Mayor-elect Smith to take Maricopa in new direction

This week’s election confirmed that Maricopans want a new direction.

During the campaign, my positions on issues were readily available for all to read on my Web site, in numerous news articles, blogs, and even at the forum debate.

On Tuesday, the voters responded by giving me a huge margin of victory confirming to me that the themes of solving transportation issues, creating a more transparent government, driving economic development, and partnering to increase the quality of life and education reflect the direction the citizens want me to lead Maricopa.

Between now and when I take office June 3, I will work hard to get up to speed on all the important issues facing Maricopa and ensure a smooth transition. I have already arranged to meet with the city manager regularly and will meet with our councilmembers to get their input on moving Maricopa forward.

By the time I take office, I will have a 100-day plan that will contain communication improvements and ways to improve coordination with the Maricopa Unified School District. After the new Council is sworn in, I will lead the creation of a detailed plan touching all areas and getting input and buy-in from the public.

Moving forward, Maricopa will have one plan, one direction.

Congratulations to Marquisha Griffin and her team for a big win. She ran a quality campaign and will bring much talent to the Council seat. With two council seats still to be determined, I encourage voters to keep involved and elect the best possible representatives at the general election on May 20th.

As I and other candidates have said, this election season is likely to be the most important for setting the direction for Maricopa for many years to come.

Anthony Smith is the mayor-elect of Maricopa and will take office June 3.