The Sedona City Council convened on August 12, 2025, to discuss a significant development agreement with Dutchman Cove LLC, focusing on the proposed Ambiente Creekside project. The meeting began with a presentation from the developer's team, led by attorney Steven Polk, who outlined the project's scope and its community benefits.

The Ambiente Creekside development is planned for a 19-acre site along Oak Creek and will feature 36 hotel units, each averaging 875 square feet, along with a 15,000 square foot spa, a public restaurant named Dutchman's Cove, and various recreational facilities. The project aims to enhance the local tourism landscape while preserving the natural beauty of the area.

A key aspect of the development agreement is the construction of a public shared-use path, which will connect from the OMB Way roundabout to the western edge of the property, terminating at the National Forest boundary. The city will contribute $140,000 towards the construction of this trail, which is intended to provide recreational access to the community. The developers emphasized that the agreement does not grant them the right to build additional hotel units beyond the proposed 36.

During the meeting, council members raised questions regarding the specifics of the public access easement and the potential for a canopy walk, which was initially proposed as part of the project. The developers clarified that while they are interested in creating an elevated walkway, the current agreement does not obligate them to do so. Instead, the focus remains on ensuring public access along the trail.

The council also discussed the implications of moving existing sewer and roadway easements, which are necessary for the project to proceed. City staff indicated that these adjustments would not negatively impact public services and would facilitate the development's construction.

Overall, the council expressed support for the development agreement, recognizing its potential to enhance Sedona's tourism appeal while providing public access to the natural environment. The meeting concluded with a commitment to further evaluate the project's details and its alignment with community interests.