Flagstaff focuses on housing attainability and public input at work session

In the heart of Flagstaff, city and county officials gathered for a pivotal Joint City/County Regional Plan Retreat on May 2, 2025. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as community members prepared to voice their thoughts on pressing local issues, particularly housing attainability and climate action.

As the meeting commenced, Sashi, a key facilitator, set the stage for public comment, emphasizing the importance of community input. “We will be asking you to give feedback on whether you can live with these priorities and goals,” Sashi explained, highlighting the interactive nature of the session. Attendees were encouraged to participate in discussions and a dot exercise to express their views on the proposed priorities.

One of the central topics of discussion was housing attainability, a pressing concern for many residents. Supervisor Fowler raised a critical question about the definition of attainability, prompting a detailed response. “It is both whether or not there are enough places to live in Flagstaff and can we make them attainable,” a city representative clarified. The conversation delved into the complexities of housing, distinguishing between affordable housing, attainable housing, and workforce housing. Each category was defined, shedding light on the various strategies needed to address the housing crisis.

As the meeting progressed, community members took to the podium to share their insights. Jill Stevenson, one of the speakers, expressed her interest in the climate action section, indicating a desire for a broader discussion on environmental issues. The meeting allowed for diverse voices to be heard, with a structured format ensuring that each speaker had a chance to contribute.

The retreat not only served as a platform for public comment but also as a crucial step in shaping the future of Flagstaff. With discussions centered on housing and climate action, the city and county officials are poised to address the needs of their community, fostering a collaborative approach to regional planning. As the session wrapped up, the sense of urgency and commitment to improving local conditions was palpable, leaving attendees eager for the next steps in this ongoing dialogue.