As the sun dipped below the horizon on September 23, 2025, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors convened for their evening meeting, a gathering marked by a blend of virtual and in-person participation. Vice Chair Geronimo Vasquez, stepping in as acting chair, welcomed his colleagues and the public, setting a tone of camaraderie and gratitude for the opportunity to engage in local governance.

The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance, a moment that underscored the community spirit among the supervisors and attendees. However, as the board moved into the call to the public, it became clear that engagement from the community was limited. Despite the invitation for public comments, no residents stepped forward to share their thoughts or concerns, and the inbox for virtual comments remained silent. This absence of public input highlighted a potential disconnect between the board and the community it serves.

Clerk Daly facilitated the process, reminding attendees of the rules governing public comments, emphasizing the importance of respectful discourse. With no comments received, the board swiftly moved on, reflecting a common challenge faced by local governments: fostering active participation from residents.

As the meeting progressed, the supervisors remained poised to address any issues that might arise, demonstrating their commitment to transparency and community involvement. The evening concluded without significant public discourse, leaving the board to ponder how to better engage with the voices of Coconino County in future meetings. The quiet night served as a reminder of the ongoing need for connection between local leaders and the citizens they represent.