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?
*********************************************************
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!
“Before you consider trying to intimidate me, as some have tried with others in the past, I have paper backup for everything I post. As to frivolous lawsuits, my brother is a lawyer, my brother in law is a lawyer, my first cousin is a lawyer and my daughter is a lawyer. Make no mistake, I have no problem getting legal representation and I will pursue damages and legal fees. My lawyer daughter is willing to go door to door to campaign for me. Do you think she will hesitate to file a lawsuit?”
LOVE IT! best post yet, Tony. Go get ’em! Sedona needs sanity.
@ Tony Tonsich
Once again you sound like an Old Boys club member. Competition is fierce in attracting the tourist dollar, and that is what was meant by the Coke and Disneyland reference. Not that you have probably been to that attraction since the removal of the Flying Saucer ride.
You say that you have facts but the latest actual expenditure for the City Managers office, per the June Financial Statement, is $878K. Where the frack did you get $3,000K, and the Police Department employs only 40 individuals.not 50. Have you even had the guts to speak to Chief McGill about his running of the Police Department?
You’re still short $11MM to cut from the city budget with the elimination of Home Rule. State specifics not generalities, because you will be hammered at the campaign forums.
When are you going to start telling the Library, Recycling Center, Community Center, Humane Society, etc that they will have to close their doors because they will no longer receive city support?
You would need the help of your lawyer daughter to frighten the voters with a lawsuit if they didn’t vote for you.
What you obviously don’t get is that Sedona IS presently being controlled by the “good old boys.” Translated: Socialists.
The stupidity of someone identified as “steve Segner” having the audacity to take a cheap shot at President Trump. Total ignorancet! The poor man (or woman) using his name these days apparently can’t read the news and/or stock market.
Business is booming, jobs are being offered, upswing in economy, and most assuredly NOT because of the local chamber of commerce!
But what the heck – ignorance is bliss as is clearly apparent by the idiotic assumptions of the unrealistic narcissists who control pubic funds and trample on lowlanders.
Hey Mr. Tony T – never met you but am so far impressed. GO MAN! (but watch your back and the RRN who IMO doesn’t take well to new kids on the block that reject THEIR marching orders):)
Mr Tonsich:
You have been an entertaining bully on this site for the past few years and I must admit that I still had considered giving you my vote. However, after your post above about being “Intimidated”, it just turns me off. You sound like our elected ??? President so giving you my vote would just be wrong. It’s just like when during his campaign Trump was asked about being “Presidential” well you see how that turned out. After seeing your behavior now and you’re not even running yet, I can’t imagine your behavior IF you were elected.
Tony you said you’re going to run for office you’ve asked for money you’re a politician, if politicians could sue for being called stupid they’d all be as rich as Trump says he is , you are in fact very dangerous because your facts are not facts ,your throwing numbers around,you make accusations and you hurt people‘s reputation, but it’ll all come out during the election and your public question forum when we can all stand up and ask you questions and “the things you said on the Sedona eye. Anybody can go to the city and ask for a copy of any public document so Tony you want to Bring it to light a dangerous situation where the city mayor had lunch with the assistant city manager good work . I think we will all find it interesting that somebody running for public office threatens to sue somebody who is calling him on his BS please tell your daughter the best place to serve me at my hotel I’m there every day
@Neyland Stad
Are you the Neyland Stadium in Knoxville? Talking concrete? Just to get the information out I will respond to someone claiming to be concrete. So….
Odd you should ask.I left a message with the Chief’s office on Friday requesting to meet with him so that I may better understand we there are 50 names on the city payroll with police listed as the department. FY17, 50 names, not 40. Of course, the Chief’s office was closed on Friday.
The club the residents are not in has brought suit in the past against against their vocal opposition in an attempt to silence them. It won’t work with me, just sayin.
I believe charity begins at home and voters are adults who should have the choice on who they contribute to. Most of the organizations you mentioned existed before there was a city to take (steal ?) residents money and redistribute it.
Like the credit card charge to SunnyBunny Easter Eggs $3053.64 Could we get a few volunteers to make easter eggs for children? Oh right, we can’t call them Easter Eggs any more. I want my town back.
I need the voters help.
Complete BS…. Scare tactics. All the city has to do is STOP funding private enterprise like the chamber and film festival. Red earth ect and they have enough money. The COUNTIES fund the library through the properties taxes. The humane society and recycles is required by law. BLah blah (Deleted by editor)
Hey steve, before you call someone else dumb, have you lost (Deleted by editor) in 2016? That is if you believe the Red Rock News.
Speaking of dumb, calling someone dumb in print is called Libel.
Of course, all the above is just my opinion. I’m not a lawyer. It seems like Tony Tonsich knows a few.
Oh my goodness. Recent comments certainly give reason to ponder the subject of my article:
“Sedona Struggles to Maintain Quality of Life”
If this Tony Tonsich, a stranger to me except via slurs on this website, is as dynamic as he claims and can produce factual evidence to uphold his allegations, IN MY OPINION there might very well be cause to anticipate quality of life for residents and tourists visiting Sedona to witness a window of opportunity for an actual upswing.
Only time will tell but at least for one sweet moment I am actually envisioning light at the end of this gloomy tunnel.
Whether you like him or not, President Trump is fulfilling his promise to “Make America Great Again.” So maybe, just maybe, there IS hope to “Make Sedona Beautiful Again.”
Obviously it ain’t gonna happen without intense opposition from those sitting in local, regional, and possibly even Arizona State ivory towers. However, grass-root unification has been known to perform miracles. Example: Sedona does NOT own West State Route 89A!
Respectfully submitted,
Eddie S. Maddock
The piggies are getting anxious. Don’t get between a hog and it’s food. They get vicious. You need to be a big dog. Get um Tony, woof, woof !!
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”
Lets look a the 16/17 salaries in the City of Sedona IT Department
(Deleted by editor)
$26,823.60
$84,088.94
$82,539.40
$82,947.59
$87,358.58
The salaries listed above, plus vacation, health etc etc. Damn, you would think Sedona was a tech company. I’m sure they will tell me why Sedona needs 5 full time people in IT. I guess no one in the city ever has to talk to an overseas help line.
So far we have people calling me Dumb and a Bully. Come now you can do better than that !!
Wait until you see the phone, cell and other charges. Tune in.
Yep – it’s already happening. Scare tactics up the whazoo and the election is months away. Be prepared for dire threats like the world will end should the rare event of voting NO on Home Rule prevail. The only crash might be the life style of those controlling Sedona. In fact, forcing them to come to grips with reality could quite possibly be the one single thing that would repair our declining quality of life and pull it out of the sewer. Let us pray! Where there’s life there’s hope.
All you have to do is stop buying the paper. Just stop buying the paper.
The website is never up to date and you have no freedom of speech there which you all know on this site so
STOP BUYING THE PAPER
Verde News is very up to date compared to rr on pertinent local news.
Possible Sedona Budget cuts, continued
Every Sedona Employee gets a free city paid cellphone. Almost anyway.
Verizon Wireless $36,549.09
Suddenlink $23,498.52
Centurylink $29,264.33
Centurylink $57,087.21
Annual total $146,399.15
Think about this, the City of Sedona spends $12,199 a MONTH on phones and cable.
Unisource energy $47182.92
Sune Solar $88,657.65 ????
One of my favorites:
Stealth Partner Group $18,737.50 Great name, essential I’m sure.
How about taking care of Sedona first? Maybe not ?
Chino Valley Unified School District $350
Prescott Creeks Preservation $20,708.26
All the above figures are from the Accounts Payable, 2016/17
More to come.
Little wonder for the need to charge property owners of vacant lots a monthly fee just because they can. Since when was it acceptable (let alone legal) to charge for a service which wasn’t available?
If that’s the case then why is it they aren’t charging all properties in Sedona, whether or not sewer lines even go into their subdivisions, equal amounts? How would you cover your asses on that one Robert Pickels & State Representative Bob Thorpe? And where’s the AZ League of Cities & Towns on this rip off? Oh – forgot – maybe also in the back pockets of our city staff and State Reps? (and as well as a “regional” chamber of commerce functioning under the jurisdiction of City of Sedona, an incorporated area?)
CORRUPTION? You decide as I believe is the subject of another SE article.
VOTE NO ON HOME RULE!!!!!!!!!! (not really sure why since the State tends to completely ignore the terms under which areas incorporate so why would they give a hoot about enforcing the Home Rule law?) oh well . . . .
Your money ……Fiscal Year 16/17 City of Sedona paid
CoachingProfessors.com $15,000.00
CoachingProfessors.com offers programs for individuals who want to pursue their Life Goals and Passion, learn how to manage their “reactive” mind and transform their perception of life.
Caught some of those council meetings last year when the Senate was in session. Found it amazing how SB1478 at the onset appeared it might be not such a good thing for Sedona. Then somewhere along the line it also appeared our good City Attorney just might have been given good advice on how to work things to avert investigations? Just an opinion and just asking. Seems that CA spends quite a bit of time down south and he sure gave accolades to Rep. Thorpe & Rep. Barton on more than one occasion. Makes one wonder where they pledged their allegiance. Actually wondered the same thing about the League of cities & towns. Seems the CA might spend more time with outsiders than Sedona residents. But of course isn’t that how the Chamber of Commerce operates as well – considering most of their members aren’t within Sedona City Limits? Such is life in the not-so-big city.
Let’s run with this. Do you want your town back? Do you want less waste and lower spending? Are you tired of being taken advantage of without your consent ?
“Home Rule, NO means NO. ”
WE can change things.
“A nation that forgets its past has no future.” – Winston Churchill
And why shouldn’t that apply to City of Sedona as well? It incorporated to preserve its assets and NOT destroy them, as has been and continues to be the present trend. Yes, Tony T, that direction desperately needs to be changed.
Voting NO on Home Rule might just be our window of opportunity in spite of elected officials and the people hired to do their dirty work. (IMO)
Wow
I guess it takes some money to run a small city like Sedona and pay thier Employees a livable wage in 2018.
Still amazes me that I don’t pay any Sedona city tax (or a small amount on what I purchase around here) but not on my property tax. That’s amazing.
Baby’s gotta cry I guess….
Tony Tonsich says:
January 28, 2018 at 6:43 pm
Your money ……Fiscal Year 16/17 City of Sedona paid
CoachingProfessors.com $15,000.00
CoachingProfessors.com offers programs for individuals who want to pursue their Life Goals and Passion, learn how to manage their “reactive” mind and transform their perception of life.
****
Wouldn’t that money be better spent on instructing individuals about “city limits” and an obligation to pursue health and safety for the people within that area – not financially support member-driven interest “regional” enterprises.
And maybe an instructor who would teach city administrators how to use city owned property to MAKE money and not throw it at outsiders at a high cost. But of course, $50 grand is nothing to the big spenders.
Make me sick. Same as one alleged “Newcomer.” BARF!
VOTE NO ON HOME RULE
PROPERTY taxes in Sedona are passing up parts of California.
Sales tax is HIGHER than most states INCLUDING California!
According to the Yavapai College report Sedona City employees are making an average of 95,000 plus benefits while the resident living here is 50,000. If you look at at the benefits we the taxpayers pay on top of those high wages then city employees are living like kings!
Lairs have to lie. @Newcomer to sedona. Did you see the wages Tony T posted? Man oh man.
Living wage.
Would that be (deleted by editor) “Assistant City manager, she only made $133,108.18 plus at least 2 weeks vacation and two weeks paid leave for the 16/17 Fiscal year. Plus benefits.”
Poor dear, I can imagine how she needs to scrimp to get by. Almost as low as the assist manager at a fast food place, $20,000 per year. If Karen makes just a living wage, I’d love to be paid that. I manage to live fairly well on less than half that. I consider myself lucky.
You are a conscripacy theorist!
Are you not?
You sure sound crazy
@newcomer
Pity the poor City Manager (deleted by editor), he had to scrape by last year on $164,999.90. We should start a collection to help the poor guy out. I can imagine how hard is is to struggle at just under $165,000 a year.
The city did pay for travel and a limo ride, that must be some consolation.
Mr Tonsich:
Since you know how to get all of this important data how about getting comps of other city’s around Sedona to see what their city managers make? I’m kind of thinking that you get what you pay for with people with important jobs.
“You are a conscripacy theorist!” (@GNS)
“conscripacy”???? Wha dat? Some sort of craxy forin Langage????
Tanks – made this day worth living! OMG CONSCRIPACY!!!!
165 k requires some skill and education.
Tony I sense you are jealous.
Seems the best you can do is twist facts and come up with FAKE numbers to further along you envy at people that have jobs.
You should go back to photography.. lol
Richard Sanders
@ Mrs Roger Thomas
Hermes, a French designer makes a very nice purse, it sells for $50,000. You could probably buy a nice purse at Dillards for $300. I’m sure you could find a very serviceable purse at Wallmart for under $50. No I don’t regularly shop for purses. I did recently buy a nice lifetime guaranteed purse sized utility bag on sale for $10. I had to pay Sedona Tax on it even though it was mail order. High price does not mean value.
Spread the word. Talk to your neighbors, everyone you come in contact with. Our opposition will be very vocal. WE can take our town back from the high spenders of OUR money.
Vote No on Taking advantage of citizens with Home Rule. NO means NO !!!
What it appears by the over staffing is someone just wanted to spend money. It appears Sedona is being run as a highly paid jobs program.
It reminds me of a post turtle.
Not knowing what the old man meant, the man asked him what a post turtle was.
The old man said, “When you’re driving down a country road and you come across a fence post with a turtle balanced on top, that’s a post turtle.”
The old man saw a puzzled look on the doctor’s face, so he continued to explain, “You know he didn’t get there by himself, he doesn’t belong there, he doesn’t know what to do while he’s up there, and you just want to help the poor stupid guy get down.”
If you’re so interested in what city managers in surrounding cities are being paid, why don’t you inquire yourself?
Aka = city employee
Bench-marking another cities wages would only work if the city of sedona operated under a transparent process of performance measurements, directly provided services that most cities do and didn’t outsource tasks that should be done in house. Since they don’t, you can’t do a benchmark because it is apple to peas.
The reality is that most managers get paid for the more the handle, disclose, improve, and save. Sedona is a Blankty fake city IMO.
Approximately 10% of the city budget goes to the chamber. A private membership group with no checks or balances of those taxpayer $. In which only enriches the chamber IMO. If you list all the losses or waste, over staffing you have to deduct from the mangers salaries. :) :) inadequate
use car salesman jive axx imo
Richard Saunders was Ben Franklin’s pen name. Is Richard Sanders Colonel Sanders brother?
You said Sedona jobs ” requires some skill and education.” Tony’s posts inspired me to start looking up some of our richly paid staff. The Sedona Community Development Director, she was trained as a registered nurse. How does that apply to Community Development? Did she fail as a nurse and decided, what the hell, I’ll just take the first city job that comes along many years ago?
I like and respect nurses. Are they now training them in building skills?
@Richard Sanders
All my numbers come from the city of Sedona. The original documents will soon be posted at Sedonacity.com
If I am wrong, please state facts, calling someone a fake and twisting facts with no facts is just lazy.
“165 k requires some skill and education.” @Tony T. via Richards Sanders
No doubt about that. However, along with “skill and education” could it be possible there must be a meeting of the minds regarding other aspects of a particular position. As an example, the applicant has all academic requirements for the job. Must that person also pass muster and agree to such things as:
Contract with Chamber of Commerce: MAKE IT HAPPEN – KEEP IT GOING
Visitors Center: KEEP IT WITH CHAMBER instead of establishing authentic “Sedona Visitors Center,” (never mind lame justification of cost factor, never proven to be more than BS)
Other contingencies related to supporting “pet projects” and whims of selected members of Citizen Engagement groups and other special interests.
In other words, even those highly qualified may not be hired if they don’t go along with the “MAKE IT HAPPEN” policy? Haven’t top-notch employees been known to resign after a short stint because they were not willing to compromise their own integrity? Me thinks the answer to that is “yes.”
Tony you don’t speak for me that’s for sure.
Most here in Sedona love the town and line the way things are going.
I’ve seen your posts here on Sedona Eye thruout the years and it appears I. That time you seen to hate cops, the fire dept, workers hanging Christmas lights,and employee of Sedona. Etc etc.
What’s up? Are you distastified with yourself and life.
I amazed that my property taxes are so low and the bedtax that you seem to complain about here doesn’t affect me cause I don’t sleep in hotels.. So what do I care how the city spends it?
I challenge anyone that reads Sedona Eye to do a little search of Tony T’s past rants thruout the years and see what his TRUE colors are. Do it.
Thank you
Richard Sanders
Before Jennifer W took over the Chamber She had (Deleted by editor)
A interesting thing happened today. Myself and three other candidates showed up to interview for the open Sedona Fire Board position today. From what I could tell, all of us felt the residents should be put first, cost was a thing and we were against overspending. I was the first interview. Five minutes before my interview was to commence the fire board went into executive session. 25 minutes later, the board came out of executive session and said they had not exactly posted the interview terms correctly and they would have to reschedule.
My feeling was….So sorry, we don’t like who showed up to interview. We have technical difficulties. We have to reschedule. Like they have never filled an open position before. They had recently done so.
My personal opinion is, if the board liked the candidates, the technical difficulties would not have been an issue. I’m sure the fire board would disagree. Just like the chamber of commerce contract that violates so many rules. Starting with no competitive bidding.
We will show up on ballots. Myself for mayor. Others for city council and fire board. You have to show up to vote. Those that want the gravy train to continue will use every trick, every lie.
WE can change things.
No on resident abuse by Home Rule, NO means NO !
Mr. Tonsich:
Ok let me understand, a few days ago you say that if anyone dare to challenge you or call you names, you’re going to have your attorney family members; daughter, brother, brother-in-law etc fight your battles and seek legal action against those people who took your crayons in the playground. I’m guessing that you also left off that list your mommy and daddy. Oh come on you really need to grow up and be an adult (oh no, I guess I should expect to get a subpoena in the mail for a deposition because I hurt your feelings)
Above a supporter of yours, someone who addressed their comments to me from @ Mrs Rodger Thomas (sounds like the cake lady to me) accuses me of being a city employee all because I asked you a question.
Let me understand this is your way of impressing me, a registered Sedona voter?
@Tony T
Youvsay your not “buyer of purses” funny you should use that anology (Deleted by editor)
@Sedoba Eye
Hey sedona Eye
Why is it you have “sold out” and are not posting comments as the relate to Tony T.
There is plenty of posts at there from him regarding the negative nature of his character. These past posts are from HIM.
He wrote them so why won’t you post comments directing people to them to show his true nature. Has someone “ bought you out”.
I see your trying to “hide” his true personality .
Yes that is true city employees have left for those reasons @William J.
Same deal for the businesses & hotels,employees & owners must keep their mouths closed and go along with the chamber scam.
So sad……
According to the FY 2017-18 ANNUAL BUDGET:
Schedule G (“CITY OF SEDONA Full-Time Employees and
Personnel Compensation Fiscal Year 2018”) filed with the State:
Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) 2018: 142
Total Estimated Personnel Compensation 2018: $12,648,970
—- [$89,077 average]
Total Budgeted Expenditures 2018…..$47,752,118
Total Revenues 2018 (estimated)……..$37,762,477
—————–
Budgeted negative cash flow…………..($ 9,989,641)
It’s been a while since I’ve bothered commenting here. And even though it remains my opinion it’s pointless, that assessment contributed from William J. seems like one of most valid made. Of course there are others, as well, and the statistics being revealed by Tony Tonsich are eye-openers although not really surprising.
However, back to the point for this contribution directed towards unwritten provisions when staff positions are being considered. Yes, I do believe committing to specific agendas are part of the package when especially top jobs are being filled. Specifically City Manager and City Attorney.
If that were not the case then why in the world would the current City Manager even come up with the suggestion to renew the service contract with the Chamber of Commerce for seven years? That alone ties it up for future council member elections to make decisions. Sure, the contract can be cancelled but with all issues to be considered the amount of red tape involved it’s easy to become buried in other matters.
Seven years removes a highly contentious issue from the annual books for discussion of other alternatives including but not limited to Requests for Proposals, accurate monitoring, and an easy cover-up to live up to that possible pledge made by the City Attorney when he accepted employment. Again, just an opinion.
The same could very well hold true for the City Attorney, also a new kid on the block within the last four years. How interesting that he continually reports on State Statute matters and connections with both Reps. Thorpe and Barton in addition to what appears to be pretty close ties with Az. League of Cities & Towns. A particular heads-up to those owning vacant lots and continue to be charged a monthly fee for sewer fees for non-usage.
To my recollection former City Attorney Mike Goimarac never made extensive detailed reports on such close interactions. Again my opinion is Mr. Pickels is a very, very smart man and most assuredly has pursued the right direction on how to circumvent potential laws that might be perceived as negative for implementing Sedona’s well orchestrated plans for the future.
And let’s not forget the topic of the above article, providing a survey with specific questions so preposterously contrived to obtained desired results by unnamed individuals that if not so pathetic would be laughable. NOT!
Will again reiterate. My input here is speculation and an expression of my opinion. Only those intricately involved know for certain if my evaluations are, in reality, factual. At any rate, the only opportunity for change in direction will evolve from a revision of thinking by those seven people who vote to implement the direction Sedona will be taking for years to come.
However, even if those seated continue with the current mindset it would be a tremendous hurdle for them to overcome on their march to make Sedona a big city if their hands were tied by being denied the privilege of operating under the provisions of “Home Rule.”
Please, folks, study the proposition as the arguments ensue prior to to “Vote Day.” Do not be fooled by scare tactics. Quite possibly the only people who should be frightened are the beneficiaries of monetary reward via questionable and unwarranted contracts with the City of Sedona and other great giveaways, deemed unwanted and unnecessary by a large number of Sedona residents.
Remember, silence is a nod for the process to continue as in business as usual.
Your approval of renewing Home Rule will mean you are happy with the Chamber of Commerce being given license to possible reckless misuse of city funds for at least the next seven years. And money constantly given to programs that could very well with a bit of effort raise their own funds and still operate without bleeding city coffers.
Don’t like it? Vote NO on Home Rule.
Dear Sedona Residents,
Are you happy with the way City Council & Staff treat you?
The message is clear Pay More Live Less and become a Sedona Flatlander and pay bills of Segner, Wesselholf and Chamber so they can LIVE MORE!!! LOVE love love flatlanders.
If you don’t agree with the takers taking your money and livability than VOTE NO on homerule and anyone that runs for city council that goes under this motto.
Time for change VOTE
It never made sense why the City Manager suggested the city/chamber contract be for 7 years. But of course as suggested by @James Harrington he & city council won’t be forced to deal with it annually and thus avoid a lot of negative feed back. One other thing though is chances for Mr. Justin Clifton to still be on the Sedona City Payroll in 7 years are slim to none. Most City Managers change jobs after around five years.
The real culprits in the City/Chamber scandal though are those on the city council who pushed it through to begin with but then reneged on their commitment after one year to seeks RFP’s followed by adding insult to injury and extending the contract for 3 years. Thx R. Adams, B. Litrell, D. McIlroy, J. Williamson, J. Martinez. M. DiNunzio & M. Ward.
Sedona Police officers are some of the lowest paid people on the Sedona payroll with the majority of them making about $45,000 a year. I don’t understand why there were 50 people on the 16/17 police payroll. I tried calling the chief last Friday, he did not return my call this week.
I am all for a good living wage. I am against over staffing and paying people excessively that are not working for the voters of Sedona.
Vote NO on home rule. Stop the excessive spending. NO means NO.
@pay more live less
What are you talking about!,
If you want to live less that’s your choice.
If you want to complain and focus on a non existent problem that’s your choice.
Garbage in garbage out is exactly what youvand others are doing to you brain.
I still don’t see a tax for the chamber of commerce or a bed tax on my protest tax bill and can’t believe how my tax bill is like 1/5 th of where I come.
Get a life and btw what’s a flat lander
Tony Tonsich says:
A interesting thing happened today. Myself and three other candidates showed up to interview for the open Sedona Fire Board position today. From what I could tell, all of us felt the residents should be put first, cost was a thing and we were against overspending.
I was the first interview. Five minutes before my interview was to commence the fire board went into executive session. 25 minutes later, the board came out of executive session and said they had not exactly posted the interview terms correctly and they would have to reschedule.
Meeting notice.
This is a Special meeting to interview Board applicants to be held on Tuesday, January 30, 2018, beginning at
2:00 PM with an Executive Session (not open to the public) and the Public Session to immediately follow at approximately 2:00 PM at Station #1, 2860 Southwest Drive in West Sedona.
Tony Tonsich says,:My feeling was;.So sorry, we don’t like who showed up to interview. We have technical difficulties. We have to reschedule. Like they have never filled an open position before. They had recently done so.
Tony Tonsich says
What Tony did’t say is that “A” candidate ( wonder who?) wanted the interviews to be public.
That made it necessary for the fire dis. to re schedule to be in compliance with Arizona open meeting laws.
That simple. The posting said, (Executive Session not open to the public) and the Public Session to immediately follow at approximately 2:00 PM at Station #1, 2860 Southwest Drive in West Sedona.)
What Tony did not say is just who requested and the open meeting interview?
Notice Tony says:” From what I could tell, all of us felt the residents should be put first, cost was a thing and we were against overspending.;
Lets all remember this was an interview for an opening on the fires board not a public forum, and just who Is all of us?
I find it interesting that Tony wants to run for mayor and the fire board, and his comments are all disparaging about the staff and management of the fire dist. and the city of Sedona, not a great way to get picked, or voted in.
The Sedona fire Dist. did what state open meeting laws demands ,a new Public notice.
In the application for the fire district board seat it asks if the candidate is “familiar with open meeting laws”. I guess Tony didn’t read that far.
Just want to get the facts out.