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)
Read www.SedonaEye.com for daily news and interactive views!
Sedona gets a clean audit
In terms of revenues, the city general fund increased by $2.6 million with $2.1 million of that coming by way of a bump in sales and bed tax in the city during fiscal year 2016-17, which ran from July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2017.
“Most of that increase is attributable to tourism,” Finance Director Cherie Wright said, noting that in FY 2016-17, $20.1 million came via sales and bed taxes.
During this same time, the general fund went from $23.1 million in 2016 to $25.2 last fiscal year.
Great news, home prices way up, lots of new building in town, new homes ,
must be killing all of you NIMBY’s and sky is falling crowd , JJ Jean, J and Eddie,
City is using savings for new projects and the new .5% sales tax to work on roads….. and Sedona gets a clean audit……
And the beat goes. Two more blah-blahs from the non-steve Segner. (both on February 2nd) Will it never end? Blah, Blah, Blah from some unknown no-it-all. Oh Brother!!!
@ steveSegner says:
January 27, 2018 at 10:22 pm
Looks like someone is not telling the truth.
“Steve segner says:
January 12, 2017 at 10:51 am
After last night meeting and the outcome, and the no shows from the sedona Eye,I will no longer need to follow all the crazy talk signing off no more posts.”
If you see a steve segner it will be a phony posting been fun so long ss”
Oh here we go Tony…
So by your last few posts now you have problems with the way the police dept is staffed……the Sedona Fire employees and also the Sedona City council.!!!!!
You can do better then all of them even though you only experience is “taking pictures” of nonsense (deleted by editor)
Keep on talking Tony….with every post you show your TRUE self and give us more ammo as to what a complete moron you are!!! LMAO
The police chief hasn’t called you back yet!!!!??? He’s must “have your number” already Tony!!
Pretty amazing how the non-steve Segners always seem to pop up to divert an ongoing topic. The two most recent comments made on Feb 2 by an impostor neatly attempt to switch the subject from questionable Sedona City Staff qualifications/contingencies/policies etc. to the appointment of a temporary replacement on the Sedona Fire District Board of Directors. And, of course, to deflate other comments posted by a Tony Tonsich, the real deal. Wonder if that contender for the vacant Fire Board chair is, actually, the REAL steve Segner or just another fake like those posting comments on SedonaEye since January 12, 2017? (over one year ago)
Get past the takers BS posting here. They only want you to pay more, live less so that they can LIVE BIG on taxpayers $$$$.
The city by gifting money to private groups aka chamber every tom, steve & Jennifer
they are making the residents PAY more for special interests to PLAY driving the cost of living up. The tourism is driving your property taxes up as the fire district has to be prepared for millions of tourist clogging our streets.
In addition, a city of this size shouldn’t be investing taxpayers money to enrich the chamber. The city of Sedona according to the budget has 1 employee per 72 residents. WHAT????? The highest paid in Sedona are the city employees.
With the over spending they have just INCREASED the sales TAX which each residents pays in multiple ways. They are doing this to FIX the problem funding the chamber created TRAFFIC.
Stop the insane city. VOTE!
PS vote against anyone that supports special interests funding aka chamber. As this is driving the cost up for everyone business & residents. They are driving business to the areas OUTSIDE- city-limits.
The only takers round here is the state of Arizona residents line yourself .
I find it hilarious that you call people takers by if it wasn’t for other states that actually contribute more then they TAKE from the federal government you’d be living in a hole you TAKER.
You calling other people takers is lfunny since you are one
http://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/news/arizona-among-states-most-reliant-on-federal-government-6627939
@JC – how about we suggest to the Editor of SedonaEye to maybe provide an online version of that old TV program “What’s My Line?” Take a photo of all the alter-ego steve Segners wearing masks and then ask readers to select the “real” one to “please stand up.” Probly the only ones qualified to do that would be City Council & Staff Members ‘cuz they fer shore know exactly who their boy Stevie is. Right?
PS – @Pay More Live Less —- OK – enough already. We got the message but the good old boys jes LUV to promote all those big resorts outside city limits who collect NO Sedona City sales and/or bed taxes. Such a deal! Go figure. And they (outside city limits businesses) don’t give a hoot whether or not Sedona is restrained by Home Rule cuz they’ll get their cut no matter what. No skin off their behinds.
As a Sedona (city) restaurant server I can tell you what’s going on here is NO laughing matter. Already many patrons (specially tourists) almost flip out when they see their tabs with taxes added! Seriously many are in disbelief and this is just for the sales tax on a meal and doesn’t account for bed tax they’re on lodging in city limits. I’ve applied at several places outside the limits because I dread March 1st when the tax will be increased yet another half percent. That’s over 10% in Coconino County and close to it in Yavapai. After being on my feet for an 8 hour shift I’m not up to being punished with nasty words because of greedy politicians who cant live within their budgets. This is no joke – it’s serious – not that any of you care except for your over inflated egos by those who’re profiting.
To the person who posted @pay more live less 2/3/18 – 12:09 PM
“The only takers round here is the state of Arizona residents line yourself .
I find it hilarious that you call people takers by if it wasn’t for other states that actually contribute more then they TAKE from the federal government you’d be living in a hole you TAKER”
Here we go again. Another attempt to deflect comments made on SedonaEye to other issues which you are now, again, attaching both State & Federal issues to a column subject of which is a LOCAL SURVEY (City of Sedona) – having NOTHING to do with your stupid remark. Why not take your complaint to Sen. John McCain or Sen. Jake (the) Flake?
Be forewarned, As Tony has said, if you talk bad about him, he’s going to sic his lawyer daughter, his lawyer brother, his lawyer brother-in-law on you.
That’s ok warning cause I also have a brother that is a lawyer, a sister married to a lawyer, a second cousin on my mom”s side that knows a lawyer.
I also have a friend of of a friend that knows a lawyer and an umcle that has a distinct relative that works at a law firm.
I know this post is a bit ridulous and overblown but so is Tony T (deleted by editor).
No Laughing Matter says:
I’ve applied at several places outside the limits “because I dread March” 1st when the tax will be increased yet another half percent.
Really you want to work outside of Sedona,because of the new .5 sales tax.
So on a $100.00 meal the tax will go up 0.5 Cents, yes $ .50 wow your tip will be $15.00 to $20.00 on the same meal.
What are we missing. on a hotel one night stay it will fo up .$1.50
this is just cake lady talk……
@pay more live less
http://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/news/arizona-among-states-most-reliant-on-federal-government-6627939
People that complain here about “your hard earned tax dollars” remember this.
You are complaining about “the Takers” as you have your handout from the federal government . The Feds keeps your taxes in AZ artificially low . You might say that you complainers here are on “welfare” from states like NY and CA that actually contribute to the federal government . So you better stop finger pointing ok TAKERS.
For the last ten years the seating city council has voted to degrade the quality of life for the residents buying into the campaign of those that run city hall, aka chamber.
We all know it. Now it is time to make change. Get your friends and neighbors registered to vote. Keep up the dialog and get them to VOTE out any current city council person that reruns. Get them to NOT vote for any person the chamber or segner endorses. The root causes for degrading the quality of life and increases your cost & taxes. Increasing sales tax to pay for a problem they caused is harming the quality of life even more.
VOTE NO on home rule.
City employees now work for the Chamber of Commerce too. Last Thursday morning there were two City pickup trucks and a bulldozer at 401 Jordan Road in Uptown Sedona. The worker on the bulldozer was spreading three piles of soil to fill in the area on the west side of the bank building where not that long ago the decades-old thick row of trees shielding the homes on the west side of Van Deren was removed. The other worker had a line he was running horizontally to separate the area where the bank property’s asphalt ended and the denuded tree area began.
Last May the Jordan Road property was purchased by the Chamber with approximately $965,000 in City taxpayer funds. The Chamber opened the escrow without the knowledge of the City Council or City residents.
Vote NO on Home Rule!!
Give it up, Segner impostors – latest example steve Segner says:
February 5, 2018 at 7:14 am (above comment)
But FYI if you don’t realize the reaction by many tourists when they get their dinner bills you are living in Wonderland and denying reality. But who cares? Back to reality and the real deal:
““Steve segner says:
January 12, 2017 at 10:51 am
After last night meeting and the outcome, and the no shows from the sedona Eye,I will no longer need to follow all the crazy talk signing off no more posts.”
If you see a steve segner it will be a phony posting been fun so long ss”
Whether or not you are the “real” Segner doesn’t matter because the person that submitted your stupid rebuttal to No Laughing Matter was nothing more that a very dumb Dude (or Dude-ess if that’s the case).
Take into consideration any other shopping our tourists may have intended to do and add that .5% tax increase onto an already over-bloated amount and the outcome just might not be as beneficial as Segner and his good buddy Councilman John Martinez, originator of the not-so-bright tax increase, might think.
Why wouldn’t people stay in the Village of Oak Creek, travel out to Enchantment or even lodge in Cottonwood, Clarkdale, or Jerome (15 minute drive into Sedona) and save on both bed and sales tax?
Really, people – a NO BRAINER!! Every tourist tripping to Sedona isn’t as wealthy as the members of our city council, Sedona city staff, and most assuredly the magnificent Steve Segner and his colleagues at the chamber of commerce. (most of whom, by the way, are OUTSIDE Sedona city limits and do NOT charge your exorbitant taxes.)
This submission is from one of them who really knows the truth. (ha, ha, ha – dumb bunnies – keep increasing your taxes – good for MY business) And you might be surprised at how many of your “dignitaries” eat outside your glorified City Limit boundaries – breakfast, brunch, lunch and din-din. Check it out)
City employees now work for the Chamber of Commerce too. Last Thursday morning there were two City pickup trucks and a bulldozer at 401 Jordan Road in Uptown Sedona.
It is because it is now a CITY PARKING LOT, being paid for by the bed tax.
Great use of bed tax money for visitor parking. You could call the city for more information, the city council approver it last year. hope that helps.
As for the .5% bed tax, really 50cents on a $100 and you will dive out of town?
Last month was the best January in the history of Sedona, hotels up 10% to 20%
and all that tax and bed tax money going to the city…. good ha….
R U nuts? If you think for even one split second some people won’t deduct those amounts you quote from the server’s tips you should be put in a mental institution. Your overbearing greed and encouragement for city council to constantly dun the customer, be it a resident or tourist, is shameful. Try standing on your feet for 8 hours, balancing heavy trays of food, and be rewarded with deflated tips. See how you like it, Buzzard. In fact, that’s what all of you arrogant decision-makers are – Buzzards! Picking off our bones before we are even dead. Good riddance.
if the sales tax and bed tax is so minuet then why don’t you increase the rooms rates and pay your own way?
If true it being so small amount then why doesn’t the hotels collect their own advertising money?
If it is really was true then your chamber members would be willing to put in a fair share to pay for the chamber’s expenses. So sad the chamber has to have the taxpayers pay for yur advertising. Chamber gets 88% of their revenues from the city of sedona… sad you aint good enough, you gotta beg.
And just who was it profited from the sales transaction of that Jordan Road property? Sedona has many, many realtors including the husband of the Chamber of Commerce CEO.
Just asking for the entire story to be revealed.
For someone who went on record over a year ago to NOT post more comments on SedonaEye, why is it that a major law suit isn’t in motion for the numerous comments using that name? (References to @steve Segner etc. not included since they are simply responding to the, according to the “real” Steve Segner, are hoaxes). NO CREDIBILITY, Segner, unless you either object to the ongoing scam or acknowledge and retract your disclaimer from January 12 of last year – 2017.
The only people that would deduct that amount from the tip money are (deleted by editor) LMAO
Where do you cone up with this pettiness …
Why is it that you always looking for the evil side of everything if you have a question about how the transaction was done call the city and ask and no it wasn’t her husband , it was whoever listed for the owner ,no good deed goes on punished in Sedona . Sedona now has another parking lot that can be developed for more parking and take congestion is off 89 a part of the overall parking plan,But there again you don’t go to meetings so you’ve never know .
One more time please show us any advertising paid for by the city or the chamber for any hotels or any business in our outside sedona you guys just make this stuff up or do you sit around and smoke dope and then get typing.
oh brother!!!!!
The only ones benefiting from jordon road are chamber members. They own it. So stop the petty crap. The city is 100% controlled by chamber. Disgusting.
Yes it is true that visitors b**** like crazy about the taxes in Sedona. The hotels outside the city limits use the lower taxes to get business. Even the tour companies pick up visitors outside the city limits to reduce cost, they pick them up right at the hotels. PEOPLE tip bigger when they are not being screwed.
Sedona is not a real city no integrity IMO BS con job VOTE NO on HOMERULE
VOTE NO FOR ANY candidate segner endorses. Any candidate he slanders vote for. Time to stop insane special interest control. Lets clean house folks!!!!!
@Steve segner (capital S on Steve last comment)
Put a sock in it. You are dominating this web site with your tongue-tripping BS.
Read you own message (or are we to presume you didn’t post it)? Don’t like what people in the “real” world have to say, then check out of SedonaEye – FOR REAL!!
“““Steve segner says:
January 12, 2017 at 10:51 am
After last night meeting and the outcome, and the no shows from the sedona Eye,I will no longer need to follow all the crazy talk signing off no more posts.””’
If you see a steve segner it will be a phony posting been fun so long ss”””
So “her” husband @Steve segner may not have been the listing agent but FYI the real estate agent that makes the sale also receives a commission. DUH! As if you didn’t know that. You think you know EVERYTHING else and unfortunately the rats at city hall agree. Why not change your name to the Pied Piper and lead all of them to a new location? Boy – similar to Alka Seltzer – what a relief that would be.
If you ever want to know more about the Sedona Chamber, go to:
https://sedonachamber.com/
From their home page
“Sedona Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau has been the voice of business for the Sedona area”
Note Sedona Area, not the city. Most of the chambers membership is OUTSIDE the city of Sedona.
You will also find Ads for the Blazin M Ranch and The Verde Canyon Railroad, both definitely NOT in the city of Sedona. So good of the City of Sedona to give the chamber over $2.3 million on a no bid contract.
Vote NO on home Rule, stop private interests from taking advantage of Sedona citizens. NO means NO !!
Steve segner is lying again with the statement that Sedona has a new parking lot that will take congestion off 89A. Actually, 89A congestion will worsen. There’s no way for tourist vehicles to reach 401 Jordan Road without first driving 89A through traffic-clogged Uptown. If this is not enough, little Stevie wants to use the Jordan Road property as a “Staging Area for Tour operators [City Council AB2204, 3/01/2017].”
Only a cretin would comment that people commenting on the Eye don’t know what goes on at City Council meetings IMO. Council mtg. crapola is broadcast live on TV, videos are available on the City’s website, and detailed meeting Agendas are posted on the Council’s webpages in advance.
Tony you need to learn this stuff if you’re going to run for mayor the Chamber of Commerce is a member owned organization throughout the Vertie Valley it’s paid for and run by its members. The city of SEDONA has contacted chamber to run the cities marketing programs, we are tourist town all the monies are at the direction of the city Council city and manager try to remember that you’ll be asked no money goes to any hotel or advertises any business in Sedona it is for marketing in the slow periods for midweek business
“““Steve segner says:
January 12, 2017 at 10:51 am
After last night meeting and the outcome, and the no shows from the sedona Eye,I will no longer need to follow all the crazy talk signing off no more posts.””’
If you see a steve segner it will be a phony posting been fun so long ss”””
Who are you going to believe, me or your lying eyes? None of the city money would ever benefit Enchantment, the hotels in the Village or any other business that happens to be a chamber member. Trust me. More traffic is always good..
Vote NO on homerule.
This will stop the city’s over spending and gifting. A city our size needs to get focused and stop trying to be a region.
Vote NO on Homerule. Help your community.
Regardless of whether the person @Steve segner 2/7 10:57 AM is the “real” deal or not, the explanation of exactly what the Chamber of Commerce is, “the Chamber of Commerce is a member owned organization throughout the Vertie Valley it’s paid for and run by its members” clearly upholds the reason the City of Sedona should NOT contract them to act on behalf of the incorporated municipality.
Their members pay dues to be represented by that organization and legitimate city-tax collecting businesses who do nor acquiesce to joining the C of C are NOT offered representation in the city financed Visitors Center (officially that of the Chamber) and further do not benefit directly from any marketing program offered by a city contract with them, a regional member-driven organization, most members of whom are NOT located within Sedona City Limits and even expand to areas outside the Verde Valley. (not “Verte” as identified by the Segner person)
How much more in the world do Sedona City Councils (and staff) need to realize the error of their ways? The return on the increased bed tax revenue should NOT under any circumstances be entered into or have any affiliation with a special interest group that so blatantly is allowed to flaunt their false authority, thereby abusing the very source of funding that primarily promotes those who aren’t officially paying to play – collecting Sedona City bed & sales tax.
Sound familiar, Jennifer Wesselhoff? Weren’t those the exact words where at a Sedona City Council meeting you justified not promoting official, legitimate tax collecting businesses at YOUR City financed Visitors Center unless they were members of YOUR special club?
Given enough rope, they WILL eventually hang themselves. But, City Council, how long is it going to take before you wake up and redirect your highly qualified and highly paid City Staff to do the right thing to cease and desist in this outrageous misuse of incorporated Sedona City funds?
Police Department
I had a very good conversation with Chief McGill this afternoon. The Chief seemed to me very knowledgeable and professional.
The Chief confirmed to me that Sedona residents have much quicker response times than county residents. Sedona city residents have a greater police presence than the Village or the canyon. Of course that costs money. The police is far from the first area I would cut. Would you want it cut at all? A question for the residents, would you be happy with the same coverage and response times the Village or the canyon have?
It is a quality of life issue. Is the quality of life better in Sedona than the Village or the canyon? Do you think a resident of the City of Sedona feels safer?
Well who ever is the real SS.?…………..I’d say they are both or whatever are spot on?….Complaining about CC and talking about companies wanting PR who don’t live in the city?….Hello I have showed you over and over…..anyone can be a part of the CC goof balls!….all you need is $$$$$ Just like Cottonwoods CC and any other in our state! And the magic monies from the bed tax CANT GO 100% to the roads or any other pet projects!………………PLEASE read and learn how local governments work before you make complete fools of yourselves!
And just who is the complete fool @West Sedona Dave? For an incorporated city to be spending millions of $$$$ to an outfit who clearly is dedicated to promote ONLY its regional members is the height of stupidity.
Most cities and towns do NOT financially support a Chamber of Commerce. Flagstaff is one example. And Camp Verde no longer has a C of C. And in case you aren’t aware, the C of C in Cottonwood recently relocated to a less visible site, presumably because they must live within their means, unlike that “regional” outfit in Sedona. Kindly consider practicing what you preach (poorly at that) prior to condemning those who obviously are better informed than you are. You and Segner, two peas in a pod = one and the same?
You said “ before you make fools of yourselves.”
Think it to late for that west sedona DAVE… they are there already!
Tony T
You crack me up…
(deleted by editor)
Yes, it is EXTREMELY irresponsible for a city to have a contract with a special interest, member driven organization representing interests of those outside an incorporated area. There is NO REASON for Sedona to not have contracted with a professional ad agency or, for that matter, promoted Sedona via Arizona State Bureau of Tourism. Either would have satisfied the State requirements for qualified rebate to the Lodging Council for the .5% bed tax increase. The contract for the Chamber is a sham and it even gets worse with the facade of “product development” allowing the C of C to purchase property, retain title, and make improvements with public funding. And yes, West Sedona Dave & Steve Segner, bed tax IS public money only with the stipulation a certain amount should be spent to benefit those paying a discretionary tax. But, it does NOT need to go to the Chamber of Commerce for THEIR Visitors Center and/or to promote their regional members. Those thinking and speaking otherwise, put a sock in it!
Now you have some truth in what you say…..very little but your getting better!
Companies in Cottonwood and both Camp Verde advertise and our members of Sedonas CC…..But spewed over and over is the silly reasoning that you must be in Sedona city limits to be a member…..WRONG!
Second every county in the state has a bed tax and nearly every town has a bed tax also…..To think or say that Sedona is exclusive is just a lie as usual….
The City of Sedona uses THEIR chamber to spend monies on advertising and such….Here it is……Its called ” Product development “….
Very little of the bed tax money can be used for anything but product development….
So keep it real, and please tell the whole story…..If Sedona ended their bed tax it would still be there as the state and county have it in place…….Just less %…
Again to all you complainers, you need a devastating situation in your life so you can focus on the important things in life!…..This ragging is a joke and is making you sick if you knew it or not!….
And just where is it anyone stated the Chamber of Commerce in Sedona had to restrict where there members are located? If you think that, West Sedona Dave, it’s proof you are delusional! In fact, it’s that criteria, regional members, which is the basis for WHY Sedona CITY should NOT be contracting with the Chamber of Commerce, ID’ed as being “Sedona” which clearly it is NOT!
To promote Sedona via the State Bureau of Tourism and/or a contract with an outside, professional ad agency would be a legitimate use of the .5% bed tax increase and surely you must know it. For city taxes to be supporting the Chamber Visitors Center, refusing to market their own in-city businesses unless they are chamber members, is nothing short of blackmail.
And whoever said other places don’t charge bed tax? That, too, is in your dreams. Better quit while you’re ahead. In fact, that’s exactly where you sit since the City Manager renewed the contract for 7 years. You’r the one who should rightfully quit complaining about those seeking justice in this chicken-poop town of bullies. (oh yea, my opinion, for those drooling to find cause for a law suit)
Now, let’s get this straight. The Sedona Lodging Council agreed to collect a .5% bed tax increase and it’s a State law that a percentage of the increase is to be spent to benefit THOSE WHO ARE COLLECTING IT. Right?
Then how in the world can the Sedona Chamber of Commerce, who admittedly has members outside Sedona City Limits that DO NOT COLLECT SEDONA CITY SALES AND/OR BED TAX, legitimately benefit from the State mandated provision to benefit ONLY THOSE BUSINESSES COLLECTING THE TAXES?????
Thanks Steve Segner and/or West Sedona Dave (one and the same?) for so precisely pointing out how City of Sedona appears to be breaking that State law since clearly by advertising via the “regional” chamber of commerce undeserving businesses are reaping benefits. What about that City Council, City Attorney, and City Manager? Your decision to enhance Chamber members aka non-legitimate in-city lodging facilities that do not collect city taxes – how does that comply with the State law?
Tony Tonsich says:
“The police is far from the first area” I “would cut.”
Tony the mayor has “no power to make any cuts to staffing” or even talk to dept. heads without the ok of the manager.
The city manager runs the city staff. Please look up “Weak mayor system”…..
the mayor meets and greets , and is one of 7…..
you say you are going to make cuts , to what, and why? just because you think the city has to many employees? , you post phone bills ! why , you have no way of knowing what they should be……. the city manager run the city day to day, he looks at the bills not the city mayor or council…. they set budgets and goals……
please do your home work. we need to start calling you Tony Trump.
@West Sedona Dave
“Again to all you complainers, you need a devastating situation in your life so you can focus on the important things in life!…..This ragging is a joke and is making you sick if you knew it or not!….” Why do you do it Dave? Because you are one of those that receive?
We are tired of being stolen from, “We’re mad as hell and we aren’t going to take it any more.”
Fox In The Henhouse- If there’s a fox in the henhouse, you’ve got problems brewing. You see, in that one idiom, people are aware that someone has been put in a position where he or she can then exploit the situation to his or her own benefit. And what’s more, it’s not that the opportunity is there, waiting to be acted upon, it’s more likely than not that the person in charge absolutely will exploit the situation.
Sedona has a few foxes in Taxpayers $$$. Stupid city!
To Mr. Tonsich:
You are so cute. It’s so obvious that you don’t have a clue about what you’re talking about.
Being a citizen and voter I get to ask what ever I like. Theoretically city staff works for the citizens and voters. I’m sure some would disagree. Should the city staff unwisely refuse to answer information requests,where the vast majority of my information comes from, the appropriate action will be taken as a citizen.
I am gathering information in order to inform voters and make informed decisions. If city department heads choose not to talk to me as a citizen, that is of course their choice.They can decide if it is a wise choice.
Once I am Mayor I will be bound by numerous rules. I am also sure there will be many trying to catch me if I violate any. It’s cute how they don’t do that to those who play Santa Claus with other peoples money.
Cool thing, I’m not mayor, yet.
The chamber is in control. We in the chamber think it is just fine if the city spends nearly 10 million more than the city takes in as long as we get our share. The city manager even suggested the new 7 year contract for the chamber. You will have no power to cut Tony. The city manager runs things. Remember that.
(Deleted by editor) you know nothing about how things really work in our town.
M Mallion
You might be as mad as hell, then stop using the local hotels for your affairs then!
Not one dollar out of your pocket goes the CC……
I believe to many confuse mad as hell, to being as stupid as a rock!