Somo: Vote for ethical, sensible, quality leadership

Councilman Friedel’s campaign states “it’s time for a change,” but change from what? Is he advocating changing from the sound, sensible, forward-looking, quality leadership that has been the hallmark of the Ginny Dickey administration? And to what? 

Fountain Hills is one of the safest communities in the state, but Friedel has criticized the contract that Mayor Dickey negotiated with the Sheriff’s Department that maintains that safety. Mayor Dickey supports our expert town staff and treats their advice with respect. Friedel continually supports the ideas of Councilman Skillicorn, including repealing the town’s sign ordinance, just to have to re-instate it later; or firing the town’s Intergovernmental representative (cutting off representation at the legislature); or supporting a position that the town should not defend itself in a lawsuit brought by ROT against the town. A lawsuit that the town won. Speaking of ROT (Reclaim Our Town), Friedel is the PAC’s leader of choice. 

For the last two years, he and other fellow councilmembers have strived for change, but those changes often don’t benefit our town. I don’t want a mayor who won’t listen to the town attorney’s advice, or who votes against opportunities to move our town forward, like the $100,000 grant to explore an EV charging site.

Councilman Friedel is famous (or infamous) for his condescending approach to groups he does not agree or identify with. This is a disturbing approach to leadership, of which voters ought to be aware.

If that’s his “time for a change,” then no thanks. Mayor Dickey understands our community, unlike Friedel, who just seems desperate to be in charge of it. On Nov. 5, vote for ethical, sensible, quality leadership; re-elect Mayor Ginny Dickey.

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