Candidates from left: Jayson Black, Mayor Georgia Lord, Council Member Wally Campbell, Brannon Hampton, Former Mayor Jim Cavanaugh, and Council Member Joe Pizzillo
On Monday, February 20, the PebbleCreek Democratic Club once again held a special candidates forum in the Tuscany Falls Ballroom for candidates running in the City of Goodyear Mayoral and Council member Elections. Council members serve staggered terms of four years to ensure continuity and are limited to two terms for Mayor and three terms for council members. Incumbent mayor Georgia Lord and incumbent council members Joe Pizzilo and Wally Campbell are running for re-election. Incumbent Council member Sharolyn Hohman is not running for re-election. The all mail ballot election was held on March 14, 2017.
Invitations were sent to each of the candidates and all attended except for Sara Gilligan who had a prior commitment. Moderator Cathy Lindstrom called upon the candidates in alphabetical order and allowed each five minutes to make opening remarks. Following opening remarks the floor was opened to the audience for questions directed to specific candidates or to the dais at large.
Areas of concern for the audience included the nearby mall build out, taxes, and the city budget including plans for paying for the Goodyear Ballpark. The Mayor spoke at length about the efforts made to get the new nearby Harkins theatre constructed and the nationwide focus away from big box stores and the changing demographics and shopping patterns which will impact how the mall build out is likely to proceed.
The forum was well received and attended by more than 100 audience members. Both the candidates and the community thought the forum interesting and helpful. The club would like to recognize member Cathy Lindstrom for her tireless efforts in arranging this event.
As a reminder the PebbleCreek Democratic club will be holding its annual potluck picnic on Sunday, April 2, 2017, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., at the Eagle’s Nest Ballroom. Entertainment will be provided by PebbleCreek’s own Desert Rovers.