Candidate Forum 2025

Watch the Annual Candidate Forum

The Chamber of Southern Arizona hosts this annual, nonpartisan forum to give voters and the business community a chance to hear directly from local election candidates.

Republican and Democratic candidates share the stage to discuss economic growth, job creation, and other key business issues. This forum is not an endorsement—it’s a platform for open dialogue and informed decision-making.

Watch the full recording below and hear how the candidates plan to shape Southern Arizona’s future.

ward 3

KEVIN DAHL (Incumbent)

DEMOCRAT

What do you believe is the role of the Tucson City Council in making the Tucson region a great place to start, run, relocate, and/or expand a business?

Mayor and Council play a vital role in shaping the policies and infrastructure that allow businesses to thrive. That includes ensuring reliable core services, investing in workforce development, supporting accessible transportation, and maintaining transparent and consistent regulations. I believe the Council should also actively engage with businesses of all sizes, especially small and local ones, to understand their needs and work collaboratively on solutions that strengthen Tucson’s economic ecosystem.

Please tell us why you support or oppose the continuation of the RTA.

I am very supportive of regional transportation planning and implementation in general, but since I have been on the council I have observed horrible management, an inability to predict and deal with funding shortfalls, and a process to develop a future RTA that is fair to and responsive to the needs and desires of the residents of the City of Tucson. I have been clear that I believe the management and mix of projects need to change before I can support RTA Next. I believe this not only necessary to satisfy me as a City Council Member, but more importantly to have a measure that voters would pass.

Income-aligned housing supply is key to regional competitiveness and has become an issue of great importance to our members. What are your views on initiatives like the Community Corridors Tool? What can we be doing to make housing more affordable for Tucsonans?

I’m a strong supporter of the Community Corridors Tool and other zoning and planning innovations that encourage denser, mixed-income housing near jobs, transit, and amenities. We need more housing at every income level, and the City should continue removing outdated barriers that restrict supply. That means increasing funding for affordable housing, updating our zoning code to support diverse housing types, and working closely with neighborhood groups, developers, and business leaders to align housing development with economic opportunity. vAs you know I voted for the CCT, and also sponsored the

Prop 414’s failure created a lot of conversation about city resources and focuses. What should the city’s budget priorities be going forward?

The voters made themselves clear. Our focus must remain on delivering the core services residents and businesses rely on: safe and well-maintained streets, clean water, timely permitting, public safety, and sustainable infrastructure. At the same time, we have to invest in long-term resilience — including climate adaptation, housing affordability, and workforce development — to ensure our economy remains competitive and our city remains livable. I believe in a budget process rooted in transparency, fiscal responsibility, and community impact.

What measures should the city be taking, and/or doing differently, to address the incredible rise in chronic unsheltered homelessness?

We need to scale up the strategies we know work: Housing First models, supportive housing, and coordinated services that address mental health and substance use. We need to be supportive of expanding partnerships with nonprofit providers and working to increase shelter capacity, especially low-barrier and transitional options so that each and every person that wants help is able to get some. We should also strengthen coordination between all local governments to reduce duplication and close gaps in care. Homelessness is a housing issue first, and we must treat it with urgency and compassion.

What does the ideal relationship between the City Council and the business community look like? What issues do you believe we could/should be collaborating on to enhance economic competitiveness?

I believe in open, ongoing dialogue with the business community — not just when there’s a crisis or policy on the table. The ideal relationship is built on trust, shared values, and a commitment to inclusive growth. I’d like to see deeper collaboration on workforce development, housing affordability, transit and infrastructure investment, and climate resilience. Businesses know that a strong, inclusive city is good for the bottom line — and I’m committed to working together to build it. At the Ward level this also means meeting with business owners to understand and address their concerns, often bringing police or other City agencies to the table. Ward 3 has developed excellent constituent service, and this includes businesses in the Ward (not only include residents needing help).

The city of Tucson has hosted several energy town halls to gather community input on a potential franchise renewal with Tucson Electric Power (TEP) and an energy collaboration agreement, both of which are separate items that do not have to be passed together. Do you support renewing the franchise agreement with TEP? If so, why or why not? Additionally, what types of partnerships would you endorse between TEP and the city?

Yes, I support renewing the franchise agreement with TEP — but it must include clear commitments to accountability, community benefit, and sustainability. I also believe a separate energy collaboration agreement can be a powerful tool to align the utility’s investments with the City’s climate and economic goals. I support partnerships that expand renewable energy, increase grid resilience, reduce energy burdens for residents and businesses, and create local clean energy jobs.

What are your views on Tucson’s police and fire funding and staffing levels?

Public safety is a core city responsibility, and I support continued investment in both our police and fire departments. That includes competitive pay, modern equipment, and adequate staffing — especially in areas like emergency response and behavioral health. At the same time, I support expanding programs like the Community Service Officers that can take pressure off sworn officers and ensure the right professionals are responding to the right situations, from traffic enforcement to mental health crises.

Frankly, the staffing levels are not what they should be and I know both agencies are working diligently and creatively on recruitment and retention. Also, the proposed City budget includes a three-year plan to bring salaries up to market plus 1 percent, which will provide some help.

What policies would you put in place to help small businesses?

Small businesses are the backbone of Tucson’s economy. I support reducing unnecessary red tape, streamlining permitting processes, and expanding access to city procurement opportunities for local businesses. And I believe the City should be a strong partner in workforce development — connecting local businesses to the talent and resources they need to grow. In Ward 3 I see the good work of Tucson’s Office of Economic Initiatives in helping businesses in the Thrive in the ‘05 area, and have been heartened to see the development of the “Mineral District” along Oracle.

SADIE SHAW

DEMOCRAT

What do you believe is the role of the Tucson City Council in making the Tucson region a great place to start, run, relocate, and/or expand a business?

The City Council must foster an ecosystem where small businesses and local entrepreneurs can thrive. This includes ensuring accessible infrastructure, affordable water and energy, and affordable housing. Investing in the infrastructure, public transit, and housing supply is necessary to support a robust local economy. To do so, we need to ensure that our permitting and licensing processes are efficient, transparent, and equitable. As a council member, I would prioritize reducing bureaucratic delays, expanding technical assistance for emerging businesses and strengthening workforce development pipelines by aligning with career and technical education programs at TUSD and JTED as well as local training programs within the region.

Recent decisions by the Tucson City Council, like the 20% increase in the CAP water surcharge over four years (rising from $0.70/Ccf to $1.00/Ccf by 2027), as well as the unknown variables of operating a business in a high-crime area, have raised concerns about the long-term cost of doing business in Tucson. These decisions must be weighed with a lens of economic impact, particularly for small businesses that may already operate with thin margins. Public-private partnerships can help generate opportunity for Tucsonans, not just outside investors. I support more investment in our commercial corridors, and expanding support for local businesses.

Please tell us why you support or oppose the continuation of the RTA.

I support the continuation of the RTA, with key reforms. Ward 3 residents—and many in the urban core—have seen slower or less equitable returns from RTA investments. Future RTA funding should include clearer benchmarks for prioritizing neglected infrastructure in underserved areas. The projects planned for the City of Tucson that were never materialized, and those still under construction, like the Grant Road improvements, should be actualized. Since Tucson residents are the largest contributors to the RTA fund, I would like to see the next iteration of RTA funds have a greater allocation for projects within the City of Tucson, and a more inclusive process to acquire and incorporate feedback from business owners, operators, and residents, alike.

Income-aligned housing supply is key to regional competitiveness and has become an issue of great importance to our members. What are your views on initiatives like the Community Corridors Tool? What can we be doing to make housing more affordable for Tucsonans?

Tools like the Community Corridors Tool (CCT) are a step in the right direction, especially if they are implemented with meaningful community input. However, the city must go beyond this policy and transform their own departments, like the Planning and Development Services Department, to be more streamlined to work with developers big and small, as well as residents who want to develop their land for casitas, duplexes or larger housing complexes. When I’ve spoken to people who are trying to build, they’ve complained about waiting for months or years for permits to be approved and poor customer service from employees at the City. Even with the CCT, these unnecessary obstacles are going to hinder the expansion of affordable housing.

The City’s 2025 Housing Affordability Strategy Update outlined critical progress, like transitional projects at the Amazon Motel, permanent developments like Newport at Amphi, and emergency shelter programs such as the Gospel Rescue Mission.

However, we still lack sufficient affordable units. I support inclusionary zoning policies, expanded tenant protections, and the development of social housing models that keep affordability permanent. We also need to reduce barriers to adaptive reuse of existing buildings and invest in land trusts like the one I founded in Sugar Hill, which prevent displacement while building generational equity. Affordability should not come at the expense of cultural preservation or existing community members but to remain competitive, Tucson must treat housing like essential infrastructure and invest accordingly.

Prop 414’s failure created a lot of conversation about city resources and focuses. What should the city’s budget priorities be going forward?

The failure of Prop 414 revealed widespread concern over accountability and how new tax revenue would be spent. Going forward, the City must prioritize restoring trust.
Budget investments should be focused on the priorities actually identified by residents and business owners as part of the City’s community feedback efforts, such as housing, public health infrastructure, transportation access, park restoration, and modernizing failing systems like 911 dispatch. We must also address the overfunding and inefficiencies in departments like TPD, where outdated policies and expensive settlements undermine community safety and financial responsibility. Any new tax revenue must primarily benefit residents and put a dent in the root issues that lead to crime, addiction and poverty. We should incentivize creative participation from the business community in crafting innovative solutions to Tucson’s endemic problems, such as providing financial incentives for businesses that build or enhance green infrastructure or those that provide accessible jobs for vulnerable populations, such as non-native English speakers or individuals experiencing houselessness. By doing so we may extend our existing budget while also generating solutions to issues like sustainability and poverty.

What measures should the city be taking, and/or doing differently, to address the incredible rise in chronic unsheltered homelessness?

We need low-barrier, trauma-informed, and culturally competent solutions. This includes designating City-owned surplus land for safe camping areas with access to mobile hygiene units and wraparound services. We should prioritize converting vacant property into safe, service-equipped transitional housing options like those at the Amazon Flats.

I support developing interim job programs for unhoused individuals, modeled after what has worked in cities like Albuquerque, as well as expanding access to harm reduction services and behavioral health care. Importantly, the City must shift resources to mutual aid groups who built trust with unsheltered populations. These groups are often more effective at connecting people with resources than traditional service providers. We need to approach homelessness as a systemic issue rooted in housing policy, not criminalize poverty or treat it like an individual failure. We also need to strengthen our partnerships with organizations like La Frontera who have experience with healthcare and housing.

The City’s “Housing Central Command” efforts are a promising model but need greater investment and transparency. Transitional housing should be low-barrier and linked with job training, mental health care, and addiction recovery efforts. The most affordable housing today are tiny homes, remodeled shipping containers and mobile homes, but zoning restrictions often prevent these housing options from being implemented in some wards.
Preserving and expanding the housing stock in creative ways must be part of the solution.

Lastly, we should center the leadership and partnership of individuals with lived experience, so that we may ensure that any solutions we explore are vetted by people who understand their potential barriers and/or impact.

What does the ideal relationship between the City Council and the business community look like? What issues do you believe we could/should be collaborating on to enhance economic competitiveness?

The ideal relationship is collaborative and transparent. We should be co-designing solutions that increase hiring pipelines from local high schools and colleges, reduce infrastructure barriers, and support small-scale entrepreneurship. The City Council should work with businesses to address shared challenges, like workforce development, public safety, and infrastructure, while ensuring that our economic growth benefits everyone. Business leaders should be allies in advocating for housing affordability, reliable transit, and climate resilience because a thriving economy requires thriving people and places.

The city of Tucson has hosted several energy town halls to gather community input on a potential franchise renewal with Tucson Electric Power (TEP) and an energy collaboration agreement, both of which are separate items that do not have to be passed together. Do you support renewing the franchise agreement with TEP? If so, why or why not? Additionally, what types of partnerships would you endorse between TEP and the city?

I would only support renewing the franchise agreement with TEP if it includes enforceable climate accountability. Tucsonans need an agreement that prioritizes energy equity, investment in community solar, and resilience hubs powered by solar and storage, particularly at public facilities like libraries and cooling centers. We should also negotiate utility debt forgiveness for low-income households and direct financial support for electrification of low-income homes.

I would like to see the City pursue public power for Tucson and have already stated so publicly from my official campaign social media platforms and I’ll continue to do so at every opportunity. I’ve lived in Ward 3 long enough to know what it feels like when your electric bill makes you panic. I’ve had to choose between groceries and keeping the lights on, especially during brutal summers when staying cool isn’t a luxury, it’s survival. Meanwhile, Tucson Electric Power raises rates, blocks rooftop solar, and invests in fossil fuels, all while sending profits to a corporation in Canada.

Tucson deserves an energy system that puts people before profits. The city’s public power study shows that taking control of our energy future is possible. It would help us lower long-term costs, meet our climate goals faster, and make decisions publicly, with real community input. That’s why I’m running the kind of campaign I believe we need more of: transparent, people-led, and rooted in the realities our neighbors are facing every day. Ultimately, it will be the voters who decide if public power is an option they want to pursue.

What are your views on Tucson’s police and fire funding and staffing levels?

Public safety is important, but it must be balanced. I support maintaining robust fire and emergency response services while reevaluating police funding in light of other unmet community needs. I have called for a forensic audit of the Tucson Police Department to better understand how funds are spent and whether they are resulting in improved public safety outcomes. I also support expanding non-police crisis response models, such as Community Safety Programs, that can more appropriately respond to behavioral health and substance use emergencies. Every dollar should be spent with accountability and transparency. We should ensure that any staffing increases come with oversight, accountability, and measurable improvements in community safety.

What policies would you put in place to help small businesses?

I would champion microgrant programs, local procurement reforms to favor small and locally-owned businesses, and reduced red tape in licensing and permitting. I would also work to activate underused commercial spaces for affordable pop-ups or incubators and provide support for arts, food, and cultural entrepreneurs who may not fit traditional business models. Tucson also needs to preserve affordable commercial space and support cooperative business models. I believe business health and community well-being are intertwined: access to housing, transit, and childcare are small business issues too. We must create a local economy where businesses and workers grow together, so I would also increase opportunities for continued education for entrepreneurs, mentorship programs to strengthen relationships within the business community, and skilled networking events sponsored by the City and its partners to increase interdependence and resilience within our service sectors

JANET “JL” WITTENBRAKER

REPUBLICAN

What do you believe is the role of the Tucson City Council in making the Tucson region a great place to start, run, relocate, and/or expand a business? 

Under the City Charter (Chapter XXV, Section 7), the City of Tucson Council must promote constituents’ interests through policies that ensure economic stability and community well-being. Business-friendly measures—reducing fees, streamlining permits, and easing safe regulations—will expand the tax base, create jobs, and improve quality of life, supporting economic growth and Tucson’s competitiveness. The Council is equally obligated to ensure safe, clean neighborhoods and business districts, free from nuisances and petty crime, with well-maintained roads and infrastructure to attract businesses and support employee relocation.Through economic incentives and quality-of-life improvements, the Council could make the Tucson region a top location for starting, operating, relocating, and expanding businesses while sustaining a strong community.

Please tell us why you support or oppose the continuation of the RTA. 

I support the continuation of the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) and a future proposition to fund it, provided the RTA operates independently from the City of Tucson, Pima County, surrounding municipalities, and tribal governments. The proposition must clearly define fund allocation to prevent any jurisdiction from diverting funds from scheduled projects. The RTA board should exclude municipal representatives, except Arizona State Transportation Board Member Ted Maxwell, and include top professionals in finance, contracts, civil engineering, design, and construction. To maximize taxpayer value, RTA projects should be exempt from city or county requirements exceeding civil engineering and industry standards, except for bus pullouts. Existing bike lanes, routes, and highways should be strengthened for user safety under RTA, but new bike route construction should be funded by municipal operating budgets.

Income-aligned housing supply is key to regional competitiveness and has become an issue of great importance to our members. What are your views on initiatives like the Community Corridors Tool? What can we be doing to make housing more affordable for Tucsonans? 

The Community Corridors Tool (CCT), effective April 2025, is too early to evaluate for success or failure. Some residents and advocates raised concerns about limited public awareness and the accelerated adoption timeline. Critics noted that zoning changes might result in high-density projects that could alter neighborhood character or property values, especially along collector streets like Pima or Tucson Boulevard. Additionally, state laws prohibiting mandatory affordable housing units may restrict the CCT’s affordability impact unless developers voluntarily include them.

Tucson’s rising housing costs, driven by a home shortage, out-of-state migration, corporate purchases, and high construction costs, challenge seniors, low-income families, and residents. To address this, the city should streamline permitting and zoning, implement tiered impact fees, improve infrastructure, and promote diverse housing through flexible zoning and developer incentives.

Prop 414’s failure created a lot of conversation about city resources and focuses. What should the city’s budget priorities be going forward? 

What measures should the city be taking, and/or doing differently, to As a candidate for City Council – Ward 3, my priorities are reducing crime, addressing homelessness, and rebuilding infrastructure. To address crime and homelessness, I will advocate for an immediate public safety budget increase by reallocating discretionary funds and nonessential services. I will also collaborate with local businesses, educational institutions, and charitable organizations to develop trade and skill programs that create employment opportunities, aiming to reduce crime and homelessness through economic stability.

For infrastructure, I will secure funding by reallocating nonessential program budgets for the City Transportation Department to repair and reconstruct roads and infrastructure, while supporting a new Regional Transportation Authority iteration and future funding propositions. My priorities will align with constituents’ needs and adapt to community demands.

Proposition 414’s failure highlights the city government’s credibility gap, as voters, based on extensive discussions, feel initiatives yield no tangible results. Tucson’s high crime rates, rising violent crime, and homelessness crisis are worsened by the Council’s persistent underfunding and understaffing of public safety.If elected, I will address constituents’ concerns with transparent policies and an open approach, actively listening to their perspectives.

What measures should the city be taking, and/or doing differently, to address the incredible rise in chronic unsheltered homelessness?

Tucson faces a significant increase in chronic unsheltered homelessness, requiring a balanced strategy that protects property owners while supporting individuals facing substance abuse, mental health challenges, and financial hardship. Fentanyl, a major contributor to homelessness and drug-induced psychosis, must be reclassified as a Schedule I narcotic by the Arizona State Legislature to impose stricter penalties for trafficking and distribution. However, the City of Tucson must also act decisively by enforcing laws against open drug use, restricting homeless encampments, and upholding trespassing regulations. Only by taking decisive action can the City of Tucson effectively support its most vulnerable residents and implement solutions. Inaction has failed those facing genuine hardship and in need of medical and psychological care.

What does the ideal relationship between the City Council and the business community look like? What issues do you believe we could/should be collaborating on to enhance economic competitiveness? 

The ideal relationship between the City Council and the business community is collaborative, transparent, and mutually beneficial, fostering economic growth while addressing community needs. The Council should act as a partner, engaging businesses through regular communication, such as public forums, working groups, and direct consultations with entities like the Chamber of Southern Arizona. Policies should be developed with input from business owners to ensure they are practical and supportive of economic vitality. The Council must maintain accountability, delivering measurable outcomes from initiatives to build trust and credibility with businesses.

The city of Tucson has hosted several energy town halls to gather community input on a potential franchise renewal with Tucson Electric Power (TEP) and an energy collaboration agreement, both of which are separate items that do not have to be passed together. Do you support renewing the franchise agreement with TEP? If so, why or why not? Additionally, what types of partnerships would you endorse between TEP and the city? 

I support the franchise agreement between the City of Tucson and Tucson Electric Power (TEP), which permits TEP to use city-owned public rights-of-way (e.g., streets, alleys, easements) for installing and maintaining power infrastructure without requiring individual permits. However, I oppose increasing franchise fees, as proposed in the defeated Proposition 412 (2023). These fees, paid by TEP and passed onto customers’ electric bills, would further burden Tucson residents amid economic challenges.

Additionally, I do not support the City mandating specific energy sources for TEP. While Arizona law allows franchise agreements up to 25 years, I propose a 10-year extension instead, to be reviewed thereafter based on economic conditions, environmental needs, and advancements in technology.

What are your views on Tucson’s police and fire funding and staffing levels? 

Tucson’s Police, Fire, and 911 Dispatch services are significantly underfunded and understaffed. My top priorities are ensuring public safety and promoting compassionate conflict resolution. I am committed to creating a safe environment for all residents while fostering collaboration and mutual understanding within the community. Adequately staffed departments reduce the strain on public safety officers, enabling more time for

from nuisances and petty crime, with well-maintained roads and infrastructure to attract businesses and support employee relocation. Through economic incentives and quality-of-life improvements, the Council could make the Tucson region a top location for starting, operating, relocating, and expanding businesses while sustaining a strong community.

What policies would you put in place to help small businesses? 

As a candidate for City Council – Ward 3, I propose the following policies to support small businesses in Tucson, aligned with my priorities of economic stability, public safety, and infrastructure improvements:

  • Streamline Permitting and Zoning: Simplify permitting processes
  • Reduce Fees and Offer Incentives: Lower business license and permitting fees for small businesses. Implement tiered impact fees and provide tax incentives or grants for startups and expansions
  • Create Business-Friendly Zoning: Designate areas for mixed-use development to encourage foot traffic

These policies aim to make Tucson a competitive destination for small businesses by reducing costs, improving safety and infrastructure, and supporting workforce and community development.

ward 5

SELINA BARAJAS

DEMOCRAT

What do you believe is the role of the Tucson City Council in making the Tucson region a great place to start, run, relocate, and/or expand a business?

As a small business owner, I believe the City Council plays a direct role in making Tucson a great place to start, run, relocate, or expand a business. I know what it’s like to go through the process of launching a business, and as a sole proprietor, I’ve had to navigate licensing and other critical requirements. That’s why we need business owners on the Council, leaders who can bring insight into how we make Tucson more welcoming for entrepreneurs. That includes cutting red tape, ensuring fair wages, and improving access to capital.

Please tell us why you support or oppose the continuation of the RTA.

Ward 5 has traditionally been under-resourced, and we need to make sure if the RTA is reauthorized, Ward 5 receives the investment it deserves. I support the reauthorization of the RTA but would heavily advocate for the resources to be equitable.

Income-aligned housing supply is key to regional competitiveness and has become an issue of great importance to our members. What are your views on initiatives like the Community Corridors Tool? What can we be doing to make housing more affordable for Tucsonans?

I will work to make housing more affordable by supporting zoning changes for more housing types and cutting red tape that slows down construction of new homes, which only makes housing less affordable. I support stronger tenant protections that help prevent evictions and expand support for renters. I also want to make it easier for families in Ward 5 to buy their first home, which in turn builds generational wealth As someone who actively advocates for multi-modal transportation and safe, vibrant streets for people, I am encouraged by the direction of the Community Corridors Tool, especially here in Ward 5. This tool has the potential to transform underutilized properties along major corridors into people-oriented spaces that prioritize dignity, safety, and accessibility for all modes of travel. It encourages walkable, bikeable, and transit-supportive development rather than car-centric infrastructure like drive-thrus or standalone parking lots. It also addresses Tucson’ housing crisis by supporting a range of housing options, from affordable to market-rate, acknowledging the clear connection between where we live and how we move. The tool reflects what Tucsonans have consistently voiced through public input and strategic planning: the need fo equitable, sustainable transportation choices. By focusing on parcels near existing transit and infrastructure, it supports more efficient and inclusive development. I’m hopeful the Community Corridors Tool can help shape a more connected, inclusive, Tucson.

Prop 414’s failure created a lot of conversation about city resources and focuses. What should the city’s budget priorities be going forward?

Community safety and quality of life issues must be addressed by the city council. With the failure of Prop 414 I think we have a unique opportunity to work out a community-authored and endorsed measure that fills Tucson’s potential budget shortfall while accomplishing our shared goals – and specifically I hope to secure more funding for housing, safety, parks and infrastructure in Ward 5 and across Tucson.

What measures should the city be taking, and/or doing differently, to address the incredible rise in chronic unsheltered homelessness?

I believe a focus on homelessness is essential. We need to ensure more people are getting into shelters and finding stable jobs to break the cycle of homelessness. While the City has made progress, we need to do more to ensure individuals experiencing homelessness can access wrap around services like mental health care, addiction treatment, and workforce training. We must do a better job of increasing the total number of individuals that have transitioned from the street into temporary or permanent housing in the City of Tucson. We must build more housing, and we must make sure that housing is affordable. This is an issue I hear about from voters regularly and will be a top priority for me if elected to Council. Addressing homelessness will help individuals regain their footing and it will improve safety, health, and quality of life for all in Tucson – especially homeowners and business owners.

What does the ideal relationship between the City Council and the business community look like? What issues do you believe we could/should be collaborating on to enhance economic competitiveness?

City council and the business community should be working hand in hand on all new projects in the city. I would also welcome stronger public-private collaboration when it comes to addressing our infrastructure, sustainability, and housing needs to ensure development is aligned with community goals and economic growth. When Tucson’s business community thrives, the city and its residents benefit.


The city of Tucson has hosted several energy town halls to gather community input on a potential franchise renewal with Tucson Electric Power (TEP) and an energy collaboration agreement, both of which are separate items that do not have to be passed together. Do you support renewing the franchise agreement with TEP? If so, why or why not? Additionally, what types of partnerships would you endorse between TEP and the city?

Tucson has the opportunity to be a climate resilient city with this renegotiation.As an environmental advocate, I would support stronger renewable energy requirements for Tucson Electric Power (TEP) first and foremost. I believe in strong public private partnerships, and acknowledge the initiatives that TEP has done to strengthen communities through our Ward offices. We need to be mindful about educating voters about what the franchise agreement would entail. For example, Ward 5 is impacted significantly by the heat island effect and we need to engage the residents that are impacted the most. I believe we need to check the franchise agreements more frequently, but this issue is very nuanced and I would take a proactive approach to learning from all stakeholders before taking a defined stance.

What are your views on Tucson’s police and fire funding and staffing levels?

I believe that everyone deserves to feel safe in the communities they call home. We need to strengthen ties between our community and those who serve us. That means investing in smart, community- centered public safety and supporting first responders who are committed to keeping all of us safe. We must adequately fund our police and fire so that our city remains a safe place. I believe in creating opportunities for public safety to meet and build relationships in the community.

What policies would you put in place to help small businesses?

I am a small business owner, and working on opening South Tucson’s first ever coffee shop, because I believe we need to start building strong businesses right in our own community to drive economic growth. I am a supporter of policies and partnerships that increase access to capital, which helps small business owners get over the initial hurdle of starting their business. We should work to streamlining the permitting process for businesses to make it simpler to start a business. My goal is to make Ward 5 a destination for small business owners. I would create a small business coalition in Ward 5, where community leaders can connect as a collective network. This would be an opportunity to offer support – including with the permitting process, grants, marketing, and navigating capital so that business owners in our Ward can work together to start and grow their businesses.

CHRISTOPHER ELSNER​

DEMOCRAT

What do you believe is the role of the Tucson City Council in making the Tucson region a great place to start, run, relocate, and/or expand a business?

I think the Tucson City Council should do what it can to make starting and running a business as frictionless as possible at all levels – but especially for small businesses and startups.
Permitting and licensing should be a straightforward online process that can be completed in less than a day for most businesses. We should collaborate with the county and other public, private, and nonprofit organizations to facilitate workforce development and needed skills development to support the economy of the future.

At the same time, we also have an obligation to defend our citizens from predatory business practices which take advantage of our community. Similarly, we need to ensure local

Please tell us why you support or oppose the continuation of the RTA.

I support the continuation of the RTA. Our city and regional infrastructure are in dire need of repair and investment. Road conditions are the number one issue people bring up when I ask them what they want their city to do better. Good infrastructure is also essential to business so they can efficiently move their products and ensure access to their services. However, I think we also need to take a serious look at the processes involved in how we build, contract, and manage grants. We need a clear focus on the desired outcomes and should strip away things that do not serve those outcomes.

Income-aligned housing supply is key to regional competitiveness and has become an issue of great importance to our members. What are your views on initiatives like the Community Corridors Tool? What can we be doing to make housing more affordable for Tucsonans?

From what I understand of it, I like the Community Corridors Tool as a way to cut through red tape and streamline the development of affordable housing where it’s most needed. We absolutely need more housing in our community and should do everything we can to facilitate its construction. There’s no easy fix to this problem though, it’s complex and is impacted by all levels of government – meaning some things will simply be out of our control.

Prop 414’s failure created a lot of conversation about city resources and focuses. What should the city’s budget priorities be going forward?

I think the budget situation for the city is tough. We are obligated to provide essential services, have restrictions on how certain monies can be spent, and are limited in how we can generate revenue. I think essential services and public safety should be our top priority followed closely by infrastructure. Everything else falls into how we make Tucson a great place to live and grow. With that in mind, we should prioritize spending that focuses on those outcomes while being cognizant of those in the community with the least access to opportunity. I also think innovation has a role to play here in finding creative ways to generate revenues.

What measures should the city be taking, and/or doing differently, to address the incredible rise in chronic unsheltered homelessness?

Homelessness is the second most pressing concern I hear about in the community. It’s a complicated problem with many causes that defies simple solutions. Not everyone is homeless for the same reason, and as such we need nuanced approaches to dealing with the problem. As much as possible we should focus on interventions to keep people housed in the first place – as problems are only exacerbated when people end up on the streets.

I think the city needs to be an extremely apt and effective collaborator, organizer, and backbone for working with the many organizations addressing this problem with an eye to minimizing duplication of services and scaling the most effective approaches. This includes

What does the ideal relationship between the City Council and the business community look like? What issues do you believe we could/should be collaborating on to enhance economic competitiveness?

I think the city should facilitate a supportive and predictable approach to working with local businesses. We should be listening to their concerns but also weighing them against the needs of the community. I think workforce development is an ideal opportunity for collaboration. We not only need to better educate our young people, but also provide a path of opportunity for them to succeed – and I think local businesses should play an integral role in this.

The city of Tucson has hosted several energy town halls to gather community input on a potential franchise renewal with Tucson Electric Power (TEP) and an energy collaboration agreement, both of which are separate items that do not have to be passed together. Do you support renewing the franchise agreement with TEP? If so, why or why not? Additionally, what types of partnerships would you endorse between TEP and the city?

I support pursuing a public electric utility company because I think it would better serve the needs of our community and reduce costs for residential and commercial clients. I think TEP is too locked into a centralized power generation model that is more focused on profit than serving our community. That being said, this may not be the right time to make this happen. If we do continue working with TEP, we need to ensure that they are prioritizing an expedient transition to renewable energy, minimizing costs to customers, and not simply extracting profit from our community.

What are your views on Tucson’s police and fire funding and staffing levels?

We need more police, community service officers, and fire fighters in our community. We also need to provide competitive pay so they stay in our community and have the opportunity to build long-term relationships with the people they protect and serve.

What policies would you put in place to help small businesses?

As I mentioned previously, we need to ensure that opening and running a small business is as frictionless as possible with regards to permitting, licensing, development, etc. but I think we could do a lot more beyond that. I think we could do more to highlight small businesses in our community through expos, fairs, etc. I think we should prioritize commercial development that can provide collective space for small businesses. I think we could work more closely with PCC, UA, and our school districts to connect technology, innovation, and talent with small and startup businesses. I think we could develop programs to pool services for small businesses to reduce overhead and operating costs. I think we could also explore different organizational structures for businesses which emphasize the well-being of owners, employees, and the

JESSE LUGO​

DEMOCRAT

What do you believe is the role of the Tucson City Council in making the Tucson region a great place to start, run, relocate, and/or expand a business? 

Role is Leadership, The one issue to start, run, relocate or expand a business is to remove barriers to the free enterprise system.

Please tell us why you support or oppose the continuation of the RTA. 

RTA is a major transportation authority that delivers transportation projects to improve our mobility and safety. The voters must approve to continue the half cent sales tax to invest on our major arterial roads and maintenance to assure that current commitments to projects have the funding to complete projects.

Income-aligned housing supply is key to regional competitiveness and has become an issue of great importance to our members. What are your views on initiatives like the Community Corridors Tool? What can we be doing to make housing more affordable for Tucsonans? 

Cost of housing is market driven. With the higher cost of material and labor these issues drive up the cost of building homes. It is important that parents with families inform the importance of higher education, if college is not an option then learning a trade as taught at Fred Acosta Jobs Corps Center here in Tucson will deliver results to young adults.

Prop 414’s failure created a lot of conversation about city resources and focuses. What should the city’s budget priorities be going forward?

Core Services as required by the City of Tucson Charter: Police, Fire, Transportation, Parks & Recreation, and Courts. We must turn the city budget on Its head and fund priorities top to bottom. Safe Water will be an issue as the former City of Tucson Water Director and now the City Manger publicly stated that on a news cast on KOLO that “Toilet to Tap” water purification to drink is acceptable ” The people of Tucson are very advanced in their thinking about water and water management”. The issue here is “Forever Chemicals” known as PFAS that are a class of persistent chemicals that can contaminate drinking water and pose health risks. Did we not learn about Trichloroethene (TCE) a volatile organic compound (VOC) contamination In the South side of Tucson.

What measures should the city be taking, and/or doing differently, to address the incredible rise in chronic unsheltered homelessness?

Must show compassion, As we can only help people that want to be helped. People with drug addiction must get help. People with mental issues should be helped to be guided to organization resources to assist just like Center for Opportunities on south Palo Verde Road.

What does the ideal relationship between the City Council and the business community look like? What issues do you believe we could/should be collaborating on to enhance economic competitiveness? 

Must show compassion, As we can only help people that want to be helped. People with drug addiction must get help. People with mental issues should be helped to be guided to organization resources to assist just like Center for Opportunities on south Palo Verde Road.

The city of Tucson has hosted several energy town halls to gather community input on a potential franchise renewal with Tucson Electric Power (TEP) and an energy collaboration agreement, both of which are separate items that do not have to be passed together. Do you support renewing the franchise agreement with TEP? If so, why or why not? Additionally, what types of partnerships would you endorse between TEP and the city? 

No, to support renewal franchise agreements, only if TEP financially absorbs the project cost. I have been told that TEP sells grid power in the open market as these income revenues could offset electric cost to Tucson customers. See attachment Exhibit A

What are your views on Tucson’s police and fire funding and staffing levels? 

Both TPD and TFD are underfunded as per Mayor & Council members budget approval as the departments do not have resources to properly run the departments. If TFD of 300 that are eligible to retire and do so, the department is going to be in dire straits to handle calls. TPD currently has 720 commissioned officers with the Tucson population of 550,000 city residents the city must have 1400 officers as it was once done in the past. See attachment.

What do you believe is the role of the Tucson City Council in making the Tucson region a great place to start, run, relocate, and/or expand a business? 

Unite small business as a united effort to help each other on bad policies that Mayor & Council members propose that harms small business owners. See example of 12th Avenue from Irvington to Drexel merchants.

ward 6

LEIGHTON H. ROCKAFELLOW JR.​

DEMOCRAT

What do you believe is the role of the Tucson City Council in making the Tucson region a great place to start, run, relocate, and/or expand a business?

Our City Council must not lose focus of Tucson’s economy as the best driver of a stronger, more resilient city and a thriving community. That means forming partnerships with non-profits, for-profits, other governments, and of course, the community as a whole. Tucson must recognize the strengths of our city and region and promote them through better marketing and better outreach to attract new businesses, both small and large, and to encourage more work-from-home individuals to live in our city.

We must meet with local business leaders to understand what barriers can be removed and what processes can made more efficient in order to encourage growth of businesses already established in our city and region.

Please tell us why you support or oppose the continuation of the RTA.

Tucson must think of itself as a region, rather than as just a city within certain boundaries. The first RTA brought our region wonderful improvements to infrastructure, such as the modern streetcar, funded a significant portion of transit, and was a great example of what can be achieved with collaboration. It was not without faults. An economic recession, rising costs, and project re-designs means many projects have not been completed, or even started. What hurts the first RTA the most, in the eyes of voters, is the lack of communication and honesty from the RTA board with regard to these left-behind projects.

Nevertheless, I support RTA Next because I understand that public infrastructure like roads and bridges do not fit within jurisdictional boundaries. I understand that as a region we have the collective power to make larger investments to our infrastructure. If RTA next fails at the ballot, I hope that the board can make the improvements necessary to try again in the near future.

Income-aligned housing supply is key to regional competitiveness and has become an issue of great importance to our members. What are your views on initiatives like the Community Corridors Tool? What can we be doing to make housing more affordable for Tucsonans?

I am hopeful that the CCT will add housing density to our main streets. This should have the effect of reducing prices overall across the market as supply increases. Zoning ordinances can and should be constantly re-examined in order to facilitate more housing while preserving the historic nature of many of Tucson’s neighborhoods.

Prop 414’s failure created a lot of conversation about city resources and focuses. What should the city’s budget priorities be going forward?

The City should focus on safety, infrastructure, economic development, and civil services such as trash, water, sewer, courts, etc.. These are the core of any city’s needs, including ours. Prop 414 included money for many programs that most residents indeed would like to see funded. However, rather than ask for higher taxes, residents clearly are more interested in using what we have more effectively and efficiently. With the next four years projected to see budget shortfalls, the City will be facing some tough decisions. The core needs, however, should have funding preserved or expanded, even if it means having to cut some programs, especially those enacted with ARPA and other federal pandemic funding.

What measures should the city be taking, and/or doing differently, to address the incredible rise in chronic unsheltered homelessness?

The homeless issue is my top priority. It is spreading throughout the entire city. It harms our way of living and has become increasingly dangerous, for those living in the streets, and for the rest of us. The police and prosecutors must start pursuing charges where crimes are being committed. By ignoring criminal behavior we are enabling this activity.

We must also look to other cities around the country who have made strides in fighting back. Houston, for example, has reduced their homeless population by 60% in the past 12 years. The first step is to create a homeless mitigation base camp, where all of the organizations that play a role in improving the homeless problem have a seat at the table. We must all be on the same page. We must treat this like the crisis that it is. That means sharing data, sharing ideas, ending the duplicative efforts, and ending petty fighting among the city, non-profits, neighborhood associations, hospitals, mental health clinics, etc.. We all have a common goal, let’s fight back with a unified front. Homelessness is not inevitable.

What does the ideal relationship between the City Council and the business community look like? What issues do you believe we could/should be collaborating on to enhance economic competitiveness?

Yes, we should be collaborating with the business community to determine what barriers or hurdles can be removed or improved in order to increase the region’s competitiveness. We should also work with local groups like the Chamber of SA to promote Tucson as a destination for new employers to locate or start.

We have a lot to offer, from proximity to the border, climate, a top research university, and synergies of companies around fields such as optics, defenses, aviation, etc…

The city of Tucson has hosted several energy town halls to gather community input on a potential franchise renewal with Tucson Electric Power (TEP) and an energy collaboration agreement, both of which are separate items that do not have to be passed together. Do you support renewing the franchise agreement with TEP? If so, why or why not? Additionally, what types of partnerships would you endorse between TEP and the city?

Public power is a great idea. TEP has failed to increase renewable energy sources this past few years and continues to raise prices, to the detriment of resident customers. I am happy to see some pressure on TEP being made. However, I am also hesitant to fully support the idea of public power for Tucson given the enormous price tag, potential for a decade or more of legal battles, and with an unknown final outcome that could potentially look like what happened in Boulder, CO. I think the idea should be explored further.

With a franchise agreement up for renewal soon, the city should be demanding additional items from TEP such as buried lines for the new north-south transmission lines and a larger commitment to renewable energy. At the same time, we should also be exploring the potential to pass a state law that allows for CCA power, which may be a more efficient way to reach the same desired outcomes of cheaper power from a larger mix of renewable energy. We should also explore the idea of creating some pilot micro-grid

What are your views on Tucson’s police and fire funding and staffing levels?

Ideally, Tucson Police and Fire would be able to hire more staff, firefighters, officers and CSOs at competitive wages to reduce attrition. Police and fire play an important role in maintaining order within the city. Their wages must be competitive with nearby jurisdictions. I would like to see wages increase to the regional average in order to prevent further attrition.

What policies would you put in place to help small businesses?

Tucson’s small business center should undergo a revitalization. Existing small business owners should play a role in shaping the services offered, the class curriculum, and the creation of a Small Business Concierge program, giving small businesses a one-stop shop to turn to when they are in need of guidance, assistance, or advice relating to the City.

The city, through our Visit Tucson office, should create a “Tucson Made” marketing campaign to promote local businesses.

Finally, we should explore the ability to offer interest-free micro-loans to local small businesses looking to expand. As an alternative, the city could offer to pay the interest on small loans offered through other government programs in Arizona.

MIRANDA SCHUBERT​

DEMOCRAT

What do you believe is the role of the Tucson City Council in making the Tucson region a great place to start, run, relocate, and/or expand a business?

The Tucson City Council is responsible for creating the conditions for businesses to succeed. To me, that means ensuring we have efficient city services, maintaining and expanding infrastructure, supporting public safety, and fostering an environment where both local entrepreneurs and new investors feel confident operating in Tucson. If we want to make Tucson an attractive place to bring about new business investment, as well as keep the business and vibrant community we have now, it is vital that we have better transit infrastructure and housing affordability. It is my deep belief that these issues go hand in hand. To keep and attract well-paying jobs and employers, we must grow the housing supply that keeps costs down within our current urban footprint. We must invest in and expand transit options. I believe in working collaboratively with the business community to make Tucson more competitive while staying grounded in our shared responsibility to the people who live and work here.

Please tell us why you support or oppose the continuation of the RTA.

I believe the RTA has delivered important transportation projects for our region, and I support continued investment in regional infrastructure. That said, I think transparency, equity, and accountability should be core to any renewed agreement. Voters need to have confidence that RTA Next will reflect today’s needs—including improved transit, pedestrian infrastructure, and better access across all neighborhoods. Without significant changes to include centering community input and climate resiliency, clear benchmarks, and increased accountability, I will not be supporting RTA Next.

Income-aligned housing supply is key to regional competitiveness and has become an issue of great importance to our members. What are your views on initiatives like the Community Corridors Tool? What can we be doing to make housing more affordable for Tucsonans?

I support tools like the Community Corridors planning process that promote smart infill development along key transit corridors. As someone who’s served on two city commissions for years and organized around housing issues, I’ve seen firsthand how aligning land use and housing strategy with infrastructure investments can keep costs down and make our city more livable. We should continue streamlining permitting for affordable housing projects, reducing unnecessary zoning barriers, and expanding public-private partnerships to build mixed-income housing close to jobs and transit.

Prop 414’s failure created a lot of conversation about city resources and focuses. What should the city’s budget priorities be going forward?

I think the Mayor and Council need to focus on delivering core services more effectively—this includes road maintenance, public safety staffing, and infrastructure upgrades. These are uncontroversial things that any reasonable citizen wants to see their city government invest in. We also need to understand that we have to invest in our community in ways that might fall outside of those “core services.” What immediately comes to mind is attracting more housing to be built, particularly building up rather than out to lessen the strain on city resources. We must have a more robust transportation infrastructure to support densification.

I also believe it’s essential to invest in workforce retention and training so that we’re not only maintaining service levels but attracting and keeping talented city staff. Long term, a more efficient and responsive

What measures should the city be taking, and/or doing differently, to address the incredible rise in chronic unsheltered homelessness?

Chronic homelessness is a complex issue that requires coordinated solutions. I support a “Housing First” model with wraparound services—mental health care, substance use support, job placement—that reduce the long-term strain on emergency systems. The city should continue building partnerships with nonprofits, streamline funding to local service providers, and explore scalable emergency shelter options. Metrics like reductions in unsheltered populations and service engagement rates are key to tracking success.

What does the ideal relationship between the City Council and the business community look like? What issues do you believe we could/should be collaborating on to enhance economic competitiveness?

Tucson’s Mayor and Council should view the business community as a partner in building a stronger, more resilient Tucson. Regular dialogue, early engagement on upcoming decisions, and a shared commitment to long-term planning can ensure that I am able to have a full understanding of where the chamber lands on an issue and the argument for doing so. I’d like to see more collaboration on workforce development, transportation planning, homelessness crisis response and housing policy—areas where private and public sectors can find common ground. Small business support, especially post-pandemic, is another place we can make a big impact together.

The city of Tucson has hosted several energy town halls to gather community input on a potential franchise renewal with Tucson Electric Power (TEP) and an energy collaboration agreement, both of which are separate items that do not have to be passed together. Do you support renewing the franchise agreement with TEP? If so, why or why not? Additionally, what types of partnerships would you endorse between TEP and the city?

I am cautiously supportive of renewing the franchise agreement with TEP, provided that it includes strong accountability and reflects the city’s climate and reliability goals. I am very interested in the prospect of the City taking over the utility, but I understand what a large undertaking that would be, legally and fiscally. I would be interested in a shorter franchise agreement– certainly one that is not 25 years.

More generally, energy affordability and clean energy access are critical to both residents and businesses. I would support partnerships that expand EV infrastructure, improve grid resilience, and pilot energy efficiency programs for small businesses. It’s in everyone’s interest to have a stable, forward-thinking energy relationship.

What are your views on Tucson’s police and fire funding and staffing levels?

Public safety is at the forefront of many voters’ minds; even if they themselves do not feel unsafe, they are seeing the news from around the City which is causing concern. I believe public safety is key to ensuring that Tucson’s future remains bright. In order to keep the public actually safe and feeling safe, we must ensure our police and fire departments are staffed at levels that meet current needs and do so in a way that we can feel confident in for our projected and desired future growth. One way that we can achieve that is helping to relieve the strain on our first responders by making continued investment in community safety programs—like alternate crisis response and neighborhood-based outreach—that help ensure the right resources are deployed at the right time. The key is balance: we can support first responders while also expanding upstream investments that reduce long-term demand on emergency services.

What policies would you put in place to help small businesses?

Small businesses are the backbone of Tucson’s economy. They are one of the key things that have allowed our tourism industry to boom. I want to make sure that we are continuing to support those businesses while attracting new ones. Part of that has to include building the housing stock that will allow for service industry workers, artists, makers, and small business owners to live comfortably. I support reducing permitting delays, expanding access to technical assistance, and creating partnerships with private sector entities, as well as exploring a one-stop-shop model for city services. I also believe in revitalizing key commercial corridors through public-private partnerships that improve walkability, safety, and access to public transportation. Investments in the Mercado, Downtown, 4th Ave and Main Gate district have been highly impactful. We should also support programs that help legacy businesses adapt and grow in changing market conditions.

JAMES SINEX​

DEMOCRAT

What do you believe is the role of the Tucson City Council in making the Tucson region a great place to start, run, relocate, and/or expand a business?

To the extent that one on the Council can advocate for business inclusion in our community, I believe that it is vital. That’s the bully pulpit which works to until a vote is taken. Given that, Tucson government should be a fair member of the community and an advocate for that fairness. The city should provide the basic infrastructure and tax fairly. A city is more expensive, but it is also true that attracting businesses into the city lowers the city’s carbon footprint. It follows that a healthy Tucson business atmosphere is good for the economy now, but also it is good for the health of Tucson into the future.

My basic philosophy follows a simple statement. Good, Fast, Cheap — You only get two. America and to a larger extent Tucson, has been build on Fast and Cheap. The problem with that is the problem of Cheap being actually more expensive over time. I prefer taking the time to build Good and Cheap, taking the time to do things right and not pass things down to our future citizens.

Please tell us why you support or oppose the continuation of the RTA.

In principle I support a continuance of the RTA. Tucson is a city, but it is more importantly seen as a hub of a larger community. The problem with the RTA seems to come down to management. As I recall, the majority of early funding went to project outside of the city. We were to wait and the funding would come to Tucson. This follows a Good and Cheap format that I am in favor of. On the border of Wards 3 and 6 is the Grant Road project. This vital throughway is a stagnant construction zone. This happens. It seems a shame that this project is stalled, but it seems to be a further shame that the stall couldn’t be predicted in order to keep this corredor clear during this time. Mario Coumo once aid that American will fund a million dollar road, but they don’t want to pay 2 million for a one million dollar road. It seems that any issue I have with the RTA comes down to management. We should choose new stewardship carefully.

Income-aligned housing supply is key to regional competitiveness and has become an issue of great importance to our members. What are your views on initiatives like the Community Corridors Tool? What can we be doing to make housing more affordable for Tucsonans?

I would prefer that the Community Corridors Tool were tested before it is spread citywide. Experimentation is part of my science background. Zoning a city as we try to build it better is a good strategy. I do congradulate the fine servants in our civil service who did the good work and believe polititians should be careful taking full credit. As this tool is implemented, it should be watched. It is a big project and will require revision as we move forward.

Prop 414’s failure created a lot of conversation about city resources and focuses. What should the city’s budget priorities be going forward?

I am a beliver that the term liberal is not countered by conservative, but by orthodoxy. Thus, I belieive in liberal freethinking, but also in fiscal conservancy throughout. 414’s failure is, I believe, two-fold. First an expensive special election was used with the understanding that there would be a low turnout. This often works, but run counter to a free society. In the end, the Mayor and Council “Jumped the Shark” so to speak. Then, having ordered the election, they failed to adequitely inform the citizenry of their reasoning for doing so. I wrote an Op-ed for the Star stating this. I came out in favor of 414 with reservations.

At the beginning and in the end, Tucson must be about community. Fully funding police and fire resources is vital and I believe that it is worth paying for. Nonetheless, we Democrats have a bad reputation of spending monitary resources with a short termed philosophy.

What measures should the city be taking, and/or doing differently, to address the incredible rise in chronic unsheltered homelessness?

Homelessnes is older then the written word. Any who promises to solve the problem is either a once in a lifetime genius or someone not thinking the problem through. I believe that there is a difference between the houseless and the homeless. Being houseless is a temporary issue brought on by mistakes in one’s life or economic issues beyond their control. We do well to help those in this position to get back on their feet. Using city land on bus routes to allow NGO’s who want to build “tini homes” for this purpose is a low cost viable idea. This can be a temorary fix for a temporary problem. Homelessness, I consider a more cronic problem and needs social and medical outreach.

Allowing encampments is dangerous to those encamped. Additionally, our riparian areas sneed to be managed better and should not be campgrounds. This means we need to find a better place for healing.

What does the ideal relationship between the City Council and the business community look like? What issues do you believe we could/should be collaborating on to enhance economic competitiveness?

In many ways, city government should stay out of the way. Given that, zoning is important as is the proper delivery of infrastucture. As business interests are vital to a healthy society, business interests should be at a listening planning table for our shared better future. Tucson is getting hotter longer, this can’t be good for business. Arizona and Tucson are mismanaging water resources. This can’t be good for business either. A healthy environment for all, I believe, should be a healthy environment for businesses. Consider this as a template for frethinking our way to a better future. I have a sketch of an idea that, with a reletively small investment, we can build a resource for the people through there government that would grow exponentually tax free. I’ll have the sketch with me when I see you. Thinking in this way should lower tax burden only if we have fiscal disiple. There is the rub.

The city of Tucson has hosted several energy town halls to gather community input on a potential franchise renewal with Tucson Electric Power (TEP) and an energy collaboration agreement, both of which are separate items that do not have to be passed together. Do you support renewing the franchise agreement with TEP? If so, why or why not? Additionally, what types of partnerships would you endorse between TEP and the city?

The TEP franchise problem, I believe, is simple. Though it is ideally best for a democratic government to have better controll over vital resources, the TEP problem boils down to competance. Electricity is not water. Both are difficult management issues, but electricity is far more hazardous. Thus, the city pays for yet another study to point this out. Additionally, as the city talks of charging areas outside of the city more for water when they have no representation to counter, our Mayor and Council show a problematic dedication to a free society and a lack of understanding of the recall of 1977. We should demand an agreement that allows a direction toward renewable energy generation. Solar energy is far from perfect, as the world turns, but it is abundant during the day and there to collect. Tax free.

What are your views on Tucson’s police and fire funding and staffing levels?

At the heart of this issue is the simple fact that police and firefighters are city employees and should be charished. Additionally, they have a dangerous job and hope, as we all do, to go home at night. This means that they need tohe tools needed for a more dangerous world along with the training to navigate a more hazarous environment. At heart, I’m a union guy. This does not make me anti management. In fact, as I worked in leadership of my teahers union I was part of building a better collaboration between labor and management. In this case, I think we can agree that we want to respect our defenders with adequite tools and respectful pay. I’d also like to build a city that our defender wish to live in.

Respect is often seen thougha paycheck, but it also comes in a sustainable workload. Manditory overtimen makes for a better paycheck but not necessarily a better life. OFten we need better advocates.

What policies would you put in place to help small businesses?

Listening to voters during this campaign, I’ve noticed a percieved problem with communication. Often, people simply want a straight answer. They expressed williness to get a negative answer, but they simply wanted an explanation with it. No answer or and unexplained answer can be worse than a negative one. Thus, an easy and low-cost answer to this question comes in simple communication. We should add a willingness to advocate for good ideas as well. To often it seems that we make emotional decisions and call them rational. This does make it hard to give an explanation. Thus, if it is difficult to find an explanation, then this may be and indicator of bad decision making, which does happen to the best of us. Along with active communication, respect for all includes respect for small busnesses.

JAY TOLKOFF​

REPUBLICAN

What do you believe is the role of the Tucson City Council in making the Tucson region a great place to start, run, relocate, and/or expand a business?

Tucson City Council decides on policies and resource allocations which enhances or diminishes the image, environment and opportunities attractive to the business community. Making Tucson a desirable place to start and/or grow a business depends heavily on the action or inaction of the City Council.

Please tell us why you support or oppose the continuation of the RTA.

This dovetails directly to the last question. We need to look at the entire Tucson Metro Area as our community and market. The RTA concerns itself with comprehensive transportation strategies impacting the entire Metro Area rather than the alternative of piecemeal, unrelated projects instituted by individual jurisdictions. Cohesive transportation project planning facilitates infrastructure improvements, which work together resulting in more efficient and safer transportation throughout the Metro Area.

Income-aligned housing supply is key to regional competitiveness and has become an issue of great importance to our members. What are your views on initiatives like the Community Corridors Tool? What can we be doing to make housing more affordable for Tucsonans?

Tucson needs to do a better job of utilizing parcels of land for the best and highest value use. The Community Corridors Tool gets us moving in the right direction, but more overall planning needs to be instituted. Regarding Housing Affordability, creating a city with better employment upward mobility opportunities would go a long way to making housing more affordable for the masses. DPDS should be objectively looked at as to how their current operations reflect the mission the City created the department to accomplish. The permitting process for routine projects requires too much time and impact fees need reviewing. The City should realize that sensible development ultimately results in higher tax revenues. Reducing impact fees and red tape for new projects directly lowers the cost of building which, in turn, make acceptable ROI feasible with lower rental income or sale prices. We should be doing more to encourage private capital investment rather than using the general fund to finance city owned and managed housing.

Prop 414’s failure created a lot of conversation about city resources and focuses. What should the city’s budget priorities be going forward?

The public spoke loudly and clearly. The City Charter spells out the core functions for the City Government. The public wants our core functions funded rather than funding luxury “pet projects” promoted by special interest persons.

What measures should the city be taking, and/or doing differently, to address the incredible rise in chronic unsheltered homelessness?

The Housing First approach utilizing already stressed City resources yielded a 66% increase in the homeless population over the last few years. Support for a program with those dismal results might be justified if the City could provide data demonstrating successful client transition from taxpayer funded housing to independent housing. Unfortunately the City website fails to show that type of critical information. The current policy attempts to paint a complicated and multi-faceted problem with an extremely broad brush. The type of work provided at the Pima County Jail by The Transition Center should be embraced by the City. Additionally, we need to look at the many causes behind homelessness and address those causes as different problems. Creating more and more unsustainable warehouses for formerly unsheltered individuals treats the symptom; it fails to solve the problem.

What does the ideal relationship between the City Council and the business community look like? What issues do you believe we could/should be collaborating on to enhance economic competitiveness?

The question reflects the answer! The business community is not only part of, but an essential and integral part of the entire community. A working relationship between the Council and the business community should be no different than the relationship between any constituent and the ward office and it must exist. It truly is a symbiotic relationship. If the business community fails, it does so at the peril of the entire community.

The city of Tucson has hosted several energy town halls to gather community input on a potential franchise renewal with Tucson Electric Power (TEP) and an energy collaboration agreement, both of which are separate items that do not have to be passed together. Do you support renewing the franchise agreement with TEP? If so, why or why not? Additionally, what types of partnerships would you endorse between TEP and the city?

Although potential opportunities for partnerships with TEP abound, exploring those opportunities at this time would not be high on my list of priorities. We have an AZ Corporation Commission to keep TEP in check. Renewing the franchise agreement with TEP frees City resources to focus on more pressing matters. Perhaps a shorter agreement duration would be in order.

What are your views on Tucson’s police and fire funding and staffing levels?

Follow the City Charter. Staffing should be returned to, at least, the levels in 2002. 911 response times must improve. Financial resources should be directed to first responders to provide service at a level the community deserves.

What policies would you put in place to help small businesses?

The cost of starting a small business exploded in the last 20 years. Businesses collecting sales taxes benefitting the City should not be charged an annual fee for the privilege to do so. Encouraging people to risk their time and capital to start businesses should be encouraged. Investing in new staff positions such as “Small Business Advocate” could prove to be worthwhile.