I’m proud to come from a family of public servants. My grandfather, who also lives in Surprise, served in the United States Navy as a corpsman and is a veteran of the Vietnam war. 

Two of my other grandparents served in the United States Air Force. My father is a United States Army Veteran, and my mother is a member of law enforcement. I have continued that tradition of service as a first responder.

I am running for Surprise City Council because I want to serve the town where I grew up and where I hope to raise a family of my own. I was raised in Surprise and am a product of the Dysart Unified School District. My family moved to the city more than 20 years ago because it was a great place to raise their young family. I recently married the love of my life, and we bought our first home. I cannot tell you how excited we are to bring another generation to this city that we love.

My passion for service runs deep. I first felt the call when I became involved in the Surprise Youth Council and was elected to serve as chairman. I went on to attend Arizona State University where I served as the Associated Students Senate President and graduated Summa Cum Laude.

There are several challenges facing our city and specifically District 1 ­— most of which surround the notion of keeping up with rapid growth. As I’ve knocked on hundreds of doors and sat in countless living rooms, the same issues come up time and again: safety, congestion and lack of infrastructure. With the rapid development our city is experiencing, it is clear we need smart growth — ensuring that our infrastructure is able to keep up with the growing demand.

First, I pledge to be a strong supporter of public safety. I understand the importance of making public safety a priority and will use my experience to ensure that Surprise remains safe and family-friendly and that our first responders will be there when you need them most.

Next, quality streets are essential to moving people, goods, and services throughout Surprise. We need investment in our transportation and traffic systems – particularly in the rapidly growing parts of District 1. One of my top priorities will be addressing the increasing congestion and safety problems on Grand Avenue.

Ultimately, we must enact proactive policies rather than reactive ones to ensure that the development we are experiencing does not outpace our city’s ability to provide the critical services our residents rely on. As a firefighter paramedic, I’m no stranger to working with a diverse group of individuals to solve complex problems. I will bring that same problem-solving ability to City Hall.

I recognize that holding elected office can be different from responding to a fire or medical emergency. But the qualities those jobs demand translate well into a job where responsibility, trust, and transparency are critical. I would be honored to have your vote. 

Editor’s Note: Nick Haney is one of three candidates for the Surprise City Council in District 1.