November 20, 2024
Heidi Rentz of Cyclists’ Menu introduced a proposed new trail running event for February 28 and March 1, 2025, to be called the “Daydreamer.” Similar to the Spirit World cycling race, this event will have a 7am start, and three choices of route length. The event will include a fundraising dinner, and an auction. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Town’s Recycling Program. More information is at runthedaydreamer.com.
Karl Pennock, Rural Development Specialist with the Rural Community Assistance Corporation, presented a financial analysis of the Town’s Water and Wastewater department. (Pennock’s work is funded by USDA and other agencies, and is provided without charge to the Town.) Pennock has concluded that the operating costs of the Town’s water and sewage processes are not being met by the income from ratepayers, leaving the Town having to make up the shortfall of $100-150,000 per year for both water and sewage systems.
Pennock shared his proposal to increase revenue, build system capacities and reduce the Town’s contingency contributions. The rates would increase, depending on the year, from 5 to 17%, and would be discussed in a process including public hearings. At the 17% rate increase, the average household monthly rate for 6,000 gallons of water usage would rise from $29.50 to $34.52.
Mayor and Council approved a liquor license for Arnette Creek, leasing the former Ovens site at 277 McKeown Av. The business plan is in early stages, but would involve primarily daytime operation and light food rather than full restaurant service.
Carolyn Shafer’s resignation from the Town’s Flood and Flow Committee was accepted, after service since 2015. She’d served as Secretary and Chairperson at the same time, and, it was added “she will be missed.”
The Patagonia Community United Methodist Church was approved to use the town park’s central gazebo for Christmas caroling from 4:30pm to 5:30pm on Friday, Dec. 13. The Church hopes this can become an annual event and requested waiver of park use fees.
The Mayor and Council approved the designation of a “NO PARKING LOADING ZONE” area from the Patagonia Arts Center at 304 Naugle Ave. to the corner of Naugle Ave. to the corner of Third Ave.
Zander Ault gave a talk reviewing the recent 4th Annual Spirit World 100 event, which raised $23,000 for the Arizona Trails group. He labeled the event “an awesome year,” with 400 people in town, no injuries, and several organizational “partnerships.” He added that South32 had contributed $10,000.
Ault also detailed how the parking of five vehicles during race day evening on the helipad had happened, and how it could be avoided in the future.
Debbie Robinson’s resignation from the Library Advisory Board was accepted.