Forming an association of mayors to lobby on behalf of municipalities in Yavapai, Coconino and Mohave counties drew unanimous support Thursday from the Town Council.
Mayor Harvey Skoog said the Greater Arizona Mayors Association will meet to "create political influence" in the state Capitol.
The association will speak with one voice, Vice Mayor Lora Lee Nye said.
Skoog said, "I'm hoping we can have a positive impact on legislation."
Mayors from the three counties began meeting in May, according to a report to the council.
The council voted for a resolution in favor of the association and joining it, in advance of the second session of the state Legislature.
The resolution states Northern Arizona municipalities "are bracing for future population growth, and are in need of resources and authority to maintain its existing service systems, while accommodating the construction of new infrastructure and services."
The association plans to take its message to the Legislature, the Governor's Office, state agencies and Congress, according to the resolution.
Council action on the resolution followed deliberations on other matters, including unanimous approval of a resolution to adopt the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code.
The code, which will go into effect in July, sets forth requirements for improving energy efficiency in new construction and remodels of existing homes.
"This is a benchmark code," said Sandy Griffis, executive director of the Yavapai County Contractors Association. "It is just fabulous."
She said adherence to the code will help homeowners save energy, adding, "Most of these building practices are already done by contractors."
Councilwoman Patty Lasker commented, "It will save people money, and our neighbors are doing it. It looks like a good plan."
Homeowners also are eligible to receive free energy audits from building inspectors, Community Development Director Richard Parker said.
Councilman Rick Anderson did not attend the meeting.
