Category: Home

Pipeline and Haywire Fires Update and Declaration of Emergency

by Community Contributor • June 14, 2022 • Comments Off

The Pipeline Fire, located 6 miles north of Flagstaff, started Sunday, June 12, and has spread to over 5,000 acres due to extremely high winds.

Additionally, the Haywire Fire, located 8 miles northeast of Flagstaff, ignited in the early hours of Monday, June 13, and is currently at 1,600 acres in size. A U.S. Forest Service Type 2 Incident Management Team is currently on site for each fire. A Type 1 Incident Management Team has been ordered.

The Coconino County Sheriff’s Office has evacuated many communities in the fire area. Click here for the most current information on evacuation status:

https://coconinocounty.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=745e7806b 0444387bf32792b9c25e169

Cinder Lake Landfill closed due to Pipeline Fire

by Community Contributor • June 13, 2022 • Comments Off

Effective immediately, the City of Flagstaff Cinder Lake Landfill is closed due to the Pipeline Fire. The Hazardous Products Center at the landfill is also closed. Please avoid the area.

Refer to Coconino County’s Pipeline Fire website for up-to-date information:https://www.coconino.az.gov/2926/Pipeline-Fire

Arizona Dept. of Housing — Governor signs HB2610 paving way for more affordable housing

by Community Contributor • June 10, 2022 • Comments Off

Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey this week signed HB2610 into law removing the arbitrary cap on the size of affordable housing apartment communities constructed by non-profits wanting to qualify for a property tax exemption. The new law encourages more construction of larger affordable apartment communities across the state that rent solely to income-eligible tenants.

“We are committed to growing our state’s affordable housing inventory and this law helps by eliminating an unnecessary barrier to development,” said Arizona Department of Housing Director Tom Simplot. “By removing this burdensome regulation, non-profits can build larger affordable housing communities and still receive the tax break they need for these projects.”

Arizona sets record for affordable housing tax credit award dollars

by Community Contributor • June 2, 2022 • Comments Off

The Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH) this week announced it has awarded $30.1 million in federal 9% Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) to 16 affordable housing projects, including 7 in rural communities. The all-time record amount comes after a reengineered process of awarding tax credits and implementation of the new State Tax Credit program.

“This new process reduced the burdensome regulatory framework for allocating these highly-coveted tax credits and has led to increased developer interest in building affordable housing in Arizona,” said ADOH Director Tom Simplot. “The State Tax Credit program is fulfilling its goal to stimulate the construction of new affordable housing in our state.”

Solar co-op launches for Northern Arizona residents to go solar together

by Community Contributor • May 18, 2022 • Comments Off

Second co-op in the region launches following the state’s most successful co-op Local city, county officials throw support behind project. Information meeting set for Tuesday, May 24.

FLAGSTAFF — The Cities of Flagstaff and Sedona, and Coconino County have partnered with nonprofit group Solar United Neighbors (SUN) to launch the second Northern Arizona Co-op. The co-op will help residents go solar.

This co-op follows the launch of the first Northern Arizona Co-op in 2021. That group reached 225 member households and is Solar United Neighbors’ most successful co-op in Arizona to date. The second Northern Arizona Co-op provides a new opportunity for residents to take advantage of the area’s plentiful sunshine.

“The City of Flagstaff is making great strides to uphold our commitment to reach carbon neutrality by 2030, but we know that we can’t do it alone,” said Flagstaff Vice Mayor Miranda Sweet. “The solar co-op represents the ‘what’s possible’ when we work together to create solutions, collectively.

City of Flagstaff hosts volunteer cleanup day on May 21 in areas impacted by Museum Fire flooding

by Community Contributor • May 17, 2022 • Comments Off

The City of Flagstaff is hosting a volunteer cleanup day in areas downstream of the Museum Fire burn scar on Saturday, May 21. Volunteers will be assisting with clearing debris and litter from public infrastructure around Ponderosa Park and the Grandview Homes neighborhood.

Sandbags available for residents impacted by Museum Fire flooding

by Community Contributor • May 11, 2022 • Comments Off

The City of Flagstaff and the Coconino County Flood Control District are helping residents in neighborhoods downstream of the Museum Fire burn scar prepare for the 2022 monsoon season by placing pallets of new sandbags and trash bins throughout neighborhoods, which residents can use to repair their sandbag walls. Materials will be available from May 13 through July 1, 2022.

United Way of Northern Arizona — TUNNEL FIRE: Crisis Response Fund Update

by Community Contributor • May 2, 2022 • Comments Off

Northern Arizona University, Nestle Purina, Suddenlink and OneAZ Credit Union are leading the way in providing funds to help those who have been impacted by the Tunnel Fire. Together they have contributed $45,000 to the United Way of Northern Arizona Crisis Response Fund.

These funds will be used to help people impacted by the fire meet immediate needs and offer assistance as they rebuild and recover. The blaze, which as of last night was 89% contained, has destroyed more than 100 structures, including 30 homes northeast of Flagstaff.

City of Flagstaff to enter Stage 1 Fire Restrictions on May 5

by Community Contributor • May 2, 2022 • Comments Off

The City of Flagstaff will enter Stage 1 Fire Restrictions at 8 a.m. on May 5, 2022.

Under Stage 1 Fire Restrictions,

The sale or use of consumer-grade fireworks is prohibited.
The use of charcoal and wood-fired BBQs are prohibited in City parks and open spaces.
Charcoal and wood-fired BBQs are still allowed at private residences and private campgrounds within city limits.

Burned Area Emergency Response Team assessing Tunnel Fire damage

by Community Contributor • May 2, 2022 • Comments Off

A Forest Service Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) team began surveying the fire-affected areas within the Tunnel Fire perimeter this past Saturday.

BAER team assessments are rapid evaluations of post-fire conditions of the burned landscape. These assessments determine the level of risk from potential flooding and debris flow, and calculate how these risks will affect both human safety and the natural and cultural resources in the area.

The Tunnel Fire BAER team, led by Forest Service Hydrologist Brendan Waterman, will conduct field surveys, and use science-based models to rapidly evaluate and assess the burned area.

Tunnel Fire Evacuation Status Downgrade from ‘SET’ to ‘READY’

by Community Contributor • April 28, 2022 • Comments Off

The communities along the Highway 89 corridor, north of Flagstaff, from Campbell Avenue to the north entrance of Forest Service Road 545 (Wupatki National Monument) will be downgraded from “SET” (Pre-evacuation) to “READY” status.

“READY” status means- you are aware of and monitoring fire activity in your area. You should have basic plans in place for yourselves, important documents, medications, pets and livestock in the event that a “GO” message is received.

Tunnel Fire Morning Update – Thursday April 28, 2022

by Community Contributor • April 28, 2022 • Comments Off

Current Situation: Containment on the Tunnel Fire increased to 43% on Wednesday evening due to firefighters’ continued hard work to mop up and secure the fire’s perimeter in the Sunset Crater National Monument and Black Mountain areas.

Tunnel Fire Morning Update – Monday April 25, 2022

by Community Contributor • April 25, 2022 • Comments Off

Fire crews’ diligence and hard work have resulted in an increase in containment to 15% on the Tunnel Fire. Yesterday residents were able to re-enter the previously evacuated neighborhoods. US Hwy 89 was re-opened yesterday afternoon.

Cinder Lake Landfill reopens

by Community Contributor • April 25, 2022 • Comments Off

Cinder Lake Landfill will resume regular operating hours starting Monday, April 25. Regular operating hours are 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and closed on Sunday.

The Hazardous Products Center (HPC) will also resume regular operating hours starting Monday, April 25. Regular operating hours for the HPC are 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday and closed on Sunday.

Overnight Tunnel Fire Activity

by Community Contributor • April 22, 2022 • Comments Off

On April 22, 2022 in the early morning hours a spot fire started in the Timberline Community west of Hwy 89 in the “GO” evacuation area.

Deputies and Officers working overnight security in the evacuated areas recontacted the residents who refused to initially evacuate on Tuesday to notify them of the increased danger and remind them of the “GO” evacuation order. This fire was in the area of Wupatki Trails, Lenox Park, Pumpkin Patch, and Brandis Trail neighborhoods. Deputies and Officers went door to door and used sirens and loudspeakers in an attempt to wake residents to warn them of the fire threat.

United Way of Northern Arizona — TUNNEL FIRE: ‘A Time for Neighbors to Help Neighbors’

by Community Contributor • April 21, 2022 • Comments Off

During last night’s informative community meeting on the Tunnel Fire, it was the words of Coconino County Board of Supervisors Chair Patrice Horstman that stood out to us:

“This is a time for neighbors to help neighbors.”

United Way of Northern Arizona is currently raising money to help those impacted by the Tunnel Fire through the UWNA Crisis Response Fund. You can donate to the fund by texting UWNAZresponse to 41444. Donations can also be processed on our website here.

Cinder Lake Landfill remains closed northeast of Flagstaff due to Tunnel Fire

by Community Contributor • April 20, 2022 • Comments Off

Cinder Lake Landfill will remain closed to the public until further notice due to its location inside the evacuation zone of the Tunnel Fire. The Hazardous Products Center at the landfill is also closed. Please avoid the area.

All commercial and residential collection services in the City of Flagstaff are running on a normal schedule.
Refer to Inciweb for up-to-date information on the Tunnel Fire by visiting https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/8068/

Earth Day 2022: Invest in Your Planet, Invest in Your Community

by Community Contributor • April 15, 2022 • Comments Off

On Friday, April 22nd, communities around the world will celebrate the 52nd anniversary of Earth Day. This year’s theme is “Invest In Our Planet.” Coconino County, in partnership with Friends of Coconino County Parks, the City of Flagstaff, Flagstaff Parks, Recreation, and Open Space, and the U.S. Forest Service are partnering to facilitate three cleanup events throughout the community.

Sediment Reduction Project Breaks Ground in Museum Flood Area

by Community Contributor • April 15, 2022 • Comments Off

A Coconino County Flood Control District project to reduce sediment production and transport on private lands below the Museum Fire burn scar is underway in Lockett Ranches & Mt. Elden Estates.

The Natural Resources Conservation Service and District-funded Emergency Watershed Protection Project will reduce erosion and sediment transport downstream.

Willard Springs Green Waste Station Reopens Friday, April 1 for Free Green Waste-Only Disposal

by Community Contributor • March 31, 2022 • Comments Off

Coconino County will reopen the Willard Springs Green Waste Station on Friday, April 1, for free green waste-only disposal all season long to support residents’ efforts to clean up their properties for wildfire season.

Residents will be allowed to dump acceptable green waste such as pine needles, branches, leaves, and brush free of charge with no load limits on Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. through the end of the season on Saturday, October 29, 2022.

Interested in raising chickens or composting at home? Apply for the City’s new rebate program!

by Community Contributor • March 17, 2022 • Comments Off

The City of Flagstaff Sustainability Office is providing rebates up to $100 to those who purchase prefabricated chicken coops, composters, or both after March 1 2022. At-home chicken keeping and composting methods work together to provide healthy soils while keeping food waste out of the landfill.

Services Now Available for Students and Families Impacted by COVID-19

by Community Contributor • February 16, 2022 • Comments Off

Coconino County Superintendent of Schools, Cheryl Mango-Paget, announced (Feb. 15) kindergarten through 12th grade students and families impacted by COVID-19 can now request wraparound support services, such as groceries, lodging, and laundry.

Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH) announced $40 million for transitional housing in rural Arizona

by Community Contributor • February 15, 2022 • Comments Off

The Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH) (on Feb. 14) announced $40 million to provide up to 500 transitional homes for Arizonans in rural communities who are experiencing homelessness.

“Today’s targeted, one-time investment will help Arizonans who’ve fallen on hard times get back on their feet,” said Governor Ducey. “Additional transitional housing in rural communities will help struggling families and individuals get access to safe housing in their own community as they transition to a permanent, reliable home. My thanks go to the team at the Department of Housing and Director Tom Simplot for their work to support fellow Arizonans and ensure they have access to resources that put them on the path to success.

Final 10-Year Housing Plan to Flagstaff City Council for Consideration on Feb. 15

by Community Contributor • February 11, 2022 • Comments Off

Housing staff would like to thank you for your feedback and involvement in helping create the final 10-Year Housing Plan. The Plan was approved by the Housing Commission on January 27, and it will go to Flagstaff City Council for consideration of adoption on February 15 (next week!). This is a celebration for affordable housing and the momentum for housing local residents is strong. I have attached the final Plan for you to share.

Here is the webpage with more detail about the Plan, extensive public engagement, and public comments.

Bilingual report — Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH) launches homeowner assistance fund awareness campaign

by Community Contributor • February 4, 2022 • Comments Off

The Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH) (on Jan. 31) launched an advertising campaign to spread the word that financial help is available to struggling Arizona homeowners through the state’s Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF). The print, radio, digital, and social media ads, in English and Spanish, will concentrate in rural Arizona and encourage homeowners facing foreclosure to apply for assistance.

“The HAF is open to eligible homeowners statewide and the word has spread in many urban areas about the program,” ADOH Director Tom Simplot said. “This ad campaign aims to reach those rural communities where there may be low-income homeowners in need and there are limited other resources available to keep them in their homes.”

District 2 Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez — District 2 Newsletter 7th Edition — Happy New Year and best wishes for a great 2022!

by Community Contributor • January 20, 2022 • Comments Off

In this edition…

Message from Sup. Vasquez
Siren Instillation in Museum Flood Area
Museum Flood Area Crisis Response Funding
Sheriff’s Office Tour
Redistricting Update
Services and Programs
And more!
Message from Supervisor Vasquez

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future Releases 2021 Annual Report!

by Community Contributor • January 20, 2022 • Comments Off

We had a busy and productive 2021!

By the Numbers
Our membership increased to 355 at year’s end, an increase of 255%.
Our revenue increased from a combination of memberships, appeals, and grants.

Other important numbers for 2021 include:

Delay – 2022 Annual Point in Time Count

by Community Contributor • January 13, 2022 • Comments Off

Due to the current surge in COVID-19, the annual Point in Time (PIT) Count has been moved to Feb 23-25 throughout the City of Flagstaff from its original date of Jan 25. This count documents the number of unsheltered people experiencing homelessness at a single point in time and is conducted across the country.

Trained city of Flagstaff and Coconino County employees, social service agencies and volunteers will join mobile outreach teams that will locate individuals, families and youth experiencing homelessness as well as staff booths to conduct surveys at libraries and various locations.

The success of this count is dependent on community volunteers. For more information or to sign up to volunteer, please visit https://docs.google.com/document/d/1eH9qA295buyFeQZ3gDF0Xk3kWP8SrFU_mnUUOqW6mE0/edit?usp=sharing

Flagstaff Sustainability Office launching Climate Advisory Groups

by Community Contributor • January 2, 2022 • Comments Off

We welcome the interest and participation of Flagstaff residents in Youth, Business, and Equity Climate Advisory Groups.

Learn more about each advisory group and how to apply below.

City of Flagstaff to provide public comment opportunities for final 10-year Housing Plan on Jan. 27, Feb. 15, 2022

by Community Contributor • January 2, 2022 • Comments Off

The City of Flagstaff will provide public comment opportunities for final 10-year Housing Plan on Jan. 27 at the City Housing Commission Meeting and Feb. 15, 2022 at the City Council Meeting.

The Draft 10-Year Housing Plan’s public comment period has officially closed. The community forum garnered 327 responses. Coupling these with the comments received through the presentations and community outreach, there are more than 600 written comments. Housing and Comprehensive Planners are working to review and categorize the comments.

Feb. 9 — Coconino County to Host Utility Scale Renewable Energy Ordinance Open House

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

The public is invited to attend a virtual open house on the Utility Scale Renewable Energy Ordinance (REO) Draft on Wednesday, February 9, 2022, from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

The draft ordinance will be available for review and comment on the open house site beginning February 9 through February 16, 2022.

Aug. 4 — Pipeline West Community Meeting

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

This community meeting is specifically targeted towards residents who live on the west side of Flagstaff, including the neighborhoods of Cheshire, Valley Crest, Coyote Springs, Ridge Crest, Coconino Estates, and Rock Ridge Estates. This meeting will not provide information on flooding impacts in Doney Park, Timberline, or other areas east of Flagstaff.

Aug. 22 — Free Webinar — Understanding Risk and Flood Insurance

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Representatives from Coconino County and FEMA will conduct a free webinar to inform our community about the new flood risk to our neighborhoods and important information about flood insurance.

Over the past few years, the frequency of wildfires has increased in Coconino County and with that increase comes an increase in the risk of post-wildfire flooding. To help inform property owners about this increased risk and actions they can take to reduce that risk, the Coconino County Flood Control District has provided post-wildfire flood risk and mitigation information.

Oct. 1 — Coconino County to Hold 18th Annual Sustainable Building Tour

by Community Contributor • January 1, 2022 • Comments Off

Buildings are pieces of history, and each has a story to tell. That is the theme for this year’s Coconino County Sustainable Building Tour: The Stories Buildings Tell. The public is invited to join this year’s 18th annual Sustainable Building Tour, to be held on Saturday, October 1, 2022, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Part of the Flagstaff Festival of Science, this year’s tour will be held completely in person, the first time in three years, and showcases ten properties throughout the community. The property owners and homeowners who have been certified through the county’s Sustainable Building Program will share their stories; stories about the landscape, anecdotes on the process of building their home, and tales of living in and maintaining their unique properties.

Coconino County provides latest road conditions

by Community Contributor • December 29, 2021 • Comments Off

All Coconino County maintained roads are open and passable, although roads remain icy and slick. Coconino County has 15 graders, 12 snowplow trucks, and one loader working to keep the roads clear.

Thank you to Coconino County Public Works, Flagstaff City Government, and Arizona Department of Transportation for working through the night to ensure safe travels this morning. Please check https://www.az511.com/ for the latest road conditions.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future — Action Alert: Lone Tree Overpass Design Flawed

by Community Contributor • December 22, 2021 • Comments Off

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future is concerned that the proposed design for Lone Tree Overpass, currently under consideration by Council, is overbuilt, provides inadequate protection for pedestrians and bicyclists, encourages an increase in automobile traffic, negatively impacts the Southside neighborhood, and is in conflict with the city’s Carbon Neutrality Plan.

Friends of Flagstaff’s Future — Consider Running for 2022 City Council!

by Community Contributor • December 19, 2021 • Comments Off

Want to help Flagstaff grow sustainably?

Are you concerned about housing, providing multi-modal transportation, climate change adaptation and resilience, open space, and ensuring we have water into the future?

Yes? Please consider running for Flagstaff City Council in 2022.

City of Flagstaff to host a free Home Energy Efficiency Workshop on Dec. 8

by Community Contributor • December 6, 2021 • Comments Off

The City of Flagstaff will host an in-person Home Energy Efficiency Workshop on Wednesday, December 8, 2021. This continues the Home Energy Efficiency Workshop Series, with the 1-hour informational and demonstration event scheduled to occur approximately once a month throughout the winter. This workshop series is held each winter season to help both renters and homeowners save money, reduce energy use, and make their homes more comfortable during cold weather.

At the free workshop, a licensed contractor from CozyHome will demonstrate simple do-it-yourself energy efficiency upgrades, showing individuals how to weatherize homes and save money on utility bills.

NRCS Approves $3.5 million for Museum Fire Watershed Restoration on Private Land

by Community Contributor • November 19, 2021 • Comments Off

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has approved the Coconino County Flood Control District’s request for $3.5 million to construct watershed restoration measures on private lands in the Museum Flood Area.

These watershed restoration measures are being done to reduce flooding impacts to private properties and will reduce the level of sediment entering Flagstaff.

Economic Collaborative of Northern Arizona (ECoNA) — Innovation Powering ETM Success

by Community Contributor • November 16, 2021 • Comments Off

As part of our celebration of Manufacturing Month, ECoNA’s Business Retention and Expansion Team had a special guest at its October meeting – Scott Reynolds, Director of Engineering at Electric Torque Machines.
In its 13-year history, this producer of direct drive motors has gone from a garage-based startup to being acquired last year by a major manufacturing company.
It began in 2008 under the name Motor Excellence. Started by engineer Tom Janecek and David Calley (founder of Southwest Windpower), the company’s goal was to create an improved design for direct drive motors.
These motors eliminate the need for transmissions such as gearboxes and belts, are lighter and more efficient than traditional motors and are used in numerous applications that require high continuous torque at low to moderate speeds, such as conveyor belts, pumps and fans. In fact, you can see ETM’s work if you go to the Flagstaff Airport, where ETM motors power the high volume, low speed ceiling fans in the terminal.

U.S. Forest Service Chief Pledges $3.5 Million To Museum Fire Watershed Restoration

by Community Contributor • November 12, 2021 • Comments Off

The U.S. Forest Service Chief Randy Moore (on Nov. 10) pledged to provide $3.5 million toward Coconino County Flood Control District’s request for federal funding for on-forest watershed restoration measures in the Museum Flood Area. The funds will be used to design and construct watershed restoration measures on Forest Service land between the Museum Fire burn scar and the City of Flagstaff. Watershed restoration measures include restoration and stabilization of alluvial fans and stabilization of channels, which are done to reduce the level of sediment leaving the burn area and impacting the Mt. Elden Estates area and the Paradise, Grandview, and Sunnyside neighborhoods in Flagstaff. Reducing the level of sediment is a prerequisite for more effective existing and future flood mitigation within the City of Flagstaff.

“Coconino County is extremely grateful for the Chief’s commitment to partner with the Flood Control District to reduce the impacts of the post-wildfire flooding from the Museum Fire on our communities” stated Supervisor Patrice Horstman.

Coconino County Applauds Forest Service for New 4FRI Strategy

by Community Contributor • November 11, 2021 • Comments Off

Coconino County participated in a meeting yesterday convened by U.S. Senator Kyrsten Sinema with support from Senator Kelly and Congressman Tom O’Halleran regarding the future of the Four Forest Restoration Initiative (4FRI).

With the cancellation of the Phase 2 of the 4FRI process by the Forest Service about two months ago, the Senator invited the Chief of the U.S. Forest Service Randy Moore to address the future of the Four Forest Restoration Initiative (4FRI) and other forest restoration projects impacting Coconino County. The County Board of Supervisors have identified wildfires and post-wildfire flooding as the greatest public safety threats in the County.

Work continues on Butler Avenue to implement the separated bike lanes pilot project

by Community Contributor • November 11, 2021 • Comments Off

Work continues to implement a pilot project installing separated bike lanes on Beaver Street and Butler Avenue. The contractor has completed the installation of a concrete curb and delineators to physically separate bicyclists from vehicles on Beaver Street.

Work to install similar barriers on Butler Avenue will begin on Monday, November 15, 2021 and end on November 26, 2021. The project limits are Butler Avenue, from Milton Road to Sawmill Road.

CHAC presents a Community Clean-Up Day on Nov. 6

by Community Contributor • November 5, 2021 • Comments Off

Join CHAC in a community clean-up event! We will remove garbage from around Coconino High School on E. Cedar Ave and towards Buffalo Park from 10 a.. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 6.

City of Flagstaff’s Free Home Energy Efficiency Workshops Get Underway

by Community Contributor • November 5, 2021 • Comments Off

The City of Flagstaff will host an in-person Home Energy Efficiency Workshop next week. This workshop will kick-off the Home Energy Efficiency Workshop Series, which will last through the winter. This workshop series is held each winter season to help both renters and homeowners save money, reduce energy use, and make their homes more comfortable during cold weather.

Prescribed burns at Observatory Mesa planned Friday Nov. 5 through Sunday, Nov. 7

by Community Contributor • November 4, 2021 • Comments Off

The Flagstaff Prescribed Fire Training Exchange (TREX) plans to conduct prescribed burns on Observatory Mesa from Friday November 5 through Sunday, November 7, 2021. Burns each day will be less than 100 acres and will be dependent on weather conditions.

With light southwest winds forecasted, smoke may impact central Flagstaff during the day and settle overnight into the Cheshire, Coconino Estates, downtown, Southside, Railroad Springs and Northern Arizona University campus areas. For more information on smoke and air quality, please visit http://www.azdeq.gov/WildfireForecast or https://legacy.azdeq.gov/environ/air/smoke/.

City of Flagstaff 30-Day Public Comment Period for Draft 10-Year Housing Plan ends Nov. 5

by Community Contributor • November 3, 2021 • Comments Off

The City of Flagstaff Housing Section is asking all Flagstaff residents to read the Draft 10-Year Housing Plan and assist with prioritizing the policy initiatives and strategies. The Draft 10-Year Housing Plan can be found here.

Provide your feedback by participating in the following Policy Initiative and Strategy Prioritization Survey. The survey takes approximately 15 minutes. Your feedback is appreciated.

This public comment period ends November 5, 2021.

City of Flagstaff — Prescribed burn on Observatory Mesa approved for Tuesday, Nov. 2

by Community Contributor • November 2, 2021 • Comments Off

The Flagstaff Prescribed Fire Training Exchange (TREX) plans to conduct a prescribed burn of approximately 72 acres on Observatory Mesa tomorrow, Tuesday, November 2, 2021.

With light winds from the west forecasted, smoke may impact central Flagstaff during the day and settle overnight into the downtown, Southside, Railroad Springs and Northern Arizona University campus areas. For more information on smoke and air quality, please visit http://www.azdeq.gov/WildfireForecast or https://legacy.azdeq.gov/environ/air/smoke/.

Winter Parking Ordinance Begins Monday, Nov. 1

by Community Contributor • November 1, 2021 • Comments Off

Coconino County’s annual Winter Parking Ordinance will go into effect Monday, November 1, 2021. The ordinance requires parking restrictions on County-maintained roads during snow season.

Between November 1 and April 1 of each year, motor vehicles must be kept clear of County-maintained highways and roads. Any vehicle parked in prohibited areas reserve the right to be cited or towed at the owner’s expense (not less than $200.00) due to the possibility of threatening the health or welfare of County residents. Penalties are applicable where violations take place and where signed.

Willard Springs Green Waste Station Closed For Winter Season

by Community Contributor • November 1, 2021 • Comments Off

The last day of 2021 operations for the Willard Springs Green Waste Station was Saturday, October 30.

The station will be closed throughout the upcoming winter season, which runs each year from November 1 to March 31. Coconino County can reopen Willard Springs for green waste-only disposal on Friday, April 1, 2022. It will then be open for the summer season on Fridays and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. until Saturday, October 29, 2022.

First Prescribed Fire Training Exchange in the greater Flagstaff area

by Community Contributor • October 26, 2021 • Comments Off

For the first time, fire managers from nine agencies and partners are gathering in northern Arizona to learn about and train in prescribed fire through a formal training exchange (TREX). Hosted by the Flagstaff Fire Department and Summit Fire and Medical District and sponsored by the International Association of Fire Chiefs and the Fire Learning Network, this Prescribed Fire Training Exchange is a unique opportunity for fire personnel from across the county to learn about prescribed fire, land management, the wildland urban interface, smoke management, and much more.

“This Prescribed Fire Training Exchange is designed to provide experiential training that builds local capacity for fire management while offering professional fire practitioners a more holistic perspective” said Neil Chapman, Wildland Forest Health Supervisor with the Flagstaff Fire Department.

Make a Difference Day 2021 (Oct. 16) focuses on assisting residents impacted by Museum post-wildfire flooding

by Community Contributor • October 14, 2021 • Comments Off

Members of the public are invited to join the City of Flagstaff’s Sustainability Section for this year’s Make a Difference Day on Saturday, October 16. This year, participants will have the opportunity to assist residents affected by flooding resulting from the Museum Fire in 2019.

Volunteers will be assigned to work crews to remove flood debris from properties. Accordingly, volunteers are asked to wear closed-toe shoes, sun protection, long pants, and gloves and bring a refillable water bottle, as well as a rake or shovel if they have them.

City of Flagstaff — 30-day public comment period opens for draft 10-Year Housing Plan

by Community Contributor • September 30, 2021 • Comments Off

The City of Flagstaff Housing Section is asking for public input on its draft 10-Year Housing Plan. Flagstaff residents can read the draft 10-Year Housing Plan online and can provide feedback by taking the Policy Initiative and Strategy Prioritization Survey. The survey takes approximately 15 minutes to complete and feedback will be used to help City staff prioritize housing initiatives and strategies. The public comment period ends on November 5, 2021.

New Preliminary Flood Maps Issued for Oak Creek Area; Updated Maps Show Flood Risks Have Changed

by Community Contributor • September 14, 2021 • Comments Off

Coconino County announced this week that updated, digital flood hazard maps for the Coconino County, Yavapai County, and City of Sedona sections of Oak Creek are available for public review and comment.

These maps, known as Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), show the extent to which areas recently re-mapped in Oak Creek and its tributaries are at risk for flooding. This covers the area from Sterling Canyon in Coconino County, through the City of Sedona down to Cornville. Used to help determine flood insurance and building requirements, the new flood maps replace maps that were based on studies more than 30 years old.

Coconino County Flood Control District and City of Flagstaff Held Engineering Summit & Report-Out

by Community Contributor • August 30, 2021 • Comments Off

The Coconino County Flood Control District (FCD) and the City of Flagstaff hosted a one-and-a-half-day Engineering Summit in the continued effort to identify long-term flood mitigation for the Museum Flood Area.

Representatives participated from the US Forest Service, Army Corps of Engineers, Flagstaff Unified School District, Arizona Department of Water Resources, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Arizona Geological Survey, Arizona Department of Transportation, and ten civil engineers from six private engineering consulting firms, as well as staff from both the County Flood Control District and City of Flagstaff.

Coconino County Flood Control District and City of Flagstaff Staff Present at Joint Work Session on Aug. 24

by Community Contributor • August 25, 2021 • Comments Off

Last night, staff members from the Coconino County Flood Control District and the City of Flagstaff presented to the Board of Supervisors and the City Council in a joint work session on the Museum Flood Area.

The meeting provided an historic look at the mitigation efforts taken during and immediately after the Museum Fire, as well as additional mitigation measures since that time. The City and County Flood Control District deployed sandbags and barriers to the neighborhood, and warned of the high-risk for flooding. J.E. Fuller Hydrology, the leading experts in post-wildfire hydrology, were immediately engaged to conduct a flood hazard analysis. The analysis results were used by the Flood Control District to develop and implement the flood mitigation plan. The analysis showed severe flooding would impact 400 homes and 35 businesses.

Museum Flood Area August 18 | Evening Media Advisory

by Community Contributor • August 18, 2021 • Comments Off

Below is a summary of today’s activities by the Coconino County Flood Control District and City of Flagstaff related to the Museum Flood Area.

Facebook Live Event Tonight at 6 p.m.: There is a Facebook Live Event scheduled for 6:00 PM today that will be hosted by Flagstaff Mayor Paul Deasy on the County’s Facebook page by both County and City members. We hope that you can attend this important virtual meeting.

Weather Forecast: The National Weather Service (NWS) is anticipating another high threat day today. An intense storm moving east from Sedona through such communities as Munds Park, Mormon Lake and the Lake Mary Road area produced heavy localized rain. Please stay vigilant as another round of flooding can occur at any time today. The NWS is an anticipating that a drying period will begin after today that will allow for a break from monsoon activities through Sunday. For up-to-date, local weather, visit https://www.weather.gov/fgz/ .   

City of Flagstaff — Free residential food scraps drop-off service

by Community Contributor • August 18, 2021 • Comments Off

The city of Flagstaff’s Sustainability Office launched a pilot program on July 24 that seeks to advance the city’s Rethink Waste Plan and Carbon Neutrality goals through a free compost drop-off service. Through June of 2022, community members have the opportunity to drop off food scraps and other acceptable materials at two participating booth locations on a weekly basis:

The Market of Dreams (2532 E 7th Ave, Flagstaff, AZ 86004) accepts materials from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Saturdays
Flagstaff Community Market (211 W Aspen Ave, Flagstaff, AZ 86001) accepts materials from 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. on Sundays

200- to 500-Year Rainfall Event Hits Museum Fire Burn Scar

by Community Contributor • August 17, 2021 • Comments Off

At approximately 12:15 p.m. (Aug. 17), rain began to fall over the Museum Fire Burn Scar. By the time the large storm system moved out of the area, the entire burn area was saturated, resulting in the largest rainfall event to date.

The gauges located throughout the burn scar recorded hourly rainfall as follows: 3.07 inches in south gauge, 2.4 inches in western gauge, 1.5 inches in the eastern gauge, .75 inches at northern gauge. In addition, the rainfall was intense with over 1.14 inches recorded in at the south and west gauges in 15 minutes and 1.06 inches recorded at the east gauge. Not only was significant rainfall experienced on the burn scar itself, but also in the Sunnyside neighborhood. In an hour, 1.22 inches fell at Linda Vista and 1.5 inches was recorded downstream in neighborhoods. The rainfall recorded at the south gauge equates to a 200- to 500-year rainfall event.

Flagstaff Village Apartment lease extension

by Community Contributor • August 11, 2021 • Comments Off

The city of Flagstaff recently heard from residents of Flagstaff Village Apartments that because the apartment complex was being redeveloped, all month-to-month tenants needed to vacate their units by Sept. 30, 2021 and no other leases would be extended.

The city of Flagstaff reached out to Park 7 Group, the new property owner regarding this change. The property owner listened to the concerns and indicated a desire to be a community partner and provide flexibility where possible.

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