Longtime Tusayan resident is leading in bid to oust mayor

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. – A woman who has long opposed massive development in Tusayan on the outskirts of Grand Canyon National Park had a strong lead in the mayoral race.

Clarinda Vail had nearly 60% of the vote from Tuesday’s primary election in her bid to oust the current mayor, Craig Sanderson. But the county still has at least two dozen outstanding ballots — more than the total votes that separated the two Wednesday.

“It’s not final until it’s final,” said Vail, a property manager. “I remain hopeful as they’re counted and optimistic that I’ll be given the opportunity to be Tusayan’s new mayor.”

Coconino County recorder Patty Hansen said election officials won’t be done processing and counting all the ballots in the county until next week. Unofficial results showed a turnout of about 47% so far among the 241 people registered to vote in Tusayan.

Tusayan relies heavily on revenue from the millions of people who drive through the town each year on their way to the Grand Canyon’s more popular South Rim for revenue. Up until 2010, it wasn’t considered a town, but a state law that catered to Tusayan allowed it to incorporate.

Even before that, developers have eyed the outpost nestled among the forest where restaurants, gift shops and hotels line the state highway. It’s been a major point of contention in the town. Sanderson has supported the development.

Vail hasn’t but said she wouldn’t renege on any agreements the town has made with Italian real estate developer, Stilo Development Group USA, if she becomes mayor.

Sanderson, the chief pilot for Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines, and Vail agree on the need for private housing in a town where most everyone lives in company housing, better internet access and a sports complex. But the timelines on those projects have been stalled over various issues.

Sanderson said he takes comfort in knowing the Town Council cares about the future of the community. He wasn’t sure he could overcome Vail’s lead.

“The mayor only has one vote out of five, so she will need to work with a very competent council to be successful,” he said.

The mayor serves a two-year term.