Coconino County awards medal of merit to longtime environmental justice aide Glenn Miller

The Coconino County Board of Supervisors unanimously adopted a proclamation Dec. 9 honoring Glenn Miller for his decades of public service advancing environmental justice and conservation, and presented him with the county’s medal of merit.

Deputy County Manager Peterson introduced the proclamation and read its text, which cited Miller’s work with Congressman Raul Grijalva (including contributions to the Environmental Justice for All Act precursor) and his role in landmark conservation initiatives such as the Sonoran Desert Conservation Plan and the establishment of the National Landscape Conservation System. Chair Rosa Horstman and Supervisor Judy Begay praised Miller’s work on tribal partnerships and the Grand Canyon National Monument effort.

In a prerecorded message, Congresswoman Grijalva called Miller “more than deserving” after 37 years of service. Local officials and county staff — including Lucinda Andreani and County Manager Andy Bertelsen — described Miller as a mentor and thanked him for his leadership. Miller responded to the recognition, saying he was "overwhelmed" and that he loves Coconino County and Southern Arizona. He said he would take a short break but remains committed to continuing work on public lands.

The board’s approval took place by motion and voice vote after a second from Supervisor Begay. The county intends to host Miller in person when schedules permit.

Next step: no formal policy changes resulted from the proclamation; the action was ceremonial recognition of Miller’s public service.