Hello Sedona. I'm Katherine Todd. I am honored to be running for Sedona City Council. With a deep commitment to our community and a passion for positive change, I look forward to embarking on this journey with each and every one of you.

My husband and I are originally from Seattle and have been actively involved in our community for many years, volunteering and helping out with the Union Gospel Mission, providing necessities like clothing, food, and toiletries to those in need. Our community involvement also extends to Sedona, where I volunteer with the Humane Society and support Verde Valley Sanctuary and Steps to Recovery Homes.

My professional background spans both the arts and technology. As an acrylic painter and former president of Park Lane Gallery, I have honed my skills and collaborated with others to enhance local galleries. Additionally, in my current job at a mobile app company, I leverage my analytical mindset and problem-solving skills to drive effective solutions. I thrive in sectors facing challenges, assessing what works and what doesn't, and engaging stakeholders to craft optimal solutions. I look forward to bringing these skills to the Sedona City Council.

Affordable housing has become a central theme this election cycle, sparking much discussion about possible initiatives within our city. While there is potential for multifamily development within the city of Sedona, it is essential that we consider the broader area, as Sedona is an expensive place and the cost of goods and services within the city is high.

Focusing solely on affordable housing within Sedona overlooks opportunities for homeownership and economic stability in surrounding areas, particularly the Dells. This approach runs the risk of perpetuating a rent-dependent population, limiting their ability to build personal assets and secure their economic futures, thereby trapping them in a cycle of low socioeconomic status.

Additionally, many people prefer the independence and investment potential that comes with homeownership, even if it means commuting from nearby communities. This highlights the need for housing solutions outside of Sedona that are accessible and affordable for more residents without arbitrarily burdening taxpayers.

Embracing diverse housing options throughout our neighborhoods helps provide opportunities for homeownership. Our focus on housing requires us to prioritize solutions that benefit the most people, including continued support for first-time homebuyers. Considering diverse housing options within our neighborhoods will help us make the greatest impact on the housing needs of our communities.

Having experienced firsthand the challenges of starting a business, I understand its complexities and am committed to fostering an environment in which local businesses can thrive. It is important to recognize that a significant number of establishments in Sedona are owned by members of the community. Let's continue to support our local businesses.

With a dedication to creative problem-solving and a passion for true service, I am committed to listening to residents' concerns and helping Sedona navigate challenges so that together we can build true community.

Thank you for considering me to be your advocate on the Sedona City Council.

Editor's note:

This is the essay written by the candidates, with minimal edits for punctuation and capitalization. There are three open seats on the Sedona City Council in the 2024 election. Four people are vying for the three seats: incumbent Sedona City Council Member Cathy Kinsella, challenger Derek Pfaff, incumbent Sedona Vice Mayor Holly Ploog, and challenger Catherine Todd. Election Day is Tuesday, July 30.