Year: 53

Time in Sedona: “My husband and I decided to move to Sedona in the fall of 2020 after some dark days in the Seattle area. Our plan was to build a home and put down roots in this beautiful community. However, unexpected circumstances led to my father-in-law's declining health, which resulted in us splitting our time between Texas and Sedona for a while. We are finally moving full time in the fall of 2022.”

background: “After spending years raising my two children, I embarked on a new journey into the world of acrylic painting. This creative endeavor eventually led me to become President of Park Lane Gallery and the opportunity to oversee the gallery's renovation. In 2015, I accepted a new position at a mobile app company where my analytical mindset and attention to detail became valuable assets. I thrive in a problem-solving environment and excel at assessing a situation, engaging stakeholders, and devising the best solution. I hope to bring these abilities to the Sedona City Council and contribute my expertise for the betterment of our community.”

Q: How would you propose amending, changing or repealing Sedona's building codes to address the housing shortage?

A: “Sedona's appeal is undeniable, so it's no surprise that demand for housing outstrips supply. We can never accommodate everyone who wants to live in Sedona, but we can make changes to make it easier for new construction to occur. An important step is to reevaluate the city's building codes. We want regulations that encourage construction but don't destroy the unique charm of our neighborhoods. It's time to take a fresh look at new construction requirements.”

“I support the construction of apartment complexes and mixed-use developments in traditionally commercial areas. Multifamily buildings are already permitted in commercial districts, but the high cost of construction makes it difficult to attract developers. With that in mind, I believe we can make them more attractive to developers by providing lower-cost, simplified permitting systems. We can provide incentives to help cover some of the costs of construction without using taxpayer money.”

Q: The council has committed to putting the future use of Sedona Cultural Park in the hands of the public. What is your perspective on how that process should proceed? Do you support or oppose restoring the amphitheater?

A: “I believe that systematic public participation is essential when considering restoring the amphitheater at Sedona Cultural Park. Conducting a survey using a scientific method will ensure all voices are heard and promote inclusivity in the decision-making process. I support a fully transparent approach with survey responses being distributed as they are completed. I would also like the City to perform a cost analysis for each use under consideration. Certain uses may be too costly due to the topography, and all information should be made available to the public.”

“I am totally open-minded about the potential restoration of the amphitheater. Small, intimate outdoor venues were not very important 20 years ago, but have become very prominent in other tourist communities. I would like to see a comprehensive business plan that addresses such important considerations as financial feasibility, operational logistics and management, number of days per year needed for financial solvency, and expected attendance numbers.”

“Cultural Park has the potential to be much more than just an amphitheatre. It could evolve into a vibrant community hub with amenities such as a recreation centre, IT hub, lush gardens, sheltered areas and disabled accessible walking paths. Imagine community concerts and gatherings being held here, where everyone can come together and enjoy one of the most breathtaking spots in our beautiful city. With thoughtful planning, Cultural Park has the potential to become a gathering place.”

Q: The City Council says short-term rentals are an obstacle to affordable housing in Sedona. What can the City Council do to reduce short-term rentals? What can the City Council do to bring the average home price down to something moderate-income residents can afford?

A: “We cannot restrict short-term rentals without significant pressure on the state legislature. We have been dragging our feet for years. If the state were to allow some urban control, I believe they should limit the total percentage of STRs to a number that residents agree to. Existing STRs that exceed the percentage would be exceptions, but would not be allowed in future sales of these properties. This approach seeks to gradually reduce the number of STRs over time while preserving existing property rights. Over time, this would balance out home prices.

“In the meantime, we should be promoting our first-time buyer programs more aggressively.”

Q: What actions do you think the city should take to increase homeownership rates among working adults?

A: “I believe there are several ways the City can boost homeownership for workers. First, offering financial assistance to first-time homebuyers can help ease the upfront costs of buying a home, especially for those just starting out. Additionally, exploring housing expansion in the Dells, which is governed by Yavapai County zoning regulations, provides opportunities for housing options without the need for a zone change. This includes a variety of housing types, including tiny homes, manufactured homes, modular homes, condos, townhouses, single-family homes and apartments. This diversity lowers the income threshold required for homeownership and provides a wider range of choices.”

“Additionally, providing workshops on the benefits of homeownership and available resources helps people make informed decisions about their housing aspirations. By offering financial literacy classes and access to first-time homebuyer programs, the City is able to equip individuals with the tools they need to achieve their homeownership goals.”

Editor's note:

There are three open seats on the Sedona City Council in the 2024 election. Four candidates are running 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.