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Debbie Sommers
I, Debra Sommers, a former Mayor and Town Council Member of Kearny, am one of the candidates vying for Town of Kearny Mayor; challenging the current Mayor Sam Hosler. My history working with the community is “strong” and if elected, I would like to pick up where I left off.
I am a lifelong resident of the community and I take the utmost pride in serving my community. From 1996 to 1999, I held a seat on the Town Council and was appointed mayor in 1999. I was elected mayor in 2000, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2008, and 2010; however, I did not seek re-election in 2012. Now, with a fresh perspective and renewed dedication since leaving office, I have been approached by many community members who have serious concerns for many of the challenges that Kearny faces. These residents believe that I have the leadership, knowledge and experience that are necessary to solve the serious challenges facing the community.
During my tenure in both positions, we were able to complete the following: new wastewater reclamation plant; rebuilt airport; rebuilt Kearny Lake; rebuilt and approved Public Safety facilities; enhanced public infrastructure and thoroughfares by expanding sidewalks and curbs on town streets, and constructed a Copper and Rail Park; sealed town streets to preserve their functional life; initiated and implemented a housing rehabilitation program; established free dump day; created Urban Renewal Authority to assist redevelopment in the commercial area; maintained clean annual independent financial audits since 1996; and received ADOT’s designation of 2033 Airport of the Year. These are just a few examples of what can be achieved when elected community leaders diligently come together and cooperate.
My long-standing rapport with council members, along with community leaders from surrounding areas, will enhance communication within these agencies With the limited budget and grant funding available, the future success of the Town of Kearny will be dependent on the leadership’s ability to foster innovative solutions to the diverse challenges of our time. Kearny’s strengths are the people who live in the community, people who are willing to work for the common goal for the best outcome of all; a mayor and council who can make decisions competently, objectively and timely to keep the small town atmosphere that is a wonderful place to live and raise a family
My vision for Kearny is a community that will continue to move forward, towards a future that will include growth and prosperity, and continue to maintain our small town family atmosphere. It is my overall objective in obtaining this vision by transparency and that business is conducted with respect to “open meeting laws”. I intend to, once again, work with your town council toward the betterment of the Town of Kearny.
/s/ Debra Sommers
Kearny, Arizona
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