Keeping Up On Vaccinations, Affordable Housing, City Services

We’ve had a lot going on this month. I am happy to report that COVID-19 vaccinations have been opened to all 1B essential workers by Coconino County. With production ramping up, I am hopeful we will see an influx of more appointments at the same time as an influx of those who can now receive it. To learn more about the phased approach and to check for appointment times, please go to the Coconino County vaccination site at coconino.az.gov/covid19vaccine.

Flagstaff City Council has approved reopening our outdoor fields starting April 1, with a limit of 50 people per field. This will allow all outdoor spring sports to begin with a limit to the number of spectators. Please continue to stay safe, wear a mask, bring your hand sanitizer and physically distance.

I am honored to have been appointed to the executive board of the League of Cities and Towns and have been participating in the Greater Arizona Mayor’s Association to advocate for local control and align our common goals around many issues, including zoning for vacation rentals and autonomy in budget decisions.

Flagstaff City Council recently approved the development agreement for Sky Cottages, a development of just more than 200 homes with 20 housing units for low-income individuals. It is fully electric, has solar panels, and is a model for economic and environmental efficiency.

City Manager Greg Clifton has set up introductions at our weekly council meetings of all the city divisions so that the Flagstaff City Council and the public can better understand what it takes to make sure your water flows and garbage is picked up, and what great work is being done for affordable housing and much more. I urge everyone to take a look, particularly at IT Director CJ Perry’s presentation regarding ITS, broadband and the opportunities we have in the long run for smart city initiatives. This video recording can be found on our website under the Mayor and Council tab from the City Council Work Session on Feb. 23. You will see why I am a strong advocate of this sector for increasing economic opportunities and reducing inequities in our community.

In April, the Flagstaff City Council will be having a major budgeting session to determine our priorities and allocations, and we’d like your input. Please email me at paul.deasy@flagstaffaz.gov and all of council at council@flagstaffaz.gov so we can hear your perspectives, ideas and approaches to deal with the city’s long-standing issues. FBN

By Paul Deasy

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Paul Deasy is the mayor of Flagstaff.