Home » City Council, Community » Eddie Maddock: Sedona Struggles to Maintain Quality of Life

Eddie Maddock: Sedona Struggles to Maintain Quality of Life

SedonaEye.com Columnist Eddie S. Maddock opines on the struggle to maintain Sedona Arizona’s red rock splendor and quality of life in the face of commercialism, tourism, favoritism, and the resulting eco-unfriendly biohazards.

Sedona AZ (October 21, 2017) – With a flurry of hard core issues presently on the drawing board such as the Fire District Bond, amendments to the Sedona Community Plan which will increase land development density, and the increase of Sedona City sales tax, maybe it has or has not been an oversight to more prominently address the current “Citizen’s Survey” which was mailed to a select number of Sedona City residents.

Not having personally received the survey, several outside contacts related concerns with some of the questions, which resulted in obtaining a copy of the survey via online research and which, with approval of the Editor of SedonaEye.com, is shown in a text format for informational purposes only so as NOT to be confused as an official document to be completed and mailed back to the source contracted for the research.

The results of this “citizen’s survey” may or may not have a tremendous impact on the direction of Sedona’s future. However, considerable unrest exists relating to ongoing troubling changes in the quality of life for those of us who are permanent residents and who moved here to enjoy life with a small town atmosphere.

Although difficult, this informational offering is submitted without comment or editorializing – which will not prevent me from making future comments if it does, in fact, appear on SedonaEye.

SedonaEye? Who dat?

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The City of Sedona 2017 Citizen Survey

Sedona AZ

Please complete this questionnaire if you are the adult (age 18 or older) in the household who most recently had a birthday. The adult’s year of birth does not matter. Please select the response that most closely represents your opinion for each question. Your responses are anonymous and will be reported in group form only.

Please rate each of the following aspects of quality of life in Sedona:

Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know

Sedona as a place to live
Your neighborhood as a place to live
Sedona as a place to raise children
Sedona as a place to work
Sedona as a place to visit
Sedona as a place to retire
The overall quality of life in Sedona

The National Citizen Survey © 2001-2017 National Research Center, Inc. Current Progress 5%

The City of Sedona 2017 Citizen Survey

Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Sedona as a whole:

Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know

Overall feeling of safety in Sedona
Overall ease of getting to the places you usually have to visit
Quality of overall natural environment in Sedona
Overall “built environment” of Sedona (including overall design, buildings, parks and transportation systems)
Health and wellness opportunities in Sedona

Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know

Overall opportunities for education and enrichment
Overall economic health of Sedona
Sense of community
Overall image or reputation of Sedona

The National Citizen Survey © 2001-2017 National Research Center, Inc.

The City of Sedona 2017 Citizen Survey

Please indicate how likely or unlikely you are to do each of the following:

Very likely Somewhat likely Somewhat unlikely Very unlikely Don’t know
Recommend living in Sedona to someone who asks
Remain in Sedona for the next five years

Please rate how safe or unsafe you feel:

Very safe Somewhat safe Neither safe nor unsafe Somewhat unsafe Very unsafe Don’t know

In your neighborhood during the day
In Sedona’s downtown/commercial area during the day

The National Citizen Survey © 2001-2017 National Research Center, Inc.

The City of Sedona 2017 Citizen Survey

Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Sedona as a whole:

Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know

Traffic flow on major streets
Ease of public parking
Ease of travel by car in Sedona
Ease of travel by public transportation in Sedona
Ease of travel by bicycle in Sedona
Ease of walking in Sedona
Availability of paths and walking trails

Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know

Air quality
Cleanliness of Sedona
Overall appearance of Sedona
Public places where people want to spend time
Variety of housing options
Availability of affordable quality housing
Fitness opportunities (including exercise classes and paths or trails, etc.)

Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know

Recreational opportunities
Availability of affordable quality food
Availability of affordable quality health care
Availability of preventive health services
Availability of affordable quality mental health care

The National Citizen Survey © 2001-2017 National Research Center, Inc. Current Progress 15%

The City of Sedona 2017 Citizen Survey

Please rate each of the following characteristics as they relate to Sedona as a whole:

Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know

Availability of affordable quality child care/preschool
K-12 education
Adult educational opportunities
Opportunities to attend cultural/arts/music activities
Opportunities to participate in religious or spiritual events and activities
Employment opportunities

Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know

Shopping opportunities
Cost of living in Sedona
Overall quality of business and service establishments in Sedona
Vibrant downtown/commercial area
Overall quality of new development in Sedona
Opportunities to participate in social events and activities

Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know

Opportunities to volunteer
Opportunities to participate in community matters
Openness and acceptance of the community toward people of diverse backgrounds
Neighborliness of residents in Sedona

The National Citizen Survey © 2001-2017 National Research Center, Inc.

The City of Sedona 2017 Citizen Survey

Please indicate whether or not you have done each of the following in the last 12 months.

No Yes

Made efforts to conserve water
Made efforts to make your home more energy efficient
Observed a code violation or other hazard in Sedona (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.)
Household member was a victim of a crime in Sedona
Reported a crime to the police in Sedona

No Yes

Stocked supplies in preparation for an emergency
Campaigned or advocated for an issue, cause or candidate
Contacted the City of Sedona (in-person, phone, email or web) for help or information
Contacted Sedona elected officials (in-person, phone, email or web) to express your opinion

The National Citizen Survey © 2001-2017 National Research Center, Inc.

The City of Sedona 2017 Citizen Survey

In the last 12 months, about how many times, if at all, have you or other household members done each of the following in Sedona?

2 times a week or more 2-4 times a month Once a month or less Not at all

Visited a neighborhood park or City park
Used Sedona public libraries or their services
Participated in religious or spiritual activities in Sedona
Attended a City-sponsored event

2 times a week or more 2-4 times a month Once a month or less Not at all

Used bus, rail, subway or other public transportation instead of driving
Carpooled with other adults or children instead of driving alone
Walked or biked instead of driving
Volunteered your time to some group/activity in Sedona

2 times a week or more 2-4 times a month Once a month or less Not at all

Participated in a club
Talked to or visited with your immediate neighbors
Done a favor for a neighbor
Used the Sedona Hub

The National Citizen Survey © 2001-2017 National Research Center, Inc. Current Progress 23%

The City of Sedona 2017 Citizen Survey

Thinking about local public meetings (of local elected officials like City Council or County Commissioners, advisory boards, town halls, HOA, neighborhood watch, etc.), in the last 12 months, about how many times, if at all, have you or other household members attended or watched a local public meeting?
2 times a week or more 2-4 times a month Once a month or less Not at all
Attended a local public meeting
Watched (online or on television) a local public meeting

The National Citizen Survey © 2001-2017 National Research Center, Inc. Current Progress 26%

The City of Sedona 2017 Citizen Survey

Please rate the quality of each of the following services in Sedona:

Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know

Police/Sheriff services
Fire services
Ambulance or emergency medical services
Crime prevention
Fire prevention and education
Traffic enforcement
Street repair
Street cleaning

Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know

Street lighting
Snow removal
Sidewalk maintenance
Traffic signal timing
Bus or transit services
Garbage collection
Recycling
Yard waste pick-up

Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know

Storm drainage
Drinking water
Sewer services
Power (electric and/or gas) utility
Utility billing
City parks
Recreation programs or classes
Recreation facilities

Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know

Land use, planning and zoning
Code enforcement (weeds, abandoned buildings, etc.)
Animal control
Economic development
Health services
Public library services
Public information services

Emergency preparedness (services that prepare the community for natural disasters or other emergency situations)

Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know

Preservation of natural areas such as open space, farmlands and greenbelts
Sedona open space
City-sponsored special events
Overall customer service by Sedona employees (police, receptionists, planners, etc.)

The National Citizen Survey © 2001-2017 National Research Center, Inc. Current Progress 28%

The City of Sedona 2017 Citizen Survey

Overall, how would you rate the quality of the services provided by each of the following?

Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know

The City of Sedona
The Federal Government

The National Citizen Survey © 2001-2017 National Research Center, Inc.

The City of Sedona 2017 Citizen Survey

Please rate the following categories of Sedona government performance:

Excellent Good Fair Poor Don’t know

The value of services for the taxes paid to Sedona
The overall direction that Sedona is taking
The job Sedona government does at welcoming citizen involvement
Overall confidence in Sedona government
Generally acting in the best interest of the community
Being honest
Treating all residents fairly

Please rate how important, if at all, you think it is for the Sedona community to focus on each of the following in the coming two years:

Essential Very important Somewhat important Not at all important

Overall feeling of safety in Sedona
Overall ease of getting to the places you usually have to visit
Quality of overall natural environment in Sedona
Overall “built environment” of Sedona (including overall design, buildings, parks and transportation systems)
Health and wellness opportunities in Sedona
Overall opportunities for education and enrichment
Overall economic health of Sedona
Sense of community

The National Citizen Survey © 2001-2017 National Research Center, Inc. Current Progress 36%

The City of Sedona 2017 Citizen Survey

Cities are faced with difficult choices with limited budgets. While the City is currently working on solutions to reduce traffic, please select up to two (2) additional priorities you would want the City to invest in over the next few years:

Additional cultural facilities (museums, theatres, etc.) Additional parks and facilities (playgrounds, sports facilities, etc.)
An Oak Creek park or walk Other
Increase the walkability and bikeability of Sedona None of these
Ensure housing for those who work in Sedona

Please select up to three (3) service areas for the City to contribute additional funding in order to expand existing services over the next few years:

Recycling services Arts and culture programs
Library services Social services (senior center, food banks, etc.)
Animal services Other (please specify)
Business development services None, I’m pleased with levels of service in listed areas

The National Citizen Survey © 2001-2017 National Research Center, Inc.

The City of Sedona 2017 Citizen Survey

Please indicate how likely or unlikely you are to use each of the following sources to learn about City issues, activities, events and services:

Very likely Somewhat likely Somewhat unlikely Very unlikely Don’t know

City website (www.sedonaaz.gov) and eNotify emails
Local newspapers (Red Rock News) and websites (www.Sedona.biz)
Local radio stations (100.1, NPR on 103.3 or 88.7, etc.)
Channel 4, the local government TV channel
City Council meetings and other public meetings
Talking with City officials and staff members
City communications via social media
Word-of-mouth

To what extent do you agree or disagree that each of the following would increase your use of a bicycle or walking as a means of alternative transportation:

I would ride a bicycle or walk more often if…

Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disagree Don’t know

There were more off-street bike, sidewalks or multi-use paths/trails
I felt safer from traffic while riding a bicycle/walking
I had better health or physical ability to do so
I do not want to use a bicycle or walk as a means of transportation

The National Citizen Survey © 2001-2017 National Research Center, Inc.

The City of Sedona 2017 Citizen Survey

To what extent do you support or oppose the City investing in creating sustainability policies and programs in the following areas:

Strongly support Somewhat support Somewhat oppose Strongly oppose Don’t know

Increasing use of alternative energy sources
Encouraging water conservation
Fostering National Forest stewardship (trails, access, etc.).
Increasing recycling services
Developing plans to meet the goal of zero waste in Sedona
Requiring higher green building and development standards

To what extent would you support or oppose the City of Sedona encouraging growth in the following types of businesses/industries?

Strongly support Somewhat support Somewhat oppose Strongly oppose Don’t know

Technology (i.e., life science, R&D)
Outdoor recreation
Tourism (i.e., hotels, restaurants)
Healthcare (i.e., pharmaceutical, hospital, medical offices)
Arts and Entertainment (i.e., graphic design, interior design)
Light warehousing and distribution (i.e., truck operators, stock clerks)

The National Citizen Survey © 2001-2017 National Research Center, Inc.

The City of Sedona 2017 Citizen Survey

Our last questions are about you and your household. Again, all of your responses to this survey are completely anonymous and will be reported in group form only.

How often, if at all, do you do each of the following, considering all of the times you could?

Never Rarely Sometimes Usually Always

Recycle at home
Purchase goods or services from a business located in Sedona
Eat at least 5 portions of fruits and vegetables a day
Participate in moderate or vigorous physical activity
Read or watch local news (via television, paper, computer, etc.)
Vote in local elections

The National Citizen Survey © 2001-2017 National Research Center, Inc.

The City of Sedona 2017 Citizen Survey

Would you say that in general your health is:

Excellent

Very good

Good

Fair

Poor

What impact, if any, do you think the economy will have on your family income in the next 6 months? Do you think the impact will be:

Very positive

Somewhat positive

Neutral

Somewhat negative

Very negative

What is your employment status?

Working full time for pay

Working part time for pay

Unemployed, looking for paid work

Unemployed, not looking for paid work

Fully retired

The National Citizen Survey © 2001-2017 National Research Center, Inc.

The City of Sedona 2017 Citizen Survey

Do you work inside the boundaries of Sedona?

Yes, outside the home

Yes, from home

No

How many years have you lived in Sedona?

Less than 2 years

2-5 years

6-10 years

11-20 years

More than 20 years

Which best describes the building you live in?

One family house detached from any other houses

Building with two or more homes (duplex, townhome, apartment or condominium)

Mobile home

Other

The National Citizen Survey © 2001-2017 National Research Center, Inc.

The City of Sedona 2017 Citizen Survey

Is this house, apartment or mobile home…

Rented

Owned

About how much is your monthly housing cost for the place you live (including rent, mortgage payment, property tax, property insurance and homeowners’ association (HOA) fees)?

Less than $300 per month $1,000 to $1,499 per month
$300 to $599 per month $1,500 to $2,499 per month
$600 to $999 per month $2,500 or more per month

The National Citizen Survey © 2001-2017 National Research Center, Inc.

The City of Sedona 2017 Citizen Survey

Do any children 17 or under live in your household?

No

Yes

Are you or any other members of your household aged 65 or older?

No

Yes

How much do you anticipate your household’s total income before taxes will be for the current year? (Please include in your total income money from all sources for all persons living in your household.)

Less than $25,000

$25,000 to $49,999

$50,000 to $99,999

$100,000 to $149,999

$150,000 or more

The National Citizen Survey © 2001-2017 National Research Center, Inc.

The City of Sedona 2017 Citizen Survey

Please respond to both questions:

Are you Spanish, Hispanic or Latino?

No, not Spanish, Hispanic or Latino

Yes, I consider myself to be Spanish, Hispanic or Latino

What is your race? (Mark one or more races to indicate what race you consider yourself to be.)

American Indian or Alaskan Native

Asian, Asian Indian or Pacific Islander

Black or African American

White

Other

The National Citizen Survey © 2001-2017 National Research Center, Inc. Current Progress 92%

The City of Sedona 2017 Citizen Survey

In which category is your age?
18-24 years 55-64 years
25-34 years 65-74 years
35-44 years 75 years or older
45-54 years

What is your sex?

Female

Male

The National Citizen Survey © 2001-2017 National Research Center, Inc. Current Progress 97%

The City of Sedona 2017 Citizen Survey

Do you consider a cell phone or land line your primary telephone number?

Cell

Land line

Both

The National Citizen Survey © 2001-2017 National Research Center, Inc. (END)

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734 Comments

  1. Caroline J. says:

    About those “Northern Lights.” Unfortunately the Chamber of Commerce wasn’t forthright when they went to Keep Sedona Beautiful and the Forest Ranger Station. They failed to disclose the time it would take to test shine those bright lights on the red rocks PRIOR to the actual performances. Therefore the agreement was based only on the actual 15 minute intervals. Quite a difference.

    Failure to tell the entire story was deceitful to put it mildly. The questions is, would KSB and the USFS have granted their approval if they had been appropriately informed? This is something that for sure needs clarification. City Council? City Staff? Do you even care? How about it Mrs. Roger Thomas? You and Segner know it all or so you think.

    Tony T you have my vote.

  2. Holy Cow says:

    Who will the city council pick to fill the vacant seat now being left by Joe Vernier?
    Answer: One of their far-left allies, of course.

    BTW – any updates on who was selected for the Fire District Board??

  3. June Cleaver says:

    The animals have had free reign over their habitat until now. The birds and animals do not have a knowledge of something being over in 6 minutes every hour for days or any prep. They flee and abandon their nests.

    Seriously, there was not enough traffic in Sedona on the roads to match the numbers that the Council/Chamber beneficiaries and mouthpieces speak of. More fudge, anyone?

    http://www.redrocknews.com/news/88888895-county-news/72565-watch-out-for-verde-valley-birds-on-endangered-list

    Did anyone hear about this when the city was spending 20,000 plus 80,000 from the hotels/businesses for the debacle called Northern Lights? No more lights on the rocks, respect the wildlife as well as the residents. It is the complete opposite of why people live and visit here.

    @CITY’S NORTHERN LIGHTS AND QUALITY OF LIFE
    Because the local Ranger Station gave their OK for the absurd light show, don’t waste more time with them.
    Two best bets for action:
    National Wildlife Federation
    Operations Center – P.O. Box 1637, Merrifield, VA 22116-1637
    (800) 822-9919
    http://www.nwf.org
    Coconino National Forest Supervisor’s Office (Headquarters)
    Forest Supervisor: Laura Jo West
    Deputy Forest Supervisor: Robert Sanchez
    Address: 1824 S. Thompson St., Flagstaff, AZ 86001
    Phone: (928) 527-3600
    FAX: (928) 527-3620

  4. Traffic says:

    For all you experts out there who continue to advocate SR179 should have been 4-lanes & traffic light stops, you should have been in West Sedona yesterday afternoon. (Tuesday)

    Going west from the Y traffic was backed up to Soldiers Pass Road, and every stop light required three changes to get through. Coming from the VOC 179 wasn’t even a problem until the slight backup at the Schnebly Road snafu, again made worse by the stupid addition of Tlaquepaque North without adequate foot control for crossing the highway.

    Thank the powers that be Sedona was voted down to own West 89A or it would be even WORSE. Cannot even take care of what they have and yet millions continue to go to the chamber of commerce to add to the problem. Go figure!

    Our trips to Sedona will become even more infrequent once the .5% sales tax increase is imposed beginning March 1st. The visit yesterday was for a medical appointment – nothing else!!

  5. Steve segner says:

    Tony said:Sedona currently spends about $10 million more per year than they would without home rule. No on home rule would be a start.
    I think we can do much better
    .ok Tony how?

    So Tony tells how giving up 10,000,000 dollars taken from the budget you plan on paving all the roads, making the uptown traffic changes making traffic changes at the Y and then just running the city for $10 million less please explain, also why is it important to give a $10 million up that came in from sales tax, majority of which is paid by out-of-towners ,where is the logic in that’s? We already know you want community development to be run by three people still chuckling about one

  6. Tony Tonsich says:

    City paid Cell phones.

    The city of Sedona pays for 43 cell phones.

    The police department shares phones, they account for 6. 4 of which are shared. It would appear Chief McGill has a prudent and frugally run department.

    Not included in the police total above is 4 shared phones for uptown parking. Do you think a meter maid needs a cell phone? They have radios.

    That leaves 33 other cell phones taxpayers pay for. I want to remind those that are unaware, that Sedona City is entirely separate for the Sedona Fire District and the Sedona School District.

    Vote NO on home rule!!

  7. Tony Tonsich says:

    Changes I would make,

    Eliminate no bid Contracts

    2.3 million to the Sedona Chamber, not only would it cut spending but would most probably cut traffic, eliminating the need for the road improvements.

    Eliminate the no bid contract and subsidy to the HUB/Red Earth Theater.

    Eliminate the gift to the Sedona Film Festival. Another traffic reduction.

    Yavapai County Supervisor Garrison said the county studies indicated tourists pay 17% of the sales tax. Far lower than the fantasy number others throw around.

    Look at my earlier posts in this thread for lots more ideas.

    Vote No on home rule !!

    Vote in a new city council and fire board. It’s your money !!

  8. TRAFFIC says:

    If you think there is traffic now, just wait a few days. The Sedona film Festival will be in full force from February 24 to March 4th. While you are stuck in bumper to bumper traffic just remember the City of Sedona gifts the Sedona Film Festival $20,000 so you can have more traffic. Then raises your sales tax to deal with the traffic. It would appear a perpetual theft machine. Not bad if you are a recipient. Not good if you are a taxpayer.

  9. JJ says:

    Red Rock Snooze funniest quotes of the year award. Karen O “Our city has a long has a long history of responsible budget management” or “Given our city’s strong emphasis on fiscal accountability” and then there is the Adrian award for the Sedona tourism website. I think There should be Sedona the movie 2. Staring stand up commedian Karen O. Best laugh I’ve had all year.

  10. June Cleaver says:

    So, the Chamber and City Council and Federal Gov’t know all about protecting wildlife except when they don’t want to……

    Chamber Website:
    https://visitsedona.com/trip-planning/recreational-drone-tips/
    http://visit-sedona.s3.amazonaws.com/CMS/4796/drone-map.pdf

    Protect Wildlife & the Environment
    Do not fly over or near wildlife as this can create stress that may cause significant harm and even death. Intentional disturbance of animals during breeding, nesting, rearing of young, or other critical life history functions is not allowed unless approved as research or management.

  11. JJ says:

    The city recommended budget by the state of arizona is 12 million. Under home rule the city hasa been spending 35 million. A difference of 23 million. The city wastes millions on the special interests-chamber of commerce-non-profits city government-fat increased staff-payroll. Nough said.

  12. JJ says:

    Might I add the affinity groups of the chamber-Economic development, Sedona lodging council, and dare I to say the liasons of the chamber Sedona city council.

  13. West Sedona Resident says:

    EASY PEASY stop gifting every Tom Dick & beggar
    Chamber 3 million
    Other begging private groups like the WINE Fest & Film Fest 1.2 million
    Over staffed city employees reduce 20 = 1.6 million plus benefits id over 1 million
    Lunches Phones and cars payments and the other paid subsidies to chamber like their visitor center, Geez people they have city staff cleaning the chamber restrooms!!!!!! Easy Peasy Cut the pork!!!!
    You got over 7 million here. Sure bet there is a lot more pork there.

    BTW without homeroom this will go away State numbers limit SEDONA to $12,737,633. Occurring to city report they are spending 33,983,606 But the state allows them to go as high as 55 MILLION under home rule.

    VOTE NO!

    Look it up
    State limits by city http://www.sedonacity.com/SedonaFactCollective/Homerule/StateEcomCommission/2018Cities_final.pdf
    City Report
    http://www.sedonacity.com/SedonaFactCollective/Homerule/CityofSedonaFY20162017AELR.pdf

    .

  14. Jerry, Legitimate Sedona Voter says:

    To the person using the name Steve Segner (who claimed he would no longer post comments on SE over one year ago) you surely do continue to babble on ad infinitum. Just because you use your business address in order to register to vote in Sedona, even though your home is in Oak Creek Canyon, outside City of Sedona jurisdiction, you manage to maintain clout and control over our city government. And why is that? Could it be they enjoy the soirees at your well-publicized estate in the canyon?

    Anyhow, you ask where the budget could be cut in case Home Rule is miraculously voted down.

    For starters: Chamber of Commerce Contract: Reduce mandated return on the bed tax increase from 55% to, say, 10%. Better yet, cancel contract with Chamber. Go for bids on other methods to justify the Lodging Council rebate for agreeing to the .5% bed tax increase.

    Immediately cease and desist funding the Chamber of Commerce Visitors Center. That will continue to operate without funding providing the Chamber is forced to live within their own means. Translated: Let their members finance their feel-good amenities. Of course, it may very well force them to reduce their own over-bloated staff since it has increased substantially since they hit the city jackpot of endless millions of dollars.

    Eliminate or streamline funding to ALL non profits.

    Reevaluate Parks & Recreation Department programs and funding for same. Charge rental fees for special events held on city-owned property.

    Immediately cancel the costly contract to pay Red Earth Theatre for using city-owned Hub.

    Do away with the newly formed Department of Economic Development, created primarily to serve the Chamber of Commerce and the entire Verde Valley.

    Focus on improving local amenities for the purpose of health, safety, and welfare of the residents and public in general and NOT special interest groups.

    Reassess all City Hall spending, including employees, valuations, wages, benefits and additional perks.

    Bottom Line: City would be forced to live within their means as do the rest of us who have no opportunity to simply increase a tax to accommodate our wish lists on command.

    VOTE NO ON HOME RULE – put a halt to this insane wasteful spending and catering to the babbling of allegedly unidentified name users who think they know everything.

    ENOUGH!!!

  15. Mike H says:

    I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take this abuse from the City of Sedona any more !

  16. Susan Sedona says:

    @Mike H – Yea Man I’m w/you. And thanks @Jerry Legitimate Sedona voter. Excellent suggestions for simple ways to cut pork. Nice job – makes sense. All we need are sensible members on our City Council who will swallow their pride and heed your advice. Attention to all who intend to vie for election this year. A good many of us are praying for your success and ultimate victory to end this nonsense.

    Vote NO on Home Rule.

  17. JJ says:

    @ Mike H What the H are you going to do about it.Let me know and I will join in.

  18. steve segner says:

    Rant all you want Tony. Primary election is in August. many people on vacation. So, Tonh, our people will make sure to vote and get our people in again and keep home rule. So don’t plan any changes. Sand’s our gal.

  19. steve segner says:

    steve segner says:
    February 24, 2018 at 8:33 am
    Rant all you want Tony. Primary election is in August. many people on vacation. So, Tony, our people will make sure to vote and get our people in again and keep home rule. So don’t plan any changes. Sand’s our gal.

    sorry, not my post but I agree

    steve segner

  20. @Susan Sedona says:

    Another reminder that Sedona elections have been changed. Primary election is now in August; General election in November. People planning vacations should remember to have ballot mailed or vote early. This is really very important or else that comment from Segner will be their dream come true.

    Another problem. Will there even BE other candidates except the same old same old? Interesting that both LeFevre & now Vernier didn’t last more than two years? What the . . . . ???

  21. Tony Tonsich says:

    I truly appreciate your pledges of votes and prayers for success for myself and those who choose to run to save our beautiful home. I’ve asked for guidance to do the right things to serve both those currently living in Sedona and for future residents. I want tourists to fall in love with Sedona as we did, not leave promising never to return to a tourist trap.

    Vote out every incumbent. Vote NO on home rule. Let’s prove WE are in control, not the special interests with their hands in our pockets.

    With your help WE can change things.

  22. real facts says:

    You have it clearly written from one of those using taxpayers money for his own profit. Now it the time to stand up get your neighbors informed and lets we the people VOTE them OUT!!!!!

    OUT with traffic OUT with funding special interests. VOTE for only those that are not for funding private businesses aka regional chamber.

    Take back your city & improve the quality of life. Sedona City Residents matter. VOTE!

  23. Rear View Mirror says:

    After yrs of living in the once amazing Sedona, now I will say the best thing about Sedona is when I will see it in my rear view mirror. I plan to leave the area, thanks to the liberal policies enacted by the inept council and mayor:
    – Overfunding of the chamber and its destination marketing policies that have choked this tiny town with excessive tourists and traffic.
    – Ridiculous practices like fining residents for putting out garage sales signs and real estate open house signs necessary to buy and sell our homes in the city.
    – Planning low income housing to bring in the hoards of beggars, miscreants, deadbeats, and druggies who now have flooded this once great town in anticipation of the free housing to come.
    – Soaring taxes and fees, plus ridiculous parking meters so they can give the chamber even more money to bring in more tourists.
    – Traffic that has become a safety hazard for emergency vehicles and ambulances unable to get to critical care in time.
    – Tons of trash and diaper loads left behind at the once pristine Slide Rock Park….now a major health and traffic hazard due to excess tourists.
    – Per tourist sales is down because tourists are stressed by the traffic and throngs of people…..stress that causes them to buy less….few realize this statistic!
    – Airbnb law now has created a town of partiers who are here to have fun and raise hell on our streets and trails. Good luck finding parking at Safeway as airbnb people buy groceries and cook in their rentals, not eating in our restaurants.

    I could go on and on. These are just a few examples. Our only hope to save this town is to elect conservatives to the council and mayor positions…..vote! Contribute to the local conservative Pac now in place by patriots hoping to salvage what is left. November is your last chance folks…..or this town is finished. Forever.

  24. Real facts part duex says:

    Hilarious! This town is and will continue to be great! Get a life guys and get a grip in reality! Few agree with you silly guys! Ask around, folks will say there are times when the traffic is heavy, but not as heavy as where they came from The quality of life, which is the topic of this article, thank you Eddie, is for the most part great! Don’t go an ruin a good thing by listening to idiots that try to control through twisted truths and scre tactics! I always have, and always will love Sedona!

  25. Eddie Maddock says:

    To “Rear View Mirror” and others ready to pack up and move. That’s what they want. Truly they don’t care about the residents. Over and over every week more people are complaining and citing reasons for pulling up stakes. Do so and they will win the battle – forever.

    How about just trying to rally and work with those who still believe in hope but need direction? The answer isn’t to turn your backs and say your vote won’t count. No matter what, the majority of votes will make the decision. Don’t vote; don’t complain. Apathy will remain the biggest problem – never a solution.

    It’s problematic for elections to have been changed from earlier in the year to having the primary vote in August when so many people are on vacation. However, it’s still possible to remain active. Make certain to obtain absentee ballots in order to avail yourselves of the privilege of having a voice. Remember, frequently outcome of elections are decided by primary election votes.

    Regardless of how you vote, please, don’t miss an opportunity. As the election draws closer to V-Day, be informed. Attend forums. Listen to candidates. If you like status quo, you will have it. If you want change and feel those who may speak in favor are sincere, then follow your instinct. But by all means – VOTE.

    As for the issue of Home Rule, again be prepared for implementation of scare tactics from those who favor uncontrolled spending. But don’t be fooled. If you enjoy the city spending on those items itemized as potential targets for reduced spending as defined in comments from Jerry, Legitimate Voter, and others, then you believe in continuing with the City/Chamber contract explicitly designed to benefit ONLY tourists. And that, Folks, is a fact. Nothing positive for Sedona residents has been beneficial. And don’t bring up the tax tourists contribute. If that were true, then why did the City Council just agree to approve a .5% sales tax increase for which we are all subjected to pay? Degradation of infrastructure by over-use (too many cars) is evident and no amount of false justification can change that.

    Again, many thanks to the Publisher/Editor of Sedona Eye for making this forum possible. And in particular let me extend my own appreciation to those who take time to offer commentary under my submissions as well as other articles. Freedom of Speech in action!

    My opinions respectfully submitted,

    E.S. Maddock

  26. Save Sedona says:

    Bravo Rear view mirror for articulating what most of us feel!
    hope it is not too late to fix this. what a mess.

  27. Conflict of Interest? says:

    When Sandy Moriarty first ran for Mayor, now approaching four years ago, she said it would be for only one term. However . . . of course she ran unopposed for an additional two years. Why unopposed? Well maybe because of Mr. Segner’s “gorilla” (guerilla) threats as noted in his e-mail posted someplace among the 400 or so comments under this article about “quality of life.” Ha!

    Has the taste of power consumed Ms. Moriarty so much she is going for a third term? Apparently not. According to her reasoning she has unfinished business. And definitely for sure that is correct. “Affordable Housing” is an example.

    A long time advocate for diverse housing, Mayor Moriarty has successfully during her almost four years serving as Mayor of Sedona managed to see success in revision of the Community Plan to include higher density development throughout our community which is a major foot in the door for low cost or affordable housing, if there is such a thing. Apparently the increasing number of panhandlers appearing on Sedona street corners is a message that word is out! Come one – Come all.

    Now my question is: Because City Council(s) and Staff have advocated and defended the asinine contract with the Chamber of Commerce to be one which will increase the quality of Sedona tourists (translated: destination, big money equals big spender clientele) and now this ongoing push to provide accommodations for potentially becoming an illegal “sanctuary city,” how can it be both? Diametrically opposed goals? In Sedona?

    How many allegedly affluent people will find Sedona attractive with a panhandler on every corner? And many of whom are accommodated with expensive hand-held gadgets to occupy their time as they sit and wait for a handout? Quality of life? The stupid city survey subject of above article didn’t even make a dent in defining reasons for decline in residential quality of life.

    Oh, one final thing, add getting rid of the Citizen Engagement program another way to streamline the budget if, by chance, a miracle happens and Home Rule is snatched from their power – at least for the time being. Referencing the above survey, again subject of article, wasn’t it the unidentified members of a Citizen Engagement group who devised the obvious slanted and crank questions to which City Asst. Manager Karen Daines (Osbarn?) took exception to Mrs. Maddock’s request for names? Just wonderin’.

    Love the outlook for the future? Then vote for the incumbents and vote to approve Home Rule.

    Disgusted with Sedona’s direction? Then vote against the incumbents and support new people who advocate change in direction. And perhaps most important of all – please vote “NO” on Home Rule!! It’s now or most likely never, unless we’ve already reached that point of no return. My preference is to think “No. At least not yet.”

  28. Tony Tonsich says:

    The Red Rock News seems to be accepting comments online. You might post under Sedona joins Fiscal Pilot program. You can even try letters to the editor.

    We really need to spread the word if we are going to save our town. 477 comments here are a start. Let’s try to cover every media. Talk to your neighbors. Mention it in your association meetings and newsletters. Get out the vote.

    WE can change things.

  29. Peter, Sedona says:

    Forget the other, gigantic waste of productive & intellectual time. Stick with the winner, Sedona Times (Eye). Thanks Sedona Times.

  30. Make positive changes says:

    WANTED – neutral NEW City Council

    A total of five elected offices are available in the upcoming elections: one city council seat for a two-year term; three city council seats for a four-year term; and the mayor’s seat for a two-year term. Monthly compensation is $500 for city councilors and $700 for the mayor.

    The election includes a city council seat with a two-year term because of the resignation of Councilor Joe Vernier, who was elected to a four year term in 2016. In accordance with state statutes, the city council will appoint a new councilor only until the next regular election cycle (Fall 2018), at which point a candidate is elected to the remaining two years of the original four year term.

    To be eligible for the Sedona City Council, a candidate must be a qualified elector at the time of election, be at least 18 years of age on or before the election, have resided within the Sedona City limits for one year preceding the election, and have had his/her civil rights restored if convicted of a felony.

    http://sedonaaz.gov/Home/Components/News/News/4450/473

    Candidate packets are available at the Sedona City Clerk’s office at 102 Roadrunner Dr. The city clerk recommends scheduling an appointment to review the packet and ask questions. The City Clerk’s office is open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday.

    Candidate nomination forms must be filed with the City Clerk between 7 a.m. April 30 and 5 p.m. May 30, 2018.

    For more information contact Sedona City Clerk Susan Irvine at (928) 282-3113 or sirvine@sedonaaz.gov.

  31. @Tony Tonsich says:

    “The Red Rock News seems to be accepting comments online. You might post under Sedona joins Fiscal Pilot program. You can even try letters to the editor.”

    How will you feel about your suggestion if and when the Red Rock News uses a hatchet-job editorial about you as has been known to happen during past elections?

  32. Tony Tonsich says:

    “How will you feel about your suggestion if and when the Red Rock News uses a hatchet-job editorial about you as has been known to happen during past elections?”

    They have already started. I asked the city clerk 3 times for an election package. They were not ready. Then a few days later the existing city council announces they are all running for re election and an article appears in the Red Rock News.

    I will try to get the truth out on any forum. Just to let you know, the Red Rock news did not yet publish my comment after almost 24 hours under the article “Sedona joins fiscal pilot program”. Maybe they will publish yours.

    That’s OK. I don’t expect any support from the Red Rock News. I can’t tell anyone what to do, but if everyone boycotted the Red Rock News or canceled their subscription, it might get their attention. I have not bought one of their papers in years.

    Announce you are going to run for city council. Pick up a package at the city clerks office. As I have written frequently in the past, what happens in this election is not just up to me. We need candidates for city council. If you’re too busy to run, it’s not a good time, well, most people feel the same way. You have to ask your self, Do you want to change the direction of Sedona? If I win Mayor, and no one like minded runs for city council, we all lose.

    What are YOU going to do about it? Not Tony, YOU !! Think about it, if you post under an anonymous name, do you really care? Or is it you just care a little bit but don’t want to take any heat. If you are a chamber member and don’t like the direction, quit the chamber.

    When I moved here 28 years ago Sedona had the highest priced homes in Arizona. Not any more. Sedona had about 1000 more residents, they left.

    Sedona’s reputation is already being ruined, the population is dropping. That’s a sign things are not well. Are YOU going to do anything about it?

    I’ll make you a deal, I’ll do more than anyone. I’ll take more heat and deflect any attempted hatchet job. I’ll run the meetings and be the face of the movement to take the town back from special interests. People telling lies about me don’t bother me.

    Are YOU going to do something or just bitch about the traffic and taxes?

    It’s your town.

    Well? What are YOU going to do?

  33. Steve segner says:

    Tony you never answered my question how are you going to run the Community development dept.with just three people please elaborate , you made the statement please tell. If you were there would you really plan on firing 15 people from one department without even looking to see what they do because that’s what you’re saying

  34. steve Segner says:

    Oh God and he want to be Mayor.
    Mr Tonsich comments at fire board meeting last month2-20-2018 Minutes-SFD Special Board Meeting
    Want to cut police services
    Mr. Tonsich continued that he wants to balance it between the “nothing” he has in the Village and 2 Police Officers and a supervisor – which Mr. Tonsich thinks is probably excessive,
    Mr. Tonsich
    He continued by saying for an older population, people want “gold-planted” safety at their door and they want it “yesterday”, but he believes there is a balance between that and taxing “old people” like himself out of their homes because he is on a fixed income and not rich.

    2. Fire and EMS services are provided out of 5 stations in our district. There has been some recent talk about the disparity in the numbers of “calls” run by each station on a monthly basis. For instance, Station 5 in the Canyon, gets fewer calls than Station 1 or Station 3. If you were a Board Member and asked about this by a member of the media, would you respond by suggesting SFD shut down Station 5 and re-deploy those first responders or keep Station 5 open?
    Mr. Tonisch said he would keep Station 5 open and consider closing one of the other stations that are underutilized. He said he thinks the “Chapel station” (Fire Station 6) gets one call a day on average and that is being underutilized and that station is “within 5 minutes of 2 other stations”; he said fought against that station being
    He stated that Cottonwood seems to survive with a private ambulance service and that there are “whole bunch of areas” in this community that operate on a private ambulance service. He said SFD does not seem to have mass causalities where people are not getting service and we have to look at the costs.
    more tomorrow

  35. Get Real says:

    Sedona doesn’t need what Community Development does. How many people like what they see when driving around town and looking around? Do they like the nasty congestion, the over-development, the excessive crowding and the big-city quantity of AAA hotels? What about the awful quality of life and the high cost of living? Community Development is remiss in not discouraging rezoning to higher densities and the approval of more and larger hotels.

    At $2,314,290 Community Development’s FY 2018 budgeted expenditure are beyond the pale. A major reduction in force is required. At least half the employees ought to receive layoff letters.

  36. Jess Wundrin says:

    Can’t help but wonder why Segner (or whatever person continues to use that name) continues to nag others, most recently Tony Tonsich, about anything and everything that doesn’t go along with his thinking. Wouldn’t you think by now he would know it’s only the people at City Hall who consider him as Sedona’s Supreme Being.

    Another mystery. What makes Tony T think he’s the only person RRN has denied publishing his letter to the editor? No way! For many years it’s been no secret they will only on occasion publish a letter here and there with views opposing those of the RRN master minds. Therefore why should any of us waste our time?

    As for criticizing people who prefer to use pseudonyms. When many business people struggling to stay afloat, paying high rents and now a .5% increase in the sales tax, feel they have no recourse to express their feelings, it’s an opportunity to “vent” without fear of retribution from people like Segner and others. To make matters worse, we are faced with further intimidation if we don’t give in to being blackmailed into becoming members of a chamber of commerce who clearly promote non-city, non city tax collectors, over and above many struggling businesses.

    My preference would be for Mr. T. to first target the city/chamber contract before he starts dismantling Community Development. And after removing the pay-off to the chamber and their visitors center, next step think about eliminating the Economic Development Dept, the most recent city financed implementation to further aid the regional chamber of commerce.

  37. steve segner says:

    2-20-2018 Minutes-SFD Special Board Meeting Mr. Tonisch replied that one of the big things in capital expenses is equipment. He said, previously, he strenuously objected to having ladder trucks for a town without any multi-story buildings. He further commented, “Water goes downhill, so if you don’t have any multi-story buildings, and you have ladder trucks, the residents are laughing at you”.
    Tony , WRONG ONE MORE TIME. we have hotels all over town three and four story. think Best western up town for one.
    Also tont the hook and ladder is used to fight home fires to put water on top of the fire.
    Tony so wrong in so many ways for Mayor. You could not make this stuff up!!!!

  38. M Mallon says:

    @ steve segner,

    Mr Segner, you know so much about fire fighting and budgets, why were you not chosen to be on the Sedona Fire Board?

    You say “we have hotels all over town three and four story.” Bull again, from what I can see there is one hotel that is over 2 story, and by the building code it should have sprinklers installed. It is built on a hillside, and last time I checked, water, like s*** goes downhill. I guess not in your little world Segner.

  39. Alex S says:

    “And how we burned in the camps later, thinking: What would things have been like if every Security operative, when he went out at night to make an arrest, had been uncertain whether he would return alive and had to say good-bye to his family? Or if, during periods of mass arrests, as for example in Leningrad, when they arrested a quarter of the entire city, people had not simply sat there in their lairs, paling with terror at every bang of the downstairs door and at every step on the staircase, but had understood they had nothing left to lose and had boldly set up in the downstairs hall an ambush of half a dozen people with axes, hammers, pokers, or whatever else was at hand?… The Organs would very quickly have suffered a shortage of officers and transport and, notwithstanding all of Stalin’s thirst, the cursed machine would have ground to a halt! If…if…We didn’t love freedom enough. And even more – we had no awareness of the real situation…. We purely and simply deserved everything that happened afterward.”

    Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn

    They will tax you out of your home. Try not paying your ever rising sewer fee.
    Go hide behind your keyboard, it has never worked before. You are about to lose your home to those who want to make Sedona a tourist trap. Don’t have a medical emergency from Friday to Tuesday morning, the traffic is too heavy for an ambulance to get to you in time. Don’t Get sick on spring break, you will never make it to the hospital. The city is raising the sales tax, believe them when they say they need all those employees.

  40. @Steve Seger says:

    Please keep it up steve.

    As you point out using To y T’s own words.

    That man has no idea what he is talking about.
    Hot useless air coming from his mouth constantly.

    There is whole lot of other things that Tony has done as well over the years here that are less then “stand up”.

    I’d love to share them and have tryed to share these things but SE now covers for the idiot.

  41. Good Job Segner says:

    Good Job Segner

    TONY T you get my vote!

    Anyone senger goes after is a winner and speaking the truth!

    Segner just loves the public paying for his private enterprise via Sedona City Taxes!!!

  42. Say What? says:

    For a person who claimed he would NEVER again post a comment on SedonaEye (Times) after January of 2017 (over one year ago) that anonymous Segner sure can’t shut up his/her yammer. And why oh why doesn’t the REAL Segner scream like a wounded hyena? Hmmmm…..

    Oh well – let the trap-mouth continue to rant about how Tony T. wasn’t appointed to the Fire DISTRICT Board. Didn’t Segner also throw his high-hat in for the position? And since he knows so much why wasn’t he appointed?

    Well maybe because apparently he doesn’t get it that the City of Sedona Police Department has NOTHING to do with the Sedona Oak Creek Fire DISTRICT!!

    Double “duh’s” from the mouthy idiot who never posts comment on Sedona Eye anymore? Merciful Heavens to Betsy. (whatever that means but hopefully it won’t be deleted by Editor)

  43. Tony Tonsich says:

    @ steve segner

    steve,

    Repetition is the best way to make a point, so I want to thank you for helping me make my points on the ladder trucks. I drove through West Sedona from the intersection of 179 and 89A going west, I did not see a single building over 2 stories. Would you point the 4 story buildings in West Sedona out for me steve?

    I do appreciate your help, but try not to misquote me. The city of Sedona has two sworn officers and a supervisor on duty at NIGHT. The Village of Oak Creek has NO officers on duty at night. As you live in the Canyon there are NO Sheriffs on patrol at night. You might have a response time of an hour. Unless of course Sedona Police show up, which they often do as other law enforcement is so far away. You really should move from the dangerous Oak Creek Canyon to the city limits. Just trying to help you steve.

    Thanks again,

    Tony

  44. West Sedona Resident says:

    @steve segner

    You forgot to mention Tony saying we would be safer with water drop helicopters and water drop 747’s. You are in favor of those too aren’t you Steve? Sedona is going to need them if the ladder trucks can’t get through the tourist traffic.

    If it might save only one life.

  45. OMG says:

    OMG! Anyone remember back to why we incorporated in the first place!? Because county oversight was nil and the town was starting to become an attractive mess. Signs and outdoor junk all over Uptown! While I don’t like rules and regulations, we certainly need some to help maintain our beautiful city. I agree the chambers contract is way too much! Also need to do something about the folks performing and standing on our street corners. Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater for goodness sake!

  46. sharlett says:

    in my opinion, and sadly, steve segner just can’t get over that his One chance at fame – by being appointed to the fire board of directors – where he failed Big Time!!! ……..I’m still laughing at his lame attempts to become someone of relevance.

  47. Steve segner says:

    wSR, I was saving that for tomorrow there’s so much in his interview I could post something every day for two weeks

    West, Sedona resident, you know you’re not supposed to say anything positive on the site, homes are selling like hotcakes businesses are building all over town and the cities tax revenue is up. The City is starting the first phase of the new Road work, traffic control officers up town and almost a half million dollars in new income from parking meters and a brand new parking lot uptown.
    Tony is looking at how many cell phones are being used by city employees, a true man of vision .
    Right before the election I plan pay to publish it in the Red RedRock news,and then mailing a copy To every home in Sedona , we need to share Tony‘s wisdom with everybody in Sedona , I’m having so much fun, telling Tony’s story in his own words, more tomorrow.

  48. @steve S says:

    Please keep up the good work Steve.

    (Deleted by editor)

    So appreciated.

  49. @Tony Tonsich says:

    Tony:

    Perhaps you are right in this one instance that in West Sedona there are no buildings over 2 stories however there have been many homes that were next two houses that were on fire that were saved because the ladder truck was able to spray down protecting those houses keeping them from burning. There are many uses where a ladder truck is used to protect lives and property. But because you were never in the fire protection business you wouldn’t have a clue.

    I saw your interview for the fire board and kept talking about how SFD shouldn’t have 2 ladder trucks, once again, not a clue Tony, they only have one.

    Oh and BTW, (this is a real kicker folks) you do realize that SFD is covers more then just Sedona don’t you? We in the VOC they are getting ready to build a THREE STORY hotel and the SFD ladder truck is perfect to protect that building.

  50. M Mallon says:

    Steve Segner for Mayor !!

    His true destiny was not to lead Sedona Fire District, but the City of Sedona. “Road work, traffic control officers up town and almost a half million dollars in new income from parking meters and a brand new parking lot uptown.” Stick those tourists Steve ! You can tell a man by his actions, and Steve lives where there is no police patrols at night. If it’s good enough for Steve, it should be good enough for Sedona. Right Steve?

    Run Steve Run !!

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