Coconino County Superintendent of Schools, Cheryl Mango-Paget, is inviting community members who are committed to public education to consider running for openings on one of five School District Governing Boards in the 2026 election.
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.
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.
Saturday, January 31
SNOWHAUS: Winter DJ Showcase
Arizona Snowbowl
A full day of high-elevation house music at Arizona Snowbowl featuring Polar Bears, Carrie Keller, Ekonovah, and Rich Dietz! 11 a.m.
Editor’s note: The Flagstaff Police Dept. issued a media release on Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026 following the shooting death of a Minneapolis, Minn. by members of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and other federal law enforcement agencies.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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 — 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, 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.
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.
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.”
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.
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!
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:
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.
Happy New Year!
Thank you for staying connected and engaged with planning projects and information in Coconino County! Planning helps to guide the future of our communities. In this newsletter the Planning and Zoning Department has two important updates to share:
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.
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.
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:
Coconino County’s Administrative Center, County Manager’s Office, County Attorney’s Office, Coconino County Superior Court and Coconino County Health and Human Services office and clinic will be closed Jan. 19, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
An Animal Services Officer will be available from 7 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Contact the CCHHS Animal Services office at 928-679-8756 to leave a message and an officer will return the call. Call 911 for emergencies.
Waterline Repairs Continue After Multiple Failures in the Inner Canyon
This week, a series of three pipeline breaks along the North Kaibab Trail has temporarily disrupted water service in the inner canyon. Two of the breaks occurred within 50 feet of each other just north of the Box, with a third near the Xanterra mule corral at Phantom Ranch.
FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff Sustainability Office is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2025 Flagstaff Sustainability Grant cycle. The Flagstaff Sustainability Grant is a competitive grant program that funds up to $7,500 for community projects related to food, community health and climate resilience, energy, transportation, and waste.
“We can’t wait to see these community-led projects come to life each year! We want to applaud these awardees for their vision for a more sustainable Flagstaff,” said Mayor Becky Daggett.
The 2025 grant recipients and their projects are as follows:
his past year, the Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona has worked on the region’s behalf to promote the greater Flagstaff area, Sedona, Winslow and Camp Verde.
We took the story of the opportunities available in northern Arizona to conferences around the country – the ICSC Retail Show, the national Site Selector Guild, SEMI-CON, and the Flinn Brown Bio Capital Conference.
ECoNA lent its support to applications for funding for work on the I-40 corridor, the Northern Arizona University Venture Studio, and infrastructure improvements along the BNSF railway in Flagstaff.
We also fielded 62 qualified leads that resulted in 34 competitive bids with the potential of added more than 3,000 jobs and $1.8 billion in capital investments to our area. Almost half of these businesses were in the manufacturing sector, with the rest being a mix of retail, office, transportation and bioscience.
Do you know someone who is making a meaningful impact on STEM education in our community? Now is your chance to recognize and celebrate them!
STEM City is now accepting nominations for the STEMMY Awards, honoring individuals and organizations who help STEM thrive in Flagstaff.From innovative classrooms and inspiring students to dedicated teachers, businesses, and community partners, the STEMMY Awards shine a spotlight on the people who make STEM possible in Flagstaff. Help us celebrate the changemakers who spark curiosity, creativity, and connection through STEM—submit a nomination today!
We are accepting nominations in the following four categories:
FLAGSTAFF — Allthrive365 (formerly known as the Foundation for Senior Living), owns the parcel at 320 S. Humphreys St and had planned to build two housing communities on the parcel.
The City has been leasing the southern portion of the parcel for parking for the Municipal Courthouse and downtown needs. In late 2025, Allthrive365 approached the city to discuss options for the city to purchase the southern portion of the parcel. In December 2025, Council approved moving forward with purchasing this southern portion to be used for parking for Courthouse and downtown patrons.
FLAGSTAFF — Creative Flagstaff and ARTx: Art + Ideas Experience are pleased to announce the 2026 ARTx at The Arb commissioned installation, Ephemeral Bloom: Weathered by Time, created by artist Jill Sans in collaboration with botanical consultant and storyteller Kate Watters. The work will be on view throughout the 2026 season at The Arboretum at Flagstaff, opening April 29, 2026 and running through the end of October.
FLAGSTAFF — During the May 19, 2026 election, voters will be asked whether or not to ratify the Flagstaff Regional Land Use Plan 2045 as the new general plan of the City of Flagstaff, Arizona. Prior to the election, each household with a registered voter will receive an informational pamphlet that includes arguments for and against the proposed question. Any person interested in submitting an argument is required to do so before 5 p.m., Arizona time on Feb. 18, 2026.
The City of Flagstaff seeks Statements of Qualifications (SOQs) for an artist or artist team to design and execute a large-scale mural on a water tank at Buffalo Park. This highly visible project envisions an artwork that will become an emblematic feature of the 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.
Five finalists will receive an honorarium of $5,000. The total budget for this project is up to $300,000 for fabrication and installation.
GRAND CANYON, Ariz. — Effective immediately, the National Park Service (NPS) is issuing a drinking water advisory for all water in the vicinity of Bright Angel Campground and Phantom Ranch of Grand Canyon National Park. This includes the Phantom Ranch Canteen, Bright Angel Campground, Phantom Delta Restroom, and Phantom Boat Beach.
All drinking water in these areas should be treated or boiled. These processes should be applied to water for any consumptive use including drinking, making ice, preparing food, brushing teeth, and washing dishes. All other park drinking water is safe for consumption.
• Next IndivisibleNAZ Community Gathering, Planning meeting to be held Jan. 21, 2026 in Flagstaff
More than 350 local residents and visitors protested on the street in front of the Flagstaff City Hall against recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions on Jan. 10, 2026.
The protest was part of a national day of action against ICE following the shooting death of on Jan. 7 of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis, Minn. A number of videos show a confusing scene when protesters blocked ICE vehicles on a city street, not far from the murder George Floyd by police officers. Good was shot when she attempted to drive around other vehicles after an ICE agent walked in front of her vehicle.
More than 1,000 protests were held in Boston, El Paso, Las Angeles, Minneapolis, New York and other cities nationwide. They follow a number of smaller protests earlier this week including one in Flagstaff.
COCONINO COUNTY — Small businesses, community stakeholders and residents affected by the 2025 Dragon Bravo and White Sage fires are invited to take part in a community survey that will help shape long term recovery priorities.
This survey follows nine public listening sessions held across Coconino County in December 2025.
Your experiences matter, and your voice can directly influence how recovery resources are prioritized. Please complete the community survey by Jan. 30, 2026, if any of the following apply to you, your household, your community or your business:
With the latest winter storm bringing much needed moisture to Northern Arizona, you may be wondering, what are some snowplay options in the region?
❄️Check out Flagstaff Snow Park located at Fort Tuthill County Park. Flagstaff Snow Park offers visitors a variety of tubing hills including a kiddie hill and long, fast runs.
📌The 2025-26 Flagstaff Winter Recreation Map will tell you where to go and what winter recreation activities there are throughout Flagstaff.
🌬️Located west of Flagstaff and along the iconic Route 66, the city of Williams Experience Williams offers a multitude of winter recreation activities, including snow tubing at Canyon Coaster Adventure Park.
Saturday-Sunday,
January 10-11
USASA Grand Canyon State Series Rail Jam Weekend
Arizona Snowbowl
Two days of USASA rail jam competitions for skiers and snowboarders. 8 a.m.
Learn More
Winter Emergency Notification Reminder
As of this writing, Desert View Drive and Hermit Road have CLOSED due to hazardous road conditions. Road closure information is always available by calling the park’s Road Line at 928-638-7496 (please, do not call Dispatch). As winter weather returns, residents are also encouraged to sign up for emergency notifications.
Grand Canyon NPS Everbridge alerts are a great way to receive real-time updates about power outages, road closures, weather-related events, and other emergency situations.
You can decide how you would like to receive notifications, whether this is through text, email, or by phone call. Sign up now by following this link.
There are two four-year seats available on the Flagstaff Unified School District Governing Board. Successful candidates will serve a term beginning Jan. 1, 2027, through Dec. 31, 2030. The General Election will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026. Superintendent Mango-Paget will host a community information session on Tuesday, Jan. 21 at the Flagstaff Unified School District Main Office in the Board Room, from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff announces the launch of its Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Model Plans Library at www.flagstaff.az.gov/ADUs. The Library contains 10 pre-approved, publicly viewable ADU model plans, while additional plans are currently under review.
ADUs, also known as backyard homes or casitas, are important to the City’s climate and housing goals because these smaller housing units have the potential to offer lower rent and monthly utility costs and increase Flagstaff’s housing supply. These units can also provide more flexible housing options for households of all sizes, generate supplemental rental income for homeowners, and increase housing availability in established, more central neighborhoods.
Keep an eye out next week, when the City of Flagstaff opens a Request for Statements of Qualifications (RSOQs) for an artist or artist team to design and execute a large-scale mural on the Buffalo Park water tank. This highly visible project could reflect Flagstaff, Northern Arizona, the current activity and/or history of the park, or the communities that utilize this natural and recreational resource. The mural will become an emblematic feature of the park and the surrounding area.
COCONINO COUNTY — As we kick off a new year, this is a good time to provide an update on the variety of monthly in-person and virtual community resource meetings available to nonprofit and governmental agencies who serve children and families throughout Northern Arizona.
To aid in that effort, the Coconino Coalition for Children & Youth maintains this listing of health and welfare resource networking meetings held each month in Coconino County and Northern Arizona.
The meetings offer health professionals and representatives from a variety groups the opportunity to share information on upcoming programs and events that benefit the educational, health and welfare needs of children, youth and families throughout the region.
The following is a listing of some of those meetings. Please check with individual meeting group coordinators for updated times, dates and meeting links. Please send any updates to frank@coconinokids.org
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Saturday, January 3
Science Saturday: Winter Wonderland
Willow Bend Environmental Education Center
Through games, crafts, demonstrations, and hands-on activities, curious minds of all ages can learn about the science of the season. We’ll study how animals adapt to the cold, how water changes to snow and ice, and so much more! 9:30 a.m
Learn More
AmigosNAZ does not accept any illustrations, photos or other images and written material that are in violation of copyright law. Individuals and organizations may be required to provide proof of such copyright authorization. Otherwise, please provide only website links to your upcoming events.
FLAGSTAFF — The City of Flagstaff is hosting a meet and greet event for members of the community to meet and provide feedback on candidates for the Deputy City Manager position. The City began its competitive search following the appointment of former Deputy City Manager, Joanne Keene, to the role of City Manager. The City received 184 applications and six finalists have been invited to participate in in-person interviews and an in-person public meet and greet event on Wednesday, Feb. 11 from 5 -6:45 p.m. at Flagstaff City Hall in Council Chambers (211 W Aspen Ave).
