The Winslow City Council met last week and heard a presentation from Nico Fricchione of OneTen REI regarding plans to develop city-owned property on State Route 87.

“We focus primarily on commercial development and have an additional expertise in modular construction for mid to large scale residential communities. We are here because we have identified the Winslow Industrial Park as a potential opportunity for us to purchase, design and develop a master plan sustainable community incorporating a minimum of 1,500 residential units as well as commercial development.”

He explained that this was an ideal location for their development due to its proximity to the Navajo Nation. This was of importance because the planned community is geared toward underserved populations. Most notably, those suffering from mental and behavioral health issues as well as substance abuse issues.

His company plans to partner with health care providers and other stakeholders to develop and maintain a residential type treatment center. The community, as explained by Dr. William Richardson, a behavioral health expert, would be sustainable and encourage those with substance abuse challenges to work and live while undergoing treatment.

The first step, however, is purchasing and developing land in the Winslow Industrial Park, which will be discussed at a later date, according to council members.

No action was taken on the agenda item. However, Mayor Roberta “Birdie” Cano did express her interest in the development of a treatment center. She said, “I am absolutely interested in this. However, there are a lot of other developers that are interested in that area. I do think there is room for every opportunity especially as this is very important for our citizens and surrounding communities.”

The council then adjourned to an executive session to consult with legal council regarding use of development agreements and development incentives for economic development opportunities.

In other business, and in the absence of Councilman Jim Maclean, the council:

* Proclaimed March as Women’s History Month and April as Fair Housing Month.

* Heard a status report from City Manager John Barkley. In his report, he announced to water customers that late fees and shut-offs have been reinstated. These had been suspended during the pandemic.

* Approved the reappointment of Monique Chavez, Randall Sahmie and Lani White to the Winslow Arts Council until April 1, 2025.

* Approved an agreement between the City of Winslow and the Winslow Little League, Inc. The agreement includes monetary assistance in the amount of $4,999. This is an annual agreement and aids in the payment of umpires and other officials during the Little League season.

* Approved a contract in the amount of $95,000 with A.S.T.A. Roofing and Construction, LLC. for roofing repairs needed on the Winslow Police Department building, located at 708 W. Third St.

* Approved a grant agreement with the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority (WIFA) in the amount of $514,200 to contract with outside advisors, authorities, consultants and aides in defending the City’s water rights.

* Approved assistance in the amount of $1,500 and city services including police and facilities to the annual Native American Powwow, which will be held July 2 and 3 at the multipurpose field, located on Maple Street.

* Approved the repeal of an ordinance adopted by the council authorizing the acquisition of real property located at 104 E. First St. The abatement process has commenced and requires the city to attempt to contact the owner of the property.

The next meeting of the Winslow City Council will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 12, in the Hubbell Building, located at 523 W. Second St.