Flagstaff City Council considers downtown parking rate increase with DBA support

The Flagstaff City Council convened for its second day of budget retreat discussions on April 25, 2025, focusing on the future of downtown Flagstaff and the potential for a parking rate increase. The meeting highlighted the importance of collaboration between the city council and the business community, particularly the Downtown Business Alliance (DBA), in enhancing the downtown experience for both residents and visitors.

A key topic of discussion was the deferred maintenance of downtown facilities and the vision for future improvements. Council members expressed optimism about the potential for downtown to become an even greater attraction. One council member emphasized the need for a straightforward parking rate structure, suggesting that a simple, uniform rate would facilitate easier communication and understanding among the public.

The council acknowledged that any proposed parking rate increase would require strong support from local businesses to be successful. The vice mayor, who is also a business owner, underscored the necessity of business backing to effectively implement changes and promote them within the community. This sentiment was echoed by Hunter Abare, the director of the DBA, who noted that the current slower tourism period presents an opportunity to undertake necessary improvements and prepare for future growth.

Abare highlighted the importance of maintaining and enhancing the downtown area to ensure a positive experience for visitors and residents alike. He expressed confidence that with continued efforts, the downtown could thrive, especially as tourism rebounds. The DBA is focused on setting both short-term and long-term goals to achieve these improvements.

The discussions at the retreat reflect a broader commitment to revitalizing downtown Flagstaff, with an emphasis on community engagement and business collaboration. As the council moves forward, the outcomes of these discussions will likely shape the future of downtown, impacting local businesses and the overall community experience. The next steps will involve further analysis of the proposed parking rates and continued dialogue with the business community to ensure a unified approach to downtown development.