The Sedona City Council meeting on June 11, 2025, focused on water conservation initiatives and climate action strategies aimed at enhancing community resilience and environmental sustainability. Key discussions included the successful implementation of educational events, such as the School Water Festival and World Water Day, which engaged local students and residents in water conservation practices.

Council members highlighted the importance of expanding participation in these educational programs, with plans to involve more schools in the upcoming fall festival. The initiatives aim to teach students about water-related topics through interactive activities, fostering a culture of conservation from a young age.

In addition to educational efforts, the council discussed the launch of a new water conservation program targeting local businesses. This initiative, inspired by successful models from other regions, aims to encourage restaurants and other establishments to adopt water-saving practices, such as reducing unnecessary water service to customers. The program is set to launch in July and will include promotional materials to raise awareness about water conservation.

Concerns were raised about excessive water use by local businesses, particularly regarding grass irrigation in the desert environment. Council members emphasized the need for educational outreach and potential remedies for businesses that waste water, including commercial audits by the Arizona Water Company.

The meeting also addressed the city's climate action plan, which includes strategies to combat urban heat through initiatives like the reflective pavement project in Uptown. This pilot program aims to reduce heat retention in urban areas by testing different pavement materials that reflect solar radiation. The council discussed the importance of community outreach and the potential for creating green spaces in Uptown to mitigate heat effects.

Overall, the meeting underscored Sedona's commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement, with ongoing efforts to educate residents and businesses about sustainable practices while addressing the challenges posed by climate change. The council plans to continue monitoring the effectiveness of these initiatives and gather data to assess their impact on the community.