You are here: Home / Archives for Jim Waring

Wes Gullett to call for an end to automatic pay increases

November 1, 2011 By Leave a Comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 1, 2011
CONTACT: Daniel Scarpinato

PHOENIX — Mayoral candidate Wes Gullett will announce plans on Wednesday to end automatic annual pay increases for city employees, part of a compensation and benefit reform plan designed to save taxpayer dollars. Gullett will be joined at a 1:30 p.m. press conference outside the Historic City Hall by City Councilmen Sal DiCiccio and Jim Waring.

The 2011-2012 budget included pay increases for 89 percent of city employees, at a cost of $28 million. In some years (for example, 2009-10) almost 100 percent of employees received a pay increase.

Gullett’s plan would treat pay raises as an incentive for performance, rather than an entitlement.

When: Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2011; 1:30 p.m.

Where: West side of Historic City Hall, 200 W. Jefferson

Contact: Daniel Scarpinato

###

 

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Elected Officials, Press Release Tagged With: , , , , ,

Wes Gullett releases plan to cut red tape

September 22, 2011 By 5 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 22, 2011
CONTACT: Daniel Scarpinato

PHOENIX – Wes Gullett released his “Less Red Tape Means More Jobs” plan this morning, the centerpiece of which is a plan for same-day permitting.

Under Gullett’s plan (attached), a qualified customer can walk into the city and, meeting the requirements, walk away with a permit on the same day. The plan was unveiled at Copper Star Coffee, a local business that has faced significant challenges in obtaining permits in a timely fashion under the city’s current process.

The plan is supported by four current council members: City Councilmen Sal DiCiccio, Tom Simplot, Bill Gates and Jim Waring, who all appeared with Gullett at today’s press conference to support his plan.

“The City of Phoenix must be ready to move with agility to help our business and community partners get back to work – not stand in their way,” said Gullett. “Streamlining government, reforming the permitting process and updating city regulations and procedures to move plans through the pipeline will dramatically reduce the time and cost of doing business in Phoenix.”

In addition to same-day permitting, the Gullett plan calls for all city departments to engage in a top to bottom review of all regulations and delete those that are unnecessary; a comment period and sunset review on all regulations; consolidating the Planning and Development Services Departments with the Economic Development Department to allow for more direct and immediate support for small businesses; expanding online services for permitting and business services; establishing a single point of contact for major development projects; updating zoning ordinances; and reducing permitting fees.

“The importance of this plan and what it means for jobs, productivity and business could not be clearer,” Gullett said. “We must lead on these issues and build a foundation on rock – not sand. Otherwise, Phoenix will find itself continuously falling behind other cities that are making reforms to ensure economic development. We cannot afford the status quo.”

###

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Entitlements, Government Reform, Press Release, Regulations Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Phoenix election results: Republicans prepare to retake Phoenix

August 31, 2011 By 23 Comments

Yesterday, the City of Phoenix wrapped up its first round of elections by finalizing who will fill at least three council seats.

(See Results)

Former State Senator, Jim Waring and current councilmen, Bill Gates and Michael Nowakowski easily won their primaries with Waring overcoming interim councilman Bryan Jeffries and Gates fending off a challenge by Steven Gross. Both districts traditionally elect Republicans but in District 7, Democrat Michael Nowakowski won handily against conservative populist challenger, Janet Contreras.

In District 1, it appears that incumbent Thelda Williams may hold on to the 50% plus one votes to win re-election from newcomer conservative challenger, Eric Frederick. Frederick’s supporters are holding out hope that uncounted ballots will deprive Williams the 50% plus one margin for Frederick to continue into a runoff election against her. Ballots will continue to be counted with an unofficial final result announced Friday.

Union-supported Democrat Daniel Valuenzuela may have anchored 42% of the vote in Council District Five but he most certainly will face a runoff against either Republicans Brenda Sperduti or Eric Sloan. At last count, only 27 votes separated both Republicans with Sperduti holding the lead. Tea Party activists had high hopes for Charlie Ellis who finished in 4th place.

But the real excitement occurred in the Phoenix Mayor’s race where Democrat Greg Stanton won almost 38% of the vote. Grouped behind him were five Republicans who combined, secured the remaining 62% of the vote. Republican Wes Gullett captured the highest number of votes at 20.54% guaranteeing him a spot in the runoff election. Following Gullett, were former councilmen Peggy Neely and Claude Mattox. Tea Party candidate, Jennifer Wright, who entered the race at the last minute finished with 11.47% of the vote with unknown Anna Brennan finishing last with almost 5% of the vote.

Republicans now have clear choices in the runoff election to be held in November with Wes Gullett at the head of the ticket. (Incidentally, I believe we broke the story of Wes Gullett entering the mayor’s race right here on Sonoran Alliance.)

Greg Stanton is known as a progressive San Francisco-style liberal Democrat which allows Wes Gullett to run the remainder of the campaign demonstrating a far more mainstream approach of governing the 6th most populated city in America. If Republicans consolidate votes from each of the other campaigns behind Wes Gullett, it is very likely Gullett will be the next Mayor of Phoenix.

Now my editorial.

It’s time to solidify support behind Wes Gullett. Phoenicians cannot afford a liberal progressive mayor like Greg Stanton. Stanton would bring a San Francisco, Gavin Newsom governing-style to Phoenix which would ultimately bankrupt the city. The good news is that Councilman Sal DiCiccio and Bill Gates have another conservative voice and ally on the council in Jim Waring. Should Thelda Williams win re-election (which appears likely) having Jim Waring join the team of conservatives will hopefully put pressure on Thelda to behave herself on votes regarding taxes on water, food and corporate subsidies.

Heading into the runoff set for November will be an exciting exercise in rallying behind a mayoral candidate who is dramatically ideologically different from his liberal Democratic opponent. Depending on who earns second place in district five will may also spark some excitement. Republican Eric Sloan could turn that race into a union vs the taxpayers campaign but a Sperduti win would deflate conservative hopes for reform against the union candidate, Valenzuela.

For those who find their campaigns at the end of the line, don’t rule them out of future political endeavors. This may very well be the beginning for several of them. Politics is oftentimes seen as a war of ideas and their campaigns may only be one battle in the effort to win the overall war.

Congratulations to Wes Gullett, Jim Waring, Bill Gates and the Democratic opponents! Thanks to those who gave it their best effort: Peggy Neely, Claude Mattox, and Jennifer Wright. Now it’s on to the runoff election in November in the battle for Phoenix.

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

City of Phoenix Elections – My Picks

August 29, 2011 By 9 Comments

The City of Phoenix Elections are finalized tomorrow with the polls closing at 7 PM. Several people have asked me who I would vote for if I were a resident of Phoenix. Here are my picks and a little advice as the outcome.

Mayor: Jennifer Wright
I have know Jennifer for over a year and believe she is what the City of Phoenix needs right now. She is an extremely hard worker ( worked with her) and there is no doubt in my mind that she would give 110% to the job. She is very conservative and I believe she would be a strong advocate for Phoenix taxpayers. She was the only mayoral candidate who completed and returned the Arizona Taxpayer’s Action Committee candidate questionnaire – which earned her an endorsment. (Disclaimer: I serve on the political action committee.) But a word of healthy caution. While we all like to rally behind our own candidate choices, we must remember that whoever wins tomorrow – and my guess is there will be a runoff – we all need to get behind that candidate in the runoff election.

District 1: Eric Frederick
Eric has worked very hard on this campaign to explain to the voters that he will not be like the current incumbent who voted for CityNorth, the 2% sales tax on food, the water rate hike and budgets that gave the government unions what they want. Hands down, Eric Frederick is the choice for City Council in District 1.

District 2: Jim Waring
I’ve know Jim Waring for several years and his voting record has demonstrated a commitment to taxpayers. Jim has worked extremely hard as a challenger to unseat the incumbent who is the head of one of the biggest government unions. I believe Jim Waring will carry over his strong advocacy for smaller, leaner, more responsive government to the City of Phoenix.

District 3: Bill Gates
Councilman Bill Gates has done a good job while serving on the council. I believe he deserves another term but I also believe he deserves some help in numbers. Both Sal DiCiccio and Bill Gates have done their best to hold back the current council but this election affords the opportunity to strengthen those numbers and get the City of Phoenix back on track.

District 5: Charlie Ellis
Charlie Ellis would make a great addition to the Phoenix Council in a district that has been hurting and requires someone with more of a conservative populist approach to governance. Charlie has worked this campaign hard meeting with a diverse cross section of people across the district. He will add a grassroots voice to the council once elected.

District 7: Janet Contreras
I have also know Janet Contreras for some time now and have seen her in action. Janet would also bring a strong populist, grassroots, citizen-advocate voice to the Phoenix Council. This is just what the City of Phoenix needs at a time when government unions are attempting to extract more money from the taxpayers while people are hurting. Janet deserves your vote.

Proposition 1: VOTE NO
Passage of Proposition 1 will allow the City of Phoenix to circumvent the Arizona Constitution’s limit on government growth. That constitutional provision limits a large portion of city government spending to a population plus growth formula. Every election cycle, cities such as Phoenix, ask the voters to usurp that constitutional limit so that it can actually spend more than the conservative population plus growth formula. Well, it’s on the ballot again. This time, the voters of Phoenix should vote NO on Proposition 1 (more info).

Disclaimer: These are my personal endorsements and not that of Sonoran Alliance (which has not issued any endorsements).

 

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Endorsements Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,

Jim Waring Receives Endorsement of Sheriff Joe Arpaio

August 2, 2011 By Leave a Comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 2, 2011
CONTACT: Jim Waring

Phoenix, AZ – Jim Waring, Republican Candidate for Phoenix City Council, proudly announced today that Sheriff Joe Arpaio has endorsed his campaign.

“I’m supporting Jim Waring for City Council because I know he will always put the interests of his constituents first, especially in supporting law enforcement to keep our communities safe. Please join me in supporting Jim Waring for Phoenix City Council,” said Arpaio.

“I am pleased to announce today that Sheriff Joe Arpaio has endorsed my campaign. Sheriff Joe has worked tirelessly to make Maricopa County a safer place. I am honored to have the endorsement of the nation’s toughest sheriff. I will continue to make public safety a priority as I did during my time in the legislature. I am dedicated to supporting public safety issues to ensure the City of Phoenix is a safe place to live and work.,” said Jim Waring.

###

Jim Waring is the Republican candidate for Phoenix City Council in District 2. He previously served in the Arizona State Senate from 2003 – 2010, where he was named Champion of the Taxpayer for his efforts to reign in government spending and reduce waste. 

To learn more, visit JimWaring.com.

 

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Elected Officials, Endorsements Tagged With: , ,

Arizona Taxpayer’s Action Committee Announces Endorsement of Jim Waring for Phoenix Council

August 1, 2011 By 3 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday August 1, 2011
CONTACT: info@arizonataxpayeraction.com

(Phoenix, AZ) – The Arizona Taxpayer Action Committee is pleased to announce the endorsement of former State Senator, Jim Waring, in the race for Phoenix City Council, District Two.

During his service in the Arizona State Senate, Jim Waring earned the title of ‘Champion’ and ‘Friend of the Taxpayer,’ a ranking bestowed by the Arizona Chapter of Americans for Prosperity, the largest grassroots taxpayer educational organization in the State of Arizona.

Shane Wikfors, Treasurer of the Arizona Taxpayer’s Action Committee, commented on the race, “Our expectations are high as we anticipate the difficult decisions ahead for the City of Phoenix but we believe Jim’s experience, wisdom and temperament will prevail in bringing sound fiscal sanity back to city governance.”

The Arizona Taxpayer’s Action Committee issued this critical endorsement days ahead of thousands of early ballots being mailed to Phoenix voters on Thursday, August 4th.

Candidates were asked a variety of questions related to tax rates, types of taxation, city budgeting, unions and the growth of city government. The survey is available online here.

“The race for District Two is the epitome of the battle between government unions and taxpayers,” Wikfors said. “We believe Jim Waring represents the interests of taxpayers and will hold special interest government unions in check,” he said.

The PAC is expected to make one final endorsements in the race for Phoenix Councils, District 3 and, in the mayoral and council races in Tucson.

The Arizona Taxpayer’s Action Committee (ATAC) is the largest taxpayer advocacy political action committee in Arizona. ATAC recently participated in and won a landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision eliminating the matching funds provision of Arizona’s “Clean Election” law.

For more information about the Arizona Taxpayer’s Action Committee, please visit www.ArizonaTaxpayerAction.com or email the committee at info@arizonataxpayeraction.com.

###

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Endorsements, Pledges, Press Release Tagged With: , ,

Arizona Right to Life PAC Announces Endorsements for Phoenix City Council

July 30, 2011 By 2 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 30, 2011
CONTACT: AZRTL PAC

(PHOENIX, AZ) AZRTL PAC based the following determinations on the candidate’s answers to the AZRTL PAC questionnaire, their history of pro-life involvement, any history of voting on abortion related legislation, and their chances of defeating pro-abortion candidates.

The AZRTL PAC supports pro-life candidates at all levels of government, even if the pro-life issue may never come before them. We want to ensure that we elect solid pro-life candidates at all levels of government.

AZRTL PAC endorses the following candidates for Phoenix City Council:

District 1: Eric Fredrick

District 2: Jim Waring

District 3: Bill Gates

District 5: Charlie Ellis

District 7: Janet Contreras

The Arizona Right to Life Political Action Committee is Arizona’s oldest, largest, and strongest political pro-life organization. To learn more about Arizona Right to Life, please visit our website at www.azrtl.org

###

Filed Under: City Government, Endorsements, Press Release, Sanctity of Life Tagged With: , , , , ,

Jim Waring Receives Endorsement of Sheriff Paul Babeu & Councilman Bill Gates

July 28, 2011 By 1 Comment

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 28, 2011
CONTACT: Jim Waring

Phoenix, AZ – Jim Waring, Republican Candidate for Phoenix City Council, proudly announced today that his campaign has been endorsed by Sheriff Paul Babeu and Phoenix City Councilman Bill Gates.

“Jim Waring has an unmatched record as a taxpayer watchdog and supporter of tough laws that have reduced drunk driving and domestic violence. As a veteran, I know that we’ve seldom had a better friend in public office than Jim Waring.” said Babeu. “Phoenix is by far the biggest city in Arizona. For our state to work, we desperately need Phoenix to work. I have worked hard to bring transparency and honest government to Pinal County, and wherever good candidates like Waring seek to do the same, they will have my support.”

Councilman Bill Gates had this to say, “Today I announced that I am endorsing Jim Waring for Phoenix City Council District 2. Jim has been a good friend for many years and will be a great ally to have at City Hall.”

“Sheriff Babeu and Councilman Gates are long time friends, and I am pleased to have received their endorsements. Councilman Gates and Sheriff Babeu are working hard to make the City of Phoenix and State of Arizona a better place. I look forward to working closely with Councilman Gates to make sure that we do what is right for the citizens of Phoenix,” said Waring.

###

Jim Waring is the Republican candidate for Phoenix City Council in District 2. He previously served in the Arizona State Senate from 2003 – 2010, where he was named Champion of the Taxpayer for his efforts to reign in government spending and reduce waste. 

To learn more, visit JimWaring.com.

 

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Elected Officials, Endorsements, Press Release Tagged With: , , ,

Sheriff Babeu to endorse Waring, Gates for Phoenix City Council and Oppose DiCiccio Recall

July 28, 2011 By 5 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 28, 2011
CONTACT: Chris DeRose

Supports bringing fiscal sanity and transparency to City Hall

Sheriff Paul Babeu announced today that he will endorse Jim Waring in Council District 2 and the re-election of Councilman Bill Gates in Council District 3. “I’ve been privileged to know these two exemplary public officials for years. Bill Gates has been a tireless voice on the council for fiscal sanity and public safety. Jim Waring has an unmatched record as a taxpayer watchdog and supporter of tough laws that have reduced drunk driving and domestic violence. As a veteran, I know that we’ve seldom had a better friend in public office than Jim Waring.”

Sheriff Babeu will also announce his opposition to the recall of Councilman Sal Diciccio. “Nobody has done more than Sal Diciccio to shine a spotlight on the practices at City Hall. He has been targeted for favoring a government of, by, and for the people — not of, by, and for the insiders. All Arizonans have a vested interest in keeping him right where he is — asking the tough questions and demanding the public get answers.”

“Phoenix is by far the biggest city in Arizona. For our state to work, we desperately need Phoenix to work. I have worked hard to bring transparency and honest government to Pinal County, and wherever good candidates like Diciccio, Gates, and Waring seek to do the same, they will have my support.”

The endorsement will take place on Thursday, July 28th, at the Arizona State Capitol at noon. Press and members of the public are welcome.

###

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Conservatives, Elected Officials, Endorsements Tagged With: , , , ,

Waring Receives Endorsement of Phoenix Association of REALTORS®

June 23, 2011 By 3 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 23, 2011
CONTACT: Jim Waring

Organization of more than 9,000 Real Estate Professionals Cites Pro-Growth Agenda

PHOENIX, AZ- Jim Waring, Republican Candidate for Phoenix City Council, today proudly announced that his campaign has been endorsed by the Phoenix Association of REALTORS® (PAR).

“As a matter of good government, Phoenix needs leaders who are willing to challenge the status quo with new ideas and a vision to enhance our economic future,” said PAR President Susan Ramsey. “At a time when it’s difficult to find the political courage to cut debt, taxes, and spending, we need leaders willing to stand up and say we’re going to do more to help our citizens.”

“I am grateful for the support of PAR, and I look forward to serving my community as we seek an economic rebound to these down times. This includes leading the charge to strengthen the health of our real estate market in the Valley,” said Jim Waring, who has made the city’s economy-including cutting the city budget and holding the line on taxes-a cornerstone of his campaign.

Waring has previously received numerous accolades for his work on behalf of limited government. He has been named a Champion of the Taxpayer by the Arizona Federation of Taxpayers, and a Guardian of Small Business by the National Federation of Independent and Small Business.

###

Jim Waring is the Republican candidate for Phoenix City Council in District 2. He previously served in the Arizona State Senate from 2003 – 2010, where he was named Champion of the Taxpayer for his efforts to reign in government spending and reduce waste. To learn more, visit JimWaring.com.

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, Endorsements, Press Release Tagged With:

Waring Receives Endorsement of Arizona Conference of Police and Sheriffs

June 22, 2011 By 2 Comments

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 22, 2011
CONTACT:  Jim Waring

Waring Receives Endorsement of Arizona Conference of Police and Sheriffs

Organization for police cites Waring’s “Unwavering Support for Public Safety”

PHOENIX, AZ – Jim Waring, Republican Candidate for Phoenix City Council, today proudly announced that his campaign has been endorsed by the Arizona Conference of Police and Sheriffs (AZCOPS).

Larry Lopez, President of AZCOPS, cited Jim Waring’s “unwavering support for public safety issues.”

“I am very pleased and honored to receive this endorsement,” said Waring. “Public safety has always been a top issue for me in public life, and it will continue to be a top priority for me when I represent my neighbors on the Phoenix City Council.”

Waring has previously received numerous accolades for his work on behalf of public safety. Aside from being a graduate of the Phoenix Citizens’ Police Academy, Waring was the Men’s Anti-Violence Network’s Man of the Year, and authored the state’s toughest DUI laws, which has reduced fatalities related to drinking and driving.

###

Jim Waring is the Republican candidate for Phoenix City Council in District 2. He previously served in the Arizona State Senate from 2003 – 2010, where he was named Champion of the Taxpayer for his efforts to reign in government spending and reduce waste.

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, City Government, Endorsements, Press Release Tagged With: ,

Friday Poll: Which Republican should run for CD-2?

March 25, 2011 By 22 Comments

This week’s Friday Poll is now up and we’re asking which Republican should run for CD-2 should Congressman Trent Franks enter the race for US Senate?

We’ve ruled out a number of potential candidates who we know have not shown any interest but we’re allowing “Other” to be an option in the poll.

Again, the poll will be open one week and repeat voting is blocked in an attempt to make the poll more accurate.

Cast your vote!

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, Polls Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,

Jim Waring to Announce for CD-3

January 15, 2010 By 7 Comments

Senator Jim Waring will make an official announcement at 1 PM today regarding his entry into the Congressional District 3 race. Waring, who is currently running for State Treasurer, is expected to announce withdrawing from the Treasurer’s race leaving the primary a little less crowded. (State Senator Barbara Leff and former State Representative Ted Carpenter are also seeking the Treasurer’s seat. Senator Thayer Verschoor has yet to form an official committee for State Treasurer.)

Still likely to announce for CD-3,  is State Senator Pamela Gorman. State Representative Sam Crump has already announced his intention to seek the seat being vacated by John Shadegg.

On the Democratic side, Phoenix Mayor, Phil Gordon, is seriously considering a bid for the seat.

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections Tagged With: , , , ,

Bouie Picks up two more endorsments

July 31, 2008 By 68 Comments

The endorsement battle in LD-6 continues to heat up as Tony Bouie picks up two more endorsments – Senator Jim Waring (LD-7) and the Arizona Realtors PAC.

Filed Under: Campaigns & Elections, Endorsements, Press Release Tagged With: ,