Championing Flagstaff’s Local Businesses

Flagstaff’s small businesses are the heart of our community. They create jobs, strengthen our local economy, and give our town its unique character. As a City Council member with over 35 years in the financial industry and more than a decade as a small business consultant, I understand the real challenges our entrepreneurs face every day — from rising costs to burdensome regulations.

My commitment is clear: I will continue to champion Flagstaff’s local businesses with smart, practical policies that cut unnecessary bureaucracy, support sustainable growth, and maintain the fiscal responsibility that keeps our community affordable and vibrant.

Understanding the Pressures on Small Businesses

I recognize that Flagstaff’s minimum wage ordinance — which recently increased to $18.35 per hour with the elimination of the tip credit — has placed significant pressure on our small business community. Higher labor costs make it harder for independent restaurants, shops, and service providers to stay profitable while keeping prices reasonable for residents and visitors.

Drawing on my extensive experience working directly with business owners, I have actively listened to their concerns and fought for practical, balanced modifications to the ordinance. My goal is to find a better path forward: supporting fair wages for workers while ensuring our entrepreneurs and job creators can thrive, not just survive.

A strong, resilient local business community is essential to Flagstaff’s future. When our small businesses succeed, we all benefit through more jobs, a vibrant downtown, and a healthier local economy that helps keep housing and living costs in check.

Join Me in Supporting Flagstaff’s Local Economy

I’m proud to stand with our local business owners as we work together to reduce red tape, promote smart economic development, and build policies that work for both workers and employers.

Together, we can keep Flagstaff a place where small businesses can grow, create opportunity, and continue making our community special.

Support my campaign today by volunteering, donating, or sharing this message with your friends and neighbors. Let’s champion the businesses that make Flagstaff thrive!