Last Public Meeting for Ironwood National Monument

 The BLM is in charge of the Ironwood National Monument, and they are attempting to set a plan of action. They've publicized a series of meetings to offer alternatives for the area in regards to public use and recreation. Part of their process is to have public meetings. Shooting is one of the recreational uses in the area, so we attended  the meeting in Tucson, AZ on April 12, 2007

	Meeting was at the Pima County Parks and Recreation building on River Rd in Tucson, AZ
	There was the same 20-30 minute slideshow as the   other meetings to cover the basic overview of the situation and the choices being made by BLM
	This was the last of the public meetings, it was standing room only plus some. The fire codes were enforced, and only the first 80 or so people were allowed into the first presentation, Our group sat in on this session. No questions were allowed, same as the other meetings. Then a second session was presented  for those who couldn't fit in the room.
	The BLM  / County must not have anticipated such a large attendance, and the facility and staff were overwhelmed. The transition between the  two presentations   in the large room was awkward and totally unorganized.
	The public who attended the event and had questions were asked to go outside and talk to BLM staff. i found this very confusing, and inefficient as all but  one of the maps were  left   un used inside the large room. So  they were not available to illustrate the 4 plans or to use as reference when answering questions

In my opinion the meeting was not as useful as the meeting in Sahuarita, AZ on April 3, 2007. I  did get  some questions answered by the excellent staff of BLM. They really know their stuff, they seem to be completely honest and open with the process  and their roles.

A common request from the BLM staff was for feedback. Written feedback via the paper forms available, or electronically via their website. The BLM finds informative feedback, alternative options, and detailed reason for an objection to any portion of the four plans most useful. They already know  many people are in favor  or against the various options, however detailed reason  will allow them to make the  most efficient decision for the Ironwood National Monument. They urged us (the public) to give then detailed feedback and they are planning to read and reply to each one.

There was no time at the meeting for questions and answers in a public forum, we could each ask questions, but only one on one with the BLM reps in the hallways and outside.

There will be a meeting for public Q&A on Sat May 19th we were told, and that will be the time for the public to hear comments from each other. this meeting will  be at Pima Community College West Campus

Here is the Official Plan Information and links