By Adam Shimoni
Each one of us has the potential to shape our cities, states, nations and world. The first step is engaging locally, and voting is the most simple and powerful way we can make our voices heard. Although the media might draw our attention to the presidential election, we are most powerful when we participate locally.
Regardless of presidential outcomes, the people of Flagstaff must increase their engagement with their local representatives. Flagstaff is changing and needs new leadership – this election, our City Council is also potentially at a turning point. It is crucial to be educated on all of the candidates and truly understand their values. While all candidates are nice, amiable people, the way we plan to govern is very different.
I believe we must do everything we can to preserve our unique character and protect our community. Like a historic building or a view of the peaks, once it’s gone, it is gone forever. If elected, the first thing I will do is address the rapid development of student housing and the need for affordable housing. This has been an issue for too long and needs to be immediately addressed. We need to come up with a comprehensive plan to ensure that Flagstaff is prepared for NAU’s growth and work closely with Arizona Board of Regents.
Water conservation is one of my top priorities – if elected, I would address Flagstaff’s water conservation policies and guiding documents. We do a great job at water conservation but we can do better.
I will also strive for the creation of a youth commission, and help our youth learn about local government. We also need to improve how our local government engages with the public. We need government to be more accessible to people of all backgrounds. If elected, I will prioritize being available for and transparent with the community. I plan to work for the public, and I will continuously reach out. I want to be your voice and always create time to listen and better understand the community.
Lastly, I will work to improve the relationship between our government and local businesses. We can adjust the procurement processes to reflect our true value of helping local businesses thrive.
First things first, we need to get people voting locally this November. I challenge everyone to take the #LocalVoterChallenge! Upload a video to social media explaining why you feel it is important to vote locally and challenge others to do the same. Traditionally, Flagstaff has had a low voter turnout and I know we can fix this. I believe that if we are aware, empowered and excited about local politics, quality leadership will be elected. Please read my top 10 list of priorities at www.ShimoniforCouncil.com. Feel free to reach out to me on Facebook or through ShimoniCampaign2016@gmail.com. We have record voter registration numbers in Flagstaff. Now it’s time to ignite our town with excitement to break voting records locally this November 8th!
— Adam Shimoni is a candidate for the Flagstaff City Council.
Shimoni Campaign Celebration: Our campaign celebration will occur on Saturday Nov. 5th from 4pm-7pm. We will begin at Heritage Square, then walk to City Hall (4:30pm), then continue to the Green Room (5pm). We will have guest speakers, performances and food to celebrate the Campaign. A link to the event on FB: https://www.facebook.com/events/324554781251502
Updates available through ShimoniForCouncil.com and on Facebook
(Editor’s Note: AmigosNAZ does not endorse candidates running for political office and does not accept political advertisements. AmigosNAZ accepts one local guest column per political candidate.)