Council okays parks, recreation code changes for public comment

On Thursday, at its first meeting in 2023, the Sierra Vista City Council moved forward code amendments recommended by the Parks and Recreation Commission. The amendments are now open for public comment before they return to the City Council for final consideration.

The amendments would change the City code concerning electronic bicycles and scooters on multi-use paths and park trails. Instead of limiting vehicles to a speed limit of 15 mph, the proposed change would mirror state law by removing the speed limit restriction and specifying that class 3 e-bikes and scooters are not permitted on City paths or trails. Class 3 vehicles can reach higher speeds than class 1 and 2 vehicles.

The proposed amendments also update definitions of athletic fields/courts and types of parks within the City’s parks system. They also update code to better reflect the City’s process for sanctioning events.

The City Council approved the resolution, which begins a 30-day public comment period on the proposed changes. To review the code amendments and submit your input before they return to the City Council for final consideration, head to Engage.SierraVistaAZ.gov.

City welcomes new Mayor and Council

Newly elected Mayor Clea McCaa and reelected Council Members Carolyn Umphrey, Mark Rodriguez, and William Benning were ceremonially sworn in at a reception prior to Thursday’s City Council meeting. Hosted in the Sierra Vista Public Library’s meeting room, the reception drew a large, excited crowd.

Former Mayor Rick Mueller presented McCaa with his gavel and said, “May you only have to use it when you need to.”

McCaa in turn presented Mueller a gavel and plaque in recognition of his 22-year tenure on City Council, including three terms as mayor. He thanked Mueller for his tutelage and for his leadership to the City.

Later, at the City Council meeting, McCaa remarked, “It is a great day. I’ve been here for 42 years, moved here in 1980, and I love this City. We’re going to work for you. We’re going to work for the people of Sierra Vista.”

The City Council also approved the appointment of Carolyn Umphrey to serve as mayor pro tem.

“I’m also very proud to be a part of this team up here,” Mayor Pro Tem Umphrey said. “It’s an honor and I’m deeply grateful to be selected as the mayor pro tem by the new mayor and receive the support of my colleagues”

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