Brenda Kalivianakis

Submitted photo

It is my honor to serve the people of Fountain Hills as both a council member and as vice mayor. Many constituents have asked who I think is the best candidate for mayor.  

As a lifelong conservative, RNC election attorney and a Republican statewide and precinct committee member, I have always voted Republican. But as a council member elected to a nonpartisan office, it’s my duty to put party affiliation aside and vote for the best interests of the town, its businesses and all our citizens.

For the past two years, I have worked with both mayoral candidates. In my opinion, the best-qualified is our incumbent mayor, Ginny Dickey.

Mayor Dickey has consistently reached across the aisle to do right by all the people of Fountain Hills. She has facilitated significant improvements to our streets, sidewalks and parks, and invigorated economic development including the International Dark Sky Discovery Center, Park Place and the Target Center revitalization project. She has consistently shown respect to all council members — a courtesy that has not been reciprocated. 

Anyone who knows Gerry Friedel can’t deny that he cares for Fountain Hills. However, many months ago, we drifted apart philosophically. While Ginny and I have tried to bring people together, Gerry has shown unwavering allegiance to ROT, advocated highly partisan agendas, and cultivated divisiveness in our town. The campaign signs supporting him are hostile and rancorous. He has disrespected our town staff. He is not running for a better future but dredging up the past. There is no road forward if you’re always looking backwards.

Mayor Dickey brings a positive vision and understands what makes Fountain Hills special. She demonstrates civility and respect for all residents. It has been an honor to work with her for a better Fountain Hills. Please vote to re-elect Mayor Dickey.

Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.