The Flagstaff City Indigenous Commission on Jan. 8 approved commissioner representatives for planning workgroups for a proposed inaugural city community powwow, a Code Talkers celebration and Indigenous Peoples’ Day, and discussed logistics including dates, volunteers and a preliminary $8,000 budget for the powwow.

Staff liaison Rojos Tohi said the commission has earmarked $8,000 toward the event and is exploring facility and sponsorship options to minimize attendee charges. “Well, right now, we're gonna be working with, 8,000,” staff said when outlining early budget planning.

Commissioners appointed Commissioners Marks and Lance as the Indigenous Commission’s representatives for the community powwow planning group. Commissioner Zavala moved the motion to approve the two as the working‑group representatives; the motion passed by voice vote. The transcript records similar motions and approvals for the Code Talkers and Indigenous Peoples' Day working groups.

Discussion focused on realistic scope and volunteer capacity. Commissioner Francis cautioned that “a powwow takes more than 3 people” and described the event as a substantial undertaking requiring many volunteers and clear role assignments. Commissioners proposed outreach to high school and university student groups, local volunteers and community organizations to staff logistics such as vendor coordination, security, tear down and publicity.

Commissioners debated timing: April was suggested because several existing powwows fall in spring, but speakers noted school powwows and graduation conflicts in April and May, and staff said the commission can plan through June because the fiscal year cycle limits funding actions after June 30. Potential venues under consideration included fields near Thorpe Park and stadium‑lighted baseball fields at a community site that would support evening programming.

A local high-school student and powwow practitioner, Ashin Arnold, offered planning expertise and said she has served as head staff for powwows and has about 10 years of experience. Commissioners invited her to participate with the planning group as an advisor or head staff.

Next steps: work groups will proceed with outreach and planning, staff will continue facilities and sponsor outreach, and the commission will revisit schedules, volunteer rosters and a more detailed budget. The commission adjourned at 12:41 p.m.