Category: Government

Flagstaff City Council supports defined protocols for interactions with federal agencies

FLAGSTAFF — During the March 3 meeting, the Flagstaff City Council received information about protocols to be utilized during interactions with federal agencies. These protocols include a directive on the use of City property by outside agencies, a notice to guide City employees if federal law enforcement personnel visit a City workplace, and a form for members of the community to report concerns. Staff also reiterated that the Flagstaff Police Department does not enforce federal immigration laws but also cannot interfere with or prevent lawful federal activities. 

Coconino Center for the Arts — Gallery Exhibition Opening (March 7), FREE Event, Artist Opportunities, and More!

March 7-28, 2026
Youth Arts Exhibition Opening Reception March 7, 4-8 pm
Youth Talent Showcase CCA Theater March 7, 5-7 pm

This year’s exhibition features a record number of 510 pieces by over 300 regional youth artists!!

Coconino Center for the Arts’ 2026 Youth Arts Exhibition invites local youth artists from Coconino County and the regional community to exhibit their recent artwork at CCA. The exhibition is open to and inclusive of all artwork submissions by youth artists, Pre-K to 12th grade, that reflect the theme From Ordinary to Extraordinary.

2026 Coconino County Teacher of the Year and Rookie Teacher of the Year finalists announced

Coconino County Superintendent of Schools Cheryl Mango-Paget proudly recognizes these exceptional teachers for their passion, innovation and unwavering commitment to students and their communities.

The winners will be revealed at the 13th Annual Coconino County Teacher of the Year Awards on Thursday, April 9 at 5 p.m. at the High Country Conference Center in Flagstaff — an evening dedicated to celebrating the educators who make a lasting difference in the lives of Coconino County students.

Roadwork to begin on Butler Ave and Lone Tree Road as part of Lonetree Overpass Project

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff and its contractor, Ames Construction, will begin the next phase of the Lone Tree Overpass project on Monday, March 2. The project area is Butler Ave. between O’Leary St. and Lumber St. and Lone Tree Rd. between Butler Ave. and Sawmill Rd. The work entails roadway reconstruction, installation of water line, sanitary sewer, and storm drains, improvements to concrete curb and gutters, sidewalks, and driveways, and re-alignment to add bike lanes and multi-use travel paths. The work is expected to be completed in December 2026.

District 2 Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez, Coconino Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) to present film ‘A Song for Cesar!’ on March 16

FLAGSTAFF — Join Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez and members of the Coconino Hispanic Advisory Council (CHAC) for a film screening of A Song for Cesar! The film aims to educate generations old and new about civil rights activist Cesar Chavez’s legacy of impactful, peaceful protest.

The inaugural Cesar Chavez Film Screening will be held on Monday, March 16 at 5:30 p.m. at Coconino Center for the Arts.

A Song for Cesar, a documentary film by Abel Sanchez and Andres Alegria, presents a unique view of the life and legacy of Cesar Chavez and the farmworker movement.

Get the latest news updates from U.S. Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) including — ‘WATCH: Gallego Presses Regulators on Trump Family’s World Liberty Financial Bank Charter Bid

Click below for the latest news updates from the:

Office of U.S. Sen. Ruben Gallego

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) Flagstaff Community Forum to be held 5-7p.m. Feb. 25

Meet concerned, like-minded neighbors who care deeply about creating a safe, welcoming, and inclusive community for everyone. Learn about the progressive organizations working locally to strengthen Flagstaff, protect civil rights, and promote equity.

You’ll also hear from City Council candidates Patty Hansen and Austin Aslan about their vision, priorities, and commitment to thoughtful, community-centered leadership.

Mary Goodman named Flagstaff Deputy City Manager

FLAGSTAFF — Mary Goodman has been selected to serve as the new Flagstaff Deputy City Manager and will begin in the role effective April 27. Her appointment follows an open and highly competitive recruitment process that attracted more than 180 applicants. Mary will assume the position previously held by Joanne Keene, who became City Manager in November 2025.

Water conservation measures implemented on the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. —  Effective immediately, Grand Canyon National Park is implementing water conservation measures on the South Rim following a power outage that impacted the SCADA system at the Havasupai Gardens pumphouse. As a result, water is currently unable to be pumped to the South Rim.

All park residents and visitors are required to conserve and reduce water usage wherever possible in homes, hotel rooms and campgrounds.

Water conservation measures include:

Coconino National Forest announces seasonal hiring for upcoming recreation season

“Our seasonal employees are the backbone of summer operations—keeping our campgrounds, trails and recreation sites open, safe and welcoming for visitors,” said Coconino National Forest Supervisor Aaron Mayville. “These positions offer meaningful work, hands-on experience and the chance to support public lands close to home.”

City of Flagstaff Public Works Director Scott Overton receives leadership credential

FLAGSTAFF — City of Flagstaff Public Works Director Scott Overton recently graduated from the Arizona City/County Management Association (ACMA) Management Academy. The Academy is a statewide program offered by ACMA that provides intensive leadership and management training within the context of local government to help build the leadership development pipeline. The program is 10-months long and includes topics of study such as stakeholder relationship management, legal frameworks, municipal budgets, workforce planning, and communications.

City of Flagstaff — Flock Safety cameras removed

FLAGSTAFF — The City received confirmation on Feb. 19 that all Flock Safety cameras covered under the City’s contract have been physically removed. 

The Flagstaff City Council voted in December 2025 to terminate the City’s contract with Flock Safety for automated license plate recognition technology. Following that decision, all cameras covered under the contract were immediately turned off and stopped collecting data.

Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library hiring library director

FLAGSTAFF — We’re hiring a Library Director to lead the City of Flagstaff’s library system and the Coconino County Library District.

This full-time executive leadership role oversees multiple city and county branches, supervises senior staff, directs budgeting and strategic planning, manages IT and collections, and serves as a key liaison to City Council, the County Board of Supervisors and community partners. The position plays a critical role in ensuring our libraries continue to meet the informational, cultural and educational needs of our region.

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — A New Look. A New Site

I’m excited to share that the Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona has launched a refreshed website at econa-az.com, and I invite you to take a look.

This new site was built with you in mind. Whether you are a partner in our region’s growth, a business exploring expansion opportunities, or site selector looking for a home for your company, we wanted to make it easier to find what you need, and show why northern Arizona is a smart place to do business.

Flagstaff City Manager Joanne Keene wins 2026 ATHENA Award

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff is excited to congratulate City Manager Joanne Keene on receiving the 2026 ATHENA Award. The ATHENA® International Leadership Awards program is a prestigious initiative that recognizes and honors individual women for their outstanding achievements and contributions in leadership, mentorship, and community service.

City of Flagstaff Beautification – Arts & Sciences — Apply for a Beautification in Action Grant

The City of Flagstaff invites artists, community members and groups, schools, and local businesses to apply for a Beautification in Action (BIA) grant to enliven our community’s public spaces. Projects can take the form of community gardens, neighborhood paths, benches, sculptures, murals, and more. Priority will be given to community-initiated projects that provide a lasting impact—fostering cultural connections, strengthening neighborhood awareness and identity, and deepening how residents and visitors interact with the built environment. All projects must be publicly and visually accessible. Up to $8,000 is available per project.

Flagstaff Airport announces larger aircraft for Dallas-Fort Worth service

Flagstaff Airport (FLG) is excited to announce that beginning May 21, American Airlines will upgrade its Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) service to a larger aircraft. The Airbus A319 will replace the current CRJ700, more than doubling seat capacity and marking the first time a mainline aircraft will serve FLG.

Coconino National Forest — Pile burns planned (Feb. 16) and this week

FLAGSTAFF — Coconino National Forest is planning pile burns today and this week, pending all required approvals and favorable weather conditions. Pile burns are a type of prescribed fire used to help reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from wildfires.

Pile burns planned for the area include:

Coconino Center for the Arts — VALENTINE’S WEEKEND! We’ve got your covered :) More upcoming events

Friday, February 13, 7:30 pm

Over the course of his thirty-year career, Nolan McKelvey has covered nearly every corner of the country and traversed all roads of Americana. From the pavement of alt-country, to the dusty trails of bluegrass, to the gravel roads of classic-country, to the interstate highway of rock-n-roll.

Joining him for this intimate performance is Jesse Valenzuela, founding member of Gin Blossoms. For more than three decades, Jesse has provided the multi-platinum group with hit songs (“Til I Hear It From You,” “Follow You Down,” “Mrs. Rita”), masterful guitar playing and exquisite harmony singing.

Kaibab National Forest announces seasonal hiring for upcoming recreation season

WILLIAMS — The Kaibab National Forest will be hiring seasonal employees for the upcoming recreation season and is encouraging local residents to apply.

“Our seasonal employees are the backbone of summer operations—keeping our campgrounds, trails and recreation sites open, safe and welcoming for visitors,” said Kaibab National Forest Supervisor Nicole Branton. “These positions offer meaningful work, hands-on experience and the chance to support public lands close to home.

City of Flagstaff announces Presidents’ Day closures

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz – City Hall offices at 211 W. Aspen Ave. will be closed in observance of Presidents’ Day on Monday, Feb. 16. City Hall offices will reopen on Tuesday, Feb. 17.

City of Flagstaff facilities that are closed on Presidents’ Day include:

East Flagstaff Community Library (3000 N. Fourth St.)
Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library (300 W. Aspen Ave.)
Hal Jensen Recreation Center (2403 N. Izabel St.)
Joe C. Montoya Community and Senior Center (245 N. Thorpe Rd.)
Cinder Lake Landfill and Hazardous Products Center (6770 E Landfill Rd.)

Flagstaff Communiversity — Upcoming Programs: Register Now for Programs On Tyranny & On Teaching

Register NOW for Upcoming Programs

Teaching High School in a Time of Polycrisis
begins Feb. 22nd

“How Tyranny Works”
begins March 1st

“Surveillance, Privacy, & Democracy
begins March 31st

Octavia Butler’s Parable of the Sower
begins April 4th

Regional Plan Special Election arguments due Feb. 18

On May 19th, registered voters in the city will be asked whether or not to ratify the Regional Plan in a special ballot-by-mail election. Each household with a registered voter will receive an informational pamphlet that includes arguments for and against Question 492. 

Coconino County Unidentified Remains Task Force announces successful identification

The Coconino County Unidentified Remains Task Force has confirmed the identity of a previously unidentified decedent located in Navajo County in 2023.

The case was referred to the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office for identification. We are happy to announce that in conjunction with Navajo County Sheriff’s Office (DR# 2309-0332) and the Navajo County Medical Examiner’s Office this individual has been identified and returned to his family.  Out of respect for the decedent and his family, his identity is not being released.

Coconino County — Arizona has a new 2026 Primary Election date. See related news

This year’s Primary Election will take place on July 21, 2026. The move was needed to allow elections officials more time to conduct elections preparations for the general election, including ensuring that military and overseas voters have their ballots in time to participate.

Coconino County Parks & Recreation — Recreation Catalog, See What’s New

Recreation Program Catalog

The 2026 Recreation Program Catalog (January – June) is now online! Register for upcoming programs and sessions. There are various classes listed including beginner and intermediate archery clinics, culinary classes, disc golf clinics, and the popular youth summer camp, Fun at the Fort.

Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett shares statement on AZDPS helicopter crash. See related news

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett said “I am so proud of the men and women of the Flagstaff Police Department for their heroic actions last night. Their work to protect our community and detain an active shooter saved many lives. 

City of Flagstaff provides clarification on DPS grant

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — During the Jan. 20, 2026 Council meeting, the Flagstaff City Council approved a grant from the Arizona Department of Public Safety in the amount of $285,000 to fight against drug trafficking, human smuggling and other criminal activity. This funding is not related to, nor will it be used for immigration or the enforcement of immigration laws.

Assessor’s Office accepting applications for property tax exemption and relief programs

Arizona law provides property tax assistance options for eligible widows and widowers, veterans with a disability and individuals with a permanent disability, commonly referred to as individual exemption programs. These exemptions reduce the assessed value of qualifying property, which may include individually owned real estate, mobile homes and, in some cases, personal property. Applications for individual exemptions are accepted Jan. 1 through Mar. 1 each year.

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Public-Private Partnerships Fueling Housing Growth in Camp Verde

through innovative public-private partnerships. The town currently has 1,480 housing units in various stages of development – proof that creative collaborations between municipalities and developers can deliver results.

Last month, Highview at Boulder Creek broke ground on the first phase of what will ultimately be more than 300 factory-built homes as part of a larger mixed-use development on the west side of town. It’s an area with little infrastructure and currently no links to the Town’s water or wastewater systems.

School Superintendent to host 2026 Spelling Bee

COCONINO COUNTY — Words will take center stage as Coconino County School Superintendent Cheryl Mango-Paget hosts the 2026 Coconino County Spelling Bee, a countywide academic showcase celebrating student excellence, preparation, and poise.

The competition will take place Saturday, Feb. 7, beginning at 10 a.m. at Flagstaff High School’s Cromer Auditorium.

City of Flagstaff provides update on removal of Flock Safety cameras

FLAGSTAFF — The Flagstaff City Council voted in December 2025 to terminate the City’s contract with Flock Safety for automated license plate recognition technology. Following that decision, all cameras covered under the contract were immediately turned off and have not collected any data since.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: January 26-30, 2026

Phantom Ranch has reopened following the successful repair of multiple breaks along the Transcanyon Waterline, and water service has now been restored to Phantom Ranch, Bright Angel Campground, Boat Beach, and the Delta restrooms. Park water utilities crews completed repairs near Manzanita Rest Area and the mule corral near Phantom Ranch, allowing the system to be repressurized and inner canyon operations to resume.

On the South Rim, water tanks are slowly refilling as the system stabilizes. Grand Canyon National Park remains under Stage 2 water restrictions, and residents are encouraged to continue reducing water use wherever possible to support system recovery. Utilities staff will continue monitoring the waterline and system pressures as operations return to normal.

Grand Canyon National Park (GRCA) issues statement o water system standards

The Grand Canyon National Park (GRCA) water system violated drinking water standards over the past year. Even though these were not emergencies, as our customers, you have a right to know what happened and what we did to correct these situations.

GRCA is required to monitor our drinking water for specific contaminants on a regular basis. Results of regular monitoring are an indicator of whether our drinking water meets health standards. During August 2024 and the 2nd quarter of 2025 GRCA did not complete all monitoring or testing for Total Coliform, Chlorine, and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC), and therefore cannot be sure of the quality of our drinking water during that time.

Volunteers sought for 2026 Coconino County Point-in-time Count

COCONINO COUNTY — Volunteers are needed for the 2026 Coconino County Point-in-time Count.

Click here to apply.

Point-in-time counts are important because they establish the dimensions of the problem of homelessness and help policymakers and program administrators track progress toward the goal of ending homelessness. The first of these counts was conducted in January 2005. Meaning that we have data for every Continuum of Care for the last twenty years.

High school students in Flagstaff take to streets to protest ICE crackdown in America

Also see: 

• AZ Daily Sun — Gallery: Students walk out of Flagstaff High School and Coconino High School in protest of ICE actions
• Great Circle Media — Flagstaff students organize walkout to protest ICE

FLAGSTAFF — More than 150 Flagstaff High School students took to the streets and protested in front of the Flagstaff City Hall as part of a citywide-protest by youth against the nationwide ICE crackdown during protests on Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026.

Protests were also reported by students at Coconino High School and Mount Eldon Middle School.

Protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) intensified during the past few weeks following the shooting deaths of ICE watchers Renee Nicole Good on Jan. 7 and Alex Pretti on Jan. 24.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Join us for our next Prevention Council Zoom meeting on Feb. 5 to share your story

By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth

COCONINO COUNTY — Please join CCC&Y for its next Prevention Council Zoom meeting at 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 5. Our meetings provide our coalition partners with the opportunity to share the latest news about their projects that support children, youth and their families in Northern Arizona.

The Council meets the first Thursday of the month.

Want to be a guest speaker at our next meeting? Send an email to CCC&Y Executive Director Virginia Watahomigie at coalition coalition@coconinokids.org to be placed on the agenda or to receive a Zoom link to our next meeting.

READ MORE​​​​​​​

Flagstaff anti-ICE protesters turn out in force to support Minnesota immigrant crackdown. Updated Arizona Daily Sun photos

Story courtesy MosaicNAZ.org

FLAGSTAFF — Anti-ICE protesters braved a chilly and breezy Friday afternoon to take part in a nationwide demonstration in response to a federal immigration crackdown in Minnesota.

Taking positions in front of the Flagstaff City Hall, the majority of protesters waved a variety of anti-ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) signs on Jan. 23, 2026.

The local protest was organized by Indivisible Northern Arizona in response to ICE activity in Minneapolis, Minn., which included the shooting death of immigrant supporter and ICE watcher Renee Nicole Good on Jan. 7, 2026.

“Thank you to everyone who turned out today in solidarity with Minnesota! Our volunteer counted 550 people at the height of the protest,” Indivisible reported on its Facebook webpage.

Coconino County Elections Department recognizes Help America Vote Day to inspire civic engagement

COCONINO COUNTY — As the 2026 election season is underway, the Coconino County Elections Department is recognizing Help America Vote Day on Jan. 27. Help America Vote Day aims to inspire greater civic engagement and volunteerism, and help ensure safe,…

Grand Canyon National Park plans adaptive reopening of North Rim in summer 2026

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park is preparing an adaptive approach for the seasonal reopening of the North Rim, evaluating potential impacts from winter weather to park infrastructure after the Dragon Bravo Fire. The park aims to open popular points of interest, including the North Kaibab Trail, on May 15, weather and conditions permitting. 

Park officials emphasize that the guiding principle for the upcoming season is: “We will open what we can, where we can, when we can.” This approach prioritizes visitor safety, resource protection, and operational readiness. Park officials are aware of the challenges of local communities, businesses and our visitors in planning for the 2026 season and are committed to providing specific details about the 2026 North Rim season no later than April 1, 2026. 

Assessor’s Office accepting applications for property tax exemption and relief programs

Arizona law provides property tax assistance options for eligible widows and widowers, veterans with a disability and individuals with a permanent disability, commonly referred to as individual exemption programs. These exemptions reduce the assessed value of qualifying property, which may include individually owned real estate, mobile homes and, in some cases, personal property. Applications for individual exemptions are accepted Jan. 1 through Mar. 1 each year.

New County roadway safety action plan survey

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County is launching a new Roadway Safety Action Plan and inviting residents, workers, businesses and visitors to help improve safety on County roads by sharing their experiences and concerns through a brief online survey

“Improving roadway safety is a shared priority for County leadership, our residents and everyone who travels our roads,” said Christopher Tressler, Coconino County Public Works Director. “The Roadway Safety Action Plan gives us a clearer, data-driven way to identify, evaluate and prioritize needed improvements—bringing us closer to our goal of eliminating traffic-related fatalities on Coconino County roads. Public input is essential, and we encourage everyone to participate in the online survey.”

INDIVISIBLE reports No Kings coalition to hold ‘Eyes on ICE: Document and Record’ virtual training on Jan. 26

On Saturday, federal agents horrifically shot and killed 37-year-old Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse who cared for veterans, in the Eat Street neighborhood of south Minneapolis after brutally beating him in front of witnesses. 

Enough is enough. Exercising our Constitutional right to document and record ICE and other federal agents is more important than ever. 

This call will give you the tools to exercise your rights in a moment when federal agents are terrorizing our communities and using excessive force. 

Office of Indian Education (OIE) Biweekly Highlights

Policy & Program Updates Webinar – You’re Invited!

Monday, January 26 – Learn about AZ Tribal Consultation and Exceptional Student Services.

Monday, February 23 – Hear updates about state and national policies affecting Native American education.

From 10-11am MST. Visit website for information and register for the Zoom event!

New Name: After January, the P&P webinar will be renamed to OIE Connect!

Northern Arizona anti-ICE organizers announce variety of protest in response to latest shooting in Minnesota

By MosaicNAZ.org

NORTHERN ARIZONA — Anti-ICE organizers have announced a series of protests and actions in response to the shooting death of a Minneapolis, Minn. man on Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026 by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and other federal law enforcement agencies.

Protests will be held at:

City of Flagstaff announces Program Year 2026 Community Development Block Grant

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff receives Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds annually from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Flagstaff utilizes CDBG funds to provide various public services as well as housing, infrastructure and public facility improvements. 

CDBG funds are a vital resource for strengthening communities and improving quality of life. The City of Flagstaff invites residents, community stakeholders and local organizations to participate in the upcoming public meeting and public hearings regarding the HUD Community Development Block Grant Annual Action and Consolidated Plans. 

City of Flagstaff announces public art opportunity at Buffalo Park

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff invites artists and artist teams to submit Statements of Qualifications to design and execute a large-scale mural on a water tank at Buffalo Park, located at 2400 N. Gemini Road. The application deadline is Feb. 17, 2026, at 5 p.m. Mountain Time.

The highly visible project envisions an artwork that will become a defining visual landmark for Buffalo Park and the surrounding area. The mural could reflect Flagstaff, Northern Arizona, the current activity and/or history of the park, or the communities that utilize this natural and recreational resource among other ideas.

Indivisible Northern Arizona announces ‘Ice Out For Good’ rapid response protest on Jan. 23 at Flagstaff City Hall. See national reports

FLAGSTAFF — On Wednesday, January 7th, an American citizen was killed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This killing is part of a broader pattern of unchecked violence, impunity, and abuse carried out by federal immigration enforcement agencies against members of our communities.

A broad coalition of groups across the country is calling for coordinated Ice Out For Good actions on Friday, January 23rd in solidarity with Minnesota, and to demand accountability, honor the life lost, and make visible the human cost of ICE’s actions.

Click here for a link to details about the event.

City of Flagstaff announces Martin Luther King Jr. Day closures

FLAGSTAFF — City Hall administrative offices at 211 W. Aspen Ave. will be closed on Monday, Jan. 19 in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. City Hall offices will reopen on Tuesday, Jan. 20 with regular hours.

Other City of Flagstaff facilities that are closed on Jan. 19 include: