SedonaEye.com columnist Eddie S. Maddock reminds Sedona AZ politicians and voters that the USFS continues to protect sacred lands surrounding its city limits. The renamed “Cultural Park” was once part of reservation land, traded and then redesignated by Sedona politicians for “public use.” Developers and city politicians now want to bulldoze and build government subsidized housing on this sacred land citing a “perceived” need for it, just as the Cultural Park was once itself a failed “perceived” city use plan.
Sedona AZ – Is it possible this small and beautiful dot on the universal map – Sedona, Arizona – has had any issues which have not been disputed at least to some extent?
The story of the Cultural Park has been adequately documented for years now, and yet the scenic land upon which the failed venue thrived – for a short period of time – continues to be the source for an ongoing tug of war.
The birth of the Cultural Park was largely generated by a “perceived” need to hold outdoor annual functions such as “Jazz on the Rocks,” a jazz series whose performances were successfully received and well-attended at the Sedona Posse Grounds Park: Today, Posse Grounds Park remains as the scenic area designated for most Sedona small town events such as July Fourth, however, and in time, the Cultural Park became less attractive for larger and more significant venues with its stiff competition by high-profile performances offered at the popular Cliff Castle Casino.
At one time the Cultural Park was part of the Hopi Footprints Migration Area and considered “sacred land” to the Apache, being part of an Indian reservation. The USFS continues to protect the area from Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)) requests, and doesn’t divulge where specific sites are, what was on the property and or what has been removed. Originally designated as “Open Space Preservation/Conservation” on the Sedona Community Plan Use Map, it was soon amended to “Public/Semi-public” allegedly “in order to accommodate the community cultural facilities and amenities.”
Lack of affordable housing has become increasingly a national problem. It has become a high-profile subject not only in Sedona, but the entire Verde Valley as well. Sedona united with Cottonwood apparently, jointly agreeing to hire a “housing manager” to represent both communities towards a successful approach to what was acknowledged as a “regional problem.” On November 26, 2021, Sedona hired a “housing manager.” Does Cottonwood stand “united” with Sedona and share the cost of the service performance of that employee?
Reflecting on decisions of the past, the Nepenthe housing project in the Sedona city limits was approved as “workforce/affordable” and, yet, for some reason that specific purpose must have been left out of the development agreement. Wonder why?
Hmmm . . . that’s just one example of questionable decisions contributing to the present housing “shortage.”
In addition, over the years relinquishing proposed requirements for Sedona resorts to include a certain number of on-site living areas for employees was jerked around and “alternative” promises allowed for providing off-site affordable accommodations were all too often approved – and then never enforced.
How many of “those” promised alternative affordable facilities actually exist to this day, if any? And now, fast forward to the Cultural Park presently being considered as an “investment” by the city of Sedona for – guess what – to be “rezoned to accommodate affordable housing.”
Since the issue has definitely been deemed as a “Regional” problem, will that same “Region” be required to help foot the bill for the alleged purchase of the Cultural Park by the city of Sedona?
Will the entire “Region” have the opportunity to benefit from more affordable housing considering that people do have jobs in Cottonwood, Clarkdale, Jerome, Camp Verde, and elsewhere in the “regional” Verde Valley?
Will Sedona continue to be the “cash cow” to provide affordable housing for the entire “region” because now it has a “Housing Manager” at City Hall?
Prior to 1993, the Sedona Community Plan only supported USFS land trades for public/semi-public uses, open spaces or parks; Amendments to the Community Plan have served to enable land trades to be facilitated and completed.
It’s been reported that the city-owned land across from the Sedona Wastewater Treatment Plant off West State Route 89A, locally referred to as “The Dells,” will soon be the subject of a study for potential housing on nearly 200 acres. The city of Sedona has budgeted $75,000 for the study – some of which may be done in-house. If that is in fact the case, will the cost of this endeavor be shared with “The Region?”
Because the wastewater treatment location is obviously a more centrally located area has serious consideration been given to working with the “Region” towards seeking a valid direction for solutions, including funding, for solving the “perceived” housing issue? Instead of proposing the purchase of the Sedona Cultural Park?
Why shouldn’t Sedona benefit from contributing necessary acreage as consideration for its participation in a joint venture and encourage other jurisdictions to foot the bill for development of more affordable housing on existing available land? So – it would require approval from Yavapai County. Why should that be an issue when this is also a “county” problem and doesn’t just exist within Sedona City Limits?
If Sedona can afford to purchase the Cultural Park property, why wouldn’t they consider returning it to the United States Forest Service to be maintained as “Open Space?”
Or better yet wouldn’t a National Scenic Area designation be more appropriate and also even more in compliance with the Community Plan to preserve open space?
Or maybe the situation might best be summed up with the following words as written by Toby McLeod, April 4, 2020:
“Hopi Prophecy – A Timeless Warning”
“. . . . . .having worried about an impending apocalypse, one seems to be upon us now, as a wounded Mother Earth humbles her human children. Thomas Banyacya usually warned of natural disasters like storm and earthquakes, fires and floods, lightening and hurricanes – clear signs that nature was responding to abusive, careless humans. As I reviewed the two Las Vegas talks I found that, sure enough, he warned of ‘more sickness that can’t be cured for a long time’ during an era when ‘the seasons are going to change.’ “
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) – does that ring a bell?
Thank you Ms. Maddock for bringing up this touchy subject. It frightens us to think of what might be happening behind closed doors.
That property has been up for sale for quite some time but recently was taken off the market. This makes us suspicious that some deal might be cooking in secret. Transparency at city hall seems to be lacking these days in our opinions.
Wasn’t there a ballot measure at one time about the property? Maybe it would be a good idea to let the voters have a say? Ha – as if “they” give a hoot what we think?
Well, maybe we might display our thoughts at the polls if we become lucky and have candidates for mayor and city council who would be so daring as to travel down a different path other than increasing building density which creates even people and more traffic. Wishful thinking!
Sedona simply cannot handle any more growth. Why is that so difficult for them to understand?
Sedona needs to remember it isn’t the center of the earth. It’s a big world, little town, and the traffic backups suck. Take the honest opinion of a visitor not coming back. Been.
Ethan agreed
bitter cold then scorching hot
golf better south
pretty scenery
good retirees place
outdoorsy types okay
prefer Colorado
crowded trails parks
gross canyon litter
best time night watching stars
people not friendly
KD Chino Valley
Stop being April fools every day of the year. That wastewater area supposed to be a bird sanctuary when they took it over. City is a liar. Don’t trust Putin lovers because they despise workers and poor and want middle class to give our money and say we earned and pay nothing and give us crumbs while pocketing millions. Vote Republican and get those liars and thiefs out of our offices.
I heard the Cultureless Park was on cursed ground. What about it? What’s the story?
Roundabouts!!? 13 of them! hahahahaaahaaaa….
Watch Yellowstone & see why the CP needs to remain untouched from hands of greedy real estate wannabes & sick with power politicians.
While researching information relating to the Sedona Cultural Park, this communication from former Mayor Pud Colquitt (2004-2008) was among the data. It serves as a refreshing moment, a reminder of an elected official who genuinely respected the will of the people.
“Hi Eddie,
I will be very clear as to my feelings concerning the original agreement concerning the Cultural Park. I will never, I repeat never, vote to change the zoning or designation on that property. I respect the will of the residents at the time of the land exchange and I do not care if 20 years go by, I will always respect that will as to zoning and designation …..as you know the designation is Public/Semi-Public and that is, in my opinion, the protection for that property. If the City does not respect the will of the residents on that issue, how can the community ever trust the City in the future. As you can tell I feel strongly about this and will stand my ground.
Thank you,
Pud Colquitt” (01/27/05)
And thank, you Mayor Colquitt, for having provided your powerful words as a reminder of an honorable public servant.
Funny how when sedona was to be granted a National Monument status by the federal government the usual complainers here considered and cryed that’s it’s a “land grap” blah blah blah. Now the same people are crying about not Developing the cultural park and the natives live there and it’s very sacred. I think people speak out of both sides of their mouth and are basically full of it including ESM I’m sure you won’t print this though or post this You Actually only post the comments that complement the BS that is constantly spread here and Sedona Eye. Punchy double talking BS artists. Most here suffer from the same Affliction that you accuse others of having. Bunch of Government hating BS artists. Of course it simply IMO. Right ESM. Of course I used a FAKE name here (Deleted by editor). You know that’s a friggin fact Sedona I editor so please don’t blank out in my comment use it it’s entirety if you got the balls which I’m sure you don’t
Pud isn’t the Lone Ranger on this issue. We all agree if Council dares to ask.
Another city hall staff troll called @ned?? Buzz off Idiot. You’re must be high or drunk. Stupid comment about nothing. Kudos ESM. Your 6 is covered. Keep to the subject or that jerkoff wins the day.
Appreciate the Pud Colquit share. Young people didn’t pay attention then and now they’re older they got to be informed of the past.
One thing about Sedona Eye @Ned Jones is that as far as I’m aware it remains the editor’s policy to publish ALL comments and not just pick and choose – which is not always true with other publications.
An issue about Sedona’s proposed “national dedication” of the past to my recollection was the difference between a National Monument versus a National Scenic Area. IMO opinion if the effort hadn’t jumped from “scenic area” to the “monument” status it would have prevailed.
Since it appears you get so riled and upset by reading Sedona Eye then why torture yourself? It might be easier on your blood pressure if you resisted the temptation of checking out “The Eye.” Or is it possible you simply cannot resist?
Cheers!
ESM = Eddie S. Maddock (my real name)
@Eddie
I wish i was true, but I have had live links removed explaining Home Rule and other things…Because it was to convenient, so they get removed by the editor.
But they had no problem posting people to punch others, and other violent actions!…..
You can see this site is far off the normal Sedona residents radar!….Not one mayoral candidate has advertised here….And as far as I heard 4 were throwing their hat in the ring.
Just who is the “whiner” here @Ned Jones? Are you insinuating the above article is NOT factual? If so, how about proving it?
Since Ms. Maddock has indicated in previous articles she has been called “a blight on Sedona” and at one time I believe “the neighborhood whack-job” do you really think your lame complaints will make an impact? Except maybe for a good laugh?
And as for the revelation relating to former Mayor Pud Colquitt, what could possibly serve as a better positive example? It seems as if current control freaks don’t recognize praiseworthy actions even when presented right before their eyes.
What could possibly be better for Sedona than to have candidates run for mayor or city council who would reflect the attitude of Mayor Colquitt? She actually put residents first. A mighty novel idea for Sedona at this stage of the “game.”
Politicians perceive need like bike paths and dog parks and concert venues that will always be short lived or fail to live up to promises. Posse Grounds best park in city because it’s real. We need open spaces. This is an open space city. We’ve got enough housing to meet everyone’s needs except politicians and developers pretend “perception” of need. Read the unbiased government housing reports and we’ve overbuilt for the next decade again. Remember 08 to 14 when you couldn’t scrub up a dime? It’s back with Biden, that man is an absolute wrecking ball for our national prosperity, the equivalent of Sedona daytripoers.
Sedona has no need for a city council or staff except maybe a mayor and police department.
Anybody else catch west sedona Dave admits to being Ned Jone poster!?!?!?!!? Figures. No opinions of his own but plenty of aggressive behavior.
This site won’t accept ads by people running for office unless paid for as an advertorial and every candidate does it together. No one running wants to put themselves out there and on the hook for what they do later and who paid for their seat. If you want to know your neighbor candidate then go talk to them personally has always been the rule with fair small town media. They’ll accept personal letters from candidates but not from candidate supporters. Damn hard to buy a seat that way. How I know this? Asked couple years ago. Doubt it’s different today. Use your phones to ask candidates.
My Goodness – It appears Mrs. Maddock really touched a tender spot someplace on all these people who are throwing darts at the mention of preserving choice Sedona scenic property. And they accuse those who care about our beautiful surroundings and open space of being NEGATIVE? If the shoe fits wear it!
And that includes all the drooling bystanders just waiting to rake up tons of bucks – the $$$$ variety – from yet another Sedona building code amendment and zone change.
No one seems to mention Mrs. Maddock made a sensible potential solution to the housing shortage – that being the abundant acreage of land by the sewer plant. Of course, “developers” wouldn’t stand to make nearly as much money without Sedona’s expansive views although realistically the views in that area have their own special beauty. Has anyone bothered to notice?
Sedona definitely needs protection with a National Scenic AREA designation – versus National Scenic MONUMENT. Big difference.
cursed how?
The wastewater treatment area is a good spot for a mobile home park or tiny houses for workers. It can be grown or eliminated as need dictates not as politicians and builders want. Cheaper than government money and more upscale homes.
Wasn’t there some discussion about tiny houses and/or mobile accommodations at that area a few years ago @Sedona Doug? And, of course, there was local uprising then.
However, since this housing situation has recently and apparently become a “regional” issue – most likely with ego driven leaders in Sedona stepping up to lead the pack – the “treatment plant” location most assuredly would seem a better choice than the prime acreage of the former “cultural park.”
But observing how the power-hungry opportunists leading Sedona manipulate don’t be surprised if you see dense development happen at BOTH LOCATIONS. Just another opinion from a local peon.
“Hopi Footprints Migration Area” is literally not a thing. In all of the internet, that term exists in two places, this article and sedonaculturalpark.com, where it is referenced once and only once, contains no links, nor details, nor facts, nor explanation.
Thus, the “Hopi Footprints Migration Area” is a fabrication or rumor which Eddie Maddock, (deleted by editor) repeats without any verification or fact-checking whatsoever.
The cultural park parcel contains the entrance to Sedona’s original landfill. It ain’t sacred land.
@janereadingnot. It does exist and enjoy a visit with the Hopis and ask for its stories. Dumb (Deleted by editor) stirring up stupid as usual. Your “dump” doesn’t exist either and it is sacred ground say all but you. You’re a greedy councilor or city staffer or Other recipient of largesse with no morals but government provided check? No desire to give mention on the internet because it recognizes a lowlife and will keep to the high road.
Kiss me baby one more time.
@Jane Reading, if the Hopi footprint migration area is included on the Cultural Park web site, then why do you question the authenticity of the statement? Are you, in fact, stating the Cultural Park has been misrepresenting that land for all these years?
And have you attempted to acquire information about the property from the U.S. Forest Service as to specific sites relating to Indian artifacts? Why would they be protecting something that doesn’t exist?
Also FYI and convenience here is the link confirming the source of my quote cited in the above article: https://sacredland.org/hopi-prophecy/
Just because it doesn’t align with you agenda doesn’t make your statement true. @Jane Reading
Research the land @Jane Reading speak to land management and the forest service.
I have and have all the original documents. BLM history, land patent, and Forest Service documents, land exchange, and they are clear.
Incredible, well documented. The history and story of this beautiful piece of land is so fascinating.
BTW Jane is that your real name or your just reading one?
Thank you Ms Maddock for the link relating to the source of the quote in your article. We love the top of the article that relates to Sacred as well as the link beginning with sacred land.
When the lady doth protest too much be warned and beware! As if we all didn’t know that the power mongers have already made up their mind(s).
When they rezone and redevelop be prepared for a far worse income than some trash that was dumped on the property years ago!
With the numerous surveys constantly being offered from the city hasn’t TRAFFIC remained the number one concern? And yet the sappy staff continues to recommend higher density development on every piece of available land? And the gullible city council goes along with it? And how does that translate? MORE TRAFFIC!
Clearly the inmates continue to ravage the “institution” and are out of control. What more proof is needed for big changes this upcoming election? Continue on with the same old and that’s what you’ll get – INCREASED TRAFFIC – vastly identified as Sedona’s number one problem! Go figure????
Send ballots to everybody and collect your neighbors ballots to end this tyranny of tourism! That’s what they’re doing to get their votes. Get busy!
Correction. The last sentence in our previous comment should have been “prepared for a far worse OUTCOME” instead of “income”. However it’s possible both terms might apply. The entire idea of high density development is insane. But of course that remains our opinion based on astute observation of the direction Sedona is headed.
Thank you for this opportunity.
Tyranny of tourism works to explain like Border Unsecured. Arizona headed California way with crime and grime.
Sedona, Arizona -one of our favorite places to vacation! NOT ANY MORE!
Learning of the possibility of turning the property of the former Cultural Park pavilion into cheap housing is appalling. What a slap in the face and kick in the rear ends of our beloved Native Americans.
Not that your apparent ego driven management gives a hoot, but we will NEVER return. Its become bad enough with bumper-to-bumper traffic, and with even more cars from a multiple car per housing unit owning complex? What is it you people are smoking or drinking at your city hall? Maybe doing both!
Thank you Sedona Eye for this heads up alert and we will be sharing it with our many friends. Goodbye!
Now thats some funny ****!….lol….Its been abandoned for over 15 years before that it was a concert venue!….People were smoking drugs, and dropping acid….Oh yea Im sure the beloved Native Americans were cool with that….
Your doing us a favor not coming back ,as you help create the problems of traffic, and over priced housing!…………Im sure those Native Americans in sin city, just love what you have done with the place!….lol…..
If these high winds continue to prevail day after day the control freaks at City Hall will soon find out who is really in charge and it ain’t them. A careless action by one of their beloved tourists will set a blaze the likes of which will compete with any national news event. The decision for the Culture Park property will be made and NOT by them!
Then maybe if they survive people like @Jane Reading won’t be so quick to question the wisdom of Mother Nature and or the Hopi Prophecy. High winds, dry weather without measurable precipitation = a disaster waiting to happen. Not a matter of if but when.
Thank you @LOL Las Vegas for being so prompt at reading our message. The fact is we are aware of the former Cultural Park. As mentioned, we have been vacationing in Sedona for many years maybe even before you were born. We are aware of the location because we attended several events there.
You serve as even more proof that Sedona has changed and not for the better. You sound like a product from the new generation and so therefore we don’t expect an apology.
If the city council votes to purchase and rezone this property they should all be recalled immediately. Sedona incorporated in order to preserve open space.
To do otherwise is a direct violation of that purpose – in addition to going against the Community Plan. Maybe the name Sedona should be changed to Land Grab USA – if the control freaks get away with pulling off this latest scam. Another opinion of wasted time! Sedona Incorporation was BAD MISTAKE!
They found 8 little children this week abandoned by coyotes on the Arizona border that otherwise would have died of starvation if not murdered or raped or sold by sex traffickers. You do this to those babies Sedona with encouraging sanctuary city heartless policies. Yes our city incorporation and a President that has no heart for his people and others safety and well being means disastrous outcomes for this city and our country. Count this heath care worker as disgusted and ashamed. No affordable housing units meant for illegally arrived and disregarding our rules and regulations for a civil society. Stop supporting law breakers and drug cartels. These are not landscapers coming over the border. They aren’t escaping persecution because they come for our money and free goods. You want to do charity then learn what it means and what it costs are. A backpack and cell phone and bike and housing are ridiculous offerings to people with wrong intentions. Grow up Sedona. Elect new people that see the world better.
Who has the attitude my I ask?…You come into MY TOWN and criticize it, think you own the place, then throw BS about what the Natives would think?
Your either not from Sin City or just another local poster that uses dozens of fake names..
I will repeat myself, dont come back, spend your money elsewhere!
Sedona dosent need out of towners bitching and moaning about things they know little about….
And I will bet I have lived longer in Sedona than you have been coming here….It would of been nice had you excepted the Cultural Park was nothing but a concert venue with lots of illegal drugs and freaks…..
Think that was cool for the Natives? Rock and Roll? Drugs?….Hope I get my point across to your rude ignorant couple!
I will keep my town, good, bad and indifferent….Its my home!
“. . . abusive careless humans . . . ”
“. . . ‘more sickness that can’t be cured for a long time’ during an era when ‘the seasons are going to change.’ “
Yes,. Indeed. It’s true. “You reap what you sow.” City council, are you listening? Of course but they only hear the pushers for big city development in order to support a REGION. NOT why Sedona incorporated. We do NOT have the infrastructure to support such nonsense! Get over yourselves.
“Not one mayoral candidate has advertised here….And as far as I heard 4 were throwing their hat in the ring.” So posts West Sedona Dave on April 4, 2022 at 6:50 am
And your point is? Only one candidate has an ad appearing on another online publication. Don’t know about Sedona’s “print” rag. Haven’t read their biased nonsense for years!
So once again I ask: What was the point of your peculiar (IMO) statement?
Thank God it’s the religious holidays and everyone here wants only the best for everyone else here.
Wow….Seams like west sedona daves point was spot on. Here we have a “news site ” for sedona so you would think those candidates would like to get your vote. Ever heard of name recognition? I personally only know 2 of the mayor candidates names off the top of my head. Hope that helps
Good one
Hells bells don’t want to hear their fake promises and fake resumes for godssake, they’ve been around doing nothing or on wrong side for years. Stay clean. Time we eliminated council government instead and go to Mayor with maximum of two 2 year terms. No more. Keeps people from skimming the pots and accountability for a small town easier.
Well, the former Hollywood actress running for Sedona Mayor (one of four) is the only candidate with an ad on another online local publication. And she is getting some nice plugs from that editor. Payback for the ad? Just curious??? Where are the other ads @West Sedona Dave 4/4 6:50 am?
Because Sedona has a “weak mayor” form of government versus what some consider a “real” mayor, what’s the point in running for the office? Except for scheduling agendas, conducting council meetings, and representing the “city” at public events, our “mayor” still must gain a quorum (vote of four) in order to approve agenda items.
Therefore why in the world would our present “vice-mayor” (appointed and not elected by the people) take a chance on losing his current status in order to become “mayor”? If he loses – he’s OFF the council! (maybe that wouldn’t be a bad thing?)
And as for the new faces, it’s strange to us they wouldn’t vie for a council seat before taking the plunge to vie for the middle seat at the council dais. Council members serve as ideal examples by which we, the voters, see them in action and observe their behavior.
Egos appear to control our little city government. What a shame. The “I'” (ego variety) definitely continues to prevail. Just a thought from two voters who really DO believe our votes count.
Don’t think he’s worried about harvesting enough votes to not get council seats again. That’s what’s wrong with our city. Arrogance of power. Term limits should be on ballot.
But have any of you seen the really endearing side of Mayoral Candidate Scotty Jablow? That being when he’s shopping at Basha’s pushing a cart with one hand and speaking affectionately on his cell phone with other hand cooing “Yes Dear, Yes Dear” (mumbles something), and several more “Yes Dears.”
Just so cute – in his knee length trousers, T-shirt, and maybe thongs? Tennis shoes? And then figuring out how to use the self-check-out option. A work in progress.
It must have been successful because he was all slicked up in suit and tie at today’s city council meeting!
Isn’t it amazing? This “city” can afford to spend millions on purchasing property. And why is that? Is it because they failed to live up to the commitment to sunset that “temporary 0.5-cent tax increase” which has now conveniently been extended indefinitely to fund a “bus system.”
NOT what was agreed! Where was the opportunity for Sedona voter approval?
It’s bad enough that we’re stuck with the city tax in monthly bills such as utilities. But we do have an option on other items. SHOP OUTSIDE CITY LIMITS! Even if it costs more in gasoline.
That can be be made up for to an extent by fueling up in the VOC, Cottonwood, Clarkdale, Jerome or elsewhere. Less city sales tax with the price of gas can be quite a bit!
Sedona buying up more property when they already own acreage outside city limits is absurd. Why do residents tolerate it?
Maybe it’s time to treat city council in the same manner. VOTE THEM OUT! Replace them with no-nonsense folks who have the integrity to also assure city staff’s number one priority is SEDONA CITY RESIDENTS AND BUSINESSES!
Return sinful activities to “Pandora’s Box” and seal the lid. Otherwise consider disincorporating Sedona. It can be done.
Why don’t you cover national news? Hello a black racist nationalist terrorized and attempted to murder dozens in the NYC subway. He was a BLACK RACIST hate monger who bought a Glock gun legally in liberal Wisconsin in 2011. That’s 11 years ago for you liberals in Sedona and media. This was a PLANNED attack and he did it in a sanctuary city. Anyone else wonder why no security cameras were working in that station or in the one he got on and off – 3 in total? Somebody help him? This was a terrorist hate act. He didn’t do it in Philly or Wisconsin but NYC. The sanctuary city that the day before experienced people running through Times Square because of underground explosions. I don’t believe in consequences, do you? This man deserves life in prison with no chance of parole EVER is the minimum acceptable punishment. Make him an example of racist and biased hate mongering. Better stop welcoming lawbreakers, Sedona and Arizona. Better start listening to news that gives you both sides.