Monthly Public Agency reports resume

At the July 13 meeting, the Big Park Council resumed its practice of issuing a standing invitation to public agencies to address the Council and keep the community up to date. Agency speakers are now first on the agenda each month.

Yavapai County Supervisor’s Report

Yavapai County District 3 Supervisor Donna Michaels expressed her appreciation that monthly public agency reports to the Council have been resumed.

Recycling Returns to the Village: A local company (Squeeky Clean Recycling) will serve the new recycling center in the lower back parking lot of Vista Village (corner of SR179 and Jacks Canyon Road – easy access via East Cortez Drive or through Vista Village itself).

A launch party was held July 28 at 9am and several Big Park Council volunteers stepped up to help plan, coordinate and manage the event. Balloons, music, food and soft drinks were provided.

She noted that the bins are wood, which will be quieter than metal, painted white and complimented Suzy Fairchild on all her hard work to bring this project to fruition.

Broadband Initiative: Supervisor Michaels noted that efforts continue to improve broadband in the region with outreaches for federal funding assistance. RFP’s have been sent out to Broadband suppliers.

Water Study: She noted that water resources remain a priority and that she is collaborating with Big Park Water Company and the City of Sedona on a water study. She is hopeful that legislation being prepared to give rural communities a voice and control of their resources will be considered this upcoming legislative session.

OHV Management: Supervisor Michaels was pleased to report that this issue is currently on the agenda for legislative review. She emphasized the importance of a return to multi-use trails, capable of being shared by horseback riders, bikers, OHV drivers and hikers. There is a balance between a healthy economy and preservation of public lands.

Big Park School Campus: The Sedona Oak Creek Unified School District (SOCUSD) Board met on Tuesday July 11 and one of their decisions was to approve a Letter of Intent to continue to explore a lease/purchase agreement with Yavapai County. The Sheriff’s Office is already moving into the facility under a separate lease arrangement. This is part of their community engagement policy, with an intent to work together to prevent crime rather than focus solely on arresting criminals. Supervisor Michaels explained that the idea is to create a community resource center with perhaps a Court Navigator, P&Z presence for permits/complaints, Verde Valley Caregivers, Telehealth Services and a Memory Café for cognitive stimulation. Nothing is final. These and other ideas are being explored.

Sedona Oak Creek Unified School District Report

Although Board President Hawley couldn’t attend the BPC meeting, he provided John Wichert with a three-minute video update to share. President Hawley reported that at the SOCUSD Board meeting Tuesday, July 11, approvals included the contract for the new school Superintendent to begin July 24, the 2023-24 School System Budget, changes in graduation requirements and a letter of intent for a lease/option to purchase the Big Park School Campus with Yavapai County. President Hawley noted that the SOCUSD Board would likely also meet in August as there were many active programs to consider. He expressed concern over social media rumors and asked that any questions be directed to him, and he would provide the latest accurate information. He can be reached at Email: hawley@sedonak12.org

Sedona Fire District Report

President Wichert noted that Chief Booth would speak at the Aug. 10 meeting and questions/topics should be sent to bigparkcouncil.inquiry@gmail.com