Log in

Opinion

Ronca: Comparing the candidates for mayor

Posted

I decided to determine my choice for mayor of Fountain Hills not on the ads, or mailers, or endorsements, but on documented performance. So, I used their "public" record as my guide, starting with the town website bios. I looked at background, experience, participation and finally key issues.

Background: Dickey has 41 years as a full-time resident. Friedel 10. Both have college degrees.

Experience: Dickey has 22 years of local elected experience, 10 years of state government and nearly a year of federal government experience, including security clearances. She was a banker, kept books for two businesses, and was an accountant for a non-profit. Friedel has four years of local elected experience with a career in finance. Both have experience as volunteers in local government.

Participation: Both have participated in a variety of local service organizations and political parties. Dickey has participated in several regional, state and national organizations and been recognized with awards from business, educational, arts and philanthropic groups. I only see one for Friedel.

Finally, key issues: Both seemingly support street repairs, but differ on how to fund them. Dickey seems to be supportive of staff; Friedel seems to be more questioning, and has a record of ignoring town attorney recommendations. Both seem to approach budgeting conservatively, but Friedel is on record more recently questioning some expenditures. And Dickey seems to be an advocate for residents; Friedel – more for business. (Yet Dickey earned an "A" from the Chamber, while Friedel a "C".)

Overall, Friedel is clearly the newcomer compared to Dickey. Dickey has superior governmental experience, and local connections including personal and family commitment to Fountain Hills compared to Friedel.  

I can't justify a change now using this – or any other criteria. I’m convinced the town will continue to do well when choosing Ginny Dickey. 

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