Strategic land-use planning is key to the long-term economic success and health of Coconino County. As chairman of the Coconino County Board of Supervisors, my colleagues and I are working to ensure that we develop land-use plans that benefit our communities and align with the Comprehensive Plan.
One of the projects is the Coconino Joint Land Use Study (JLUS), which is a collaborative effort between Coconino County, City of Flagstaff, United States Naval Observatory Flagstaff Station (NOFS) and Arizona Army National Guard Camp Navajo (Camp Navajo). The Office of the Secretary of Defense has supported this effort by providing a $532,700 grant to complete the study.
Because our military installations are vital to economic vitality, national security and an integral part of our community, the JLUS aims to seek compatible uses between military operations and adjacent communities. With the work of our partners and the input of engaged citizens, the final product will recommend strategies to support a vibrant economy and a healthy environment while safeguarding the military mission.
An integral part of the planning process is working with residents and gathering their input on the plan. Earlier this month, the county, along with its partners, hosted the first community meeting on the JLUS in Bellemont. This was the first step to actively engage community members in a process to promote compatibility between development and the missions of our military installations.
Through a procurement process, we hired MAKERS Architecture and Urban Design, an award-winning planning company to help the citizen engagement process. The firm developed a communication and feedback plan for public involvement that target key stakeholders.
There will be many more opportunities for people to get involved by attending several public forums in multiple locations, helping with website content and the chance to speak at Flagstaff City Council and Coconino County Supervisor meetings.
Another substantial planning effort is the Bellemont Area Plan Update.
Because of the amount of residential construction and population growth, and new commercial and industrial development, the Board of Supervisors selected the Bellemont area plan as the highest priority area plan in need of updating. This plan, written in 1985, does not address current conditions that support and guide the current growth and development.
I helped assemble a committee of Bellemont property owners and residents, as well as representatives from the San Juan Paiute Tribe, Camp Navajo and local emergency services to participate in the plan updating process. Input for the plan is gathered at public meetings, surveys and during the approval process by elected and appointed representatives. I encourage anyone who is interested in the Bellemont area to attend the committee meetings, which are held from 6-8 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month at the Bellemont Fire Station. I’m looking forward to continuing the dialogue as this process moves forward.
My fellow board members and I are excited to see the future impacts that these plans will have on our county. We hope residents stay involved in the process as we continue to work to build communities in a responsible way. FBN
By Matt Ryan
Matt Ryan represents Coconino County District 3 and is the chairman of the Coconino County Board of Supervisors.
