I will draw on my past experience of working with a factious group of divergent individuals and leading them to become a cohesive team benefiting the people they were called to serve.

3. What makes you uniquely qualified to serve?

I have a broad-based understanding of quality of life issues, proven leadership skills and a forward-thinking vision for the City of Surprise.

4. What will you do to bring jobs to Surprise? I will work to create an environment where employers will want to relocate. I also believe in supporting the incubation of existing small businesses that have already made a commitment to our community.

5. What type of business does Surprise need most? Why?

I believe Surprise will benefit most by the addition of technology businesses, health care, higher education and research facilities. Every one of these will enhance our community’s quality of life and provide higher-paying jobs and career opportunities for our residents.

6. What transportation ideas do you have for the city?

To help change traffic patterns, we need to stop exporting our workers out of the city along Bell Road by creating jobs right here in Surprise. The addition of two more Agua Fria crossings and provision of alternative transportation options such as bus routes and commuter rail will assist in resolving some of our transportation issues. Bond to build out many of our roads and require developers to pay for it.

7. What is the greatest asset Surprise has that is currently underutilized?

We have a rich intellectual and experience resource right here in our senior population. These folks must be offered opportunities to reengage their active minds.

8. Joan Shafer has served as Mayor since 1995. How would you handle the city differently?

Joan is to be commended for the many good things she has accomplished for our city. But this is a New Day for Surprise and our city is a much different place than it was just a few years ago. Today, Surprise needs effective leaders who can think globally and make strategic decisions that will benefit residents now and for generations to come.

9. What ways can Surprise better create a sense of community?

The residents of Surprise need to be reengaged in the decision making process. Residents need to be heard in a respectful manner and kept informed on all issues affecting them and the city at large.

10. What is the smart way for Surprise to grow?

Surprise can grow smart by leveraging assets and minimizing costs for residents. Our assets include, first and foremost, our residents, our great communities and our potential to be a uniquely special place. Our costs are the taxes we pay. I believe development must pay for itself including: infrastructure, roads, schools and recreation and entertainment venues.