Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Prescott public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
10 issues in environment
Regional stormwater cooperation and catchment policy
The council joined a regional stormwater resolution backed by county supervisors, but a fight broke out over whether to require stormwater catchment plans from large water users. Ruby's amendment was withdrawn in favor of a future council agenda item; Fruhwirth's softer amendment passed.
2026 Council Strategic Priorities and Water Resources
The council reviewed proposed updates to the city's strategic plan, debating how to structure timelines, whether to keep core values like 'be nice,' and how to balance infrastructure, public safety, and community livability goals.
Open Space Recognition in the Master Plan
Public commenters said the draft plan shortchanges natural open space — the very reason the trail system is so beloved. Speakers want open space fully included, a natural open space manager on staff, and possibly a revived open space commission.
Water Conservation Rebate Program Review
The city reviewed strong participation in its 2025 water rebate program, which provided over $40,000 in incentives for efficient toilets, washing machines, turf removal, and rainwater harvesting, saving millions of gallons.
Senator Mine Environmental Remediation and Water Discharge Permitting
The city is closely monitoring ADEQ's oversight of the Senator and Gold Paradise Peak Mines following severe environmental compliance issues and historic tailings instability near the Hassayampa River headwaters. While ADEQ is moving forward with a court-enforced phased remediation plan and permit renewal, city leaders remain concerned about potential environmental impacts and heavy truck traffic.
NACOG Brownfields Coalition Assessment Grant Presentation
A presentation on a $1.5 million EPA grant administered by NACOG to provide free environmental assessments and hazardous material surveys for property owners in Yavapai County.
Willow Lake Management Plan and Site Remediation
City staff are developing a comprehensive management plan for Willow Lake to address water quality, habitat protection, and recreation. Plans include cleaning up illegal dumping at the former Prescott Dirt site and implementing water quality treatments like phosphorus binders.
Big Chino Watershed Assessment and Restoration
The Nature Conservancy and city staff are collaborating on a watershed assessment to design grassland restoration and erosion control projects on city-owned land in the Big Chino sub-basin.
Badger Mountain Land Auction Concerns
Residents urged the city council to intervene and collaborate with state agencies to delay or cancel the upcoming April state land auction for Badger Mountain to protect open space and wildlife.
Watson Woods Riparian Preserve Conservation Easement
Staff and Prescott Creeks presented progress on a permanent conservation easement and joint management plan to support the Watson Woods In-Lieu Fee mitigation program.