Coconino County reflects a legacy of resilience, public service and commitment to people and landscapes.
The Founding Story
On February 19, 1891, Coconino County was carved from the northern portion of Yavapai County by the 16th Territorial Assembly and officially established as its own jurisdiction. Now, 135 years later, the county has grown from a frontier landscape into a vibrant region of rich heritage, resilience and community spirit.
“This milestone highlights the county’s remarkable journey, honoring the diverse peoples, cultures and industries that continue to guide our future,” said Communications Director Melissa Randazzo.
Top Achievements
Coconino County provides more than 145,000 residents with public health, parks, open space, public safety, justice services, libraries, education, community development, economic development, sustainability, elections and more. It also protects its dark skies through world-leading outdoor lighting standards and balances conservation, recreation and tourism with a long-term sustainability and access focus.
As the nation’s second largest county with 18,661 square miles, vast public lands include Grand Canyon National Park, Wupatki, Sunset Crater, Walnut Canyon, Horseshoe Bend and Oak Creek Canyon.
Core Values
Coconino County’s five core values are integrity, collaboration, respect, sustainability and accountability. “These values are expressed in every aspect of Coconino’s government and are the foundation of our success,” she said.
Shifts Impacting the Organization
The major shift in how Coconino County does business came with COVID-19. “Like all public-facing agencies, we went virtual and to this day have adopted some of those strategies as best practices to deliver services and information to residents.”
Greatest Challenges
The pandemic, wildfires and post-wildfire flooding have been the country’s greatest challenges. “We have an exceptional team who can pivot at a moment’s notice to address any emergency and lead recovery efforts. Currently, we are working on the long-term recovery of the Grand Canyon region following the Dragon Bravo and White Sage Fires.”
Looking Ahead
“We will continue to be a resilient, innovative and connected region that protects natural beauty, honors its communities and plans wisely for future generations,” said Randazzo. “Our communities will have grown responsibly and our economy diversified with education, research, outdoor industries, biomass and energy.”
The Reason for Long-Term Success
“At Coconino County, we stick to our mission: Working together to create a county where we want to live by providing public service that fosters diversity of our people and lands.” FBN
Coconino County
219 E. Cherry Ave.
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
928-679-7100
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