As a Member of the Phoenix City Council, Joan Greene Would Work to Build a Better Tomorrow for District Six Residents

Running on “It’s time to stop the division, stop the political bickering and move our city forward,” twice Arizona Congressional District Five Democratic Nominee Joan Greene has decided to run for the District Six seat on the Phoenix City Council in the 2022 election cycle.

A successful business person, community volunteer, and activist, Ms. Greene vows, if elected to succeed the retiring Sal DiCiccio, to “stand for safety, security, and our Arizona values.”

 If elected in November 2022, she is committed to:

• Helping the homeless and reducing their numbers.
• Promote expanded “attainable and healthy”
• Fostering workplace development and small business assistance.
• Fighting corruption.
• Supporting public safety and law enforcement accountability.
• Championing clean energy sustainable infrastructure and fighting rises in pollution.
• Expanding community infrastructures like increased bike lanes, expanded shading for bus stops and parks, and well-maintained sidewalks and community parks.

Ms. Greene graciously took the time to discuss her candidacy for District Six of the Phoenix City Council.

The questions and her responses are below.

1) What are at least two reasons you want to run for a term on the Phoenix City Council?

“I am running for Phoenix City Council because the current health, economic and political crisis has made it clear to all of us local elections matter. I am passionate and focused on the needs of the community and I am a problem solver. I know I can make a positive difference in our District and have a city that is inclusive for all.”

2) What are at least two qualifications you have to serve on the Phoenix City Council?

“I am a Phoenix native. I grew up and live in District Six.

 I have seen firsthand how Phoenix has grown and changed.  The neighborhood where I grew up used to have fruit orchards. Now the SR 51 runs through it. When I moved to Ahwatukee in 1993, the corner of Ray and I-10 was literally a dump. We didn’t have stores or homes west of the freeway for miles. Obviously, that is no longer the case, but we do need additional housing that includes safe communities, development for the change in community needs, and protecting our environment.

 I built a 34-year business that started with only $500 which was enough to buy business cards and stationery. I know the dreams and struggles of those who want their American dream. I can help with reducing red tape and ideas on how to strengthen their business.

My clients range from small by design businesses to billion-dollar corporations. They work with me because when they have a problem, I can help solve it.

 In the late ’60s, my grandmother was the second woman to be elected to Phoenix City Council. From a young age, I was taught the value of public service and community-building.

 My real-life examples show the importance of knowing the history of the community and I have the proven skills to solve the problems of today and tomorrow. I have a bold vision, common-sense solutions, and compassion to solve our daunting challenges which will move District Six to a better future.”

3) Please explain why you are running for the City Council and not again for Congressional District Five?

 “I am so proud of the work and overwhelming support I received as a Candidate for Congressional District Five. I demonstrated that I could unite a diverse community around our kitchen table issues but it was time to pass the baton to another candidate who will continue to move CD5 forward.

Phoenix is where I was born, educated, started a business, raised my family and volunteer. I am running to make a difference in our district.

Phoenix City Council is a “boots on the ground” position. I excel at talking with the people in the community and speaking with experts so we can solve problems together.

 The people in D6 have real concerns and they do not feel they have a voice. I will have community events throughout District Six and respond to questions in a timely manner.

I have already started the process of visiting our neighbors. For one community member, I found the answer to their problem and responded to them with the result within a day.

I know when we work together, we thrive together.”

4) What are the three most important issues facing Phoenix that you would like to work on if you are elected to the Phoenix City Council? Please explain. 

“These are only three of the important kitchen table issues the people of District 6 are talking about:

• Attainable and healthy housing. Rents are rising faster than paychecks. Teachers and first responders are not able to live in the neighborhoods they work in. People are being forced to relocate to a different neighborhood because the rent increase is no longer within their financial means. We need more multi-generational housing options, density buildings, and walkable communities so people can work, play, access to health and childcare, and food stores within 15 – 20 minutes of where they live. This includes reliable public transportation options.

• Public Safety. We need more police, and we need to do a better job screening the applicants. Longer training times and removing the people with a history of racism or violence. Fund more social and mental health experts to help on calls that will diffuse escalation. Increase transparency and accountability.
• Environmental Protection. Arizona should be the leader in solar and I will champion the benefit of natural resources. Protecting our land, water and air must be a top priority. I will work with the City of Phoenix and council members on the programs they have in place and work with experts to implement best practices from other cities or countries.”

 

5) Is there anything not covered in the first four questions that you would like the readers to know about you and your candidacy to the City Council? Please explain. 

 “City Council is not a stepping stone to a future political position or job. I am focused and passionate about representing the District I grew up and live in.

 My father was one of the original developers of Munds Park and I spent my high school summers working there. I experienced first-hand how a community is built and comes together.

We need more people in elected office who are compassionate. I spent my adult life working to help non-profits and volunteering. I know how important it is to extend a hand to those in need. The hand we extend today may be what the person needs to walk a path to a bright future.

I am an animal rescue advocate and will make sure our public lands and animals are protected. I am also working with Jagger, my golden retriever, to be certified as a therapy dog to bring comfort to those in hospice.

 Phoenix will be stronger when we work together with our sister cities. For example, Mesa is the ‘World’s First Autism Certified City’. I have already started discussing with Mesa their blueprint to success and I would like Phoenix to work towards becoming an Autism Certified City.

 I will work with the Parks Department and have the proper playground equipment installed so children, adults, and families of all abilities can play together. Inviting partnerships with private companies to sponsor the equipment or a destination park is a way to include our business community.

 I am running for Phoenix City Council for community interest and not self-interest. There are so many opportunities to make a difference for our families and businesses and we can do it together.

I look forward to rolling up my sleeves and getting to work as your Councilwoman. It is our community and our future.”

Please click on the below social media links for more information on Joan Greene and her candidacy for District Six on the Phoenix City Council.

https://www.joangreeneaz.com/

https://www.facebook.com/JoanGreeneAZ/

Twitter: @joangreeneaz

 

 

 

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