CSA Jack Ross Receives Prestigious Recognition from Sedona

Jack Ross, affectionately known as “Captain,” has officially retired from his role as a community services aide with the city of Sedona and the Sedona Police Department as of December 3. Starting in April 2022, Ross made significant contributions during his tenure.

During the City Council meeting on December 10, Mayor Scott Jablow praised Ross for his dedication. “The entire council will know Jack Ross. He’s normally in a very bright yellow shirt working for the city, doing a lot of hard work,” Jablow remarked while presenting an award. Ross’s responsibilities included assisting with parking management in Uptown and various trail areas, as well as engaging with the community and managing traffic control.

Expressing gratitude, Ross thanked the council and Sedona Police Chief Stephanie Foley. “Thanks for accepting me into the police department… It was a great opportunity for me,” he said, reflecting on his nearly three-year experience. He appreciated the department’s open-door policy, allowing him to voice his concerns and thoughts freely.

Despite retiring from his official duties, Ross plans to remain active in the Sedona community. He will continue his work as the president of the Sedona Area Veteran and Community Outreach, underscoring his commitment to local service.

“I enjoyed my whole time there… but it was just time to move on,” Ross stated, reminiscing on the relationships he built during his service. His role involved directing traffic, enforcing parking ordinances, and conducting patrols, tasks he executed with enthusiasm and a genuine passion for community engagement.

Ross highlighted the sense of camaraderie within the police department as one of the aspects he cherished most about his job. “I was accepted in there by all,” he said, drawing parallels to his time in the Navy as he interacted with visitors from around the world at Sedona’s trailheads.

A veteran of the Navy, Ross enlisted in 1977 and retired as a commander after two decades of service. He later piloted for Delta Air Lines until his second retirement in 2019. Ross and his wife Camilla have been residents of the Village of Oak Creek since 2015 and have three children: Joseph, Mike, and Jessica.

“I call [the CSA] the bookend position where older folks like me who are retired and are looking for a part-time position can have a job,” Ross explained. He noted the role offers valuable experience for younger individuals, such as a college student pursuing a career in criminal law.

Police Chief Stephanie Foley acknowledged Ross’s contributions, stating, “CSA Jack Ross was an asset to the police department and will be missed. He had a strong work ethic along with a kind and fun personality.”

For those interested in applying for the community services aide position, further information can be found on the city of Sedona’s official website at sedonaaz.gov.