Thursday, December 11, 2025

Good Morning! On this day in 1985, Phoenix received its first measurable snowfall after 46 years, with 0.1 inches recorded at Sky Harbor International Airport.

A national survey found that It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year is Arizona’s favorite Christmas song, while All I Want for Christmas Is You led nationwide. Reply to share your favorite!

For anyone staring down a stubborn name on their list, The Flyover Christmas Guide has you covered—go shop our favorites.

If you’ve ever wished you could take back control of your online privacy without jumping through a dozen technical hoops, today’s sponsor, Incogni, offers a simpler path to a more anonymous digital life.

Take The Flyover with you. Busy day? Listen to our daily 15-minute podcast while commuting, cooking, or walking the dog—your Flyover fix, anywhere.

Gilbert Weighs 25% Water Rate Hike

Gilbert residents face a possible third straight year of water rate hikes as the town council considers a 25% to 28% rate increase over the next two years.

Proposals include a single 25% raise next year or 14% increases each of the next two years. A public hearing and final vote are set for Feb. 17.

The town increased rates by 25% this year on top of a 48% increase last year, citing costs associated with reduced reliance on Colorado River water, meter upgrades, and a new billing system.

Some residents say their bills have tripled in a year, prompting some to call for a state audit.

None Resign Ahead of Recall Vote

None of the four Benson City Council members targeted for recall over a proposed aluminum recycling plant resigned by a Tuesday deadline, setting up a recall election in May.

“I’m not resigning. I’m in til the end, however it plays out,” council member Patrick Boyle said.

The recall effort was launched by a group of residents concerned over the proposed plant’s environmental, health, and traffic impacts. Council members argue that all proper planning procedures were followed.

Candidates interested in challenging the incumbents can file the needed paperwork starting Jan. 19.

Bike Path Speed Limits Sought

A state lawmaker introduced a bill to set speed limits for bicycles, e-bikes, and e-scooters on bike and multi-use paths.

Fountain Hills state Sen. John Kavanagh’s bill would set an overall 15 mph speed limit, which would drop to 5 mph when passing pedestrians or other cyclists.

The law would also cover electric skateboards and Segways, while non-electric devices would be excluded. Violators could face civil citations or stricter local limits.

The bill has not yet advanced through committee or received a floor vote.

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➤ Statewide: Rep. Stacey Travers, D-Phoenix, proposed legislation that would hike state lawmakers’ pay to $35,000 from $24,000 while imposing stricter term limits. (Watch)

➤ Phoenix: A hiker was airlifted to safety after he became stranded overnight on a closed section of Echo Canyon Trail. Rescue crews used a drone to drop blankets, water, and a cell phone to the man until they could reach him. (Watch)

➤ Sedona: The police department abolished its policy permitting officers to fire warning shots in certain instances, joining other Arizona agencies in prohibiting the practice to reduce liability and risk. (More)

➤ Safford: The city council voted 4-3 to fire City Manager John Cassella, appointing Assistant City Manager Eric Bejarano as interim. Council gave no reason for the change and said the city will fulfill the terms of Cassella’s employment contract. (More)

➤ Casa Grande: Fire department officials warned that a possible U.S. ban on Chinese-made drones could hamper emergency response and force costly reliance on less capable U.S. alternatives. (Watch)

➤ Glendale: City council member Lupe Conchas called for greater transparency on council members’ $16,200 annual stipend for incidentals and car allowances, which requires no receipts or tracking. (Watch)

➤ Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia could see his ownership stake in the team diluted from 83.2% to 32.7% if a lawsuit by minority owners succeeds. (More)

➤ The Arizona Diamondbacks will pick 15th in the 2026 MLB Draft following this week’s draft lottery. The Chicago White Sox will pick first. (More)

➤ Arizona State men’s basketball built on a nine-point halftime lead to defeat Northern Arizona 73-48. (More)

➤ Yesterday’s Results: NBA | NHL | NCAAM | NCAAW | Soccer

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➤ U.S. Sen. Ruben Gallego unveiled the One Fair Price Act, aiming to block companies from using artificial intelligence to charge consumers varying prices for the same product. (More)

➤ Phoenix Sky Harbor started offering CLEAR’s biometric eGates, letting CLEAR members skip lines and verify their identity with facial recognition. (Watch)

➤ A Scottsdale citizens group plans to sue the city over approving a proposal for 600 apartments and 600 condos as part of Axon’s new headquarters development. (More)

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➤ A Glendale family seeks community support after a Thanksgiving Day fire left them in a short-term rental while they fundraise for permanent housing. (Watch)

➤ Former Dual Survival star Cody Lundin joined Prescott Valley’s CAST11.com podcast network, hosting a show on wilderness and preparedness expertise. (Watch)

➤ Artificial tree prices are up 10% to 15% this season, according to an industry group, prompting a boost in live tree sales as shoppers favor their price and holiday fragrance. (Watch)

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