Sanders: Every decision made with integrity

It is hard to believe we are already in June. Six months into 2020, so much has changed, so many difficult discussions occurred and decisions were made that impacted every single one of us.

As elected officials, tough decisions are part of the position and expected, so I try to make every decision, every vote with integrity. No agenda, no ulterior motives. Is this in the best interest of District 5 residents and the City of Surprise as a whole?

Serving in this capacity has allowed me to utilize my education in finance and experience in banking more so than ever expected, especially during the latest coronavirus crisis and its impact to our city’s revenues. I’ve worked closely with City Council, City management as we navigate discussions about how we can work together to further improve the quality of life and deal with a range of issues impacting our taxpayers.

To be successful as a City Councilman or other elected official, building trust and relationships are critical. This extends further than the constituents. Building relationships and trust with other municipal elected officials, state elected officials, staff, community partnerships and agencies are equally as important and having the humility to do so.

In the 18 months I have been blessed to have this opportunity, I have met so many of you and those mentioned. Consistency and stability are so important to making things happen for you and Surprise. Together we get things done…not me, not you. In the inspirational words of Henry Ford, “Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success.”

One of my goals for these next two years is to continue keeping Surprise one of the safest cities in Arizona by continuing my full support of Surprise Fire and Medical and the Surprise Police Department. With projects such as Fire Station 304 under construction, and our Public Safety Evidence Readiness Center and our Police Training Facility project, Surprise is well underway to staying safe.

Another goal of mine is to continue the economic development trajectory we have here in Surprise. This started by City Council, by unanimous vote, approving the incentive agreement with the landowner of City Center, our future downtown. There have been over 40 new businesses that have opened in Surprise over the past two years, creating hundreds of new jobs. There is more in the works too!

Finally, I will continue focusing on bringing more activities for our youth. My wife and I are raising our three children here, and we understand the need for more amenities for our youth. The addition of new sports programming for our youth in partnership with Ottawa University, and the opening of a new arcade this summer are moving us in the right direction. 

I am so thankful to the Surprise City Council for appointing me to fill the District 5 Council vacancy last January 2019. It has truly been an honor to serve my constituents and advocate on your behalf.

I will continue to be a strong voice for you and will vigorously work with my Council comrades to pursue our vision for economic growth and prosperity in our region. I appreciate your support and ask for your continued support with your vote in the upcoming election Aug. 4.

It takes a village and as we all know, there is no me in team. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your journey.

Editor’s Note: David Sanders is a Surprise City Councilman from District 5. He is running for election Aug. 4.