Local News

Aldaz Appointed To Tusayan Town Council

February 16, 2023

By a unanimous vote, long time Tusayan resident Andrew Aldaz has been appointed to the Tusayan Town Council.

A vacancy was created when David Chavez was a no show for his swearing in after he was elected to the council. It was later learned that Chavez lost his job at the Squire Inn and may no longer be a resident of Tusayan.

By February 14th there were two applicants for the open seat. Former Councilman Brady Harris and Aldaz. The council set aside the 14th to interview the candidates. Harris was not present nor was he on Zoom for the meeting.

Aldaz, known for volunteering for countless projects, was there and was appointed by a unanimous vote of the Tusayan Town Council.

Previously, Aldaz shared with the Watchdog his reasons for wanting to serve on the Town Council, “Living in the Grand Canyon Tusayan community since 1977 I have seen lots of needs in our community. I thought that this would be a great opportunity for me to make a difference in giving the youth and people in the community a voice so we can provide the safety they deserve to work, live, and raise their families. I worked at Grand Canyon School for 30 years, helped build the current Community Park, I am a member of the Tusayan fire board, and community liaison for the town of Tusayan.  I have worked at bringing services to our community working with outside amenities such as Coconino County, Arizona Complete Health, Grand Canyon School, North Country Healthcare, Judge Krombeen with Williams Court Systems and giving a voice to our community.  I want to continue to be a voice for the residents of Tusayan.”

The Council met briefly in executive session before voting on Aldaz. The Town Attorney told the Council Aldaz’s employment at Red Feather does not create a conflict of interest. In years past, no conflicts were noted when nearly all Town Council members were Halvorson employees.