Residents deliver 247‑signature petition opposing downtown sidewalk narrowing; caller asks council to affirm free‑speech protections

At the Jan. 14 Douglas Mayor and Council meeting, residents used the public comment period to press elected officials on two distinct community concerns.

Ida Ann Pedrego of 1815 5th Street presented a petition signed by 247 citizens opposing a planned downtown streetscape project that would widen sidewalks and narrow driving lanes, and she expressed concern about removal of turning lanes and what she said was insufficient constituent consultation. Councilmember Jose Montaño said he had reviewed the plans before voting, and Mayor Pro Tem Ray Shelton said he would look into the concerns raised by residents. The meeting minutes show no formal council action on the petition at this session.

Also during public comment, Diana LaMar criticized statements that had labeled local protest groups such as Douglas Indivisible as terrorist organizations and requested that the council adopt a resolution affirming its commitment to free speech, due process and limited cooperation with ICE. The request was made during the public-comment segment; the council did not adopt or refer a resolution during the meeting.

Architect Steve Helfrich introduced himself and offered professional services related to downtown streetscape planning, the community kitchen and micro‑business support after noting he recently purchased and renovated the old Douglas Hotel. Cochise County Supervisor Kathleen Gomez spoke about county islands within Douglas, meetings with Sunnyside Fire District regarding annexation budget impacts, an economic study that will prioritize Douglas and the port, and ongoing efforts to explore establishing a hospital in Douglas.

What happens next: The petition and requests were entered into the record during public comment. Councilmembers acknowledged the concerns; any formal response, referral to staff or resolution would require council action at a future meeting.