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Opinion

Thomasson: Serving on Town Council is a team sport

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This week I’m filing papers to run for reelection to continue to serve you on the Paradise Valley Town Council.

As a 28-year resident, it has been an honor to serve our town. Thanks to many of you who signed my petition at your doorstep, in front of the post office, or at a friends’ request, so that I have the chance to ask for your vote on Aug. 2.

These past four years I’ve learned that serving on council is a team sport.

We scored some great victories resolving issues with a multi-million dollar lawsuit, implemented health and safety code changes regarding short term rentals, avoided a 40% increase in EPCOR water rates, retained staff during the pandemic, fully funded our police department, avoided social unrest, secured back-up debt financing at 1.09% interest, managed multiple requests for Special Use Permits and numerous other accomplishments.

After 35 years in business and four years on your Town Council, I’ve learned that each of us has something to contribute and when we use our own strengths to support each other without seeking individual accolade, we get more done.

While supporting our council, I’m especially proud of my deep engagement with our police department including leading our Advisory Committee on Public Safety (ACOPS), encouraging increased communications and public noticing of zoning applications, being a strong voice on new development, and a consistent voice on managing spending.

As I continue to walk the town and work to earn your vote on Aug. 2, I’d also like to thank our past and present Mayors Bien-Willer, Collins, LaMarr, Lowrey, and Parker for their endorsement and coaching. These strong leaders have shaped Paradise Valley’s exceptional reputation and I’m humbled by their vote of confidence.

I pledge to all of you I will honor their legacies and work hard to keep this the paradise we love.

Editor’s Note: Anna Thomasson is vice mayor of the Town of Paradise Valley serving her first term on council.