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.
The Council directed staff to move forward with a City Manager’s directive that establishes a process for requesting the use of City property by outside government and non-profit agencies. The directive clarifies that, outside of emergencies, requests will be made through the City Manager’s Office. Requests will only be approved when they align with the City’s goals and priorities, do not create unreasonable disruptions to City operations, or present an unreasonable danger to public health or safety. When an emergency has been declared, requests may be made through the Mayor and will be approved or denied based on these same standards. The Council also directed staff to begin the process of codifying an ordinance with the same information.
The employee notice discussed during the meeting provides guidance to City employees on how to respond if federal law enforcement personnel come to a City workplace. The notice, which will be shared with City employees and accompanied by employee training, promotes an informed and consistent response should such an event occur.
The City Council also reviewed a form for members of the public to report any concerning activity they may observe involving federal agencies in our community. This form can be submitted anonymously or with contact information if follow-up is requested. To access the form, visit Flagstaff.az.gov/report-concerns
More information can be found in the Meeting Agenda. For related questions, please contact Sarah Langley, City of Flagstaff Public Affairs Director at sarah.langley@flagstaffaz.gov