The Boulder Open Space Board of Trustees convened on April 13, 2025, to address pressing public safety concerns related to wildfire risks in the Flagstaff area. The meeting began with a reminder of the rules of decorum, emphasizing respectful communication and the importance of staying on topic.

The public comment segment featured several residents expressing urgent concerns about fire hazards linked to reckless behavior, particularly fireworks and car racing, in the Flagstaff region. Josh Alban, representing the Flagstaff Fire Action Prevention Group, highlighted the alarming frequency of fire incidents and urged the board to take immediate action. He proposed measures such as blocking parking areas after hours and installing surveillance cameras to deter illegal activities.

Jan Burton, a local resident and raptor monitor, echoed Alban's concerns, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to protect both the community and park rangers. She called for increased patrols and stricter enforcement of existing laws regarding fireworks.

Jacqueline McKenna, another Boulder resident, shared her personal experiences with fire risks at Panorama Point, advocating for enhanced surveillance and enforcement to prevent human-caused wildfires. She urged the board to escalate these issues to the city council and the sheriff's department for immediate action.

Alicia Curtin, a single mother and member of the Flagstaff Fire Action Prevention Committee, also stressed the urgency of addressing fire risks, particularly for families living in the area. She presented a memo outlining four key recommendations for the board to consider, including improved communication with law enforcement agencies.

Giles Trautman criticized the board's current approach to wildfire risk management, calling for a more data-driven strategy and accountability in addressing community safety. He expressed frustration over the slow progress in protecting Boulder from potential disasters.

Lauren Lambert Feldman, representing the Flagstaff Fire Action Prevention Committee, reiterated the need for immediate action, citing the high percentage of human-caused wildfires. She urged the board to implement preventive measures without delay, emphasizing the community's reliance on their leadership.

The public comment period concluded with Lynn Siegel discussing broader issues of urban density and its impact on open space funding, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to development and preservation.

As the meeting transitioned to board matters, the trustees acknowledged the gravity of the public concerns raised and the necessity for timely action to mitigate wildfire risks in the Boulder community. The board's next steps will involve reviewing the suggestions presented and determining actionable measures to enhance public safety in the Flagstaff area.