on Their Utility Bills ••• Gallego, Colleagues Call for Additional Funding to Keep Communities Safe

U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ) news updates for May 2025

Kelly, Gallego, Stanton, Ansari Demand Answers from DHS and ICE After Arrests at Phoenix Immigration Court *** Kelly, Stanton, Gallego, Ansari Urge HHS and DOJ to Streamline Domestic Violence Victim Services Funding *** Kelly, Gallego, Stanton Warn of Devastating Impact of House Republican Plan to Slash Food Assistance, Raise Costs for Arizona Families *** MORE ***

Museum of Northern Arizona Virtual Auction open for bidding!

We are just two weeks away from MNA’s biggest fundraising night of the year – the Party on the Plateau! If you didn’t snag tickets to this sold-out event, no worries – you can still bid in the silent auction, which is open for online bidding. You do not have to be attending the Party on the Plateau to participate!

County Manager’s Office warns of new scam targeting property owners

The Coconino County Manager’s office was recently made aware of a potential scam targeting County residents and property owners.

Residents reported receiving an email from “Coconino County Planning and Zoning Division” regarding an “outstanding Application Review & Renewal Fee” associated with a Conditional Use Permit application for their property, as well as an attached PDF invoice for payment.

Proposed changes to recreation fees on the Coconino National Forest

FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino National Forest is proposing changes to recreation fees at various recreation sites on the forest to help maintain highly-visited sites and standardize the recreation pass program for all forest visitors. 

Most recreation sites on the forest will not require a fee, with more than 67% of sites on the forest remaining free for general public use and enjoyment. The forest will continue to honor the suite of “America the Beautiful” Interagency Passes and Red Rock Passes at all standard amenity fee sites and provide several fee-free days throughout the year. Also, the Sedona Shuttle program, which provides free transportation from two Park and Ride lots to popular recreation fee sites, will continue to operate. 

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up — April 21-25, 2025 — Cinco de Mayo Celebration on May 5 in Tusayan

On Monday, May 5, the Town of Tusayan will be hosting its annual Cinco de Mayo celebration from 4:30-9 p.m. at the Squire Resort in Tusayan. Mexican food and music will be featured as well as pinatas for kids, a face painter, balloon artist, a dive-in movie and indoor and outdoor pool, as well as a drone light show.

More information can be found in the attached flyer here.

City of Flagstaff receives notification of EPA termination of Resilience Hubs Grant (impacting Murdoch Community Center, the Market of Dreams, and the Community Assistance Teams (C.A.T.s)

“The EPA’s decision to terminate this grant is deeply alarming—not only for the City of Flagstaff, but for the many residents, community leaders, and partner organizations who have worked tirelessly to enhance local preparedness. These community hubs were already delivering measurable impact, supporting those most vulnerable to extreme weather-related threats, as well as workforce development. We stand firmly behind this vital work and intend to challenge the EPA’s decision. Flagstaff remains unwavering in our commitment to safeguarding the health, safety, and future of our residents.” said Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett.  

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Q&A: Heidi Hansen

Heidi Hansen, Economic Vitality Director for the City of Flagstaff, is the Vice Chair of the Executive Board of ECoNA. Originally from Delaware, she moved to Flagstaff when her father, a W.L. Gore & Associates employee, relocated to Arizona. After earning her bachelor’s degree in advertising from Northern Arizona University, she spent more than 20 years in media advertising before becoming the City’s Convention and Visitor Bureau’s director in 2012.

2045 Flagstaff Regional Plan —Spring Survey due April 25

The deadline to take the Spring Survey on the Regional Plan has been extended to Friday, April 25. Your input is needed! Survey results will inform the upcoming Joint Retreat on May 2nd, when City and County elected officials will discuss the plan.
Click here to start the Spring Survey on the Regional Plan

HANDS OFF Flagstaff! — Largest protest in city’s history jam downtown Flagstaff City Hall

Story/photos courtesy of www.MosaicNAZ.org

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes Town Hall to be held April 15 in Flagstaff. More protests to come April 19, May 1 at Flagstaff City Hall.

FLAGSTAFF — Protesters (estimated between 2,000 and 2,500) flooded the zone in downtown Flagstaff for the “HANDS OFF! Flagstaff AZ Fights Back!” rally, part of a national day of protest held on Saturday, April 5, 2025.

The Arizona Daily Sun put the estimated crowd at 2,500 people, who surrounding City Hall from the corner of Humphrey Street and Aspen Avenue south to Route 66 and west to Milton Road.

A small overflow crowd could be seen across the street from City Hall, with others protesting from the traffic islands at the Santa Fe Avenue and Milton Road exits.

Carrying a variety of signs reflecting the organizer’s multi-issue event, protesters took aim at everything from Hands Off Medicaid to Medicare, Social Security, Our Jobs, Our Wallets, Our Books, Fair Elections, Personal Data, Public Lands, Veteran Services, Cancer Research, NATO, Consumer Protections, Clean Air, Schools, Libraries, Free Speech, LGBTQ+ Rights, Immigrants, Courts and other issues.

Coconino County Comprehensive Plan Advisory Group Meeting to be held April 3

The Coconino County Comprehensive Plan Advisory Group (CPAG) is meeting monthly.  This temporary group, invited by the Board of Supervisors, represents the diversity of the County.  The role of the CPAG is to provide recommendations on the updated goals, policies, maps, and implementation strategies of the Comprehensive Plan Update, Envision 2045 to the Board of Supervisors, the Planning and Zoning Commission, and staff.

Grand Canyon National Park to Implement New Campground Fees

GRAND CANYON, AZ.— Grand Canyon National Park will implement a fee increase for frontcountry standard campsites at Desert View, North Rim, and Mather Campgrounds starting May 1, 2025. Rates for standard campsites will increase to $30 per night. Group sites will remain $55 per night.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future — Communications Issue #38: Update on Mill Town Student-focused Housing Development

We want to provide you with an update on the proposed Mill Town student-focused housing development that was discussed by City Council on February 4 and March 4. The development will be located across the street from Target on Milton Ave. and will be composed of a commercial development located in front of student-oriented housing. The original plan for Mill Town was approved by Council in 2018 and allowed for over 1000 beds as well as the commercial development. 

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Coalition Partners, supporters participating in Arizona Gives Day on April 1, 2025

By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth

COCONINO COUNTY — A variety of CCC&Y member partners and supporters that support children, youth and facilities throughout Northern Arizona are taking part in the annual Arizona Gives Day on April 1, 2025.

“Every year 1000+ nonprofits come together across the state to build a better Arizona and tens of thousands of donors come together to support the amazing work nonprofits are doing in our community,” Arizona Gives reported. “Arizona Gives is an initiative of AZ Impact for Good that began in 2013. This partnership has helped raise nearly $47 million for Arizona’s nonprofit sector, directly benefiting thousands of nonprofits across Arizona.”

Some taking part on Arizona Gives Day include:

Sedona Arts Center — An important message from our CEO

These are interesting times to say the least.  I realize that it is hard to know what is going to happen from one day to the next but we here at Sedona Arts Center are continuing to move forward despite the uncertainty.
 
You see, we have to – because when life is uncertain and people are feeling stressed, they turn to the arts more than ever.
 
The arts heal. The arts calm. The arts focus our minds so that we can be productive.
 
That is what we strive to provide at Sedona Arts Center – whether you are participating in an art workshop or class, perusing our Gallery Shop or one of our Special Exhibitions, or attending an event.  We improve lives. We change lives. And some have told us, we’ve saved their life.

Mexican Consulate to present its ‘Consulado Móvil en Flagstaff’ on March 29 at CCC / El Consulado General de México en Phoenix presenta ‘Consulado Móvil en Flagstaff’ el 29 de marzo, Coconino Community College

El Consulado General de México en Phoenix presenta “Consulado Móvil en Flagstaff,” Sábado, 29 de marzo, 8am – 12pm, Coconino Community College, 2800 S. Lone Tree Road, Flagstaff.

Con una variedad de mesas de información local.

Trámites: 

Pasaporte electrónico
Matríconsular
Credencial ed elector
Actas de nacimiento
Haz tu Cita

1-424-309-0009

Linda Vista Drive reopening prior to Fourth Street and Cedar Avenue/Lockett Road intersection closure

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff (City) and the Spruce Wash Flood Mitigation Team is hard at work constructing flood mitigation measures along Linda Vista Drive. We are currently on track to permanently open Linda Vista Drive, unimpeded, to all traffic on or before May 23, 2025 (the start of FUSD Summer break).

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: March 17-21, 2025

U.S. District Court and Grand Canyon National Park Implement New Fine Structure to Enhance Public Safety 

The U.S. District Court of Arizona and Grand Canyon National Park are taking proactive steps to improve public safety for residents and visitors alike. As part of this initiative, the U.S. District Court and the park are implementing a new fine structure for certain violations, including fire safety and speeding in school zones. 

To reduce the risk of wildfires, fines for having fires in undesignated areas have been significantly increased. During Stage 1 restrictions, individuals will face a $300 fine, while Stage 2 restrictions will result in a $500 fine. These increased penalties aim to deter unsafe fire practices and protect our park and community. 

Flagstaff Family Food Center announces 2024 Northern Arizona Food Equity Report is now available

FLAGSTAFF — Discover how the Flagstaff Family Food Center is working to ensure that EVERYONE in our community has access to nutritious, affordable food. This report highlights key insights, challenges, and the steps we’re taking to fight food insecurity across northern Arizona.

Let’s build a more equitable future—one meal at a time. 

Coconino County Treasurer announces closure of drive-through office in Flagstaff

“At this moment our staffing levels and roles do not allow for us to maintain the drive-through location,” said Treasurer Sarah Benatar. “We will continue to look for ways to maintain excellent customer service for our residents while making sure public funds are secure and accounted for.”  

Coconino Community College — Congratulations to Dawson Hernandez & Noah Stone for being nominated for the All-Arizona Academic Team

FLAGSTAFF — Coconino Community College students Dawson Hernandez and Noah Stone have been nominated for the All-Arizona Academic Team as part of the prestigious All-USA Scholarship competition, sponsored by Phi Theta Kappa!

Dawson plans to transfer to NAU to study psychology and philosophy, paving his way to law school. Noah has been accepted into NAU’s 2025 Compressed Nursing Program, working toward his goal of becoming a flight nurse.

Minimum wage Impact Study in Coconino County released

This comprehensive analysis provides key insights into the economic effects of the minimum wage policy in our region. The study’s findings aim to support informed decision-making by local, state, and federal policymakers while guiding our workforce and economic development strategies. Specifically, this report will help:

Address potential challenges and mitigate negative impacts of minimum wage policies.
Identify and promote strategies that benefit both employers and workers.
Develop workforce initiatives that ensure a resilient and adaptable labor market.
Provide insight into job and skills training needs to better prepare the workforce.
Coordinate efforts to expand entrepreneurial training and microenterprise services.
Deliver technical assistance strategies to help small and emerging businesses thrive.

Coconino Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) to hold next meeting on March 5. Seeking new members

FLAGSTAFF — The Coconino County Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) will hold its next meeting at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, March. 5 at the Coconino County Health and Human Services Building, 2625 N. King St., Flagstaff, Ponderosa Conference Room.

The meeting can be attended in person or via Zoom Link Below:

https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85359174121

Meeting ID: 853 5917 4121 Phone: + 1(408) 638-0968

… CHAC, which is current seeking new members, serves as an official liaison and communications link between the Hispanic community and the Coconino County Board of Supervisors, so please bring any concerns you may have about equal education opportunities, fair employment, juvenile justice, political representation and other issues.

Sedona Arts Center — New art class starts tomorrow

Introduction to Silver Clay 
with Joan Roberts
February 12 – 13: Wednesday–Thursday, 9am-1pm

Joan Roberts has been creating distinct wearable art pieces with metal clay for 2 decades. She will share techniques, methods and a few secrets to successful creation of jewelry pieces. Silver Clay is a mixture of microscopic particles of silver, distilled water and a non-toxic organic binder. When fired the silver sinters into a solid piece of “fine silver.”  Participants do not need past experience in metal work or other clays to be very successful.

This class is divided into two mornings so pieces can be finished and loaded into a kiln at the end of the first day and finished and polished on the second. Participants will be provided with enough clay to create up to two pairs of earrings or a pendant.

Save the Date — Community Assistance Teams of Flagstaff (CATs) to hold its Spring Pop Up Care Village for the region’s unsheltered community on April 27

FLAGSTAFF — Community Assistance Teams of Flagstaff (CATs) will hold its Spring Pop Up Care Village for the region’s unsheltered community on April 27.

Service providers and agencies that would like to connect and engage with unsheltered community members are invited to table at the event. At our PUCV event in October we had 160 people in need who attended the event, over 30 volunteers working the event and almost 20 other agencies/NGOs/businesses providing services.