The City of Winslow began its general plan discussion with a public meeting as part of its regular meeting last week. Resident Theresa Del Mar gave her suggestions for the plan, proposing modifications to the language for section about the Southside and Coopertown neighborhoods. She expressed concerns that these areas are not being treated equally under the current plan, which includes proposals for extended-stay hotels, dormitory-style housing and temporary accommodations. Del Mar suggested removing these proposals and maintaining these neighborhoods as permanent residential areas to better protect them. Karen Colon mentioned that there are many positive aspects in the general plan and feels that Jason Sanks listened to everyone’s needs. She noted that several items she requested were included in the plan. The council approved the plan with the changes recommended by Del Mar.

The final adoption of the general plan will be on the agenda in 30 days. Does this lock Winslow into the decisions outlined in the plan? The answer is no. A general plan is intended to provide an overview of a city’s long-term plans, which can evolve over time. Changes to the general plan can be made easily by the council if adjustments are needed. The primary purpose of such plans is to justify decisions and potential investments, while also providing direction for city staff to identify opportunities.

The general plan includes maintaining the Route 66 feel in the downtown area, promoting arts and culture, and supporting beautification programs. It also includes a land use map that was displayed at a public meeting, allowing residents to discuss their thoughts with the city council and staff. The land use map divides the town into zones for residential, industrial, and commercial use, and outlines the city’s goals for developing the industrial park at the airport.

Overall, the general plan provides a detailed picture of how the city and its residents envision the town evolving over the next decade. For the full document, it can be viewed at city hall or winslowaz.gov.

During the meeting, the city also updated its employee policy to formally recognize and designate Navajo Code Talkers Day as a paid city holiday, observed annually on Aug. 14. This holiday honors the contributions of Navajo Code Talkers during World War II, who played a crucial role in secure communications and intelligence operations. By establishing this holiday, the city acknowledges the Navajo Nation’s enduring legacy and cultural importance within the community.

In other business, the council:

*Approved a purchase agreement with Play it Safe Playgrounds & Park Equipment for basketball court renovations at a cost of $70,046.74.

* Approved an intergovernmental agreement with the Navajo County Sheriff’s Office to give the city’s portion of the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant funding to the Sheriff’s office as payment for the Major Crimes Apprehension Team.

* Approved special events liquor license application for the Standin On the Corner Festival and a donation of $3,000 and $3,000 worth of in-kind services.

*Approved a donation of $350 to Alice’s Place for its murder mystery fundraiser.

* Approved David Coolidge as the chief fiscal officer to submit the fiscal year 2025 expenditure limitation report to the auditor general.

* Approved giving Winslow’s portion of Kroger’s opioid settlement money to the state attorney general’s office for opioid treatment, prevention and education.

The next meeting of the Winslow City Council will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 23, in the meeting room located at 523 W. Second St.