Mesa mayor election: Candidates weigh in on downtown development, spending
Maritza DominguezMesa voters are poised to choose a new mayor for the first time in a decade and have a choice from among a crowded field of candidates vying for the position.
Both new faces and known community leaders seek to replace term-limited Mayor John Giles. Five Mesa men seek to become mayor and lead the city for the next four years. They include Carey Davis, Mark Freeman, Scott Neely, Scott Smith and Ryan Winkle.
The Arizona Republic asked each candidate to answer six questions on city issues and their priorities should they assume the role of Mesa mayor. Here's what they had to say, in alphabetical order. Some answers were trimmed to meet the word limit set for all.
Arizona election: Read our full election coverage of the Mesa mayor's race
Vision: Why are you running for Mesa mayor?
Why are you running for Mesa mayor? If elected, what will your first priority be?
Carey Davis: I am running for Mayor to help city government live within its means and to secure Mesa’s future prosperity for our children and grandchildren.
One of my top priorities is to restore conservative fiscal policy. Since 2009 through 2023 the city of Mesa overspent general governmental revenues by nearly $1.2 billion and transferred over $1.5 billion from the utility fund to cover this overspending. Essentially, we overpay our utilities by approximately 30% which subsidizes the general fund excessive spending. The population of our two neighbors Gilbert and Chandler together is about 540,000. Mesa’s population is about 520,000. Yet Mesa spends over $200 million more on general governmental expenditures than Gilbert and Chandler combined. Mesa needs to do a better job managing taxpayer resources.
Mesa does not have enough police officers to adequately patrol our community. Another top priority is to increase the number of patrol officers to a level that will help our police department reduce crime and improve public safety.
Mark Freeman: I decided to run for Mayor of Mesa because I am deeply committed to the well-being and progress of this city. My family and I have served Mesa for over 40 years. I have a genuine love for my city and a strong desire to contribute to its continued growth and success.
As an elected official for the past 7-plus years, I have learned how to collaborate and compromise to make common sense decisions that will better the community. I was a distinguished fire captain for Mesa Fire and Medical for 31 years. I am the only elected official and only public safety professional who is running for Mayor. My dedication to serving the community and keeping Mesa on the forefront of innovation is what drives me to want to make a positive impact. When I am elected my priorities are multi-faceted, they will include working on improving response times for police and fire, helping keep Mesa’s taxes low and ensure our utilities are affordable and reliable, ensure Mesa’s budget is fiscally sound, preserve Mesa’s unique character and quality of life.
Scott Neely: As a business owner and longtime resident of Mesa, I have observed a noticeable gap between the city government and its constituents. Over time, it has become apparent that the promises made by successive politicians often fail to address the root causes of our community's challenges. Recognizing the need for fresh perspectives and pragmatic solutions, I have chosen to offer my candidacy. If elected, my foremost priority will be to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the city's operations during my initial week in office. This evaluation aims to identify redundancies within the Mesa government, streamlining operations, and ensuring fiscal responsibility.
Scott Smith: I am running because I love Mesa! I love its people, its culture, its diversity, and its history! I also love Mesa’s potential and am confident in its future. I had the honor of serving as mayor before, and I believe there is unfinished business that must be addressed. I have a vision for and a focus on Securing Mesa’s Future. But my first priority in office will be to observe, listen and learn. Our success will be a team effort, which will include my fellow Councilmembers, city staff, and Mesa residents. If elected, I will be privileged to join a council with experienced and talented members and work with an accomplished city staff. To best serve Mesa residents, I will work diligently to understand their concerns and desires. I will begin my term with more questions than answers, and I look forward to those discussions as we work together to build a better Mesa.
Ryan Winkle: I am the only candidate that will put neighborhoods and small business owners back in the driver’s seat. Mesa is a city of hard working, family-oriented neighbors just like me who want to feel safe in their neighborhoods, send their kids to good schools, have the opportunity to find a job that pays a living wage and be able to afford a house and build wealth. (The people of Mesa) deserve the right to decide the future of their neighborhoods and also the responsibility of participating and making decisions on behalf of their community. The city is a service and needs to be accessible. I will move the mayor’s office from the seventh floor to the first floor so that anyone can visit and redress their government with ease.
I will institute community work groups to crowdsource neighborhood originated ideas in the following areas and make timelines to enact ideas:
- Affordable housing & housing options
- Unsheltered or unhoused communities and resources
- Mutual aid networks and community first safety
- Government accountability and transparency and First Amendment rights
- Community Resilience in the areas of heat planning and shade, neighborhood water collection and food systems, sovereign energy systems, and emergency planning.
Taxing and spending: Where do the Mesa mayoral candidates stand?
New state policies will affect city budgets. If faced with a deficit, will you support raising taxes to maintain city services or cutting programs? Which specific services and/or taxes would you consider first and why?
Davis: Although tax revenues are projected to decline due to new state policies, Mesa does not need to increase taxes to maintain city services. With proper management, improved operational efficiencies and elimination of wasteful spending Mesa can live within its means and not overburden taxpayers.
Freeman: The implementation of new state rental and flat income tax reduction and elimination policies in Arizona is causing budget cuts for all municipalities, including Mesa. With a projected $30 million reduction in funding, Mesa is not planning to cut any programs. Instead, they asked all city departments to make budget cuts to ensure that all services expected by Mesa residents, including quality of life activities, are maintained. I have a thorough understanding of our budget needs and will prioritize essential services like public safety and core services. I do not support raising taxes to address the deficit. My focus is on efficient budget management to sustain the level of service our community deserves. I will work to make sure state policies do not interfere with water storage and resiliency.
Neely: With all due respect, I hold a differing perspective regarding the necessity of either raising taxes or cutting programs in response to a potential deficit. Instead, I advocate for judicious financial management and prioritization within the city budget. Upon my initial review of Mesa's financial framework, it has become evident that inefficiencies and overspending are prevalent. The city's engagement in no-bid contracts is one such example of wasteful expenditure. Therefore, my approach to addressing budgetary concerns involves optimizing existing resources and eliminating unnecessary expenditures to ensure fiscal solvency without burdening taxpayers or compromising essential services.
Smith: The state legislature has enacted policies that will rob cities, including Mesa, of significant revenues in future years. We must recognize this reality and make changes to meet the challenge. But I’m confident we can succeed. This is not unfamiliar territory for me. As a new mayor in 2008, I was faced with much larger revenue losses caused by the Great Recession, and we did not have time to plan for that disruption. I believe Mesa dealt with the recession better than any other major city in Arizona. We attacked the shortfall head-on. We did it by taking measures to streamline government using innovative solutions to change the way Mesa did business. We did not look to tax increases to solve our problems then, and I would not support implementing a primary property tax or otherwise raising taxes to meet this current challenge.
Winkle: I believe in local control and while the state is within its rights to make decisions like this (10th Amendment) I believe it to be a hindrance to exercise monitory controls on cities. Cities and city services directly affect neighborhoods and small businesses and the ability to get things done. Limiting that direct connection is contrary to good stewardship the community. Mesa survives on its sales tax, municipal utility services and fees. If city manages the tax base well and prioritizes the community's basic needs, I don’t believe that services or programs will need to be cut. We are at a time of great opportunity with the knowledge of our Boomers, the creativity of our Millennials and the drive and passion of our Gen Z’s to get creative and work as a community toward common goals. I have worked in many neighborhoods where neighbors and organizations made miracles happen with elbow grease and the power of people.
“If you want creativity, take a zero off your budget. If you want sustainability, take off two zeros,” said Jaime Lerner.
Downtown development: Where do Mesa mayoral candidates stand on ASU's role there?
Mesa’s downtown has struggled in the past but is seeing a resurgence with new businesses and housing anchored with Arizona State University’s Media and Immersive eXperience Center. Do you think ASU’s presence in downtown Mesa will help or ruin its character?
Davis: In 2016 voters rejected increasing taxes to fund ASU’s downtown campus. Yet the city built it anyway and did not even include any additional parking for students. The building cost the city of over $60 million. I have not observed any net benefit to the downtown ASU campus.
Freeman: The revitalization and character of Mesa's downtown area is evident with the emergence of new businesses, housing options, and the presence of Arizona State University's Media and Immersive eXperience Center. The collaboration between the Downtown Merchant Association, property owners, and ASU is shaping the character of downtown Mesa in a positive way while keeping its historical buildings and history. ASU's presence in downtown Mesa is beneficial as it brings an educational component that is essential for a thriving downtown area. Additionally, having universities in downtown, offers convenient opportunities for students utilizing the light rail between campuses. The partnership with ASU is important and it does contribute to the growth and vibrancy of downtown Mesa.
Neely: I firmly believe that Arizona State University's presence in downtown Mesa heralds a promising chapter in the city's revitalization efforts. Rather than detracting from its character, ASU's involvement presents an opportunity to foster innovation, attract talent, and stimulate economic growth. The challenge lies in retaining the burgeoning talent pool and cultivating a vibrant community that encourages young professionals to establish roots in Mesa.
Smith: Downtown Mesa is seeing a resurgence, but that began before ASU came to town. Over the years, we have seen major investments in the downtown area attract other investment and growth. Before ASU, other colleges, such as Benedictine, opened campuses in renovated city buildings that otherwise might have remained vacant. Also, during my previous term as mayor, the council approved the establishment of an Entertainment District, which removed a long-standing barrier that had limited investment in restaurants in the downtown area. This is one reason our downtown now has dozens of restaurants, brew pubs, and other entertainment venues. And with the completion of light rail construction, the first new residential construction in nearly 30 years happened. Investment in new residential now exceeds $500 million. But even with this success, Downtown Mesa is still very much a work in progress, and it will take some time to reach its full potential. I have a vision to raise the bar in downtown, taking it to a new level of excellence. ASU will play a central role in the development of downtown, and its presence and continued investment should not only be welcomed, but actively encouraged.
Winkle: I have been doing place-based, direct community development action with neighborhoods, small business and city departments since 2011. I’ve played a large role in the downtown's development and keeping it unique. And also the Asian District. We don’t have Anytown USA, we have Downtown Mesa. It’s full of locally owned and operated businesses that hire local people from the surrounding neighborhoods. ASU has brought some creative change but I think ASU needs to bring student living downtown. Benedictine has brought student living and it's helped to sustain the businesses and added young minds to the community. Reinvestment and wealth-building in the neighborhoods around downtown and creating pathways and exciting happenings will keep eyes on the street, increase safety and build on our unique culture that celebrates Mesa’s past and also doubles down on our city’s commitment to the future. These same principle of community-driven, place-based community development can be used in all areas of the city (Falcon Field, Las Sendas/Red Mountain, Eastmark, Val Vista/60, Riverview, Fiesta District, Asian District, Distrito Latino) creating hubs of excitement in all of our areas that fit the character of each area and what each community wants to experience.
The environment: What are the Mesa mayoral candidates views on combating the local effects of climate change?
The city has an ambitious climate action plan to reach carbon neutrality by 2050 and has invested $15.4 million so far to reach that goal. Do you support the city’s plan and financial investment in it? Do you think the city is doing enough or not enough to reach its goal by 2025?
Davis: I believe many current city policies do not help to reduce carbon emissions but instead negatively impact our environment. For instance, the influx of large data centers significantly increases energy consumption and water utilization. The high-density multifamily overbuilding places additional strain on city services because of the high concentration of people in confined areas.
The city’s project to build new council chambers is another example of wasteful spending and squandering of our resources.
Freeman: When it comes to the city's ambitious climate action plan aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050, it is crucial to approach it cautiously and pragmatically. While I support the city's efforts and financial investments of $15.4 million towards this goal, it is essential to be mindful of the limitations posed by global constraints on materials and products. Mesa is strategically positioned to make progress towards its goals through initiatives such as solar installations on city properties, purchasing renewable energy, and reducing energy consumption.
The city should prioritize making investments in a manner that does not raise utility rates, ensuring that Mesa's utilities remain affordable and reliable for residents. Water resiliency is a critical aspect that should be emphasized, with a focus on optimizing water usage… before considering further development. It is important to base decisions on data and technology to ensure that the plan aligns with Mesa's overall vision and goals.
While I support the plan, I do not advocate for raising utility rates to implement measures that are not backed by sufficient data and technology. The priority should be on maintaining affordability and reliability in Mesa's utilities while making sustainable advancements in alignment with the city's strategic direction."
Neely: "As a proud resident of Mesa and a committed Christian who believes in my responsibility of being a good steward of our environment, I wholeheartedly support the city's endeavors of clean air, clean water and resource sustainability. While the debate surrounding the theory of climate change may persist, I firmly believe that safeguarding our planet for future generations transcends political discourse. Mesa's investment in clean air and water policies is commendable. I am confident that Mesa will remain steadfast in its commitment to preserving our natural resources.
Smith: Mesa has always been a leader in making environmentally sound and practical investments and actions. Most people don’t realize that many years ago, Mesa was the first large city in America to offer city-wide curbside recycling services. The city has also been a leader in the use of solar energy, alternative fuels and water planning and conservation. I believe the city can and should continue to address the climate challenges we face today by focusing on resiliency and adaptation. We live in the desert, and have long dealt with drought, heat, and other unique climate challenges. We cannot ignore the heightened urgency of the current situation and must prepare the city to deal with the impact of these changes. I support reasonable efforts to continue Mesa’s legacy of leadership in meeting these challenges.
Winkle: In 2017 I worked with Nature Conservancy, ASU Knowledge Exchange for Resilience and the Southside Community on Heat Action Planning and Community Resilience. A report was published and the city used this in some of its climate action. It’s important to remember that when we are considering tree programs, shade and walkability and the built environment, bike paths, public transit connections, water conservation, community solar etc., that we need to put the human experience first. It’s one thing to have lofty carbon neutral goals but how will everyday folks be affected by these plans? A community solar plan that builds energy sovereignty and puts money back in people pockets would be a win-win. Rainwater collection to supplement new trees and desert landscaping that doesn’t put neighbors in debt is a win. Community efficiency projects that lower cooling costs and conserve power while making the house more comfortable in the summer is a win. The city's goal should be to have the city prepared for climate emergencies and pandemics as a resource and help build community power, mutual aid and self-reliance and resilience efforts. This works to build an actively engaged community in good times and a ready community in hard times."
Inspiration: Who shapes the Mesa mayoral candidates' thinking?
Who in public life, past or present, do you admire most? Why? And what lesson do you draw from that person’s experience?
Davis: I have high regard and admiration for the father of our country George Washington. He overcame impossible odds to fight for the freedom and liberties we enjoy. He relied on his faith, prayer, and divine intervention to overcome incredible obstacles and adversity. He is an example for all of us who love God, family and country.
Freeman: "One public figure that I admire most is Ronald Reagan. His ability to listen to people and implement pragmatic changes that benefitted America is a quality that I find inspiring. Reagan had a talent for bringing people together to collaborate on resolving issues, a leadership approach that I have also adopted in my own elected career. I am impressed by his overwhelming public support, winning nearly 98% of the vote, a remarkable achievement in American politics. While I do not recall the specific term used to describe this accomplishment, it is a testament to Reagan's widespread appeal and effectiveness as a leader. The lesson I draw from Reagan's experience is the importance of effective communication, consensus-building, and making meaningful, positive changes that resonate with the public. (Editor's note: Reagan won 98% of the Electoral College vote in 1984.)
Neely: While I have not been inclined to idolize politicians, I deeply respect individuals who embody integrity, resilience, and a strong work ethic. Their dedication to public service serves as a testament to the values of hard work and humility, which I hold in high regard. So, a politician that embodies those attributes would be Ronald Reagan.
Smith: My father, Dr. George Smith is my greatest inspiration. He was an accomplished and recognized school superintendent in Arizona for over 35 years, including 17 here in Mesa. He taught me several lessons that I have tried to emulate in my life. First, he taught me that in leadership, one should always set high standards, promote excellence and achievement, and never accept average. He believed Mesa Schools should not only be a standard of excellence in the city and region, but nationally. He showed me how a leader could build a such a culture by celebrating successes and building confidence. I learned from him that every member of a team is vital in the team achieving success, no matter where they may be on the organization chart. Most importantly, he taught me that people are the reason we serve. All we do should be focused on those we serve, and improving their lives is the greatest success we can hope for. He believed that people are always more important than process, and to concentrate on their needs. For me, it has been my employees and customers in business, and the citizens I’ve had the privilege of serving in government.
Winkle: I don’t draw my inspiration from big public names. I draw my inspiration from my mom Barbara, who is a hard-working mom who was very active in helping seniors and people around her and was one of the first Asian-American women CPAs in her time. I also look to my 97-year-old Lola who has been on the side of working women and youth. I look to my wife Ericka, a Latina who runs her own construction business and also makes time to be a great mom and my kids who constantly question why I do things. I look to my stepdad Dave who fought for this country in Vietnam and has PTSD but still kept a union electrician job and helped my mom raise us, (and) who is strongly for Vets and workers’ rights. I look to my sister who is raising a child with cerebral palsy and does everything she can to make sure he has a normal life. I look to my brother who decided to go back to school late in life to become a doctor and works in a very low-income area. I believe in real people as heroes.
Election integrity: Where do the Mesa mayoral candidates stand?
Do you think Arizona elections are fairly run? Do you trust the results? Will you abide by them? Why or why not?
Davis: It is clear a significant portion of the population of Maricopa County questions the operations at the Elections Department during the past two General Elections. There were significant shortfalls in operations (e.g. ballot printing and chain of custody) that support these feelings. My opinion on the fairness of the election will depend on the performance of Maricopa County Elections Department during the 2024 elections.
Freeman: Regarding the fairness of Arizona elections, it is important to acknowledge that there is always room for improvement, particularly in terms of enhancing security measures in response to technological advancements and other areas of concern. I have been participating in Arizona elections for many years and have always trusted the electoral process.
Neely: I believe in the continuous improvement of our electoral processes to ensure transparency and integrity. In this regard, I am a proponent of implementing voter ID measures to safeguard the sanctity of our democratic institutions. While I trust in the will of the people and respect the outcome of elections, I remain vigilant to any irregularities that may compromise the integrity of the electoral process. As a candidate, I am committed to upholding the principles of democracy and abiding by the results of a free and fair election.
Smith: Election integrity is the foundation of our representative democracy, and we should do all we can to ensure the public has confidence in our system. I am disappointed that this confidence has been severely damaged, and I will do all I can to restore it. I also believe we are better when we set our sights toward future opportunities as opposed to dwelling on past grievances. I am grateful for the election professional staff, volunteers, partisan party observers, and others who work tirelessly to make our elections safe and fair. Absent clear and convincing evidence to the contrary, I have confidence they will continue to provide election results we can trust. If evidence is ever presented revealing actual, not theoretical, problems with any part of our election process, I will support taking action to make the changes necessary to fix those problems. As it currently stands, I trust the process and will abide by the announced results.
Winkle: I absolutely believe that the Arizona elections are fairly run. Our Secretary of State works hard with the Maricopa County Recorder to follow multiple steps of check and balances. The city of Mesa runs its elections through the Secretary of State and County Recorder with bipartisan participation from trained, certified and paid poll workers. With almost 15,000 ballot styles that are tracked and reported on to the voter by text and options to look online, there is huge attention to detail in this process. Audit logs monitor the chain of custody on every ballot. The county recorder does an excellent elections tour that I have participated in and I would encourage everyone that is curious or doubtful to do the same. Voters have multiple ways of participating in the election. It should be as easy as possible to vote while ensuring the highest level of accuracy and security possible. A voter should submit their ballot or mail it in and feel confident about the fairness and security of their vote being counted. Election law is important and should absolutely be abided by.
Reporter Maritza Dominguez covers Mesa, Gilbert and Queen Creek and can be reached at maritza.dominguez@arizonarepublic.com or 480-271-0646. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter: @maritzacdom.