The Snowflake Town Council met Oct. 24 in a work session to review an intergovernmental facilities agreement with Navajo County, which is coming up for renewal. This agreement currently provides housing at 145 S. Main St. for county operations, including the justice court, sheriff’s office, Arizona’s Women, Infant and Children program, and probation.
The council is exploring possible changes to the proposed agreement put forth by the county. The primary concern was the wording of Section 1.3 Base Rent, which would allow the county to make a one-time payment of $150,000. This payment would cover current arrears and would be applied as rent payment for the entire 10-year lease.
Several options were discussed, including accepting the lease as it was presented; submitting a counterproposal which addresses concerns of the council; moving the lease site to another location, thereby allowing the Main Street frontage to be used by a paying tenant; or collaborating with Taylor to construct a completely different facility.
Justice of the Peace Fred Peterson said the current location “is adequate,” but it does not provide enough space to accommodate a new clerk, which the court would like to hire. While Peterson said the court would be happy to go where the council wants it to go, he clarified that any housing of the justice court requires specific technology.
He said that he believes the court should remain in town rather than close and move elsewhere, as having a local court benefits the town and makes for a stronger community. The council agreed.
With the acumen of a businessman, Terril Kay suggested the council explore the financial pros and cons of accepting the lease. At its current reading, Navajo County would pay a one-time fee. Specifics would need to be considered, such as possible renovation costs within the 10-year term, maintaining grounds, snow removal and other day-to-day expenses.
Possible relocation sites were also discussed. One possibility was the Snowflake Academy.
Cathie McDowell, library director, informed the council that the cost of renovations currently needed by the library total more than $750,000. These include installing a more efficient heating system, replacing windows and other structural work, but does not include any adaptations, which might occur if other government operations were moved to the building.
The discussion will continue. Snowflake officials will contact Taylor administration to ascertain their views. Any changes would impact Taylor, as its court cases are currently heard in Snowflake.
Vice Mayor Kerry Ballard said, “I like the court on Main Street. They’re doing a good job.”
The matter will be on the agenda item of the next council meeting. In the meantime, council members will continue to obtain information relevant to the discussion. Members of the community are invited to contact town hall with their opinions and/or suggestions.
