I look forward to working with our new Mayor and with three new Council members. Along with the continuing incumbents, I congratulate them for their successful campaigns.
We will lose some good people. One left due to health concerns, and two others fell short in the vote count. These are three of the very best Council members with whom I have had the honor of serving over the past decade and a half.
When local businesses feared losing customers due to enforcement of sign regulations, Paul Diefendorfer (“Dief”) took upon himself to visit them and to explain how his own business is a success based upon the good experiences of his customers.
David Smith brought his skills from a major state government administrative position to representing the interests of Cave Creek citizens in negotiating a contract with the Daisy Mountain Fire Company. He worked hard on maximizing our benefits.
Ron Sova showed his experience and dedication when he was unable to get the data he wanted from a now-replaced town staff member. When asking wasn’t good enough, Ron’s very professional digging brought insights to the whole council. I thank him.
Successful government is a team effort. A critical part of that team is our Town Manager, Carrie Dyrek, and her staff. The Council is the legislative body that primarily determines policies that are then carried out by a dedicated staff. That synergy has been a great benefit to ensure the safety and welfare of the town. If you take pride in this community, a large part of the identity of Cave Creek is a result of years of contributions by voter oversight, citizen volunteers, Council policies and the enduring efforts of our staff. If you are not satisfied, you need to let us know.
Personnel issues, some legal advice and discussions of sensitive negotiations with outside entities require closed “executive sessions.” The public forum is not the place to discuss strategies in sensitive outside negotiations and discussion subjects are clearly identified to the public. Other Council deliberations, and all votes, must be conducted in front of the public. This applies to both regular meetings and special dedicated gatherings that are always open to the public. That’s the transparency we can and do deliver.
Cave Creek people don’t run for Council on a whim. All the 2022 candidates brought their desire to make this a better community. While some fell short, it wasn’t because they weren’t worthy. Falling short in a public forum is a risk to all who have the courage to run.
Thomas McGuire
Town Council Member
