Deb Hunseder is running unopposed for reelection to Clarkdale Town Council.
What makes you qualified for a position on the town council?
I am a 16 year resident of Clarkdale, seeking to continue serving the people of Clarkdale. I think it’s very important to be involved in the community you live in. I am deeply interested in doing whatever I can to build a strong town while preserving our history, protecting our quality of life and ensuring the viability of our town while living within our financial means.
What makes Clarkdale great?
Our most valuable asset is our people. The people who live, work, and play here. Beyond that what makes us great is the deep history of this town, the natural resources like the river, wilderness, wildlife, and clean air that all provide for a good quality of life in Clarkdale.
What would be different if you were not on the council?
During my time on council I have demonstrated the ability to look at all sides of an issue and complete the necessary research to make informed, sensible decisions. I am a good listener and working with my clients, serving on committees, and volunteering with town activities shapes my view for making our town attractive to visitors, and a better place to live. Without my presence this could be lost.
How will you help Clarkdale to recover from the coronavirus and resulting economic slump?
My goal is for our businesses to succeed while keeping our community safe. It benefits everyone, making for a healthy and thriving community while generating revenue for programs, projects, and infrastructure. Clarkdale is where neighbors help neighbors and we work together. I will help my constituents get back to the life we enjoy.
How do you hope to keep Clarkdale affordable to residents?
Responsible spending of taxpayer dollars is of utmost importance. The town cannot control the price of property, rents or costs of construction, however it’s important for us to be mindful of our expenses in relation to our revenues. Housing attainability is a major issue for many of our residents and we need to continue to seek solutions to this problem.
Candidate Essay:
I am Debbie Hunseder, and two years ago the Mayor and Council appointed me as a Clarkdale council member through a series of interviews. I am now seeking the appointment of 4 more years on Town Council by the voters of Clarkdale.
I have lived in Clarkdale since 2004, with the love of my life Nick, and have been married since 1981. We chose Clarkdale because of its rich beauty, history and community spirit. Of all the places that we have lived and visited over the years, we feel that Clarkdale offers the best location, quality of life, and the friendliest community. We are proud to operate a small business here and call it our hometown. I have never wanted to change what we have here, only improve upon it. I seek ways to reduce the tax burden on our citizens without impacting the quality of life that we hold so dear.
I am involved in many events in the area, especially those focused on historic preservation and sustainable growth. I served Clarkdale as a Planning and Zoning Commissioner from 2015 – 2018. I have also volunteered and served on multiple boards and organizations including Questers International, Clarkdale Downtown Business Alliance, Greyhound Pets of Arizona, and the Verde Valley Regional Economic Organization.
I retired from corporate employment after working there for over 30 years. I have an extensive background in personnel management, professional services, and managing technical projects in the corporate enterprise space.
We have put down deep roots here in Clarkdale, and I believe that my community involvement, work experiences, and volunteerism have prepared me to work with people in a variety of settings, find solutions to problems, operate within budget constraints and listen to the concerns of others. I feel that these skills have allowed me to bring value to the council and the town. Since being appointed to fill the Clarkdale Council seat I have become much more informed on the inner workings of the town, and have attended every meeting well prepared to address the agendas. I feel privileged to give back to our town.
When faced with making any decision of importance, I look at all sides of the issue and like to hear from all who will be affected before making a decision. I enjoy doing research, and this is one method that I use to look at all perspectives. I am in favor of “smart growth” through a comprehensive general plan while balancing the protection of our history, and the open space of our community. I believe that government policies should help safeguard the rights of our residents.
In summary, I want to emphasize that Clarkdale is a wonderful community. The many priceless natural resources within our town are invaluable to our way of life and need to be preserved. I deeply desire to continue working for the people of Clarkdale as a council member. I am and will be a strong and always available voice for my constituents.
