Coconino County planning commission elects Wilson as chair, Best as vice chair after Burton’s resignation

The Coconino County Planning & Zoning Commission elected a new leadership team at its Jan. 7 meeting after Commissioner Tianna Burton announced her resignation.

Vice Chair Wilson announced he would accept nomination to serve as chair. After floor discussion and a roll-call vote, the commission elected Wilson as chair and Commissioner Best as vice chair. Commissioner Tohi moved the motion and Commissioner Walsh seconded. The motion carried by roll call with five ayes and two abstentions.

Commissioners and staff noted Burton had served more than eight years on the commission and thanked her for her service. Commissioners also discussed the need to fill vacancies in District 3 (Burton’s seat) and District 5 (previous vacancy tied to John Ruggles), and staff said they had spoken with the Board of Supervisors about potential appointments.

During the exchange, several commissioners expressed support for continuity and experience. Commissioner Best said he was willing to serve as vice chair, citing his years of service. Commissioner Hayward said he had prior experience chairing other civic bodies and was willing to serve as vice chair if needed. In the formal vote the chair position was accepted and the commission later moved to install Best as vice chair.

The leadership change was scheduled before the planning commission’s annual retreat; commissioners discussed retreat dates and topics including a review of roles, open-meeting laws, and long-range area plans.

The commission’s next formal meeting packet will include information about the timeline and process for filling the two district vacancies.