Candidate Q&A with Chandler mayoral hopefuls

Both candidates on the ballot for the July 21 Chandler mayoral election — Council member Matt Orlando and former council member and current state Rep. Jeff Weninger — replied to Independent Newsmedia’s questions.

The two longtime city residents are vying to replace term-limited Mayor Kevin Hartke next January.

Here are their responses.

Why do you feel you’re the best choice for mayor?

Orlando: Over my time on the council, I’ve focused on smart growth, strong public services, fiscal responsibility, increasing quality of life, and community-centered decision-making. Chandler deserves steady, experienced leadership that understands where we’ve been and knows how to move us forward.

Weninger: I’ve spent 30 years running Floridino’s in Chandler, served on council, and in the legislature getting real results. I understand growth and budgets, and I’m a proven collaborator who brings people together. Chandler needs experienced, common-sense leadership.

What do you see as one of the biggest issues facing the city heading into 2027?

Orlando: Maintaining our excellent quality of life. I supported and led numerous activities that benefited and “laid the foundation” for our community that we enjoy today - Police; Fire; Parks and Recreation programs; neighborhood enhancement programs; and economic development opportunities.

Weninger: Managing our final phase of growth is critical. We don’t have much land left, so every decision on housing, jobs, and infrastructure carries more weight. Getting that balance right will shape Chandler indefinitely.

What else could the city be doing to house the homeless people on Chandler’s streets today?

Orlando: By combining our federal, city, and non-profit funding, we have developed a robust program to address and reduce our homeless population. We need to do more. As mayor, I will implement my “Housing for All” initiative to address the overall housing shortage.

Weninger: We need to stay focused on practical solutions. That means working with nonprofits and regional partners to expand shelter space and connect people to services like mental health and addiction treatment.

At the same time, we need to enforce our laws and keep public spaces safe, while helping people get back on their feet.

Regarding data centers and other development projects, what’s one tool Council and staff don’t currently have, to deal with newer, more-complex proposals?

Orlando: Continue to streamline our internal processes to ensure quicker responses to our business community and residents without jeopardizing quality and safety. I would centralize our economic development processes and create an ombudsman office to help small businesses and residents.

Weninger: Chandler needs clear, upfront standards for development projects. The city is too reactionary, so we must establish defined criteria for infrastructure impact, land use fit, and long-term home values to enable us make consistent decisions that protect our neighborhoods.

Tax and other cost burdens affect all residents. What’s one thing a mayor can push or encourage as a way to mitigate either the cost of living or of select products and services?

Orlando: Continue to be a fiscally efficient city – deliver quality services at a fraction of the cost. Chandler has the lowest overall tax burden on our residents in the valley. My “Chandler Delivers” — on my website — platform outlines other initiatives.

Weninger: It starts with a careful watch of taxpayer dollars. When the city is disciplined and avoids unnecessary spending, it helps keep taxes and fees from increasing. Investing in preventative maintenance for infrastructure also avoids more expensive repair long-term.

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