Community Update: Flag Protocols and Public Safety Notices
Official Notice: Half-Staff Flag Order
By order of Governor Katie Hobbs, flags at all state buildings are to be lowered to half-staff from sunrise Saturday, February 7, until sunset today, Sunday, February 8, 2026. This directive is issued in honor of two Arizona Department of Public Safety crewmembers, State Trooper-Paramedic Hunter R. Bennett and Pilot Air Rescue Aviation Supervisor Robert B. Skankey, who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty during a helicopter crash near Flagstaff. Members of the public, local businesses, and community organizations are encouraged to join the state in this tribute to their service and sacrifice.
Health Advisory: Measles Community Transmission
The Maricopa County Department of Public Health is currently managing a localized measles outbreak with confirmed community transmission. Health officials advise all residents to immediately review their immunization records to confirm they have received the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella vaccine. Symptoms of measles typically include a high fever, cough, runny nose, and a distinctive red, blotchy rash. Because the virus can remain active in the air for up to two hours, residents who visited high-traffic public areas in recent weeks should monitor their health for up to 21 days. If symptoms appear, individuals should contact their healthcare provider by phone before arriving at a clinic to prevent further exposure.
Public Notice: Transit Development and Light Rail Update
The Phoenix City Council recently finalized a significant shift in the city’s long-term transit expansion plans. Following a formal vote, the city has directed Valley Metro to halt the development and federal grant application process for the previously proposed Capitol Extension project. Instead, the City of Phoenix is reprioritizing resources toward the Indian School Road corridor. This new focus aims to provide high-capacity transit options for West Phoenix residents. Stakeholders and community members are invited to participate in upcoming feedback sessions to determine the viability of light rail or enhanced bus systems for this newly prioritized route.
Sustainability Notice: New Water Conservation Regulations
Under the newly enacted Sustainable Desert City Development Policy, the City of Phoenix has implemented mandatory water conservation requirements for major water users. Effective immediately, any commercial or industrial user consuming more than 250,000 gallons of water per day must submit a formal water conservation plan to the Water Services Department. Users exceeding 500,000 gallons per day are required to implement measures that reduce their total water demand by at least 30% through the use of recycled or conserved water. These regulations are part of the city’s ongoing commitment to securing a resilient water supply for future generations.
Service Announcement: ADHS Community Profiles Tool
The Arizona Department of Health Services has officially launched the "Community Profiles" interactive tool. This new digital platform provides the public with easy access to localized health data and wellness metrics for neighborhoods across Phoenix. Residents and community leaders are encouraged to utilize this data to support local health initiatives and research projects.