Residents brought forward concerns about changes in city code related to excess noise during the Winslow City Council meeting on Dec. 10, specifically addressing the ordinance requiring a 200-foot buffer between amplified sound and residential areas. The ordinance was established to mitigate disruptions from special events such as carnivals held near neighborhoods. Several residents shared their experiences with noise-related issues during past events, emphasizing the impact on their quality of life.
Resident Dawn Fowler explained how noise from previous carnivals affected her neighborhood, particularly when events were held close to the Safeway shopping center fence. Another resident raised the idea of introducing decibel-level limits instead of relying solely on the distance requirement, which could provide more flexibility for event organizers while still protecting residents.
The council discussed the current ordinance, which allows for exceptions if approved in advance. Councilman Jim MacLean noted that the buffer could still be enforced while allowing events to continue by adjusting their layout to ensure compliance. It was also suggested that city staff work closely with event organizers, including local groups such as the Rotary Club and Car Club, to educate them on the ordinance’s requirements, such as the 200-foot rule and limits on noise after 10 p.m.
Ultimately, the council decided to retain the 200-foot buffer but emphasized improving communication and enforcement to avoid future conflicts. Also, so that it gives them the option to grant special permission if they would like.
City Manager David Coolidge provided updates on several ongoing projects, including progress at Hayden Walton Park, where new ramadas will replace the existing structures by early spring. The old ramadas, if preserved during removal, may be repurposed to provide shade at the city’s animal shelter, an idea that was brought up at the meeting. At the 9/11 Park, new lighting is set to be installed in February, with paving and sidewalk work scheduled for completion by late spring. These upgrades are expected to be finished in time for the next 9/11 Memorial next Sept. 11.
The Winslow Public Library is nearing completion, with staff already moving items into the new building. The current library will close from Jan. 27 to Feb. 7 to facilitate the transition. A grand opening celebration is tentatively scheduled for Feb. 8, followed by the resumption of regular library operations on Feb. 10. Other park improvements include updates to Coopertown Park, where new lighting has been ordered for the basketball court, and playground equipment upgrades are being finalized.
The city manager also discussed upcoming programs aimed at community engagement and safety. Winslow’s police department is developing courses on gun safety and self-defense, which are expected to be available in the spring. These courses will be tailored to specific groups, including women and youth, to ensure accessibility and relevance.
In addition, the city is preparing to launch an appliance drop-off program, allowing residents to dispose of items containing refrigerants for $25 per appliance. The city has partnered with a technician who will safely remove refrigerants, making the appliances eligible for disposal through waste management. The program is expected to start in June or July after necessary updates to the city’s fee schedule.
The council reviewed plans for recruiting a new police chief, with the process set to begin after the New Year. Council members discussed the importance of maintaining transparency and adhering to conflict-of-interest policies during the recruitment process. This was brought to their attention at the meeting by Jerry Begay who spoke during call to the public and expressed concerns about Mayor Birdie Cano being married to Ernie Cano who is a sergeant with the Winslow Police Department and there is currently no chief. However, the search that ultimately led to the hiring of recently retired Chief Franklin Caldwell saw Mayor Cano recusing herself during the selection process.
Coolidge also said in a public meeting at the time that he can attest she did not participate in the hiring process. Coolidge emphasized that the police chief is appointed by the city manager and the council’s role is to approve the final appointment. With the last chief’s retirement coming nine months after coming to Winslow it’s more important than ever that the selection be someone who will last.
In other business, the council:
* Approved a proclamation celebrating 62 years of 1230 AM KINO broadcasting in Winslow.
*. Approved the check register and past meeting minutes.
* Approved reappointment of Lawrence Kenna to the airport commission and Mary Chavez to the arts council.
* Approved obligating the last $18,706 of American Rescue Plan Act funds to the utility assistance program.
* Approved community facilities district policies and procedures to establish community facilities as a new zoning district.
* Approved ordinance involving recreation vehicles to remove consequences for parking on abandoned lots and 180-day consecutive days limit.
The next meeting of the Winslow City Council will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan 14, in the meeting room located at 523 West Second St.
