This is part of a series of Camp Verde Town Council candidate Q&As that will be published over the next weeks
What makes you qualified for a position on the city council?
I have 40 years of experience with the Arvada, Colo., and Cottonwood city councils. In Arvada, I was part of the city staff, and in Cottonwood I served on boards and commissions. My work resulted in improving the quality of life for the residents of both cities.
What makes Cottonwood great?
Cottonwood is the economic center of the Verde Valley. The recreation opportunities available to visitors are limitless. The friendly atmosphere of the residents and business owners encourages return visits and relocation of businesses to Cottonwood. Finally, the temperate weather conditions and the small-town atmosphere — atmosphere and size are not the same thing — attract people to our community.
What would be different if you were on council?
This is difficult to answer, as I would be only one of seven. I would work towards more cohesiveness, proactive decision-making, making things happen, and encouraging managed growth to benefit everyone. I hope to accomplish this by constantly seeking mutual benefit and satisfying outcomes in all interactions while keeping Cottonwood interests foremost.
What will you do to keep Cottonwood affordable for its residents?
First, seek to understand the needs of the residents, and then find new solutions to old problems. Too often we continue doing something the way it has always been done. We can reduce costs and improve the outcome by exploring new ideas and by prioritizing and completing tasks in order.
What is your position on the proposed 0.5 percent sales tax increase the council will be voting on in August?
I support the sales tax increase. You can only cut so much for so long and then at some point you have to catch up or reduce services. Revenues have just begun to reach the pre-recession level. Costs have gone up. We cannot wait another five or 10 years to replenish reserves or to fund the state-mandated pension fund liabilities.
