Voters in Litchfield Park will head to the polls this summer to decide key local leadership positions as part of the 2026 election cycle.
A primary election is scheduled for July 21, with one seat for mayor and three seats on the city council on the ballot. A general election will be held Nov. 3, if necessary.
The West Valley community, known for its small-town character, faces decisions about growth, infrastructure and long-term planning as development continues in surrounding areas. Several candidates with backgrounds in education, law, business and public safety are seeking office.
Mayoral candidates
Justin James
Justin James runs to be Litchfield Park's Mayor.
Submitted photo/Justin James
Justin James, a current city council member, is seeking the mayor’s office.
A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, he served as a Surface Warfare Officer from 2002 to 2007, including deployments supporting military operations overseas.
After earning an MBA from the University of Utah, he built a career in logistics and co-owns a transportation freight brokerage business.
James has been active in local civic organizations, including the Wigwam Country Club Board and the West Valley Mavericks. He previously served on the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission. His campaign centers on continued community involvement and guiding future growth in Litchfield Park.
Tom Schoaf
Tom Schoaf runs for reelection as Litchfield Park's Mayor.
Submitted photo/Tom Schoaf
Incumbent Mayor Tom Schoaf is seeking reelection. A longtime resident, Schoaf has been involved in community organizations including youth sports programs, the Litchfield Elementary Governing Board and regional planning groups.
An attorney and University of Notre Dame graduate, Schoaf has also founded businesses with national and international operations.
During his tenure, the city has maintained no property tax while expanding services and amenities. His campaign highlights financial stability, infrastructure projects and preservation of the city’s character.
City Council candidates
Lisa Brainard Watson
Lisa Brainard Watson runs for reelection in Litchfield Park.
Submitted photo/ City of Litchfield Park
Lisa Brainard Watson, who is seeking reelection to the council, has lived in Litchfield Park since 1974 and is a retired educator. She taught for 21 years in local school districts, working with a range of students from Advanced Placement to special education and English language learners.
Watson has been active in the Litchfield Park Historical Society, serving in leadership roles.
She was first elected in 2018 and reelected in 2022. Her candidacy reflects continued involvement in education and community preservation.
Joshua “Cody” Conklin
Joshua “Cody” Conklin is a business manager and community volunteer. He previously served as president of the West Valley Mavericks Foundation and manages Conklin Rose Company, a wholesale rose-growing operation that distributes plants nationwide.
Conklin has prior experience managing another regional agricultural business.
Paul Faith
Paul Faith runs for reelection in Litchfield Park.
Submitted photo/Paul Faith
Paul Faith is an attorney and current council member seeking a full term.
A lifelong West Valley resident, he holds degrees from Arizona State University and the University of Arizona College of Law and is a certified real estate law specialist.
Faith has served as general counsel for multiple municipalities and has been recognized in several legal publications. On council, he has been involved in long-term development efforts, including the city’s downtown project. His priorities include managing growth, maintaining financial stability and preserving quality of life.
Sarah Pearson
Sarah Pearson runs for a City Council seat in Litchfield Park.
Submitted photo/Sarah Pearson
Dr. Sarah Pearson has lived in Litchfield Park since 2009 and has a 26-year career in public education. She currently serves as assistant superintendent of teaching and learning for the Agua Fria Union High School District and previously worked as a teacher, principal and district administrator.
Pearson is active in community and faith-based organizations and has served in leadership roles within her church and local youth programs.
Her campaign focuses on fiscal responsibility, managed growth and community engagement. She holds degrees from Northern Arizona University, Arizona State University and Grand Canyon University.
Tim Wayne
Tim Wayne runs for a city council seat in Litchfield Park.
Submitted photo/City of Litchfield Park
Tim Wayne is a public safety professional with more than 30 years of experience. He currently serves as fire chief for the Goodyear Fire Department and previously worked with the Glendale Fire Department and in the U.S. Air Force as a firefighter.
Wayne holds degrees in fire science and educational leadership and is a Certified Public Manager. A Litchfield Park resident since 2020, he is campaigning on public safety, infrastructure improvements and planned development.
The 2026 elections come as Litchfield Park city leaders and candidates have identified maintaining the community’s character while addressing growth as a central issue for voters.
More information is available at litchfieldpark.gov. Check Independent Newsmedia in print and online at yourvalley.net for continuing elections coverage.
James Goldmeer Reporter | Goodyear & Litchfield Park
Meet James James Goldmeer joined Independent Newsmedia, Inc., USA, in July 2024, starting their career as a reporter in Goodyear and Litchfield Park.
Community: James grew up in the West Valley, calling Avondale home and going to school in Glendale and Peoria. Returning to the community after university, James plans to get involved in everything arts and culture, and civil rights.
Education: Northern Arizona University a bachelor's degree in Journalism, a certificate in Professional Communications, with a minor in English.
Random Fact: James spent half a year as an intern for the Arizona House of Representatives communication team, working with legislators to inform the public through press releases and social media.
Hobbies: James collects postcards and old books, reads memoirs and attends local jazz shows.
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