Cap: Does Councilmember Friedel mean what he says?

The next council meeting will be a nail-biter. Especially when it comes to how Councilmember Friedel votes regarding Councilmember Skillicorn’s ethics violations.

Back in December when I read Friedel was running for Mayor, I sent him an email about Skillicorn’s attacks towards the LGBTQ+ community and residents.

This was his response: “Pam, thank you for sharing this with me. Let me make one thing clear please, Councilmember Skillicorn and I are polar opposites when it comes to our town. I don’t condone this kind of behavior and have very little tolerance or control over his personal behavior. I will have a conversation about this with others. Respectfully Gerry Friedel.”
So, on March 19, at the next council meeting, will mayoral candidate Gerry Friedel vote to admonish a councilmember who blatantly violated their code of ethics? Or will he vote along party lines to absolve him of wrongdoing? It will be very interesting to watch how he maneuvers around holding one of his own accountable for breaking the rules.

Friedel portrays himself as a defender for those that cannot defend themselves. His campaign states he will put Fountain Hills first. Putting Fountain Hills first means putting its people first. All of its people first. Can he live up to the image he is campaigning on? We will see. 

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