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Mayor Greg Mengarelli

Considering the Airport, Revitalization, Open Space and More

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Together, we worked to preserve the natural beauty of our open spaces that have always been important to our community.

Winston Churchill once said, “Continuous effort, not strength or intelligence, is the key to unlocking our potential.” Certainly, that describes Prescott’s evolution from a small mining town on the frontier of our country in the 1860s to the award-winning 21st century community we are today. As my term as your mayor comes to an end, I would like to reflect on what we, as a community, have accomplished during the past four years that I’ve had the privilege to serve as your mayor.

Together, we debated, campaigned and voted on an increase in sales tax to properly fund the retirement benefits of our first responders. There may have been disagreements on the best mechanism to fund this obligation, but in the end, we did it. We are a safer and more secure community because of Prop 443.

Together, we recognized the need to upgrade our airport and its air service to meet the growing demands of our community. Drawing upon expertise from the private sector, our team demonstrated to United Airlines and the FAA that Prescott could support regional jet service and was worthy of a modern air terminal. As a result, today we have a beautiful new terminal and jet service that conveniently links us to the world.

Together, we realized the need to beautify and effectively utilize our historic downtown district. Working with the private sector, the “eyesore” at Sheldon Street and Montezuma was transformed into a new Hilton Garden Inn, a remodeled Sam Hill Warehouse Event Center, and a lovely urban park for young families. This area will continue to see enhancements with the Granite Creek Corridor Master Plan, and City Hall will soon occupy the National Bank Building, located diagonally across the street.

Together, we worked to preserve the natural beauty of our open spaces that have always been important to our community. In July of this year, after a multi-year, public-private sector negotiation, nearly 500 acres of the Dells, including the iconic Point of Rocks, became the property of the City of Prescott. It is a jewel that will be cherished and enjoyed by generations to come.

Finally, together we worked to adapt throughout the COVID pandemic, balancing reasonable restrictions and cancelations against the impact on our lives and the economy. We have mourned those we lost during the pandemic and have honored those who remained at their post in the darkest of times. We will be forever indebted to those who kept our stores stocked with food, to those who provided necessary services, to our police and fire departments who answered calls during times of uncertainty, and to our medical community that worked unending hours to care for those of us stricken by the virus. The unified spirit of Prescott was ever apparent during the difficult times we’ve experienced since early 2020.

In November, the City of Prescott will swear in a new mayor and three new city council members. The torch of leadership will be passed to these individuals as it has been passed on before in our city since its founding in 1864. I wish them Godspeed as they follow Mr. Churchill’s advice of “continuous effort.” QCBN

By Greg Mengarelli, QCBN

Greg Mengarelli is the mayor of Prescott.

Welcoming a New Season with Events

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There is truly something for everyone this fall and all of these events lead us into my personal favorite time of year here in Prescott: our festive holiday season.

One of the best parts of 2021 has been the return of so many of our great special events here in Prescott. As we’ve begun to return to a sense of normalcy and venturing out to enjoy local restaurants and shops, we’ve also started seeing many more friendly faces at events in the community. Children are back in school and the days are beginning to feel a bit crisper each morning, which means that we’ll be welcoming changing leaves and fall soon enough as well. With the changing of the seasons, we’ll also see many of our favorite fall special events return as well as a number of new and first time events for residents and visitors alike to enjoy.

The fall special event season kicks off with Faire on the Square, a longtime favorite arts and crafts show Labor Day Weekend on the Courthouse Plaza. Then, the Summer Concert Series will wind down with shows on Sept. 7, 9 and 10.

We will welcome the return of the Yavapai County Fair, Sept. 9-12, at the Rodeo Grounds. This year also will mark the 9th Annual HopeFest Arizona on Sept. 11, which also happens to be the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 tragedy. HopeFest will feature community outreach, live music, resources and connections for our veterans, military, first responders and the vulnerable of Yavapai County. The Empty Bowls event returns Sept. 12, on the Courthouse Plaza.

Watson Lake hosts the Highland Games Sept. 25 and 26, and the Prescott Vette Sette takes over downtown with their all-Corvette car show on Sept. 25. Fallfest art show takes place Oct. 2-3 on the Courthouse Plaza. Some favorites return this year, including Dancing for the Stars on Oct. 2, Dogtoberfest Oct. 3, and the Big Sting Country Music Festival Oct. 14-16, at Watson Lake. The Prescott Plein Air outdoor art festival takes place Oct. 21. We will welcome a new event, the Whiskey Row Wine Festival, Oct. 23, at Mile High Middle School.

For those who want to burn a few calories while enjoying the great outdoors and fall temperatures, there are also a number of fitness-focused special events in the coming weeks, including the Thundercat Mountain Bike Race on Sept. 18, Whiskey Row Marathon on Oct. 9, the AZ High School Cycling Race Oct. 9 and10, Prescott 6’er Bike Race Oct.16, and the Halloween Kids 5k on Oct. 27. There is truly something for everyone this fall and all of these events lead us into my personal favorite time of year here in Prescott: our festive holiday season.

To learn about upcoming events like these and more, there are a few great resources for you to search: the City of Prescott Website at Prescott-az.gov/events and the Prescott Chamber of Commerce website at Prescott.org. QCBN

By Greg Mengarelli, QCBN

Greg Mengarelli is the mayor of Prescott.

School Bells Will be Ringing and Resources are All Around

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It’s important to remember, as the school year begins, that support is available to families that may need it.

The 2020-2021 school year presented a great many obstacles for administrators, teachers, students and families. As with most everything we all experienced over the last year, school looked quite different than any other time. But, as is always the case here in our beautiful community, everyone rose above the challenges to give our children the best in difficult times. I would like to personally extend a heartfelt thank you to Prescott’s teachers, administrators, staff, parents and students for their dedication and perseverance during the last school year.

Now, as we all begin to come out of the pandemic and move forward to better times, students will be returning to school this academic year with things looking a bit more normal. I’ve said time and again that the resiliency and togetherness of this community is something that I take great pride in and students having the opportunity to return to some normalcy feels like a wonderful reward for all they’ve had to endure in recent memory.

It’s important to remember, as the school year begins, that support is available to families that may need it. The Family Resource Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. by appointment, and provides school supplies, coats, shoes and more for those in need. They also provide resources for families suffering from homelessness, those enrolled in the Indian Education Program and supplies for teachers through the “Teachers Closet.” And organizations like the Launch Pad Teen Center provide a safe space for Prescott’s youth. The help and support that are available to our citizens is truly something to be proud of and a great reminder that even in dark corners there is light and help to be found.

In addition to resources for families and students, there are a multitude of local organizations that are available for those in the community that may need help in other areas. The Yavapai Justice and Mental Health Coalition has developed a website with a wealth of resources for members of the community that are in need of assistance. You can visit https://justicementalhealth.com/ to find a complete resource guide. Additionally, organizations like Prescott Area Shelter Services, Agape House of Prescott and the Coalition for Compassion and Justice provide resources and support for our citizens in need. Yavapai County and Prescott continue to do an incredible job of providing for the community and meet the needs of people experiencing a need for support.

As we put summer in the rear view and move into the fall months, we are all looking forward to the positive things to come. I wish all of our students and families a wonderful school year and am anxious to see what it holds for our community. QCBN

By Greg Mengarelli

Greg Mengarelli is the mayor of Prescott.

Enjoying Prescott’s Outdoor Beauty

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Our mild climate, beautiful mountain vistas, five lakes, multiple golf courses, sports fields, and the Granite Dells are an allure to visitors and citizens alike.

Spring is beginning to make an appearance here in Arizona, and we are all beginning to turn our attention once again to the vast array of outdoor activities available in the Prescott community. One of the greatest gifts our hometown has given us during the uncertainty of the last year has been the beauty of the great outdoors. Our mild climate, beautiful mountain vistas, five lakes, multiple golf courses, sports fields, and the Granite Dells are an allure to visitors and citizens alike. With so many natural assets, it’s no wonder Prescott has earned rankings such as “Top 10 Cities for Well-Being,” “Top Happiest and Healthiest Communities,” and “Best Destination in Arizona for Nature Lovers.” In 2020, Prescott again topped the charts, this time with trail usage topping 1.1 million users.

Our system of more than 450 miles of hiking trails is the supreme centerpiece to Prescott’s outdoor amenities. Many of the trails in the city’s system are accessible by bike or horse, and with the wide array of difficulty levels, there are options for every skill and age level. The city alone has more than 100 miles of trails, adding more every year. Some of the most well-known trails like Watson Lake trails, Peavine Trail, Willow Lake trails and Prescott Circle Trail regularly attract families seeking a day in the fresh air. Individuals seeking lesser-known trails and challenges can access the city’s complete trail system via the Avenza Map App. Links to the app and additional information on the local trail system can be found on the Recreation & Trails Page of the city website.

Continuing to improve and expand this trail system has been a cornerstone of the city’s Recreation Services Department endeavors for many years. Recently, the city partnered with Prescott Mountain Biking Association to upgrade the pump track mountain bike loop at Granite Creek Park. A pump track is a closed-loop practice track consisting of berms, jumps and rollers connected by bank turns. The rider “pumps” his or her way through in a continuous loop without having to pedal.

Open space is of great importance to our community and continuing to offer the important outdoor amenities we all hold dear is at the forefront of purchases and annexations in the Prescott area. As negotiations continue with AED, one of the main goals is connections associated with the Prescott Circle Trail and eventual connection to all areas of the Quad Cities.

As we continue to make our way to the other side of COVID-19, we are even more grateful for how blessed we are with so many natural assets. Taking the time to enjoy warm weather, time with family and breathe in the fresh air can do wonders in benefits to everyone’s mental health. And I encourage all citizens and visitors to get out and enjoy the beauty Prescott has to offer. Take to the trails! QCBN

By Greg Mengarelli, QCBN

Greg Mengarelli is the mayor of Prescott.

Improvements to Granite Creek Corridor to Begin Soon

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In all, more than $1.8 million is estimated for planned improvements.

Voicing enthusiastic support for making the downtown Granite Creek Corridor a safer, more user-friendly area, Prescott City Council members gave the go-ahead for design and engineering work needed during their end-of-January meeting.

That approval came along with support for a $179,178 contract with Kimley-Horn & Associates and its Prescott office, an extension of one of the nation’s largest planning and design firms.

Part of the funding – $96,646 for the design project – will come from the city’s general fund. An additional $82,532 will come from the Prescott Public Works Department’s budget. However, an application has been filed for an Arizona Land and Water Conservation Fund grant. If approved, it could reduce the city’s portion of the expense.

Design and planning work is expected to be completed fairly soon, said Tyler Goodman, assistant to the city manager.

Prescott Mayor Greg Mengarelli recently praised the Granite Creek Corridor as “…one of the true jewels in the Prescott area.” He said the corridor had previously been neglected, but now, because of intense planning during the past few years, improvements will revitalize and enhance the corridor for residents and visitors.

In all, more than $1.8 million is estimated for planned improvements:

$184,426 for corridor lighting.

$148,000 for retaining walls.

$106,447 in stormwater outfall improvements.

$72,000 for removal of non-native medium and large elm trees that clog the creek.

$70,000 for a ramada near the historic railroad trestle bridge located immediately west of the recently completed Hilton Garden Inn Hotel.

$70,000 for a ramada or amphitheater at the West Granite Creek Park.

$57,410 for construction of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) access to Goodwin Street.

$25,000 for improvement of trail surfaces from Aubrey Street to Willis Street.

$6,000 for signage.

$5,400 for benches.

Near the Hilton Garden Inn Hotel, at the south end of Granite Creek Park parallel to Montezuma Street, a splash pad and play area are planned, along with space for the Prescott Farmers Market.

City Recreation Services Director Joe Baynes said the city wants to make the area user-friendly and to help local businesses.

Some of the improvements are underway, but real work will begin when the design and engineering plans are complete. Goodman said construction work on major projects is expected to begin in early July. QCBN

By Ray Newton, QCBN

Positive Changes in Granite Creek Corridor

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One of the true jewels of the Prescott area has always been the Granite Creek Corridor. It is a uniquely rural amenity in the heart of our urban downtown and provides an opportunity to connect areas of the community that haven’t been connected before. This area has, sadly, been forgotten and neglected for some time, but in recent years, city staff has been working diligently to revitalize and enhance the corridor for the benefit of our citizens and visitors.

A master plan for the area has been approved and will include improvements to the trail along the creek: the addition of lighting and other safety features, improved and additional access points, signage and improved stormwater entry into the corridor. All of these improvements will allow for ease of access and improved aesthetics in the area. Recently, Council approved staff’s submission of a $1 million grant application for the project to the Arizona Land & Water Conservation Fund, as well as the allocation of $520,000 from CARES Act funds toward completion of the project, which is anticipated for the spring of 2022. To get the project underway, council will be reviewing qualifications for engineering and design services for implementation of the master plan with hopes of having the design completed by the time grant funding is awarded in July of this year.

To bookend this highly anticipated project, the recent completion and soft opening of the Hilton Garden Inn marks the start of the renovation of another precious local treasure, the Sam Hill Warehouse. This renovation project has been in the works for quite some time and is currently underway; at its completion, the venue will have approximately 5,000 square feet of indoor event space as well as a new patio for outdoor events. These renovations are also tying in the historic train trestle, which will bring these beloved corners of our historic community into the modern age while still preserving the celebrated significance of our past. Prescott was once the territorial capital of our beautiful state and I, for one, am thrilled to see the attention to detail and care being paid to these beautiful updates. Adjacent to the restored warehouse and new hotel, work also continues on the new splashpad and play area enhancing the south end of Granite Creek Park. In addition to the splashpad and play area, this portion of the park will welcome back the Prescott Farmers Market upon its completion in early summer.

The dedication of staff, joint work of local partners and community input over the last several years have made what will be a monumental project possible. The preservation of our past and enhancement of our future are coming together in a wonderful way in these areas and we look forward to what these projects will do for our community and downtown economic development. In conjunction with the Granite Creek Corridor, City Council and staff continue to work toward a master plan for the north Prescott area as well. All of these projects and plans will continue to aid our community with responsible, sustainable growth and tie together each of the diverse corners of Prescott. QCBN

By Mayor Greg Mengarelli, QCBN

Greg Mengarelli is the mayor of Prescott.

 

Welcoming the New Year, Reflecting on Accomplishments

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Happy New Year! The year 2020 was certainly not the start to a new decade that we all anticipated and it presented many challenges and difficult times. But, among the negative, Prescott continued to shine and community members continued to come together to support one another. I know all of us are, now more than ever, looking forward to welcoming in a new year and working together to pursue our vision for the future and dive deeper into the ongoing changes in our community.

Airport Success

Despite travel restrictions, Prescott Regional Airport has continued to safely and successfully maintain inbound and outbound flights for the convenience of our community and visitors. Enplanements continue to increase, bringing vitality to the region, and an additional Los Angeles flight was even added for the holiday season. The beautiful new state-of-the-art passenger terminal is set to open March 2021, which will certainly help to continue the success of our airport.

Economic Development, Community Enhancements

When the idea of a “Center for the Future” was initially proposed for development in North Prescott, a number of technology companies immediately expressed interest in locating their facilities here in Everybody’s Hometown. To meet that need, city staff used their innovative thinking to accommodate SimpleWan as the first of several companies to operate temporarily in a site to act as an incubator right in the heart of downtown Prescott. This is just the first step in bringing jobs and opportunity to our community.

Development in the Airport Commercial Industrial Zone is ongoing and will focus on business development opportunities as well. CP Technology already has broken ground in the area, as you’ve likely seen driving down Highway 89. The company will open its doors in March, showcasing to similar industry leaders the opportunity here in Prescott.

Final touches have been made and the fine details have come together to make the new Hilton Garden Inn at Montezuma and Sheldon Street a truly unique and remarkable addition to the Granite Creek Corridor and extension of downtown Prescott. The exciting and successful collaboration between the city, Prescott College, Arizona Public Service (APS) and area historians was wonderful to see and led to the opportunity to preserve and incorporate the Sam Hill Warehouse and railroad trestle into a beautiful new hotel. All of this will continue to have positive impacts on Granite Creek Park, the former APS utility yard, the new Founding Fathers Collaborative project and provide a stunning endcap to the Granite Creek Trail.

The Granite Creek Trail, as part of the overall Granite Creek Area Master Plan, will begin its revitalization in the spring. This will provide exciting opportunities for businesses along the creek, tie in an integral nature focal point in our downtown area and enhance resident and visitor ability to connect multiple areas of interest. In addition to the Granite Creek Area Plan, staff and consultants will continue work on the Master Plan for North Prescott. These will be projects that will take place in the next year or so and we will seek the input of the community to best meet everyone’s needs and continue the responsible and sustainable growth of Prescott.

Arizona Eco Development

The city continues conversations and negotiations with Arizona Eco Development (AED) in an effort to develop an annexation agreement that conserves as much of our beloved Granite Dells as possible, while still allowing the property owner to exercise private property rights. The successful development of a Letter of Intent that the city, AED and special interest groups could all support was a landmark moment for this project. The development agreement is in the hands of the developer and a negotiation committee, consisting of myself, Mayor Pro Tem Alexa Scholl and Councilmember Cathey Rusing, will work in tandem with AED to bring forward a draft for the public’s review early in the year. We all look forward to a successful outcome that reflects what is best for our community.

We have a great deal to look forward to in 2021 and I’m thrilled for the opportunity to share it with all of you! QCBN

By Mayor Greg Mengarelli, QCBN

Greg Mengarelli is the mayor of Prescott.

 

Reflecting on 2020’s Bright Side

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As the holiday season approaches, it gives us an opportunity to reflect back as well as to look forward. By any measure, 2020 has been a difficult year. No one needs to be reminded of the havoc and sorrow created by COVID, but there were good moments, too, and it is important for us to take a moment to celebrate all of the positives in our lives and community.

From a personal standpoint, I understand this dichotomy of emotions – of sadness and joy. When our daughter, Brooklyn, died tragically this past Easter, we were heartbroken. However, the outpouring of love and support that we received filled our hearts with warmth that we live in such a caring community.

Similarly, our community can find happiness in the many positives that have occurred in Prescott this past year. These accomplishments will enhance our lives in the coming years. For me, the top three are:

Preservation of the Dells: After three years of hard work, the City of Prescott has a Letter of Intent with Arizona Eco Development to acquire approximately 475 prime acres of land that will include the iconic Point of Rocks. Once details are finalized, this land will be owned by the city and belong to our community – securing forever our most valuable natural landmark.

Enhancement of Prescott Regional Airport: Named Arizona’s Airport of the Year by the Arizona Department of Transportation Aeronautics Group, Prescott Regional Airport broke ground on a new $15 million terminal that will be completed in the Spring of 2021. In addition, the land to expand the current runway will be deeded to the City of Prescott by Arizona Eco Development as part of the Letter of Intent to preserve the Dells. This will provide the flexibility to expand the facilities at the airport as needed. The modernization of the airport is a vital component of a vibrant community.

Granite Creek Corridor Master Plan: This historic district in downtown is getting the attention it justly deserves. In January of 2021, the new Hilton Garden Inn will open and the improvements to the Granite Creek Corridor will begin in the first quarter. What was once an eyesore will become another Prescott “jewel.” Whether you take a stroll along the creek or enjoy a meal at one of the nearby restaurants, this revitalized area will become one of your favorites!

The month of December brings us all the joy of the holiday season and gives us moments and memories to treasure. As Arizona’s Christmas City, Prescott will provide you and your family with the sights, sounds, and events to celebrate the positives in all of our lives. From all of us at the city, we wish you a very Merry Christmas, a healthy and happy holiday season and all of the best as we ring in 2021.  QCBN

By Greg Mengarelli

Greg Mengarelli is the mayor of Prescott.

 

 

Honoring Prescott’s Patriotic and Holiday Spirit

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As the difficult year of 2020 comes to an end, we look forward to welcoming the joy of the holiday season. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic impact, our community has been strong – knowing we would weather the tough times. As we watch the leaves change, there is the feeling of better times ahead. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, so many of our traditional events were either canceled or modified. Today, I am thrilled to announce the annual Veterans Day Parade will be held as scheduled on Wednesday, Nov. 11, to honor our veterans and celebrate our freedoms.

Veterans Day pays tribute to all American veterans and is a time to recognize members of the armed services who served their country honorably during war and peacetime. The patriotism of our residents is a hallmark of our community. In 2018, Prescott was named “Most Patriotic City in Arizona,” and that patriotism is showcased in our annual parade.

This year, the Veterans Day Parade opening ceremonies will begin at 10:30 a.m. on the stage at the intersection of Cortez and Union streets. The parade will begin promptly at 11 a.m. Everyone is invited to join us in honoring our veterans and celebrate the more than 50 entries for this year’s event. As always, our very own Recreation Services Manager Michelle Stacy-Schroeder, who is a veteran herself, has partnered with many Prescott area organizations to put this year’s parade together.

The Veterans Day Parade ushers in our festive holiday season. There is a reason that Prescott is called “Arizona’s Christmas City.” There will be no shortage of opportunities for everyone to safely celebrate the holiday season with the Holiday Light Parade, Christmas Courthouse Lighting and, of course, Acker Night Musical Showcase. Celebrating the season and taking in the wonder of the lights and sounds fills me with pride and reminds me just how important it is to take the time to enjoy the small things amidst what has been a trying and difficult year for my family and for many of you as well. I look forward to seeing the many faces of our community during this wonderful time of the year in Arizona’s Christmas City.

God bless each and every one of you, our wonderful community and our great country. QCBN

By Greg Mengarelli, QCBN

Greg Mengarelli is the mayor of Prescott.

 

 

Remembering the Shot Heard ‘Round the World

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Today, I want to relate a story that was recently told to me by a physician friend. In times like these, it is fascinating how something that seemed so long ago in our past can be so intrinsically tied to the things we are experiencing currently. The story is from the 1950s, when fear from a dreaded contagious disease filled the national consciousness. That disease was poliomyelitis, commonly known as polio. In 1952, almost 60,000 children contracted the disease and thousands were paralyzed. Public opinion polls at the time revealed the only thing Americans feared more than nuclear war was polio. What many didn’t know, however, was that working behind the scenes to defeat polio was a medical scientist named Jonas Salk.

The oldest son of Russian-immigrant parents, Salk was born in New York City in 1914. An excellent student, Salk graduated from New York University School of Medicine and at the age of 33, was appointed director of the Virus Research Laboratory at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Going against the prevailing scientific thought, Salk was convinced a safe vaccine of dead polio virus could provide protection against the disease.

In 1952, Salk administered his ‘dead virus’ vaccine to volunteers who had not had polio, including himself, his senior lab scientist, his wife and their three sons. The experiment was a success. In 1954, a nationwide trial of the vaccine was conducted with one million children. On April 12, 1955, the results of the trial were released: the vaccine was effective and safe. A Pittsburgh newspaper ran the headline: “The Shot Heard Round the World.” By 1962, the number of cases of polio had fallen to 910. The last case of polio was recorded in the United States in 1979.

Salk became an overnight celebrity and a national hero. A humble man who sought neither publicity nor fortune, he was interviewed on national TV by renowned newsman Edward R. Murrow. When Murrow asked who owned the patent to the vaccine, Salk simply stated: “Well, the people, I would say. There is no patent. Could you patent the sun?” Lawyers for the University of Pittsburgh had investigated the possibility of patenting the vaccine but did not pursue it, in part, because of Salk’s reluctance.

The story of Jonas Salk is a story of the American dream—how a man, from simple beginnings, through hard work and persistence, changed the world. Because of Jonas Salk, polio is now a mere footnote in the history of modern medicine. Let us pray that soon we can say the same thing about COVID-19. QCBN

By Greg Mengarelli

Greg Mengarelli is the mayor of Prescott.