Sedona City Council Reviews Monumental Flagpole for Posse Grounds

The Sedona City Council convened on October 22 to discuss the potential installation of a permanent flagpole at Posse Grounds Park. This matter has been postponed for further consideration, following a strategic move by Mayor Scott Jablow and Councilwoman Kathy Kinsella to prevent a possible tie vote that would lead to failure. A tied vote of 3-3 would automatically dismiss the proposal.

The flagpole proposal originated from Councilman Pete Furman, who was not present at the meeting. Jack Ross, president of the Sedona Area Veteran and Community Outreach (SAVCO), presented the request to the council. Concerns about obstructing scenic views, particularly a vista dubbed the “million-dollar view” during weddings, were raised. However, negotiations between SAVCO members and Parks and Recreation Department coordinator Jason Vargo led to a compromise on a minimally obstructive location.

Ross outlined the vision for a 30-foot-tall flagpole with lighting, estimated to cost around $2,800. He suggested that the pole would display four-foot-by-six-foot flags that would require replacement biannually. He noted the proposed height aligns with an existing flagpole at the military park and is slightly taller than a temporary installation set up for a past Memorial Day event.

Outgoing Councilwoman Jessica Williamson questioned the necessity of a flagpole exceeding the city code limit of 22 feet. Ross argued that a smaller pole would appear disproportionate, like a fishing pole compared to the prominent Barbara Antonsen Memorial Pavilion.

Concerns about the pole’s lighting and its impact on nearby residences were voiced by Councilwoman Kinsella. Parks and Recreation Manager Josh Frewin acknowledged the visibility of the light fixture from surrounding homes but assured that it would not spread significantly. Councilwoman Melissa Dunn emphasized the importance of consulting residents affected by the installation.

Although an alternative of installing a flagless pole was suggested, Frewin expressed skepticism regarding its aesthetic value. Kinsella and other council members pushed for further neighborhood engagement before proceeding with a permanent installation.

Ross later suggested accepting a 25-foot pole as a compromise and proposed the option to fly an additional flag. Despite support from some council members, Kinsella expressed her reluctance to approve the proposal without adequate community consultation.

The meeting revealed a division in the council over the height and installation of the flagpole. Councilman Brian Fultz reiterated his support for the original proposal, while Dunn raised concerns about the reflectivity of the flags and its implications for local dark sky regulations. All discussions eventually pointed toward the necessity of gathering more input from residents.

Concluding the session, Jablow recommended postponing the vote to avoid failure, prompting a motion to continue the discussion, which was approved with a vote of 4-2, with Fultz and Ploog opposing.