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)

Read www.SedonaEye.com for daily news and interactive views!

734 Comments

  1. F.Y.I. says:

    “Very little of the bed tax money can be used for anything but product development” is one ignorant statement by West Sedona Dave. Of the City’s 3.5% bed tax levy, under state law .5% must be used on tourism. 3% was approved before the State law requiring bed tax funds be spent on tourism got enacted. Product development is not a consideration.

    Other cities in Arizona charge a bed tax, however, they don’t give it away to their Chambers of Commerce who represent their members.

    Vote NO on Home Rule (August 28, 2018 election).

  2. Wake Up says:

    It is NOT City of Sedona’s responsibility to provide service outside Sedona City Limits. And, especially, to authorize a contract with a non-profit special interest organization allowing millions of dollars to promote businesses and members outside the incorporated area of Sedona.

    What’s wrong with you people in charge, allowing a “regional” Chamber of Commerce so much control? The reason for Sedona to incorporate in the first place was to avoid control by outside forces. The ongoing contract with the C of C has obliterated that very purpose.

    CITY LIMITS IN THE U.S.

    “Property within a city’s limit is subject to city taxation and city regulation, and expects city services. Areas outside any city’s limit are considered to be unincorporated, and in most U.S. states they are by default regulated and taxed by the county. In others, areas outside a city’s limit fall within another type of local government, such as the civil township (a division of a county). Cities and towns may have extraterritorial jurisdiction beyond their limits, typically for zoning purposes. The distance this extends varies based on the population or area of the city, or which “class” it is considered to be under state law.”

  3. @Mrs. Roger Thomas says:

    Most likely the only thing Mr. Tonsich is clueless about is how Sedona elections work. Remember the following wildly circulated e-mail? This was followed by the scathing RRN editorial blasting Cliff Hamilton appearing on the Friday prior to the election the following Tuesday. It isn’t City Hall facts Mr. Tonsich needs to fear, it’s the good old boys and their unrelenting tactics. Of course, that’s just another opinion but consider the facts, including but not limited to the following:

    Attached Message
    From: Steve Segner
    To: Al Comello
    Cc: SANDY MORIARTY
    Subject: lets meet please do not pass around
    Date: Sun, 27 Jul 2014 10:39:26 -0700

    Al

    We need to do something that puts Sand on the map, the hill top people are Hamilton’s they hang together butt they are few…. we need the flatlanders….

    I see cliff as a life long autocrat… we need to tell that story “Sandy gets her hands dirty…. Cliff talks and talks down.

    Can you get me his background? I am thinking about a large rental truck parked around town with sides with Sands posters… remember all Sedona residents go to two locations each week, Bash’s and Safeway,

    Lets be smart, lets run a gorilla marketing campaign

    I think Cliff will try to paint the chamber in a bad light so he can come in and fix things ,lets keep the chamber out of this, and talk about and Cliff and his imperil management stile.
    I think using the “T” party as a comment would be good.

    Steve

  4. Zeus says:

    Wow. Quoting from the comment @Mrs. Roger Thomas:

    “I think Cliff will try to paint the chamber in a bad light so he can come in and fix things”

    Wow (again) – what an admission that clearly the chamber needed “fixing” four years ago. And since then it’s become even worse.

    Because the quote came from a Segner e-mail dated 7/27/14 guess it’s safe to believe it came from the REAL DEAL and not the myriad of people currently plagiarizing the good(?) name of Steve segner as indicated by his post on SE dated 1/12/17:

    “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”

  5. Tony Tonsich says:

    I do appreciate everyone’s comments. I even sometimes learn from those who attack me. I’m running for Mayor for the future of Sedona. For those residents that will stay and come after us. I fell in love with a amazingly beautiful area and a small town. It has evolved into a traffic clogged tourist trap. I’m not against tourists, I want tourists to fall in love with Sedona like I did.

    I have no illusions that I can change things by myself. To make Sedona for the residents first the residents need to get out and vote. We need a new mayor and city council that believes like we do. I know I will continue to be attacked by those who are after a quick buck at the expense of the long term future of our beautiful town.

    If I get your votes and those of your neighbors, we can take our town back.

    WE can change things. Talk to your neighbors. Vote No on home rule.

  6. Lonnie says:

    Wow after following this thread it doesn’t take a member of Mensa to figure out Sedona is operated bu dirty politics. Take the survey (subject of article) for example. So the assistant city manager took exception about naming names of those who contrived the trick questions. Then read other follow up defense comments. But, of course, the Steve Segner disclaimer repeated many times was enhanced with the most revealing written communication from him back in July of 2014 as he blatantly manipulated the outcome of the election, at least for mayor.

    Those of you who are dumb enough to maybe just gripe here or with each other and then don’t bother to vote are a bigger problem than the controlling force, including the chamber of commerce. Either wake up and deal with the situation like adults (vote) or continue to live under Home Rule and other negative forces.

  7. QUESTION says:

    There’s a Steve Segner on the list of those seeking the vacant chair on the Sedona Fire District Board. Is it possible he is one and the same as that Steve Segner who sent the e-mail referred to under @Mrs. Roger Thomas, 2/9 2:19 PM?

  8. @Question says:

    Of course the two Steve Segners are the same. Can you imagine what state our Fire District will be in should he be placed on the fire board for even a short time? Please please don’t let it happen. Tax and spend, name of his game. Look at city/chamber scam contract if you need proof imo.

  9. F.Y.I. says:

    @Question
    No question about it, it’s the same Steve Segner who’s is seeking the vacant chair on the SFD BOD. And not to overlook, Steve Segner is the President of the Sedona Lodging Council. Thus he has a conflict of interest and had no business applying for the vacancy.

  10. F.Y.I. says:

    @Questioon

    Yes, it’s one and the same Steve Segner. Stevie is the President of the Sedona Lodging Council. Thus, he has a conflict of interest and had no business applying for the SFD BOD vacancy.

  11. @FYI says:

    Interesting point, can you please explain how you think that Segner has a conflict of interest??? I won’t for him if you are right

  12. GNS says:

    Well who would have thought! Originally alleged one-term Sandy Moriarty has taken out a packet to run for Mayor – AGAIN! Guess that magical chair amid mostly bearded gents now has done much for her moral. And with Steve Segner backing her (check his 2014 comment) how can she lose? So much for the original intent to vie for the two-year position as she sharpens her wits to extend that duration to SIX YEARS!!!! Yet another reason to defeat Home Rule.

  13. @fyi says:

    Yes this response is for both FYI who are the same.

    I don’t see a conflint of interest for SS being on the Fire Board.
    He will be an excellent choice .

  14. Tony Tonsich says:

    Sedona Community development Department

    I would think staffed with 3 people. I asked a neighbor who is a retired Engineer and Contractor, he thought 3 people would be about right. Quick, what would you guess?

    Let me give you a clue, the city told me yesterday they issued 625 permits in the last full fiscal year. A little math, 4 days a week, 52 weeks a year, 208 annual work days. If there were three people they would each have to look over 1 permit in a 10 hour day. I think it should only take at most about 2 hours to look over a permit, probably a whole lot less for a kitchen remodel or a fence permit. Still with me?

    I’d guess 3 people not working too hard, I’d say one person could probably do it but this is government work so 3 it is.

    Nope , the city of Sedona has 15 people in Community Development. Just in salaries they collect over $823,000 to issue 625 permits.

    Oh yea, the community development director needed to go to New York City and Stay in a hotel Near times Square, two hotel stays at over $1500 each, just for the hotel. You would probably agree a civil engineer would need to keep up on their skills. The community development director does make $117,929, we should get a qualified civil engineer for that amount. One little problem, according to her LInkedin profile the community development director was trained as a registered nurse, no further education shown.

    I need your help if you want things changed. I need like minded people on the city council with me. I can’t change things by myself.

    Tell your friends and neighbors. Get out and vote.

    Please vote NO on Home Rule. NO means NO !!!

  15. Kelly says:

    So Tony you forgot to say she’s a girl and tell us what qualifies you on Linked In to make you qualified to be Mayor Picture that .

  16. Steve segner says:

    Once again Tony shows his ignorance, community development has 17 standing departments they also run P and Z ,they also write most of the regulations and codes for a city, building permits are probably the smallest portion of their job.Tony if you’re going to run for mayor you need to do the research. Audree is one of the first employees for the city of Arizona of Sedona and she knows more about community development then anybody you could get out of Harvard. Tony belittles a city employee background and pay and you say the entire department to be run by three people ! really you said that !!! tony do you stand by your statement that 17 department can be run by three people? please tell us or you could backtrack like trump neither one of you know how to read or for that matter asked for advice from somebody who knows. By the way Tony community development directors are usually not engineers

  17. F.Y.I. says:

    The Sedona Lodging Council is a special interest that serves the needs of its members and a Chamber of Commerce Affinity Group in addition. As President of the Lodging Council, Steve Segner represents the business interests of its members and promotes the interests of the Chamber.

    IMO, If on the Board of the Sedona Fire District, count on Mr. Segner to vote to approve virtually every $$$$ expenditure. He supported the $17.9 million fire bond that Sedona area property owners/voters recently defeated. So he wants the fire stations in the Uptown area and the Canyon replaced although there is no need for this, etc., etc. Historically, he brought the .5% bed tax increase to the City of Sedona that resulted in millions of City of Sedona tax revenue being allocated every year to the Chamber of Commerce, a special interest that is ruining Sedona..

    Sedona does not need an individual from a special interest group as a SFD Board member.

  18. Mrs Roger Thomas says:

    Mr Tonsich:

    You keep saying; “I would think” & “I’d guess” so by your own words it’s obvious that you have no idea of what you are writing about.

  19. West Sedona Resident says:

    If any of you think the direction of Sedona is about to change in the near future you are fools! It’s only the in-crowd running this place. GET OVER IT! Not enough live here anymore to even bother to vote. So they are our biggest supporters to maintain control. GO, SEGNER!! Keep them all baffled!

    No on Home Rule? Get serious. All we need to do is throw out a few scare tactics and it’s certain to be approved. Has always worked before.

    Good luck Suckers.

  20. CITY'S NORTHERN LIGHTS AND QUALITY OF LIFE says:

    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.

  21. Tony Tonsich says:

    @Kelley

    You may have noticed, men can be registered nurses too. That does not qualify them to be community development directors.

    Since you asked, my qualifications, briefly, Bachelors of Science in Business Administration, Post Graduate study in Public Administration, past president of 3 homeowners associations, Owner , president and vice president of various companies, general contractor.

    The biggest problem is, if someone is not qualified for the job and may not be able get a similar job elsewhere, they will do what ever they think they need to do to keep the job. The City Managers office wants more people on your staff? Sure, how many would you like? A registered nurse, a noble profession ,makes an average of $71,000 in the US. The Sedona Community development director is making over $118,000 this year. That’ a $47,000 per year pay cut if they go back to being a nurse. What might they do to keep the higher paying job?

  22. Mrs Roger Thomas says:

    To the individual who didn’t use their real name but goes by CITY’S NORTHERN LIGHTS AND QUALITY OF LIFE.

    You say “debacle” I ask you to explain how it was a “debacle”? Our hotels were full occupancy and our restaurants were packed. So, how was that a “debacle”?

    This all meant that workers had jobs and were able to make a living. What you fail to say was that NORTHERN LIGHTS didn’t cause any significant traffic AT ALL.

    Why don’t you be transparent and say that you’re just against people working and making a living wage.

  23. Tony Tonsich says:

    @Steve segner

    This is hilarious “Once again Tony shows his ignorance, community development has 17 standing departments they also run P and Z ,they also write most of the regulations and codes for a city, ” Segner says a department actually has 17 standing departments. Then goes on to say I need to do my research. That is funny stuff. Please Steve, list the 17 standing departments in the Sedona Planning and Zoning Department. Then goes on to say I need to do my research. That is funny stuff.

    A saying I like ” Everyone brings joy into your life, some by coming, some by going.” Help me make the people abusing voters trust go away.

    Vote No on home rule ! NO means NO !!

  24. TAKE ACTION says:

    @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

  25. Norma says:

    I never agree with s segner but the Community Development departments does do a lot more than just permits. They are the busiest department at City Hall IMO. Audree has a lot on her plate and does a professional job. Super Cool she is more educated than the average person. IMO

    Time to back off and take a transparent look Tony. thanks

  26. @steve Segner says:

    And who is using your name now?

    @Steve segner says:
    February 14, 2018 at 10:57 pm

    Go back to your disclaimer of January last year where you vowed to NEVER comment on SE again! Your credibility continues to sink to a new low.

    @Mrs. Roger Thomas. Your veiled transparency is becoming more obvious every time you write something here. Hmmmm ….. methinks you have direct connection to City Manager’s office?

    Refer your ongoing defense of C of C and now the asinine “northern light” hoop-de-do over frightening wild life. Your lack of compassion and love of the almighty dollar, same as SS, becomes more offensive every time you post. Keep it up! When the fountain has run dry and the Golden Goose has been cooked, pick up your profits and move on elsewhere. Better idea. Quit now while you’re ahead.

  27. Eddie S. Maddock says:

    With all due respect to Mr. Tony Tonsich, it feels inappropriate to sit silently and not come to the defense of Audree Juhlin.

    As an employee who has served Sedona for many years, she has acquired stature and through perseverance remained on Sedona’s payroll until finally, in my estimation, attained the position she should have had a long time ago: Director of Community Development. In my opinion, she inherited back-lash from former bad decisions, thus on occasion being subjected to undue but necessary responsibility for cleaning up messes created by others long gone.

    To date I’ve met neither Tony T. nor Audree J. personally although on numerous occasions I’ve called upon Audree for real-deal clarification of city issues to which she always, always responded promptly, without complaint or snide remarks, remaining professional and with a touch of class.

    My best wishes are herewith extended to Tony Tonsich for a successful run for city council should that projected destination materialize. However, my preference from all candidates would be for generalized facts to be made public versus personalized attacks. And that holds true for those who decide to back them.

    Doesn’t Sedona deserve better than mud-slinging tactics that have occurred in past elections? When and if that happens again, maybe it’s time to seriously consider the source(s) who perhaps fear losing based on their own merit?

    Again IMO there’s been a decline in transparency of activities at City Hall, possibly since Mike Ward sat on Council. It’s become increasingly more noticeable since implementation of Citizen Engagement input as a replacement of prior Commissions where meetings were publicly noticed and everyone had the opportunity to, if they desired, have hands-on access to what has now become closed door sessions with unknown and unnamed participants making decisions.

    It’s important for vital information such as that obtained by Mr. Tonsich to be conveniently made public, thus assisting to clear up questions of possible secrets or suspicions regarding difficult to access important public information. In a nutshell if transparency prevailed in order for the public to make accurate assessments and hopefully refrain from being judgmental, wouldn’t everyone benefit? (Or, selectively, maybe not?)

    Without further adieu, thank you Editor of SedonaEye for providing this opportunity for one and all to have a voice. It sort of makes one wonder why consideration to agree to disagree might be the best policy after all is said and done. Heads up and lighten up, Folks.

    Respectfully,
    Eddie S. Maddock

  28. Steve segner says:

    Tony it is not funny, it is sad, you were 100%out of line on you statement about Adury and her department, but no apologies from Tony just more false statements and personal attacks, and he wants to be mayor, remember we are writing this all down .

  29. M Mallon says:

    Sedona was a much more pleasant place before there was a City of Sedona. There are always a few friendly faces among those that will steal all you have. Friendly professional faces that will help those who ruin your beautiful home for a few dollars with no thought of the future.

    To see what is in front of one’s nose requires a constant struggle. -Orwell

  30. @Tony T says:

    Tony T

    Once again Tony shows his true colors.

    Nothing but “hot wasted air” coming out of his mouth..
    As usual.

  31. M Mallon says:

    It does not surprise me that many attack the person just stating facts. You get the government you deserve. One of the penalties for refusing to participate in politics is that you end up being governed by your inferiors. Plato

  32. Jess Wundrin says:

    Those serving as Director of Community Development prior to Audree Juhlin were all men. Wonder how much they were being paid? My guess is their salaries exceeded what Ms. Juhlin is receiving..

    As for other positions in the city, many questionable jobs continue to be created, and yet it is said the city cannot afford its own legitimate Visitors Center?

    Baloney Skin! Cut funding for the Chamber’s operation and drop contract w/Red Earth to operate the Hub and get rid of a few “assistants to the assistants” and your funds for a Sedona Visitors Center might just magically appear.

    Fools and scam artists in my opinion including City Council members who encourage and approve of such hogwash.

    Hey everyone – are ya’ll enjoying the traffic this weekend? Well, in the near future staggered “Spring Breaks” will be happening so ya ain’t seen nuthin’ yet! So get used to it!

  33. Jack M says:

    Stockholm syndrome

    In the final analysis, emotionally bonding with an abuser is actually a strategy for survival for victims of abuse and intimidation. We have spending of almost $10,000,000 more than annual revenues. Massive over staffing. Multiple no bid contracts. Of the $2.3 million no bid contract given to the Sedona Chamber, only $600,000 is spent on advertising anyway. The rest, $1.7 million is spent on product development. WTF is that ? Bumper to bumper traffic. High sales taxes. Crumbling roads in our neighborhoods. Let’s all accuse the guy the guy who brought it up as mud slinging because that nice lady with the over six figure salary in community development has worked for the city so many years.

    Idiots.

  34. Mrs Roger Thomas says:

    This comment is addressed to @steve Segner. Too bad you don’t choose to use your real name as I continue to do. It is interesting that you fail to answer my questions and instead deflect while accusing me of ties to city works.

    Just for the record, I stand by my original posting above to you:

    You say “debacle” I ask you to explain how it was a “debacle”? Our hotels were full occupancy and our restaurants were packed. So, how was that a “debacle”?
    This all meant that workers had jobs and were able to make a living. What you fail to say was that NORTHERN LIGHTS didn’t cause any significant traffic AT ALL.
    Why don’t you be transparent and say that you’re just against people working and making a living wage.

  35. Angie W. says:

    Has anyone else noticed the number of people commenting who qualify their input as “opinion”? And yet one of the most high-profile by the questionable name of “Steve segner” never does? Does that mean he is correct about EVERYTHING? And he NEVER expresses just an opinion and his words are the gospel truth = fact?

    If so that’s incredible and yet also very disturbing because of what Sedona has become. Do we give this alleged Mr. Segner credit for turning one of the once most beautiful places into the overcrowded, overused and seedy tourist traps in the world? Wow! What a legacy – NOT! (PS – MY OPINION)

  36. MaryC says:

    From what I read here, it is all the fault of that Tony T. How dare he mention names when he states facts! Telling the truth when it is about dirty business is mud-slinging. How dare he ! Our hard working and frugal public servants are beyond reproach. They would never spend a penny more than necessary as they always consider the residents first. Our self sacrificing tourist businesses are only looking out for the residents as they know the residents would not want to feel lonely.

    I heard the present city council are all running for re election. Wonderful I say! We need to keep things steady and even, change is dangerous!!

  37. @Mrs Roger says:

    Respect the wildlife as well as the residents. It(Northern Lights debacle) is the complete opposite of why people live and visit here.

    Ms. Roger(is that your name ? Roger?) Thomas turns that into:
    Why don’t you be transparent and say that you’re just against people working and making a living wage.
    LOL, clearly missed the whole message about nature and wildlife and turned it all towards money.
    Your desire to get people to identify themselves so you can attack and pounce is animal like so I guess we should protect you too?
    Las Vegas might satisfy your night light desires.

  38. BINGO says:

    Congrats to @Mrs. Roger. Your words beautifully describe the nonsense previously provided by an alleged “Mrs. Roger Thomas”. That person is so full of self-importance one would think her/she was the force behind making our red rocks happen! In fact, several people function under that grand “assumption” including Steve Segner.

    If all rooms were filled and restaurants packed during the unnecessary “Northern Lights” then isn’t that even a better reason to can future performances? Double back talk is the message from him/her and others than believe in throwing millions at the bogus chamber of commerce while at the same time raising our sales tax.

    My vote will go for both Tony T. and NO to HOME RULE! Thank you very much, Mrs. Roger Thomas and others for making my decision an easy one.

  39. Wake Up Sedona says:

    We are taking notes. There is A LOT more to come!

    Series vote them OUT!!!!!

    VOTE OUT ALL existing Council including Mayor for many reasons here is #1

    1. Gifting private entities taxpayers money creating an unlevel playing field. Increasing debt and reducing the sales tax revenues!
    a. Chamber Millions per year for their membership’s exclusive use without a VOTE or SAY SO from the legitimate businesses that collect the sales – bed tax. Allowing the non-city-businesses to proper from $$$$millions$$$ up to 30 million to date
    b. Paying Red Earth Theater to be gifted a free facility, paying them a salary while they put on events, rent room, provide classes & STEAL this business that the legitimate businesses would be making money on.
    c. Gifting private entities via so called grants that compete with TAX collecting businesses like Sedona International Film Festival, Art coalitions like Sedona Art Center that compete with gallery owners and DO NOT collect sales tax.

    This type of gifting is degrading the business and economic climate in Sedona. It has increased the traffic, enriched non-city residents & businesses and is driving the cost of living up as it degrades our quality of life.

    VOTE OUT ALL existing Council including Mayor. They all suck, IMO

  40. F.Y.I. says:

    The City of Sedona doesn’t need excessive development, more overcrowding, or lodging projects the likes of The Village at Saddlerock Crossing (Oxford Hotel) or the additional Marriott. I agree with Tony Tonsich that being a registered nurse doesn’t qualify a person to be a Community Development Director. Residents shouldn’t be happy with YES people in directorial and management positions at the City nor YES people solutions.

  41. More Waste and Blah Blah Blah says:

    More wasted money to benefit the regional chamber of commerce (product development?

    “The Sedona Economic Development Department exists to help businesses create and keep jobs and opportunities in our community. For information on revolving loans, business education and other business support resources, please contact mspangler@sedonaaz.gov.”

    https://sedonaeye.com/eye-on-sedona-supporting-city-business-development/

  42. Mrs Roger Thomas says:

    To the un-named poster above asking about my name “Ms. Roger(is that your name ? Roger?) Thomas” in my generation it is common that I use my husbands first name.

    Of course I respect the wildlife and in the case of Northern Lights you may recall that USFS signed off on the safety of the event. I certainly wouldn’t call it a debacle. I find as distasteful that people can have big businesses and even bakery’s in their home in a residential neighborhood. Why should I have to put up with selfish people (Deleted by editor) ?

  43. NO QUALITY OF LIFE HERE says:

    Quality of life for residents was supposed to happen at the same time as the marketing for the businesses, not trying to fix it after the roads are ruined and it takes 45 minuted to get through 3 roundabouts while tearing down more nature to build road and add more hotels.

    The bad news:

    https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2017/11/06/our-tourism-campaign-worked-too-well-and-damaged-the-destination-now-what/#4140fa80638f

    More bad news:

    https://www.sedonaaz.gov/Home/ShowDocument?id=33688

  44. Jessica says:

    Great article. I didn’t know the chamber farmed out the real work. xkxkakakakak@@@#####3rlfot City council

    “But a few years ago, bed taxes and average daily rates at the hotels began to decline. The Sedona Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau hired us to work with them to solve the slumping numbers. We targeted a higher-income demographic that would enjoy Sedona while staying longer and spending more at the local businesses.”

  45. More cars to add quality of life says:

    More

    http://www.sedonaaz.gov/your-government/departments/community-development/projects-and-proposals/the-village-at-saddlerock-crossing-oxford-hotel
    124 rooms=124 cars
    ZONE CHANGE

    http://www.sedonaaz.gov/Home/ShowDocument?id=30592

    the current Lodging zone only allows for the 121 lodging units that were built in the Courtyard, so a Zone Change is required to increase the total number of lodging units allowed. It would basically go from lodging for 121 units to lodging that would allow 209 units with the 88-unit increase.

    209 rooms = 209 cars
    ZONE CHANGE

  46. Jerry, Legitimate Sedona Voter says:

    Really a person needn’t read further than the idiotic survey, subject of above article, to understand how Sedona is being manipulated. And then the audacity of the assistant city manage to make a mockery out of a request for the names of the Citizen Engagement committee who contrived the asinine questions?

    And in addition to the multitude of comments, the link to the announcement of the city creating an “Economic Development Department” all in order to accommodate the regional chamber of commerce, at an expense over and above the millions thrown to them annually?

    And one needs to question our “quality of life.” Don’t think so! It stinks.

    Time for big changes – new faces on the city council who will have the integrity to reverse the project and return Sedona to the “small town atmosphere” long forgotten as being a main focus in the Community Plan.

    NO to re-electing incumbents. NO to HOME RULE! You WILL have a choice and if you ignore the opportunity, shame on you. Rest assured those campaigning to keep the degradation process will be out to vote in big numbers.

  47. Charles (Chas) N. says:

    “Of course I respect the wildlife and in the case of Northern Lights you may recall that USFS signed off on the safety of the event” @Mrs. Roger Thomas 2/19.

    And why wouldn’t the local USFS Ranger Station SIGN OFF on terrorizing local wildlife, Ms. Thomas, after having accepted a large chunk of that multi million dollar slush fund the Chamber has amassed from their contract with the city. Payback? Tell it like it is – PLEASE.

  48. West Sedona Resident says:

    Traffic in West Sedona is out of control!!!!!!!

    Accidents like crazy too many cars for such narrow roads.

    Residents are being forced to stay home on weekends and leave town to shop in Cottonwood. Businesses are losing their local clients throughout the greater Sedona region.

    Enough BS from the city and chamber. The city changed the community plan to allow this. The city is gifting millions to membership-based-chamber. Approving too many hotels. Our neighborhoods have too many vacation rentals already.Greedy Wasteful with TAXPAYERS money.

    We should have allowed the National Monument designation.

    Vote them out.

    Vote NO on home rule and STOP the excessive wasteful spending.

  49. Public Comment says:

    You MUST voice your opinion at every council and planning and zoning meeting, there is great power in numbers of citizens showing up. Show up, participate. organize, talk to the other people at the meetings and start a email/text/call chain. It works!!! There can always be a schedule of concerned residents to show up. You can control the outcome.

    For starters: Planning and Zoning

    First and third Tuesday of the month at 5:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, with work sessions held Thursdays prior to each meeting in the Vultee Conference Room at City Hall.

    http://www.sedonaaz.gov/your-government/departments/city-clerk/council-commissions-committees-boards/commissions/planning-and-zoning-commission

    City Council

    The Sedona City Council holds its regular meetings on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 4:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 102 Roadrunner Dr. The council also holds numerous other work sessions and special meetings. For information on meeting dates and times use the link below or on the calendar on our home page.

    http://www.sedonaaz.gov/your-government/departments/city-clerk/council-commissions-committees-boards/city-council
    http://www.sedonaaz.gov/your-government/council-commissions-committees-boards/meetings-documents/-cfs-930

    Once organized, the other meetings and departments can follow. No zone changes, follow the rules already in place until residents get a handle on this out of control gov’t. Get busy. See you there. Take your Power.

  50. Tony Tonsich says:

    Obviously when Sedona roads are this crowded we need to stop subsidizing the Chamber of Commerce. The Camp Verde chamber of commerce closed. Oddly enough, Camp Verde still exists. Sedona did quite well before the city started gifting the chamber.

    I think sewer fees should be based on water usage. We need to encourage single family use for single family neighborhoods. Those vacation rentals that pack a home with many people would pay many times the sewer fee. That could also reduce the sewer fees for residents that only have one or two people per household. Sedona could have the water companies do the sewer billing, or we could arrange to do their billing, what ever works. That wold be another potential cost savings.

    Another obvious change is reducing city spending on things other than safety, welfare and roads. 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.

    I need your help. Talk to your neighbors. Vote NO on home rule !!

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