Candidate: Debbie Hunseder, Clarkdale resident of 20 years
Age: 64
Current or past profession: “Currently vice mayor and project manager, retired.”
Q: Why are you qualified to serve on council?
A: “I have been the Vice Mayor of Clarkdale the past four years and a council member since 2018. I served Clarkdale as a Planning and Zoning commissioner from 2015 to 2018. I am currently a board member for the Northern Arizona Council of Governments which includes an appointment to the executive board of NACOG. I am secretary for the Clarkdale Foundation and a volunteer with the Clarkdale Downtown Business Alliance.”
Q: How should the town keep Clarkdale’s downtown historic yet encourage businesses to open and develop it economically?
A: “We are lucky to have outstanding downtown business owners who excel in adaptive reuse, operating successful ventures that generate employment opportunities and enrich the unique identity of our community. Having supported the Clarkdale Downtown Business Alliance for over a decade, I have observed businesses come and go for various reasons. While downtown events attract visitors, creating buzz around the area and its buildings, there are limited options to retain those visitors and keep them coming back.
“It is essential for our town to collaborate with property and business owners to pinpoint growth obstacles and consider solutions to revitalize their properties. Property owners are invaluable in our commercial vitality. Exploring the potential of home-based businesses that have not shifted to storefronts could further highlight the town’s heritage, interests and talents. The town is actively seeking grants and funding to assist with necessary renovations, with several permits in progress.”
Q: Why is the town’s trail master plan and improvements to local parks important for residents and visitors?
A: “In 2022, a town-wide survey highlighted that the community’s top priority was the development of a trail system. Respondents desired various types of trails, connecting neighborhoods to local recreational spots, businesses, schools, neighboring communities, federal lands and state parks. Well-designed parks and trails serve as spaces for physical activity, reducing stress and enhancing mental wellbeing. They also provide a place where neighbors can meet, which improves community interactions and creates memories. Parks contribute to environmental preservation by decreasing air and water pollution, safeguarding against inappropriate development and combating urban heat islands, maintaining public health by providing safe areas for recreation and exercise, away from busy streets.”
Q: How should the town balance resident growth while remaining a small, historic town?
A: “I strongly support the rights of property owners, however, acknowledging our responsibilities towards our neighbors and community. Ensuring that the community is well-informed about proposed property projects is essential. This transparency is through our public boards and commissions, comprised of Clarkdale residents attending meetings. Through regular interactions with constituents, the sentiment is our community is renowned for its distinctive charm and inclusive environment. These qualities should not be compromised by incompatible projects. Communities that plan with foresight thrive more than those that merely react. We encourage developers who value and honor our local character.
“Strategic planning requires a balance between tradition and innovation. Aesthetics are vital, guiding decisions on signage, tree planting, historic preservation and new construction that integrates with the existing environment. Planning and environmental regulations maintain this equilibrium, stressing projects with the strategic plan’s goals. Our current strategic plan embodies understanding of our values, challenges and aspirations, advocates for creativity, collaboration and a commitment to preserving the qualities that define our town.
“Despite limited resources, the dedication and enthusiasm of our staff and residents aim to create a dynamic community with a bright future, while honoring our past and fostering sustainable growth through community involvement.”
Q: How should the town encourage Yavapai College to bring more programs back to the Verde Valley campus in Clarkdale?
A: “Success is built on creating genuine connections; we are achieving this by conducting quarterly meetings with the college president, her senior staff, the mayor, town manager and myself to address current challenges and goals. Two college deans attend the bi-monthly Verde Valley mayors and managers meetings to stay informed. The college plays a crucial role in nurturing employee development to support business growth and service expansion in the Verde Valley. There are promising opportunities in student programs with the need for skilled workers water and wastewater engineering, hospitality, health care and skilled labor. I feel very fortunate that our Yavapai College Governing Board member from District 3 [Toby Payne], a Clarkdale resident and town volunteer, is always available for questions and clarifications.”
Clarkdale Town Council Election
Mayoral candidates (one four-year seat):
- Robyn Prud’homme-Bauer, incumbent
- Cynthia Malla, challenger
Council Candidates (two four-year seats)
- Amanda Arnold, challenger
- Marney Babbitt-Pierce, incumbent
- Debbie Hunseder, incumbent
- Nathan Porter, challenger
