Category: Government

Discover Flagstaff — Your Weekend Plans are Here!

Friday, March 20
Arvel Bird with Wild World Fiddle
Charly’s Pub & Grill

A unique Celtic Fusion concert featuring Arvel Bird and Wild World Irish Fiddle, blending soaring Native and Scottish-inspired violin with Irish and Latin-rooted fiddle and guitar in a high-energy, rhythm-driven live experience.
7 p.m.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: March 16-20, 2026

Inner Canyon Update: Week of March 16

This week, an Extreme Heat Warning is in effect through Sunday below 4,000 feet, including Phantom Ranch. Visitors are advised to avoid strenuous hiking during the hottest part of the day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.), and to drink plenty of water and eat regularly.

As of Thursday morning, drinking water is now ON at 1½-Mile and 3-Mile Resthouses along the Bright Angel Trail. Many thanks to the Water Utilities team for their hard work in restoring these critical water sources during extreme conditions. You can find the latest updates on water availability across the rim and inner canyon on the park’s Key Hiking Messages webpage.

Coconino County — Grand Canyon Region Long-Term Recovery Plan for Dragon Bravo and White Sage fires completed

Following the Dragon Bravo and White Sage fires, which devastated more than 200,000 acres on the Kaibab Plateau, Coconino County hired AC Disaster Consulting to develop a long-term recovery plan for small businesses, community stakeholders and residents impacted. The process included nine public listening sessions held across Coconino County in December and a community survey that helped shape the final plan.

Downtown Flagstaff Library window replacement project to begin March 23

FLAGSTAFF — The Downtown Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library window replacement project is set to begin on March 23. Interruptions to library operations will be kept as minimal as possible and the library will remain open during construction.

There may be changes to some scheduled programs while the community room, youth services, and adult services areas are under construction. For those who are sensitive to dust or noise, the East Flagstaff Community Library will remain open during this time and holds from the Downtown location can be sent there for pick up.  

City of Flagstaff — Regional Plan election Info & upcoming chats

Registered voters in the City of Flagstaff will be asked to vote on whether to ratify or not ratify the Flagstaff Regional Land Use Plan 2045 in a special election held on May 19, 2026. The special election will be a vote-by-mail only election. There will be no polling places on election day.

Did your household receive this card in the mail? If so, a member of your household is registered to vote in the May special election.

The NAU Review — CHHS goes to Malawi and Peru + won’t you be my neighbor?

Connecting the classroom to the field

Students in the NAU Global Health Field School program traveled to Peru and Malawi to put their coursework to use real-world settings and work on public health interventions aimed at addressing health disparities in underserved communities. The goal was to provide an immersive academic program that prepares students to understand global health systems and connect with patients in unfamiliar environments

Prescribed burns planned across Coconino NF next week

FLAGSTAFF — With favorable predicted weather conditions, the Coconino National Forest is planning to conduct several prescribed burns next week in areas around Flagstaff to reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from wildfires.

The following prescribed burns are pending approval and as weather conditions allow:

The NAU Review — You decide who survives

The year is 3035, and humanity has been given one last chance to start anew on one of Jupiter’s moons. Champions from different disciplines will argue that their area of study is the most indispensable for Europa’s new civilization. You choose who survives. The Great Survival Debate is back at NAU, bringing together knowledge, craft and talent for a night of fun and mischief. 

FREE — 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.

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: March 9-13, 2026

  100 Years of Interpretation at Grand Canyon National Park On March 6, 1926, the first issue of Grand Canyon Nature Notes was published, marking the beginning of NPS interpretation at Grand Canyon National Park. The bulletin was created by…

Coconino County Parks & Recreation — Seasonal Stewardship, Trails Challenge, & Fair News. See What’s New!

2026 Ramada Reservations
for the Summer Season

Ramada reservations for the 2026 summer season began on March 2. Ramadas are great for your events like school graduations, birthday parties, and celebrations of life.

Reserve online.

Kaibab National Forest plans prescribed fire this spring on North Kaibab Ranger District

FREDONIA — The Kaibab National Forest is planning prescribed fire operations on the North Kaibab Ranger District as early as March 17, 2026, pending all required approvals. The four possible units, totaling 6,136-acres, are in the Jacob Lake vicinity and north of U.S. Route 89A, east of Forest Road 248 and west of Forest Road 487. Fire managers will look for opportunities to implement this burn from March 17 to May 15, as weather conditions allow. A broadcast burn is when fire is applied across a defined area or boundary to reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure and natural resources from wildfires. This is a maintenance burn, which refers to a low to moderate intensity prescribed fire conducted to keep surface fuels reduced and continue to build a fire resilient ecosystem.

Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth — Vendor registration open for ‘Full STEAM Ahead!’ Flagstaff Early Childhood Fair on April 11 in Flagstaff

By the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth

Registration is open for community partners to table at the Flagstaff Early Childhood Fair from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, April 11, 2026 at W. F. Killip Elementary School.

In celebration of the National Association for the Education of Young Children’s “Week of the Young Child,” https://www.azaeyc.org/connect/woyc/, we invite you to participate in the fair.

Please click here to complete this application to participate as a vendor. Each vendor must provide an interactive activity related to S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math). Vendors set up at 8:30 a.m.

Applications are due by 03/30/26. You may direct any questions to kfarretta@azhs.gov We look forward to your participation in this community event.

Thank you to W. F. Killip Elementary School for hosting this free event for community partners to share resources and families to attend.

READ MORE​​​​​​​

League of American Bicyclists renews Flagstaff’s silver-level Bicycle Friendly Community status

FLAGSTAFF — The League of American Bicyclists has honored the efforts of Flagstaff to build better places for people to bike with a Silver-level Bicycle Friendly Community (BFC) award. The award recognizes Flagstaff for its commitment to creating transportation and recreational resources that benefit residents of all ages and abilities while encouraging a variety of transportation choices. 

Greater Flagstaff Community Wildfire Protection Plan undergoing update

FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff and its partners have launched a process to update the Greater Flagstaff Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP). The City received a grant in 2025 to update the Plan and hired SWCA Environmental Consultants to lead the update. The primary goal of this effort is to develop an actionable plan that communities can use to feel empowered in protecting themselves, their loved ones, and their property.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future (F3) — Flagstaff proposes changes to zoning code for Data Centers

Data centers house the computer servers that run our increasingly digitized world. These centers can be stand alone facilities or portions of a building used to house computer systems, servers, networking equipment, and other infrastructure used for the storage, processing, management, or distribution of digital data. The construction of data centers is on the rise across the US.

The City of Flagstaff will be discussing proposed changes to the zoning code for data centers starting this week. The first meeting will be a work session with the Planning and Zoning Commission on Wednesday, March 11 at 4:00. This meeting will be the start of a discussion and the city would like to hear from the public as well as commissioners.

Grand Canyon National Park seeks input on North Rim water system 

GRAND CANYON — The National Park Service is seeking public comment on an environmental assessment and a programmatic agreement for water system improvements at Grand Canyon National Park.  The improvements are part of a proposed Great American Outdoors Act Legacy Restoration Fund project called Rehabilitate the North Rim and Roaring Springs Utility Systems. 

The work would create a more reliable water system to meet supply needs at the North Rim and within the inner canyon between Supai Tunnel and Cottonwood Campground for a projected lifespan of up to 75 years. The existing North Rim water system is past its design life.  

Proposed improvements include:  

Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: March 2-6, 2026

New Podcast Episode Highlights North Kaibab Trail Recovery and the Work Ahead

A new podcast episode of the Grand Canyon Hiker Dude Show was released this week featuring Trails Supervisor Adam Gibson, offering an in-depth look at the condition of the North Kaibab Trail following the Dragon Bravo Fire and outlining what recovery efforts may look like through 2026 and beyond.

Coconino County Building Code adoption open house

COCONINO COUNTY — Every six years the Coconino County Community Development Department in partnership with the Building Safety Advisory Board (BSAB) leads the process of adopting new and updated building codes.

It is important to update building codes to address emerging safety risks, improve energy efficiency, incorporate new material and technology and to maintain a high Insurance Services Office rating. 

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.

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.