It is especially gratifying to see the number of extremely qualified citizens who took the step in running for city council. To all of you, win or lose, you have earned my respect. Your commitment to our community, your courage to step into the public “fish bowl” and desire to make a difference is applauded.
In this election, we have a different council seat up for grabs. Instead of the traditional four-year term, it is a two-year term. Two candidates are vying for the seat.
Rich Vitiello is getting my endorsement, not because I have known him longer than his opponent, but rather I see a unique individual whose time has come to serve Maricopa.
Rich understands consensus building. There is no “I” or “Me” in his vocabulary. He is approachable and listens to ideas and discussions which differ from his own. These qualities are critical for an elected official to have. All too many times I have seen decisions made for the greater good without hearing all sides, resulting in failure or mediocre results.
I first met Mr. Vitiello playing Monday night softball at Pacana Park while I was mayor. He was full of questions about the city. I spent many long hours in the parking lot answering his questions, debating decisions the city council made and talking about what we wanted for Maricopa’s future. Then and there I knew he had the desire to serve.
About a year ago Mr. Vitiello came to ask for my support for his run for city council. That desire has now become a reality.
I serve as Vice Chair on the Arizona Department of Transportation board. Unlike other council candidates, I have seen Rich attend all the critical hearings and meetings relevant to the 347 overpass being programmed and funded. Our drives to Sierra Vista, Phoenix, Marana and Flagstaff not only allowed time to discuss the project but showed his true concern for it becoming a reality.
Please join me in casting a vote for Rich Vitiello for the two year council seat. His passion for the city is evident. His knowledge of Maricopa’s history, his understanding of its government workings and his hope for its future will serve the city well.
![A blue square highlights the area of the proposed affordable housing development and "Restaurant Row" sitting south of city hall and the Maricopa Police Department. Preliminary architectural drawings were not yet available. [City of Maricopa]](https://www.inmaricopa.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/041724-affordable-housing-project-restaurant-row-100x70.jpg "Affordable apartments planned near ‘Restaurant Row’")
