Category: Government

United Way of Northern Arizona — Back to School Success

Every fall, parents ask themselves the same question: what can I really do to help my child succeed in school this year? The good news is that research points to a handful of everyday habits that make a real difference.

As a nonprofit with a focus on youth opportunity, here’s what we know works and where you can turn if your family needs extra support.

Get them to school – every day. It sounds obvious, but it matters more than people realize.

Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) awarded Federal grant to expand air service

“FLG is excited to be a recipient of the SCASDP grant and eager to provide more connectivity to the northern Arizona region. More flight options create easier opportunities for travelers and stimulate economic growth throughout our community,” said Claire Harper, Airport Communications Manager. “The Small Community Air Service Development Program is unique in that it empowers communities to design solutions that reflect their specific air service needs and circumstances. FLG is ready to address northern Arizona’s air service challenges.”

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — APS Pledges ‘Responsible Growth’

At the recent annual conference of the League of Arizona Cities & Towns, APS President and CEO Ted Geisler reaffirmed the utility’s commitment to protecting reliability and rates for current APS customers while serving new companies and industries investing in the state.

The APS Pledge for Responsible Energy Growth comes at a time of increasing demand for centers that service cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and other data-driven “extra-large customers.”

The pledge is built on three principals, Geisler said.

Crews assessing new damage following second flash flood event at Grand Canyon National Park

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park crews are assessing damage after an additional flash flood moved through Bright Angel Canyon Wednesday afternoon, damaging temporary water infrastructure being constructed as part of the park’s ongoing recovery from the Aug. 29 flood. 

There were no reported injuries. With severe weather approaching and flash flood warnings in effect, the National Park Service had reduced the number of personnel working in the canyon. Crews remaining in the area were able to reach safety before the flood moved through. The affected area remains closed to public access. 

Coconino County Superintendent of Schools Cheryl Mango-Paget seeks input on potential appointment to Williams Unified District Governing Board

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Superintendent of Schools Cheryl Mango-Paget is seeking public input regarding the potential appointment of Renee Hatch to fill the current vacancy on the Willaims Unified District Governing Board.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Coconino County announces voter registration deadline is Oct. 5 for General Election

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — The voter registration deadline for the November 3, 2026 General Election is Monday, October 5, 2026.

“Registering to vote and participating in elections is an important civic right that ensures your voice is heard. Now is the time to check that your registration is up to date and that you are ready for the upcoming General Election,” County Recorder Aubrey Sonderegger said.

To register to vote, an individual must be a U.S. citizen, 18 years old by Election Day, reside within Coconino County and have no felony convictions, unless civil rights have been restored.

Grand Canyon Community Update – Sep. 15, 2026

Efforts to restore the park’s water supply are advancing at the delta, where contractors used excavators to establish the footprint for the new water intake project. A wastewater treatment operator was also brought to Phantom Ranch to test the wastewater treatment plant as crews prepare to return the system to limited service. 

On the South Rim, the water treatment plant contractor is preparing to begin startup and testing once the new delta intake is able to provide raw water to the plant. The contractor is coordinating closely with the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality as testing and the process to return the plant to service move forward. 

Coconino National Forest firewood permits now available online

FLAGSTAFF — Coconino National Forest firewood permits are now available online via the Forest Service’s new e-permit system at https://epermits.fs2c.usda.gov/

Permittees must possess a printed physical permit while harvesting and transporting products. The permit does not need to be attached to the load or displayed on a vehicle dashboard.

Load tags will not be issued with online permits. Collection is limited to dead and down materials only, and permits are only valid for the specific forest they are purchased for.

Oak Creek temporary closure lifts this week

SEDONA — The temporary closure of Oak Creek that has been ongoing since July will be lifted on Thursday (Sep. 17, 2026), allowing for the public to access the creek and nearly all recreation sites along Oak Creek.

Under a new forest order, the West Fork watershed, its trail, and Call of the Canyon will remain closed until Oct. 1, 2026, since that specific watershed had a higher percentage of fire damage and still poses a higher flooding risk.

Oak Creek has been closed to the public since the start of the Pocket Fire in June and remained closed after the fire danger was gone, out of an abundance of caution prior to monsoon so that if any flash flooding occurred no one would be injured or caught in it.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Sept. 7-11, 2026

South Rim Water Update — September 11, 2026 

The August 29 flash flood caused extensive damage to water infrastructure in Bright Angel Canyon, including portions of the Transcanyon Waterline and the Bright Angel Creek intake. The South Rim remains under Stage 4 water restrictions and is relying on stored water while crews conduct repairs and advance temporary water-supply solutions. We know this has required significant adjustments in homes, workplaces and park operations, and we are deeply grateful to every resident, employee, business, partner and visitor who has helped conserve water during this difficult time. 

U.S. Forest Service, Arizona sign agreement to restore forests, protect watersheds, and support rural economies

WILLIAMS — The Kaibab National Forest and the Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management (DFFM) are partnering to reduce wildfire risk and improve forest health on nearly 14,000 acres of National Forest lands in northern Arizona. Through a new Good Neighbor Agreement (GNA), DFFM will administer forest restoration activities that help protect communities, strengthen water security for millions of Arizonans, conserve natural resources, and support the state’s forest products industry and rural economies.

City of Flagstaff Housing Commission needs applicants for 5 upcoming vacancies!

FLAGSTAFF — THe City of Flagstaff Housing Division’s recruitment for 5 seats on the Housing Commission, including 3 community resident seats. Applications can be found at this link and are due September 23.

Want to help shape housing in Flagstaff?

The Housing Commission advises City Council on housing policies, needs, and programs in our community. The City of Flagstaff Housing Division is seeking Flagstaff residents (within City limits) with experience in building, real estate, development, or community issues.

Community celebrates with dance and musical performances during the unofficial Latino Entertainment Day at 2026 Coconino County Fair

FLAGSTAFF — Coconino County officials celebrated another successful County Fair with the local Hispanic community turning out for a variety of Latino-themed performances on Sept. 6 at the 77th annual Coconino County Fair.

“Thousands turned out to Get Your Kicks and Fair Fix at Fort Tuthill County Park this Labor Day weekend!” County officials stated. “Thank you to our incredible community, local businesses, and everyone who came together to make the 77th Annual Coconino County Fair one to remember. We hope to see you again next year!”

Entertainment on Sunday at the Main Stage included the morning dance performances by Ballet Folklorico de Colores — Flagstaff, the afternoon performance by Banda La Excepcional and the evening concert by Grupo La Kana. 

Flagstaff joins other cities in commemorated the 25th anniversary of 9/11

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff commemorated the 25th anniversary of 9/11 with a ceremony during the early morning hours of Friday, Sept. 11, 2026.

“Today, we remember and honor the heroes of September 11, 2001, who showed incredible bravery and sacrifice. Flagstaff stands united in reflection, paying tribute to the lives lost and the resilience of our nation,” the city stated on its Facebook page.

The event included the presentation of the Colors and the display of hundreds of flags. The 9/11 Flag Memorial Field honors the 2,977 people who lost their lives on 9/11/2001. 

Election Watch — AmigosNAZ weekly update— Tracking Your Ballot

PHOENIX – Secretary of State Adrian Fontes (on July 2, 2026) has launched a statewide PSA campaign reminding Arizona that voters in all 15 counties have the ability to sign up for BallotTrax, the real-time ballot status update system. In tandem, the Secretary has also launched a redesigned Arizona.Vote website, providing voters with an updated, user-friendly destination for official election information and voter services.

City of Flagstaff — Flagstaff minimum wage $19 per hour starting Jan. 1, 2027

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — On January 1, 2027, the minimum wage in the City of Flagstaff will increase from $18.35 to $19.00 per hour for all workers.

On November 8, 2016 the voters of Flagstaff wrote and passed The Minimum Wage Act as a citizen’s initiative (Proposition 414). Accordingly, the City’s minimum wage is adjusted annually by the change in the cost of living.

Coconino County presents 22nd Annual Sustainable Building Tour on Oct. 3

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County’s Sustainable Building Program invites the community to explore innovative, resilient living at the 22nd Annual Sustainable Building Tour on Saturday, October 3.

Presented as part of the Flagstaff Festival of Science, this year’s free event features a dual-track tour showcasing practical, inspiring strategies for building and living sustainably across northern Arizona. Attendees can choose between two distinct experiences, or explore both:

Kaibab National Forest to begin fall prescribed fires

WILLIAMS — Kaibab National Forest is planning prescribed fire operations this month, beginning with Moonset Pit as soon as September 20, pending all required approvals. We estimate this work to continue through October as weather conditions allow. We use prescribed fires to help reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from wildfires.

There are numerous project areas across the forest in which crews may be working, including some in the Red Lake and Spring Valley areas, southeast of the Town of Tusayan, and the Jacob Lake and Demotte areas. Visit InciWeb for details and maps of planned burn areas.

Coconino County Parks & Recreation — Discover Summer Adventures with Our September 2026 Newsletter

The 77th Annual Coconino County Fair was a great success!

Thousands turned out to Get Your Kicks and Fair Fix at Fort Tuthill County Park this Labor Day weekend! Thank you to our incredible community, local businesses, and everyone who came together to make the 77th Annual Coconino County Fair one to remember. We hope to see you again next year!

City of Flagstaff launches website redesign

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — The City of Flagstaff is excited to announce the launch of its newly redesigned municipal website. The updated site features an improved design, enhanced navigation, and a more accessible experience for all community members.

The City encourages the community to visit and explore the refreshed site. While some information may look different or be located in updated menus, all previously available content is still available. Several new features, such as a calendar for City-sponsored events, have also been added.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Youth artistic talent on display at 2026 Coconino County Fair

COCONINO COUNTY — Students from dozens of local schools countywide participated in the 77th Annual Coconino County Fair held Sept. 4-7, 2026 at the fairgrounds at Fort Tuthill County Park, Flagstaff.

Public elementary, middle and high school; charter school and home-school students submitted a variety of entries, which filled the entire Schools exhibit building.

​​​​​​​“We loved seeing student artwork from schools across FUSD on display at the Coconino County Fair this weekend!,” FUSD stated on its Facebook page. “A big shoutout to our talented student artists and the teachers who encourage their creativity every day. We’re so proud to see our students’ amazing work out in the community!”

City of Flagstaff — Apply to participate in the 2026 Public Works Citizens Academy

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — The City of Flagstaff Public Works Department invites members of the public to participate in the 2026 Public Works Academy. The Academy is an immersive, eight-week educational experience designed to give residents a behind‑the‑scenes look at the essential services that keep our community running. Applications are due by Sept. 16, 2026.

City of Flagstaff — Hwy 89 Lane Closures Scheduled on Sept. 9 & 10

FLAGSTAFF — As part of the Road Repair and Street Safety Project, the City’s contractor, C & E Paving & Grading, will be repaving the transitions from asphalt to concrete on Highway 89 between Country Club Drive and Cummings Street in both directions on Wednesday Sept. 9 and Thursday Sept. 10.

City of Flagstaff — Small Businesses invited to apply for Business Retention and Expansion Incentive

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — Small business owners, entrepreneurs, and eligible nonprofit organizations operating within the City of Flagstaff are invited to apply for the Business Retention and Expansion (BR&E) Incentive, a competitive grant program designed to support the growth, stability, and resilience of existing local businesses.

The City of Flagstaff has allocated $45,000 for the BR&E Incentive in FY27, with individual awards ranging from $2,500 to $30,000. Up to $15,000 of the total allocation may be awarded to eligible nonprofit organizations with a focus on economic development activities. The program also requires a 1-to-1 cash match; the amount requested must be matched by the applicant.

Grand Canyon National Park announces recovery and repair plan following flash flood

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park continues response and recovery operations following the significant August 29 flash flood in Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch area. Search operations remain active, while crews continue infrastructure assessments, stabilization work and efforts to restore a reliable water supply to the South Rim. 

The park now has a path forward to restore water service and, based on current progress, expects that work to take weeks, not months. 

Crews are moving forward with construction of a temporary water intake at Bright Angel Creek to replace the intake destroyed by the flood. Engineers are in the canyon designing the temporary intake, the existing Transcanyon Waterline contract has been modified to support the work, and construction activities are beginning this week. 

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — Tell Council on Sept. 8 you support a stronger energy code

This Tuesday, September 8th, during their work session, City Council will discuss and provide direction to staff regarding their willingness to adopt the updated 2024 “Suite of Building & Fire Codes,” including a stronger Energy Code, at a date in the near future (see proposed dates below). International Energy Codes are released every three years, and the city adopts them every six years. The City of Flagstaff is currently using the 2018 Energy Code. Use of updated codes support safer, more durable and resilient communities.

Election Watch — AmigosNAZ launching weekly information feature ahead of upcoming Nov. 3, 2026 elections

Editor’s note: Given the constantly churning news cycle with stories on court cases possibly impacting mail-in ballots or reduction of polling places nationwide and other political issues, AmigosNAZ is launching this new weekly feature to help readers gather accurate information from local and state elections officials on the upcoming election. Future stories will include details on how to track your ballot, ballot drop off locations in Coconino County and other information. Please see links below for local and Arizona election resources.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Aug. 31 – Sept. 4, 2026

Bright Angel Flash Flood Response and South Rim Water Conservation

Grand Canyon National Park continues response and recovery efforts following the August 29 flash flood in Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch area. Search, accountability, infrastructure assessment, and recovery work are ongoing under a Type II Incident Management Team.

Flash Flood Response and Search Efforts

At this time, 82 people have been rescued, two people have been recovered deceased, and one person remains missing. Search efforts for the missing hiker continue with park staff and partner agencies.

The flood caused extensive damage to trails, bridges, utilities, and other infrastructure in the inner canyon. Early assessments indicate that approximately 40% of the Transcanyon Waterline and five to seven miles of the North Kaibab Trail have been severely damaged. Four bridges in the Box were severely damaged or washed away. Assessments are continuing, and these estimates may change as crews learn more about the extent of the damage.

Labor Day closures for Coconino County

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County’s Administrative Center, County Manager’s Office, County Attorney’s Office, Coconino County Superior Court, Flagstaff Justice Court and Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) office and clinic will be closed on Monday, September 7, in observance of Labor Day.  

City of Flagstaff announces Labor Day closures

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — Flagstaff’s City Hall offices at 211 W. Aspen Ave. will be closed on Monday, Sept. 7 in observance of Labor Day. City Hall offices will reopen Tuesday, Sept. 8.

City of Flagstaff facilities that are also closed on Labor Day include:

Cinder Lake Landfill and Hazardous Products Center (6770 E Landfill Rd.)
Citizens Cemetery (1300 S San Francisco St.)
Downtown Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library (300 W. Aspen Ave.)
East Flagstaff Community Library (3000 N. Fourth St.)
Hal Jensen Recreation Center (2403 N Izabel St)
Joe C. Montoya Community and Senior Center (245 N. Thorpe Rd.)
Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) (1800 E Butler Ave.)

Grand Canyon National Park expands inner canyon closures following Aug. 29 flash flood

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park continues response and recovery operations following the destructive August 29 flash flood that caused significant damage in Bright Angel Canyon and the Phantom Ranch area.

Park staff and partner agencies are conducting damage assessments and beginning repair and stabilization work in areas where trails, bridges, utilities and other infrastructure were damaged or destroyed. Maintaining safe access for response personnel and keeping visitors out of hazardous areas is critical as this work continues.

Coconino County — More than 36 properties receive free environmental assessments; space available to enroll in program

COCONINO COUNTY — Property owners are encouraged to apply for a free environmental assessment through the Northern Arizona Property Revitalization Program.

More than three dozen free environmental assessments have been completed in Coconino, Mohave, Navajo and Yavapai counties as part of the Northern Arizona Property Revitalization Program.

Emergency Management Director Tim Carter named Emergency Management Professional of the Year

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Emergency Management Director Tim Carter was named the Emergency Management Professional of the Year by the Arizona Association of Emergency Managers (AAEM).

“Coconino County has faced an extraordinary series of emergencies over the last year, from the White Sage Fire and Dragon Bravo Fire to the Pocket Fire and the Grand Canyon flash flood,” District 1 Supervisor and Board Chair Patrice Horstman said. “Throughout each event, Tim demonstrated steady leadership, clear communication and an unwavering commitment to protecting our communities. This award is deeply deserved, and we are grateful for his service.”

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Join us for our next Prevention Council Zoom meeting on Sept. 3 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, Sept. 3, 2026. The Council meets the first Thursday of the month.

Guest speakers this month include Austin Laster of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Flagstaff and Sandra Quintanilla of Coconino County Juvenile Court, who will speak about “Children of Incarcerated Parents Day at the Park,” Flagstaff.

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.

READ MORE

City of Flagstaff invites nominations for free environmental assessments through Route 66 Brownfield Coalition Assessment Grant

FLAGSTAFF — Property owners, business owners, developers, and community members are invited to nominate previously developed or used commercial and industrial properties and buildings for a free environmental assessment under the Route 66 Brownfield Coalition Assessment Grant. Eligible properties may include those that are underutilized, vacant or abandoned, and are sometimes called “brownfields.”

Ballet Folklorico de Colores — Flagstaff and Banda La Excepcional to perform on the Main Stage on Sunday, Sept. 6, 2026 at the Coconino County Fair (Sept. 4-7)

COCONINO COUNTY — This Labor Day weekend, northern Arizona’s biggest annual celebration returns with more than ever. The 77th Annual Coconino County Fair is September 4-7 at Fort Tuthill County Park in Flagstaff, marking a convergence of milestones – Route 66 at 100, Coconino County at 135, Flagstaff’s Dark Sky designation at 25 and America at 250.

With more than 35,000 attendees expected across four days of rides, live music, livestock shows, fine arts food and family fun, the Coconino County Fair is northern Arizona’s largest Labor Day weekend event and one of its best community traditions.

Grand Canyon National Park — Two deceased hikers recovered and identified following flash flood. All community meeting at Shrine of Ages Auditorium on Sept. 2

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. – The National Park Service has recovered the bodies of two hikers who were caught in a destructive flash flood Aug. 29 in Bright Angel Canyon. The hikers have been identified as John Guisti, 46, and Brent Rosenkranz, 42, both of Granbury, Texas. 

One member of the hiking group remains missing. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with teams continuing efforts to locate the missing hiker and account for anyone else who may have been in the affected area at the time of the flood.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — September Community Events

Community Council Candidate Forums

September 3rd: Historic Preservation Forum with City Council Candidates: 5:30 to 7:00 pm at LCM Canterbury Chapel at 319 S San Francisco St. Includes educational information and Q&A with candidates.

September 10th: Southside Community City Council Forum: 5 to 7 pm at the Murdoch Community Center. More information here.

September 17th: Northern Arizona Interfaith Council Candidate Accountability Session: 6:00-7:45 pm at Trinity Heights United Methodist Church. More information here.

*September 28th – Friends of Flagstaff’s Future Forum: 6 pm at Coconino Community College Lonetree Campus. More information here.

City of Flagstaff — Federal Economic Injury Disaster Loans available to businesses impacted by Pocket Fire

FLAGSTAFF —  Coconino County received a Declaration of Economic Injury from the Small Business Administration (SBA) which opens the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program to businesses impacted by the Pocket Fire.

The EIDL program provides 30-year loans with an interest rate as low as four percent. Principal and interest payments are not required in the first year of the loan to help businesses survive the loss of tourism. The program is available to all businesses in Coconino County and Yavapai County, as well as neighboring Gila, La Paz, Maricopa, Mohave and Navajo counties, San Juan and Kane counties in Utah and Tribal Nations.

Grand Canyon National Park — Public assistance requested to account for individuals following Grand Canyon flash flood. See related news here

Grand Canyon National Park, in northern Arizona, encompasses 278 miles (447 km) of the Colorado River and adjacent uplands. Located on the ancestral homeland of 11 Associated Tribes, Grand Canyon is one of the most spectacular examples of erosion anywhere in the world—unmatched in the incomparable vistas it offers visitors on the rim. Grand Canyon National Park is a World Heritage Site. The National Park Service cares for the special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage.

Grand Canyon National Park to close overnight hotel accommodations beginning Aug. 31

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. – Grand Canyon National Park will implement Stage 4 water restrictions on the South Rim beginning at noon on August 31 in response to the significant flash flooding that occurred along Bright Angel Canyon on August 29.  

The flooding caused extensive damage to infrastructure in the inner canyon, including the Transcanyon Waterline, which supplies water from the canyon for use in the park. The waterline is currently not operational, leaving the park with limited water reserves and requiring significant water conservation measures to ensure available supplies can be maintained. 

City of Flagstaff to begin the removal and installation of a new sheet roof for City Hall

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz — Starting September 2, 2026 the City of Flagstaff will begin replacing the City Hall roof. This capital renewal project was identified to protect the long-term need for a weather-tight building envelope and represents a sound investment in maintaining an existing city asset. Work is expected to conclude by November 16, 2026.

During removal and installation, residents and visitors may experience temporary noise and minor traffic disruptions around City Hall. Oliver Roofing and the City will implement safety measures to reduce impacts on nearby residents and businesses.

Homolovi State Park in Winslow hosting first Arizona Family Campout Sept. 5-6

ARIZONA — Registration is now open for the inaugural Arizona Family Campout to be on Sept.5-6 at Homolovi State Park, Winslow.

Arizona Family Campout weekends are designed for families with kids that have little or no experience camping. We welcome campers six (6) years of age and older. We will introduce you to fun experiences you can share with your family and inspire you to continue to explore the great outdoors from one of our campgrounds! You will learn how to set up a tent and an introduction to cooking outside, plus you will get to try some fun activities you can do while camping! No pets allowed.

Join us on a family campout to learn the ropes of camping and experience all the fun of being outdoors!

Coconino County Superintendent seeks applicants for school governing board vacancies

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Superintendent of Schools Cheryl Mango-Paget is inviting community members to apply for appointment to local school governing boards. Applications are now being accepted to fill five vacant governing board seats that remain unfilled following the 2026 election cycle. Appointments to these positions will serve terms ending December 31, 2028.

The following school districts have one vacant seat available:

Grand Canyon Unified School District #4
Chevelon Butte School District #5
Fredonia-Moccasin Unified School District #6
Tuba City Unified School District #15
NATIVE (Tuba City)

Coconino County — Switch Together solar co-op deadline Sept. 18

COCONINO COUNTY — As part of our sustainability initiative, Coconino County is a partner in Switch Together, a group buying program for solar installations. Switch Together uses a group buying model to help residents save money on home solar installations.

The most recent auction secured a discount of 17 percent, which translates to an average discount of $5,200. The program is supported in partnership with nonprofit Solar United Neighbors. Switch Together makes rooftop solar installations more affordable, while also offering solar education through online resources and in-person events.

Unregulated food vendors can pose health threat

COCONINO COUNTY — Coconino County Health and Human Services (CCHHS) Environmental Health is reminding community members that eating at an unlicensed food vendor location can pose a high risk of serious foodborne illness. Consuming food from an unlicensed food vendor…

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Building careers at home, building ties abroad

I was honored to be part of a panel discussion at the recent League of Arizona Cities and Towns Annual Conference, which focused on whether Arizona’s workforce development pipeline was robust enough to support the phenomenal growth the state has experienced.

Representing a rural region, my perspective was slightly different.

Northern Arizona already produces a tremendous amount of highly educated talent; nearly 56% of Flagstaff residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The challenge is keeping that talent here.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Fall events for families right around the corner. See remaining back-to-school events here

COCONINO COUNTY — Back-to-School events in Coconino County — including fall enrollment, freshman orientations for parents and students, meet the teacher events, school supply distributions and youth sports physicals — will soon conclude, but local organizations are already planning for a variety of youth events this upcoming Fall.

The Coalition will continue to update this resource list. If you have a program you want us to include, please send an email to frank@coconinokids.org. Thank you.

City of Flagstaff seeks community input on Comprehensive Parks, Recreation, Open Space, and Events (PROSE) Master Plan

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz – The City of Flagstaff has launched the PROSE Master Plan campaign to develop a new Parks, Recreation, Open Space, and Events Comprehensive Master Plan. This year-long process will include numerous opportunities for residents to share their ideas and vision for the future, including:

Intercept survey at Science in the Park on September 26

Community Workshop #1 at the Flagstaff Aquaplex on October 22

Coconino County — Federal Economic Injury Disaster Loans available to businesses impacted by Pocket Fire. (Help available at sites in Flagstaff, Sedona)

COCONINO COUNTY — Federal Economic Injury Disaster Loans are now available to businesses impacted by the Pocket Fire.

Coconino County received a Declaration of Economic Injury from the Small Business Administration (SBA) which opens the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program to businesses impacted by the Pocket Fire.

The EIDL program provides 30-year loans with an interest rate as low as four percent. Principal and interest payments are not required in the first year of the loan to help businesses survive the loss of tourism. The program is available to all businesses in Coconino County and Yavapai County, as well as neighboring Gila, La Paz, Maricopa, Mohave and Navajo counties, San Juan and Kane counties in Utah and Tribal Nations.

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Don’t Miss the City Council Candidate Meet & Greet on Aug. 24

We are excited to announce that a coalition of business groups, including the Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona, will co-host a Flagstaff City Council Candidate “Meet & Greet” at Coconino Community College on August 24.
Mitch Strohman will emcee the forum, which will focus on issues of importance to the business community. Candidates will answer questions from each of the organizations sponsoring the event: ECoNA, the Flagstaff Downtown Business Alliance, the Greater Flagstaff Chamber of Commerce, and the Northern Arizona Association of Realtors. Attendees will also be able to submit questions for candidates.
Six candidates are vying for three seats on the City Council this year: Austin Aslan, Nancy Baca, Patty Hansen, Khara House, Lori Matthews, and Drew Stanley. Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett is running unopposed. Election Day is November 3.

Coconino County appoints acting Deputy County Manager

COCONINO COUNTY — Cynthia Nemeth, Parks and Recreation Director, has been appointed acting Deputy County Manager following the resignation of Eric Peterson.

“Cynthia is well suited for this interim leadership role at Coconino County,” County Manager Andy Bertelsen said. “Her steady, collaborative approach will ensure that we continue to deliver the high-quality services our residents rely on.”

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Aug. 17-21, 2026

Grand Canyon Music Festival 43rd Season Starts this Weekend

The Grand Canyon Music Festival showcases a variety of music types, including classical, contemporary (modern composers and new works) along with Jazz and Blues.

All performances take place in Shrine of the Ages Auditorium. Evening performances are scheduled to take place on Fridays and Saturdays – beginning this Friday, August 21, and running through Saturday, September 5. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Admission is by donation, with a suggested donation of $20. 

Details: https://grandcanyonmusicfest.org/concerts/

South Rim Services Expand as Water conservation measures continue at Grand Canyon National Park

GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Grand Canyon National Park is continuing to ease water conservation measures as water supply levels improve.

Water spigots in Mather and Desert View Campgrounds have been turned on. Camper Services, operated by Delaware North, will reopen to the public on Friday, August 21.

Fire restrictions at Mather and Desert View Campgrounds have been lifted; however, campfires are only permitted in established campfire rings. Visitors and residents are reminded to use caution and practice responsible fire use at all times.