
Adam Kwasman addresses top issues and his pursuit of the local dais
By Terrance Thornton | Digital Free Press
Voters who call ‘The West’s Most Western Town’ home will decide from a field of nine candidates who will fill three seats at Scottsdale City Council during the Tuesday, July 30, primary election.
The city of Scottsdale is hosting a primary election to elect a mayor and three members of Scottsdale City Council whereas for a candidate to win outright in the July primary election they would have to receive the majority of ballots cast, election officials tell the Digital Free Press.
For races still in contention, a November general election will be held to decide those races, election officials say.
In the event it is necessary, the Digital Free Press is hosting two (2) general election debates — one that will feature candidates for City Council, the other a focus on candidates for the station of mayor. Each debate will be streamed and air live on cable access television:
- Scottsdale City Council candidates who emerge from the existing field of nine (9) will face-off during a debate hosted from high Noon to 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 26. at City Hall, 3939 N. Drinkwater Blvd.
- Scottsdale mayoral candidates who emerge from the existing field of three (3) will face-off during a debate hosted from noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 2 at City Hall, 3939 N. Drinkwater Blvd.
Candidates for Scottsdale City Council are:
- Tammy Caputi
- Stephen Casares
- Jan Dubauskas
- Tom Durham
- Mason Gates
- Adam Kwasman
- Justin Laos
- Robert “Bob” Lettieri
- Maryann McAllen
Part of the existing field is Adam Kwasman, who is seeking his first term at Scottsdale City Council.
Adam Kwasman addresses top issues and his pursuit of the local dais
The Digital Free Press reached out to Mr. Kwasman to better understand specifically what he believes to be the No. 1 issue facing his community — and, if elected, what he intends to do about it.
Mr. Kwasman talks about how he will work collaboratively with his peers and what he thinks is the best reason to be a member of Scottsdale City Council. This is what he had to say:
*What is the No. 1 problem facing City Hall and how did this problem emerge in your opinion? If elected, what will you do to cure this issue?
I love Scottsdale, but I believe everyone can agree that our home is not the same city as it was a mere decade ago. The Adam Kwasman vision for City Council is one where we focus on residents and a family-first approach. That means ensuring our families are safe from home invasions, our city’s special character is preserved by stopping the reckless overdevelopment of apartments and illegal/homeless housing, and our residents’ pocketbooks are protected from an undisciplined tax-and-spend agenda.
The reckless overdevelopment of apartments is the primary issue facing City Hall. The Scottsdale City Council has been too quick to approve high-density residential projects, compromising our city’s family-oriented character. Scottsdale is known for its neighborhoods that provide a comfortable and safe environment for families. High-rise buildings risk driving these families away and do not address housing prices effectively, as apartment seekers differ from those looking for single-family homes.
The current council’s stance has led to decreased safety, increased traffic, and a decline in Scottsdale’s charm. If elected, I will prioritize homes to preserve our family-friendly character. This includes advocating for zoning policies that protect existing neighborhoods and ensuring community voices are heard in development decisions. I will support a variety of housing options, including affordable housing for young families and seniors, to maintain our city’s diversity.
To address Scottsdale’s affordable housing shortage, I advocate for supporting more single-family homes and cutting regulations to boost the free market. As a former state representative, I’ve championed measures that facilitate home ownership and empower citizens financially. Prioritizing families involves maintaining single-family residential zoning, alleviating tax and regulatory burdens on small businesses, and attracting high-paying industries.
Addressing water management and promoting community growth that retains Scottsdale’s character is also crucial. We must collaborate across leadership levels to enhance water conservation without impeding economic growth or housing development. My goal is to foster a community where residents can enjoy a high quality of life. By promoting homeownership, economic vitality, and sustainable water management, we can address Scottsdale’s housing crisis while preserving what makes our city unique.
*As a Scottsdale resident, how will you work toward common goals atop the local dais to ensure the exceptional quality of life?
As a Scottsdale resident, I am committed to working towards common goals to ensure our exceptional quality of life. I will address several critical issues: Scottsdale is currently facing a crime crisis, and our elected leaders must take a stand to enhance our community’s safety. Recent events, like the capture of a multinational crime ring planning break-ins, highlight this urgency.
The unique character of Scottsdale, which attracts our best and brightest, is at risk due to poor council decisions. I am dedicated to preserving the charm and appeal that make Scottsdale a standout city. The homelessness situation in Scottsdale is tragic, but we must differentiate between enabling addiction and providing genuine charity. I propose moving away from a housing-first approach and adopting a treatment and enforcement-based strategy to help the homeless and ensure street safety.
Our vision of a family-first Scottsdale is in jeopardy due to decreased safety, increased traffic, and budgetary issues. Scottsdale’s budget hasn’t been revamped in decades and relies on opaque overrides.
Additionally, developers are replacing family homes with apartment complexes, altering our community fabric. If elected, I will push for transparency that allows residents to see Scottsdale’s budget and spending. This transparency will restore trust and ensure accountability.
Finally, I will fight to ensure our zoning and transportation laws protect Scottsdale’s reputation as a premier destination for families. Proper zoning and thoughtful transportation policies are crucial to maintaining our quality of life. By focusing on these issues, we can ensure that Scottsdale remains a vibrant, safe, and desirable place to live.
*What do you think is the best reason to be a member of the Scottsdale City Council?
I believe the best reason to be a member of the Scottsdale City Council is to champion a FAMILIES FIRST approach. My vision for Scottsdale is centered on fiscal accountability, transparency, and a commitment to addressing crucial issues. This includes enhancing public safety, curbing reckless overdevelopment, tackling the homelessness crisis, and restoring fiscal stability while easing the tax burden on residents. My love for Scottsdale drives me to ensure that every decision made prioritizes the well-being of families.
My background in law and economics, coupled with private sector experience, reinforces my dedication to this cause. I have a proven conservative voting record, which includes advocating for lower taxes, responsible spending, and standing up against special interest influences. I am not a career politician and will never be swayed by lobbyists.
Endorsements from conservative council members and legislators further attest to my commitment to family-centric values. In the private sector, I have successfully created jobs and balanced budgets, showcasing my ability to translate conservative principles into tangible results. I approach my role with boldness, positivity, and a steadfast belief in a higher power’s providence over our nation and community.
In times of challenge, I believe a positive outlook and fresh optimism are invaluable assets. As a member of the Scottsdale City Council, I will tirelessly work to ensure that our city remains a beacon of family values and prosperity for all residents.