Agenda

1.

CALL TO ORDER

Mayor Daggett called the meeting of the Flagstaff City Council held March 7, 2023, to order at 3:13 p.m.

NOTICE OF OPTION TO RECESS INTO EXECUTIVE SESSION

Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.02, notice is hereby given to the members of the City Council and to the general public that, at this regular meeting, the City Council may vote to go into executive session, which will not be open to the public, for legal advice and discussion with the City’s attorneys for legal advice on any item listed on the following agenda, pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.03(A)(3).

2.

ROLL CALL

NOTE: One or more Councilmembers may be in attendance telephonically or by other technological means.

PRESENT:

MAYOR DAGGETT
VICE MAYOR ASLAN
COUNCILMEMBER HARRIS
COUNCILMEMBER HOUSE
COUNCILMEMBER MATTHEWS
COUNCILMEMBER MCCARTHY
COUNCILMEMBER SWEET

ABSENT:

Others present: City Manager Greg Clifton; City Attorney Sterling Solomon.

3.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE, MISSION STATEMENT, AND LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The Council and audience recited the pledge of allegiance, Vice Mayor Aslan read the Mission Statement of the City of Flagstaff, and Councilmember Sweet read the Land Acknowledgement.

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the City of Flagstaff is to protect and enhance the quality of life for all.

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The Flagstaff City Council humbly acknowledges the ancestral homelands of this area’s Indigenous nations and original stewards. These lands, still inhabited by Native descendants, border mountains sacred to Indigenous peoples. We honor them, their legacies, their traditions, and their continued contributions. We celebrate their past, present, and future generations who will forever know this place as home.

4.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM PREVIOUS MEETINGS

A.

Consideration and Approval of Minutes: City Council Regular Meeting of January 18, 2022, Budget Retreat of February 3, 2022, Budget Retreat of February 4, 2022, Special Work Session of January 24, 2023, Special Meeting (Executive Session) of January 31, 2023, Budget Retreat of February 2, 2023, Budget Retreat of February 3, 2023, Regular Meeting of February 7, 2023, Special Meeting (Executive Session) of February 14, 2023, Special Meeting (Executive Session) of February 21, 2023, and Special Meeting (Executive Session) of February 28, 2023.

Moved by Councilmember Jim McCarthy, seconded by Councilmember Miranda Sweet to approve the minutes of the City Council Regular Meeting of January 18, 2022, Budget Retreat of February 3, 2022, Budget Retreat of February 4, 2022, Special Work Session of January 24, 2023, Special Meeting (Executive Session) of January 31, 2023, Budget Retreat of February 2, 2023, Budget Retreat of February 3, 2023, Regular Meeting of February 7, 2023, Special Meeting (Executive Session) of February 14, 2023, Special Meeting (Executive Session) of February 21, 2023, and Special Meeting (Executive Session) of February 28, 2023.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

5.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

Public Participation enables the public to address the Council about an item that is not on the agenda. Comments relating to items that are on the agenda will be taken at the time that the item is discussed. If you wish to address the Council at tonight's meeting, please complete a comment card and submit it to the recording clerk as soon as possible. Your name will be called when it is your turn to speak. You may address the Council up to three times throughout the meeting, including comments made during Public Participation. Please limit your remarks to three minutes per item to allow everyone an opportunity to speak. At the discretion of the Chair, ten or more persons present at the meeting and wishing to speak may appoint a representative who may have no more than fifteen minutes to speak.

Interim Deputy City Manager Heidi Hansen addressed Council to introduce the new Library Director Linda Tillson. Ms. Tillson offered some remarks as well.

Coordinator for Indigenous Initiatives Rose Toehe addressed Council stating that March is Women’s History Month and it is important to honor women. She shared a prayer poem blessing women.

Tom Pearson addressed Council about carbon neutrality goals and the increase load on the electrical system. He urged the Council to maintain resource diversity in the city.

Housing Director Sarah Darr addressed Council to share that she attended the Arizona Housing Coalition Annual Conference where the city was presented with the Innovations in Housing Award for the 10-Year Housing Plan and the public participation process for the plan. She offered words of gratitude to the Council, the Housing Commission, staff, and the public for all the work and input provided in creation of the plan.

Kathy Flaccus, on behalf of Friends of the Rio, addressed Council with concerns about the public comment time frame for the recently released Rio de Flag Supplemental Assessment. She asked the Council to request an extension for the comment period from the Army Corp of Engineers. She also requested a public meeting with representatives from the Army Corp of Engineers to inform the public about the changes.

Kate Reschner addressed Council with concerns about snow plow operations and communication regarding complaints with level of service.

Michelle James, on behalf of Friends of Flagstaff’s Future, addressed Council regarding the Rio de Flag Supplemental Assessment. She expressed concern about there not being enough time to review and consider the document. She asked Council to request an extension for the comment period. She also requested a revised budget for the project and that the city host a community meeting to discuss the changes.

Janine Kelley addressed Council with concerns about lack of maintenance on sidewalks following snowstorms. Many homeowners are not properly clearing sidewalks and it is a safety concern. She asked that more citations be issued to bring about compliance.

Mark Haughwout addressed Council requesting that Council Meetings go back to meeting at 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to better accommodate the public.

Sustainability Director Nicole Antonopoulos addressed Council with an update on the Four Corners Carbon Coalition. The Coalition was awarded $390,000 to fund four projects that fight climate change by removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through the production of concrete.

6.

PROCLAMATIONS AND RECOGNITIONS

A.

Proclamation: National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Mayor Daggett and the City Council read and presented the proclamation.

B.

Proclamation: Employee Appreciation Day

Vice Mayor Aslan and the City Council read and presented the proclamation.

C.

Recognition: Girl Scout High Awards

Mayor Daggett and the City Council read and presented the recognitions to the following Girl Scouts:

Emma Hirning
Emily Blink
Carmen Odegaard
Grace Copeland
Samantha Swan
Peyton VanHemert

7.

COUNCIL LIAISON REPORTS

Councilmember McCarthy offered congratulations to Kate Morley who was selected as the Interim Executive Director for MetroPlan.

Councilmember House thanked the Commission on Diversity Awareness for their support and assistance in presenting the Women’s History Month proclamation last week.

8.

CONSENT ITEMS

All matters under Consent Agenda are considered by the City Council to be routine and will be enacted by one motion approving the recommendations listed on the agenda. Unless otherwise indicated, expenditures approved by Council are budgeted items.

Moved by Councilmember Khara House, seconded by Councilmember Miranda Sweet to approve the Consent Agenda as presented.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

A.

Consideration of Appointment: Magistrate for the Flagstaff Municipal Court.

Approve the appointment of Andrew Moore as Magistrate.

B.

Consideration and Approval of Contract: Approve a Cooperative Purchase Contract for two (2) 2024 Residential Automated Side Load (ASL) Refuse Trucks from Freightliner of Arizona, LLC (Freightliner), with an option to purchase a third ASL Refuse Truck from Freightliner in FY 2023-24, in the total amount of $1,237,149.56, plus applicable fees and taxes.

Consider and Approve a Cooperative Purchase Contract with Freightliner in the total amount of $1,237,149.56, plus applicable fees and taxes, for:

a. The immediate purchase of two (2) 2024 ASL Refuse Trucks in the amount of $824,766.37, plus applicable fees and taxes; and
b. The option to purchase a third ASL Refuse Truck in the amount of $412,383.19, plus applicable fees and taxes, if the budgeted item is approved by City Council in the FY 2023-24 Budget.

Authorize the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.

C.

Consideration and Approval of Contract: Professional Services with Stantec Consulting Services, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $211,866 for a Water, Reclaimed Water, and Wastewater Cost-of-Service, Rates and Fees Study

Approve the Contract for Professional Services with Stantec Consulting Services, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $211,866 for a Water, Reclaimed Water, and Wastewater Cost-of-Service, Rates and Fees Study; and
Authorize the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.

9.

ROUTINE ITEMS

A.

Consideration and Adoption of Ordinance No. 2023-04: An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of Flagstaff, authorizing the exchange of property of substantially equal value with the Arizona Board of Regents; providing for delegation of authority, repeal of conflicting ordinances, and establishing an effective date

Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2023-05: A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Flagstaff, approving the First Amendment to an Intergovernmental Agreement with the Arizona Board of Regents related to Consolidation of University Campus and Road Projects.

Moved by Councilmember Jim McCarthy, seconded by Councilmember Khara House to read Ordinance No. 2023-04 by title only for the final time.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF, AUTHORIZING THE EXCHANGE OF PROPERTY OF SUBSTANTIALLY EQUAL VALUE WITH THE ARIZONA BOARD OF REGENTS; PROVIDING FOR DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY, REPEAL OF CONFLICTING ORDINANCES, SEVERABILITY, AND ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE DATE

Moved by Councilmember Jim McCarthy, seconded by Councilmember Khara House to adopt Ordinance No. 2023-04.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

Moved by Councilmember Jim McCarthy, seconded by Councilmember Khara House to read Resolution No. 2023-05 by title only.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

A RESOLUTION OF THE FLAGSTAFF CITY COUNCIL, APPROVING THE FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT WITH THE ARIZONA BOARD OF REGENTS RELATED TO CONSOLIDATION OF UNIVERSITY CAMPUS AND ROAD PROJECTS

Moved by Councilmember Jim McCarthy, seconded by Councilmember Miranda Sweet to adopt Resolution No. 2023-05.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

10.

REGULAR AGENDA

Mayor Daggett reordered the agenda to take Item 10B before Item 10A

A.

Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2023-08: A resolution of the Flagstaff City Council, approving an Intergovernmental Agreement between Coconino County and the City of Flagstaff for provision of dispatch services by the City of Flagstaff

Police Support Services Manager Allison Hughes provided a PowerPoint presentation associated with items 10A, 10C, 10D, 10E, and 10F that covered the following:

LEAF COLLOCATION IGA’S
LAW ENFORCEMENT ADMINISTRATIVE FACILITY
LEAF COLLOCATION IGA’S
DISPATCH
WARRANTS
MAINTENANCE/CUSTODIAL
RECORDS
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Moved by Councilmember Miranda Sweet, seconded by Councilmember Jim McCarthy to read Resolution No. 2023-08 by title only.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

A RESOLUTION OF THE FLAGSTAFF CITY COUNCIL, APPROVING AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN COCONINO COUNTY AND THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF FOR PROVISION OF DISPATCH SERVICES BY THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF

Moved by Councilmember Miranda Sweet, seconded by Councilmember Jim McCarthy to adopt Resolution No. 2023-08.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

B.

Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2023-10: A resolution of the Flagstaff City Council, approving an Intergovernmental Agreement between the Highlands Fire District and the City of Flagstaff for dispatch services.

Emergency Communications Manager Katie Brandis addressed Council stating that the renewal of the Intergovernmental Agreement will allow for the continuation of providing dispatch services for Highlands Fire District. Flagstaff Police Department has been providing dispatch services to Highlands since 2007. Highlands Fire District will be billed based on the number of calls they receive annually which is about 850 calls which is a cost recovery of about $30,000 per year.

Moved by Councilmember Khara House, seconded by Councilmember Miranda Sweet to read Resolution No. 2023-10 by title only.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

A RESOLUTION OF THE FLAGSTAFF CITY COUNCIL, APPROVING AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE HIGHLANDS FIRE DISTRICT AND THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF FOR DISPATCH SERVICES

Moved by Councilmember Khara House, seconded by Councilmember Miranda Sweet to adopt Resolution No. 2023-10.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

C.

Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2023-07: A resolution of the Flagstaff City Council, approving an Intergovernmental Agreement between Coconino County and the City of Flagstaff for provision of Warrant Services by the Coconino County Sheriff's Department to the City of Flagstaff Police Department

Moved by Councilmember Khara House, seconded by Councilmember Miranda Sweet to read Resolution No. 2023-07 by title only.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

A RESOLUTION OF THE FLAGSTAFF CITY COUNCIL, APPROVING AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN COCONINO COUNTY AND THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF FOR PROVISION OF WARRANTS SERVICES BY THE COCONINO COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT TO THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF POLICE DEPARTMENT

Moved by Councilmember Khara House, seconded by Councilmember Miranda Sweet to adopt Resolution No. 2023-07.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

D.

Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2023-09: A resolution of the Flagstaff City Council, approving an Intergovernmental Agreement between Coconino County, the Coconino County Jail District, and the City of Flagstaff for Coconino County to provide maintenance and custodial services for all parties, for a five year term.

Moved by Councilmember Khara House, seconded by Councilmember Miranda Sweet to read Resolution No. 2023-09 by title only.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

A RESOLUTION OF THE FLAGSTAFF CITY COUNCIL, APPROVING AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN COCONINO COUNTY AND THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF FOR MAINTENANCE AND CUSTODIAL SERVICES BY THE COCONINO COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT TO THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF POLICE DEPARTMENT

Moved by Councilmember Khara House, seconded by Councilmember Miranda Sweet to adopt Resolution No. 2023-09.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

E.

Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2023-06: A Resolution of the Flagstaff City Council, approving an Intergovernmental Agreement between Coconino County, the Coconino County Jail District, and the City of Flagstaff for provision of records management, filing, and reporting services by the City of Flagstaff

Moved by Councilmember Lori Matthews, seconded by Councilmember Deborah Harris to read Resolution No. 2023-06 by title only.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

A RESOLUTION OF THE FLAGSTAFF CITY COUNCIL, APPROVING AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN COCONINO COUNTY, THE COCONINO COUNTY JAIL DISTRICT, AND THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF FOR PROVISION OF RECORDS MANAGEMENT, FILING, AND REPORTING SERVICES BY THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF

Moved by Councilmember Lori Matthews, seconded by Vice Mayor Austin Aslan to adopt Resolution No. 2023-06.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

F.

Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2023-11 : A resolution approving an intergovernmental agreement between Coconino County, the Arizona Board of Regents for and on behalf of Northern Arizona University, and the City of Flagstaff for provision of IT Technology Services by the City of Flagstaff

Moved by Councilmember Deborah Harris, seconded by Councilmember Lori Matthews to read Resolution No. 2023-11 by title only.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

A RESOLUTION OF THE FLAGSTAFF CITY COUNCIL, APPROVING AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN COCONINO COUNTY, ARIZONA BOARD OF REGENTS FOR AND ON BEHALF OF NORTHERN ARIZONA UNIVERSITY, AND THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF FOR PROVISION OF IT TECHNOLOGY SERVICES BY THE CITY OF FLAGSTAFF

Moved by Councilmember Deborah Harris, seconded by Councilmember Lori Matthews to adopt Resolution No. 2023-11.

Vote: 7 - 0 - Unanimously

G.

As Directed by the City Council: Consideration and Adoption of Resolution No. 2023-12: A resolution declaring City Council's opposition to the United States Supreme Court Decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization; opposing Arizona Revised Statutes §§ 36-2321 through 2326, and other provisions of Arizona Law Criminalizing Abortion; and supporting the constitutional rights of pregnant persons, including their access to reproductive health care and abortions.

City Attorney Sterling Solomon introduced the item and offered that the resolution is being presented at the direction of Council. The resolution would not create a sanctuary city or local law, it would simply be a statement by the City Council.

The following individuals addressed Council in opposition of the resolution:

Marie Sather
Bryson Macintosh
Derek Williams
Sandra Redding
Sarah Tewes
Rosanna Tarr
Former State Representative Bob Thorpe
Janet Wessels
Michele Berrong
John Schiebe
Landon Schiebe
Stephanie McKenzie
Gretchen Slover
Brian Miller
Gary M. Howell
Janine Kelley
Victoria Cook
Jackie Burkland
Mark Haughwout
Phil Goldblatt
Sandra Runkle
Marie Dunn
Paul Richardson
Tom Pearson
Ann Ingram
Elise Thomas
John Mark Dyer
Jay Smith
Kate Smith
Chilel Jawara
Brian Weber
Matthew Dyer
Gioia Woods
Mark Zarubin
Allison Dyer
Christina Raynsford
Joshua Walker
Dr. David Berry
Amanda Finney
Victoria Cook
Barbara Swee
Shelby Patton
Sam Copeland
Brian Skowronski
Dr. Jim Dorman
Christina Barkley
Ben (no last name given)
Eric Nichols

The following comments were received:

Your mission is to protect and enhance the quality of life for all, that includes life in the womb.
Abortion stops a beating heart.
Adoption is a beautiful choice and is an option every woman has.
Women can raise a child in the face of adversity, there is support in the community and within the faith community.
Life is precious.
Abortion purposely and intentionally ends a person’s life.
There is a life within the mother that is distinct from the mother.
Energy and resources should be directed to supporting pregnant women and connecting them to appropriate resources.
The effects of an abortion can last a lifetime.
What about the father, a father who wants to accept the results of their actions?
You represent all Flagstaff citizens however, the resolution demonstrates a lack of respect for those who believe that abortion ends the life of a human.
This resolution is an overreach of power and does not represent the community.
Passing a resolution that contradicts state and federal law puts you in direct violation with your oath of office.
Abortion takes a significant emotional toll on mothers and fathers.
Consider a resolution that makes Flagstaff a sanctuary city for adoption.
As an adopted son, I am living proof of the pro-life industry.
Liberty and justice for all includes the unborn.
The real problem is a society that labels babies as problems.
Stand for justice of children and the mental well-being of women.
This is a sad day in Flagstaff history.
The resolution contains no mention of those who are robbed of their choice to live.
Any country that accepts abortion is not teaching its people to love.
The greatest destroyer of love is abortion.
The resolution is a waste of time, resources, and money.
This is a political stand only, go back to parks, police, fire, housing, and snow removal.
Women already have access to abortion, the resolution is not needed.
Abortions have serious health implications.
Pregnancy does not create mental or physical harm.
This resolution will jeopardize the beauty of Flagstaff.
You were not elected to take a stance on abortion, you were elected to run the city.
If the Council wishes to call on the legislature to repeal a law they should hold a referendum to see if a majority of voters support the repeal.
It is inappropriate for the Council to direct the Police Department to ignore the enforcement of state law.
The resolution does nothing but garner controversy.
This resolution is based on your own personal opinions, not on the beliefs of half of your citizens.
The resolution does nothing to change the law and it does not further the health of children, the citizens, or the community.
Abortion organizations are put into poor cities and they target minorities, this should be a civil rights issue.
When we make a statement such as this, even non-binding, it is a statement that we do not regard life at conception.
It is not within the purview of the City Council to determine constitutional rights.
Human rights are inclusive, a pregnant woman should be informed of all resources and options available to her.
Support of this resolution represents a crime to humanity.
The business of abortion is more profitable than healthcare.
Why does the resolution not represent organizations that provide resources to women.
Women are continually lied to that abortion is their only and best option.
How many future Einstein’s, Abraham Lincoln’s, Maya Angelou’s, or Martin Luther King’s have been aborted?
The abortion issue is much bigger than the City Council, this is out of your lane.
Flagstaff is a family friendly environment, let’s keep it that way.
Abortion is in line with racist ideologies.
Bring forward a resolution that supports pregnant women because it signals to women and families that Council values the physical, mental, and socio-economic wellbeing of women in the community.
We are enabling people to be irresponsible for their actions.
The size and location of the baby does not change their personhood.
Endorsing abortion means lives matter, except in the womb.
Healthcare is about health, not death.
Freedom is good but not at the expense of human life.
Making political statements is not the responsibility or appropriate role of the Council.
Making statements that offend so many fulfills no purpose.
Women are being lied to, we are told we are not capable of motherhood unless under perfect circumstances.
Support crisis pregnancy centers, education, foster care, and adoption.
Do not support killing innocent lives to keep women in a stable financial position.
Invest in programs that benefit and educate and lift women up out of these circumstances.

The following individuals submitted written comments in opposition to the resolution:

David Stephens
Pat Miller
Pauline Muller
Bobby Philpott
Jennifer Kuczora
Zachariah Whitlock
Paula Philpott
Christina Blanchard
Robert Robertson
Greg Blanchard
Evan Thompson
Laura Scott
Kathy Corcoran
Tanya Holliday
Brandon Roberson
Preston Korn
Risa Dyer
Andrew Lambert
Jeff Newman
Amanda Finney
Laura Wilson
Irene Blume
Jeff Stafford
Tammy Ontiveros
Phil Goldblatt

The following individuals addressed Council in support of the resolution:

Emma Long
Marilyn Weissman
Debra Block
Emma Schraner
Kyle Nitschke
Julie Piering
Sanjam Ahlnwalia
Susan Shapiro
Dr. Ari Burford
Alison Crane
Diana Coleman
Adam Shimoni
Mia Rodriguez
Lesley Hanson
Karysa Serna
Jasmine Viehe
Stephanie Petrie
Zoe (no last name given)

The following comments were received:

No one wants to get an abortion, it is an incredibly difficult and painful choice.
Motherhood should be a blessing that one should be excited about when they are ready.
No one wants to be put into the foster care system or put into a world where they are not wanted.
We are forgetting the struggle of women, they should have full control over their bodies.
There are close to 14,000 children in foster care in Arizona, but only 3,000 licensed foster families.
There has been no reference to the impact a forced pregnancy causes.
There is evidence that unwanted pregnancy causes psychological harm.
This resolution is a statement of support for human rights.
Abortion is healthcare.
The Council should consider an ordinance that stands up to the state; extreme times call for extreme measures.
The World Health Organization states that lack of access to safe, affordable, timely, and respectful abortion causes risk to a woman.
Women should have the right to decide the number and timing of their children.
Religious beliefs should not determine the position of a community.
The American way of thinking about reproductive rights is so different than the rest of the world.
Access to women’s reproductive healthcare should not be criminalized.
A major study released showed 62% supported abortion access.
The people of Arizona elected a democratic governor, attorney general, and secretary of state who ran on pro-choice platforms.
Pregnancy related mortality is far higher than abortion related mortality.
We should not force people to give birth for any reason.
Do the right thing for the people who are alive.
A woman’s life should always be the preference.
Abortion is a decision between a person and their doctor, the government does not have a role to play in that.
The resolution is a statement of support for those who need it.
Council makes value statements all the time for things like Black History Month, Women’s History Month, and others; this is no different.
The number of children in foster care and within the adoption system is staggering.
So many pregnant women cannot afford their healthcare needs, there is no paid family care, childcare is cost prohibitive, they are stuck in a vicious cycle.
Reproductive healthcare should be available to all women.
Forced pregnancy is a force against humanity.
I would feel less safe if the resolution is not adopted.

The following individuals submitted written comments in support of the resolution:

Katie Huryk
Remy Ramirez
Emma Long
Marilyn Weissman
Liam Sarr
Vaugh Schmidt
Kate Gordon
Jorja Heinkel
Rachel Costello
Zoë Spangler
Dr. Sanjay Joshi

Councilmember Matthews thanked everyone who commented and shared their views. She has been challenged to indicate whether she is pro-life or pro-choice and she has not taken a position because her role on Council is to represent the city as a whole. In Arizona, abortion is allowed up to 15 weeks and according to the CDC, over 98% of abortions performed were done so under 16 weeks. Additionally, a physician can make a decision if a woman’s life is threatened. The political stance being considered has no legal standing and she believes that it will only alienate and create divisiveness. She offered that it is a good opportunity to take a stand and withdraw the resolution because it does not represent the community at large.

Councilmember McCarthy stated that there has been a lot of input on the topic. He noted that the first meeting had many in attendance who supported the resolution and this meeting had many in attended who oppose the resolution. Abortion is never an easy topic. There are times when an abortion makes sense. For those who are against abortion, he suggested they not have one. The decision to or not to have an abortion should not be made at the state legislature. He noted his support for the resolution.

Vice Mayor Aslan expressed his appreciation for the dialogue and the process for creating a safe place to have difficult conversations. A resolution creates space for discussion and that is one of the reasons he supports it. He believes that the resolution is within the Council’s purview to create and consider. It is important to make it known to the state where the Council stands on matters of interest to the state. He noted concern about the 15-week ban changing and that resources need to be directed wisely regardless of what the legislature has passed into law.

Councilmember House thanked everyone who spoke and submitted written comments to Council. She acknowledged that it is not a one size fits all situation and when it comes to individual perspectives, there is a lot of nuances to where people stand on the issue and that may or may not play into how people vote. The resolution states an opinion of the Council body and she does not feel that it is an overstepping of their bounds. She expressed support for the resolution.

Councilmember Sweet thanked everyone for speaking or submitting comments and telling their stories. She indicated that she remains in support of the resolution.

Councilmember Harris also expressed appreciation for the comments, emails, and taking the time to share thoughts and stories. The only way to move the community and country forward is to not be afraid to have difficult conversations and being open to listening and hearing each other’s perspectives. She encouraged everyone to be respectful of other ethnicities and letting them speak for themselves. She voiced her support for the resolution because it is within the Council’s right to disagree with the legislature.

Mayor Daggett stated that she takes the democratic process very seriously and no disrespect has been meant at any point along the way. She is aware that she has never made a vote that was supported by every resident, that it just is not possible. It is okay to disagree and there is no ill-will intended and she hopes the same can be reciprocated. She acknowledged her support of the resolution.

Moved by Vice Mayor Austin Aslan, seconded by Councilmember Deborah Harris to read Resolution No. 2023-12 by title only.

Vote: 6 - 1

NAY:	Councilmember Lori Matthews

A RESOLUTION OF THE FLAGSTAFF CITY COUNCIL, DECLARING COUNCIL'S OPPOSITION TO THE UNITED STATES SUPREME COURT DECISION IN DOBBS V.

JACKSON WOMEN'S HEALTH ORGANIZATION; OPPOSING ARIZONA REVISED STATUTE §§ 36-2321 THROUGH 2326 AND OTHER PROVISIONS OF ARIZONA LAW CRIMINALIZING ABORTION; AND SUPPORTING THE CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS OF PREGNANT PERSONS, INCLUDING THEIR ACCESS TO REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH CARE AND ABORTIONS

Moved by Councilmember Deborah Harris, seconded by Councilmember Khara House to adopt Resolution No. 2023-12.

Vote: 6 - 1

NAY:	Councilmember Lori Matthews

11.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

None

12.

INFORMATIONAL ITEMS TO/FROM MAYOR, COUNCIL, AND STAFF, AND FUTURE AGENDA ITEM REQUESTS

Councilmember Matthews recognized the Flagstaff High School Ladies Eagle Basketball Team for winning the championship, she also recognized their Coach Tyrone Johnson. She also reported that there is movement concerning accessory dwelling units and making it less expensive to add to the housing stock. That conversation should be coming to Council in the fall.

Councilmember House offered Happy Holi and Happy Purim to those who celebrate. She also noted that the next day is International Women’s Day.

Councilmember McCarthy asked the City Manager to look into the comment period for the Rio de Flag environmental assessment and if there is any opportunity to extend the time frame.

13.

ADJOURNMENT

The Regular Meeting of the Flagstaff City Council held March 7, 2023, adjourned at 8:00 p.m.

Print Minutes Return
CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING TUESDAY, MARCH 7, 2023 CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS 211 WEST ASPEN 3:00 P.M. MINUTES