By Terrance Thornton | Digital Free Press
Scottsdale voters Tuesday, July 30, at the Scottsdale primary election will decide from a field of nine candidates who will fill three seats at Scottsdale City Council beginning this January.
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 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 position 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 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 Maryann McAllen, who is seeking her first term at Scottsdale City Council next month.
1ON1 with Scottsdale City Council candidate Maryanne McAllen
The Digital Free Press reached out to Ms. McAllen to better understand what she believes to be the No. 1 issue facing the Scottsdale community — and, if elected, what she intends to do about it.
Ms. McAllen talks about how she will work collaboratively with her peers and what she thinks is the best reason to become an elected member of Scottsdale City Council. This is what she had to say:
*What is the No. 1 problem facing City Hall and how did this problem emerge in your opinion?
I am a positive person and that is how I address any problem. I search for solutions and how I can make any situation better. As a city councilor I will work for citizens of Scottsdale to the best of my ability with honor and integrity in all that I do.
*If elected, what will you do to cure this issue?
If elected I will listen to the citizens and staff, learn the needs and educate myself on how I can help change any situation. I work for the best outcome in all aspects of my life and work.
*As a Scottsdale resident, how will you work toward common goals atop the local dais to ensure the exceptional quality of life?
When elected I will be a servant of the citizens of Scottsdale. I will give my full attention, do my homework and work for all of Scottsdale, its citizens.
*What do think is the best reason to be a member of City Council?
I believe it is a passion to serve my city. I have always loved Scottsdale. As a child I knew I wanted to serve on the city council, as an adult I worked for the city, and I met my husband while we were both working for the city. My four children grew up attending city programs and events. I truly want to serve the city I love and that is the truth of the matter.
