Candidate: Michael Mathews, Cottonwood resident of seven years
Age: 61
Current or past profession: Retired from real estate development, investment and brokerage.
Q: Why are you qualified to serve on council?
A: “ Experience . Experience in local government, economics, management and business. Stepping into the mayor’s seat should not be attempted until having some experience on the city council. I attended council meetings for two years so that I would be knowledgeable and ready to hit the ground running before being elected in 2018. I have also served as vice mayor. After a year off, in December I was asked to apply for and was appointed to fill a vacant seat on council. I was also asked to run for mayor based on my experience and proven ability as evidenced by the many positive accomplishments of the 2018-22 council.”
Q: How should the city bring more affordable housing into the area, and balance the growth of businesses and new residents?
A: “The city has a policy of not being an impediment to development as well as providing superior customer service in our Community Development Department. One recent win for affordable housing was working with the Verde Plaza’s new owners who are rehabbing the existing buildings, building new units on land the city sold them, and the city is leasing another portion of land and endorsing the project to encourage a U.S. [Department of Agriculture] loan approval for more affordable units. This is a great template for bringing affordable housing to Cottonwood. These unit costs will be directly correlated to the tenants’ income. A four-bedroom would rent for about $1,100 per month. We will do all we can to encourage and support similar projects. As for growth and new residents, they both support each other and Cottonwood is ‘open for business.’ Most of our businesses are local entrepreneurs, plus we partner with the Chamber of Commerce to do all we can to support them.”
Q: What is your vision for economic development in Cottonwood?
A: “Tricia Lewis is a phenomenal economic development director. She helps drive our shared vision. Without economic growth, the local economy will become stagnant. My vision is slow, steady and smart development. Government should not place obstacles in the way but instead cultivate an attitude of helpful customer service to foster economic development. Ideally, growing successful businesses will also grow their employee numbers and as those businesses succeed, salaries should grow commensurately.”
Q: How should the city change events to reflect the city’s changing demographics?
A: “I would like to see city-sponsored events focus more on both local and regional residents and families. Flagstaff’s Hullabaloo community festival is one great example of a community-centered event.”
Q: How will you rebuild public trust and confidence in Cottonwood City Council?
A: “First, keeping the culture war out of council meetings. I’m sure we all watched the escalating debate between the right and the left that was allowed to run rampant at council meetings last year. It could have been prevented had competent leadership been exercised. Second, making sure council members, including the mayor, stay in their lanes and clearly understand how Cottonwood’s council-manager form of government operates.
“Last year many violations of ordinances and protocols occurred. These actions brought one lawsuit as well as another claim against both the city and several individuals that may cost the city at least hundreds of thousands of dollars. One claim alone is for $2 million. These were completely preventable.
“Personal and political attacks have no place in public service leadership. A lot of these issues can be avoided in the future by educating and mentoring new council members. We could better prepare them to hit the ground running instead of just being seated and expecting them to figure things out on their own. Unfortunately to date, this has been the standard practice.
“I would also like to mentor one or two council members who would aspire to the mayor’s seat. A good leader should always be grooming their replacement and not overstay their welcome.”
Cottonwood City Council Election
Mayoral candidates (one four-year seat):
- Michael Mathews, challenger
- Ann Shaw, challenger
Council candidates (three four-year seats)
- Felicia Coates, challenger
- Holly Grigaitis, challenger* [*residency in city limits remains in question]
- Helaine Kurot, incumbent
- Bob Marks, challenger
- Lindsay Masten, challenger
- Joy Mosley, challenger
- Heather Piper White, challenger
- Bill Tinnin, challenger
