John Crane
John Crane has served nearly 4 years on the Carefree Town Council and more than a year as the current Vice Mayor.
John is a 27 year resident of Carefree and has enjoyed actively serving the community in various roles. Prior to his appointment to the Carefree Town Council in 2012 and election to Council in 2013, John served on the Carefree Subdivision Committee and as the Vice Chairman of the Carefree Planning and Zoning Commission. John is serving his eighth year as president and board member of the Carefree Foothills Homeowners’ Association, is a Desert Foothills Land Trust board member and is an Arizona Site Steward monitoring Indian archeological sites in the Cave Creek / Carefree area.
John earned a BS degree in Mathematics from Villanova University in 1978 and a MS degree in Systems Management from the University of Southern California in 1985. After serving seven years as a nuclear submarine officer, he entered the electronics field. For the past 22 years, as a business owner, he has served as a sales representative for Asian, European, and US semiconductor material and equipment suppliers to customers in North America.
In their spare time, John and Betsy Lynn enjoy hiking, fly fishing and exploring Arizona.
Best regards,
John Crane
- What aspects of your education, experience and current situation best enable you to make a solid contribution to Carefree as a member of the Town Council?
I will bring a fiscally conservative, reasonable and logical thought process to the Carefree town council and a passion to do what is right for the Town. As a believer that local government, where citizens are closest to the government, is the only level of government that works, I believe it is imperative that local government work properly, be responsive, listen and be accessible to the citizens. After nearly 22 years as a successful self-employed business owner, I understand the needs and concerns of small business owners and will work to create an opportunity for their success without compromising the character of the Town.
- What do you think should be Carefree's long-term priorities, and what should be addressed and accomplished during the next two years to help secure these long-term priorities?
Carefree has a financial reserve approximating $6 million or about the value of our annual budget. We must maintain and grow this reserve to ensure the funding of Town services even during lean times. I am proud that we fund our local government without a local property tax, but reliance upon a sales tax revenue stream requires strong economic development. Successful economic development and commercial activity are key to funding the town, while bringing civic pride, encouraging restaurants and entertainment and enhancing quality of life. Infrastructure is now in place to encourage economic development. Now we must work with landlords, business owners and citizens to entice new businesses to set up shop within our Town and strengthen current businesses so as to maintain that revenue stream. To enhance the business environment, we must return Carefree to being a destination for both visitors and Valley wide residents by focusing on a limited number of quality art festivals and art and cultural themed attractions that bring value not only to the business community but to citizens as well. Listening and involving the townspeople in this process is key to success.
- How do you plan to contribute to developing and achieving Carefree's priorities during the next two years?
With infrastructure in place to encourage economic development, now is the time to build upon that foundation by working with landlords and businesses to encourage investment. Although I would not spend public funds directly on these landlords and businesses, I will facilitate cooperation between these two groups to make their investments more successful. I will ensure that Carefree continues to market and promote our town, while being sensitive to protecting and enhancing its character.
John is a 27 year resident of Carefree and has enjoyed actively serving the community in various roles. Prior to his appointment to the Carefree Town Council in 2012 and election to Council in 2013, John served on the Carefree Subdivision Committee and as the Vice Chairman of the Carefree Planning and Zoning Commission. John is serving his eighth year as president and board member of the Carefree Foothills Homeowners’ Association, is a Desert Foothills Land Trust board member and is an Arizona Site Steward monitoring Indian archeological sites in the Cave Creek / Carefree area.
John earned a BS degree in Mathematics from Villanova University in 1978 and a MS degree in Systems Management from the University of Southern California in 1985. After serving seven years as a nuclear submarine officer, he entered the electronics field. For the past 22 years, as a business owner, he has served as a sales representative for Asian, European, and US semiconductor material and equipment suppliers to customers in North America.
In their spare time, John and Betsy Lynn enjoy hiking, fly fishing and exploring Arizona.
Best regards,
John Crane
- What aspects of your education, experience and current situation best enable you to make a solid contribution to Carefree as a member of the Town Council?
I will bring a fiscally conservative, reasonable and logical thought process to the Carefree town council and a passion to do what is right for the Town. As a believer that local government, where citizens are closest to the government, is the only level of government that works, I believe it is imperative that local government work properly, be responsive, listen and be accessible to the citizens. After nearly 22 years as a successful self-employed business owner, I understand the needs and concerns of small business owners and will work to create an opportunity for their success without compromising the character of the Town.
- What do you think should be Carefree's long-term priorities, and what should be addressed and accomplished during the next two years to help secure these long-term priorities?
Carefree has a financial reserve approximating $6 million or about the value of our annual budget. We must maintain and grow this reserve to ensure the funding of Town services even during lean times. I am proud that we fund our local government without a local property tax, but reliance upon a sales tax revenue stream requires strong economic development. Successful economic development and commercial activity are key to funding the town, while bringing civic pride, encouraging restaurants and entertainment and enhancing quality of life. Infrastructure is now in place to encourage economic development. Now we must work with landlords, business owners and citizens to entice new businesses to set up shop within our Town and strengthen current businesses so as to maintain that revenue stream. To enhance the business environment, we must return Carefree to being a destination for both visitors and Valley wide residents by focusing on a limited number of quality art festivals and art and cultural themed attractions that bring value not only to the business community but to citizens as well. Listening and involving the townspeople in this process is key to success.
- How do you plan to contribute to developing and achieving Carefree's priorities during the next two years?
With infrastructure in place to encourage economic development, now is the time to build upon that foundation by working with landlords and businesses to encourage investment. Although I would not spend public funds directly on these landlords and businesses, I will facilitate cooperation between these two groups to make their investments more successful. I will ensure that Carefree continues to market and promote our town, while being sensitive to protecting and enhancing its character.
Mike Farrar
Michael E. Farrar is honored to run for Town Council a third term. He is Vice President and Designated Broker of Elliott Homes in Arizona, has more than thirty years of real estate expertise and a list of highly notable accomplishments in residential development and vast experience in transactional commercial brokerage, asset analysis, feasibility and financial analysis, entitlements, and project management.
In addition to his duties as a town councilman, Mike serves on the Regional Council and Economic Development Committee of the Maricopa Association of Governments, Board member of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, member of the Phoenix Committee on Foreign Relations, Urban Land Institute, and the Homebuilders Association of Central Arizona.
Michael is committed to preserving and nurturing the qualities that make Carefree unique, and which afford a wonderful lifestyle to our citizens, along with great public services and amenities. His goal is to continue to promote respect, honesty, and trust to the partnership between Carefree’s citizens, business owners, and their elected representatives.
“Effective town government must be open, responsive and responsible and allow all voices to be heard with dignity.”
In his free time he enjoys golf, yoga, judo and can be seen with his lovely granddaughter walking with their wheaten terrier through town from time to time.
Born and educated in Arizona, Michael graduated Cum Laude from Northern Arizona University W.A. Franke College of Business with a Bachelor's of Science in Economics. He then went on to earn double International MBA's from Thunderbird School of Global Management, and the Helsinki School of Economics in Finland.
Sponsored by Committee: Michael Farrar for Town Council
- What aspects of your education, experience and current situation best enable you to make a solid contribution to Carefree as a member of the Town Council?
I have been honored to serve on Town Council for two terms and am looking forward to a third term. As Vice President and Designated Broker of Elliott Homes in Arizona, I have more than thirty years of real estate expertise in residential development, transactional real estate brokerage, asset analysis, feasibility and financial analysis, entitlements, and project management.
In addition to my duties as a town councilman, I also serve on the Regional Council and Economic Development Committee of the Maricopa Association of Governments, Board member of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, member of the Phoenix Committee on Foreign Relations, Urban Land Institute, and the Homebuilders Association of Central Arizona.
Born and educated in Arizona, graduating Cum Laude from Northern Arizona University W.A. Franke College of Business with a Bachelor's of Science in Economics, and subsequently earned double International MBA's from Thunderbird School of Global Management, and the Helsinki School of Economics in Finland.
- What do you think should be Carefree's long-term priorities, and what should be addressed and accomplished during the next two years to help secure these long-term priorities?
Carefree’s focus should remain on economic development and marketing in order to sustain the level of town services offered to our community, and retain and attract new businesses within Carefree. In the absence of property taxes, our community’s primarily source of funds for town services and community infrastructure improvements are obtained by retail sales tax revenue. In addition, the town must continually invest in our 10 year street maintenance program to insure our street assets, of over 105 miles, are sustained at a level that promotes safety along with an appealing visual. The combination of the above priorities will continue to promote residential and commercial real estate values, and a lifestyle that Carefree has become known for both regionally and internationally.
- How do you plan to contribute to developing and achieving Carefree's priorities during the next two years?
I have a deep love for Carefree and commitment to it’s continued steadfast and fiscally responsible investments in community improvements and services. As a community champion, I will continue my sincere efforts to preserve and nurture the qualities that make Carefree unique, and which afford a wonderful lifestyle to our citizens, along with great public services and amenities. My goal is to continue to promote respect, honesty, and trust to the partnership between Carefree’s citizens, business owners, and their elected representatives.
In addition to his duties as a town councilman, Mike serves on the Regional Council and Economic Development Committee of the Maricopa Association of Governments, Board member of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, member of the Phoenix Committee on Foreign Relations, Urban Land Institute, and the Homebuilders Association of Central Arizona.
Michael is committed to preserving and nurturing the qualities that make Carefree unique, and which afford a wonderful lifestyle to our citizens, along with great public services and amenities. His goal is to continue to promote respect, honesty, and trust to the partnership between Carefree’s citizens, business owners, and their elected representatives.
“Effective town government must be open, responsive and responsible and allow all voices to be heard with dignity.”
In his free time he enjoys golf, yoga, judo and can be seen with his lovely granddaughter walking with their wheaten terrier through town from time to time.
Born and educated in Arizona, Michael graduated Cum Laude from Northern Arizona University W.A. Franke College of Business with a Bachelor's of Science in Economics. He then went on to earn double International MBA's from Thunderbird School of Global Management, and the Helsinki School of Economics in Finland.
Sponsored by Committee: Michael Farrar for Town Council
- What aspects of your education, experience and current situation best enable you to make a solid contribution to Carefree as a member of the Town Council?
I have been honored to serve on Town Council for two terms and am looking forward to a third term. As Vice President and Designated Broker of Elliott Homes in Arizona, I have more than thirty years of real estate expertise in residential development, transactional real estate brokerage, asset analysis, feasibility and financial analysis, entitlements, and project management.
In addition to my duties as a town councilman, I also serve on the Regional Council and Economic Development Committee of the Maricopa Association of Governments, Board member of the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, member of the Phoenix Committee on Foreign Relations, Urban Land Institute, and the Homebuilders Association of Central Arizona.
Born and educated in Arizona, graduating Cum Laude from Northern Arizona University W.A. Franke College of Business with a Bachelor's of Science in Economics, and subsequently earned double International MBA's from Thunderbird School of Global Management, and the Helsinki School of Economics in Finland.
- What do you think should be Carefree's long-term priorities, and what should be addressed and accomplished during the next two years to help secure these long-term priorities?
Carefree’s focus should remain on economic development and marketing in order to sustain the level of town services offered to our community, and retain and attract new businesses within Carefree. In the absence of property taxes, our community’s primarily source of funds for town services and community infrastructure improvements are obtained by retail sales tax revenue. In addition, the town must continually invest in our 10 year street maintenance program to insure our street assets, of over 105 miles, are sustained at a level that promotes safety along with an appealing visual. The combination of the above priorities will continue to promote residential and commercial real estate values, and a lifestyle that Carefree has become known for both regionally and internationally.
- How do you plan to contribute to developing and achieving Carefree's priorities during the next two years?
I have a deep love for Carefree and commitment to it’s continued steadfast and fiscally responsible investments in community improvements and services. As a community champion, I will continue my sincere efforts to preserve and nurture the qualities that make Carefree unique, and which afford a wonderful lifestyle to our citizens, along with great public services and amenities. My goal is to continue to promote respect, honesty, and trust to the partnership between Carefree’s citizens, business owners, and their elected representatives.
Mike Krahe
Greetings to all. My name is Dr. Michael J. Krahe and I am running for Town Council. My wife Valerie and I and our two grown children have been year-round residents of Carefree for 8 years. We are transplants from Pennsylvania but are proud to call Carefree our home.
I am a seasoned retired insurance executive with experience in the areas of strategy, human resources and technology. I know how to bring these key business areas together to make a focused approach to align, control, and drive growth and performance. I currently run a professional training organization. I hold a Ph.D. in organizational administration from SUNY-Buffalo and a Master’s Degree in counseling psychology from Gannon University.
I have been involved in town government for the last 4 years, being part of some of the revitalization efforts. I have served on the Planning and Zoning Commission for the last 3 years and currently serve as Vice Chair.
Why do I want to serve you on Council? Our town is on the verge of tremendous positive growth or it can slide and become a ghost town. The work done thus far by Town Council and Town staff has been nothing short of fantastic, in my view. However, more needs to be done and I have the skills to help us keep moving forward together.
I will invite all voices to be heard and respected, work to find common ground, act in an ethical manner for the good of our Carefree and always act in the best interests of our Carefree.
Sponsored by the Committee to elect Michael J. Krahe.
- What aspects of your education, experience and current situation best enable you to make a solid contribution to Carefree as a member of the Town Council?
I have served on the Planning and Zoning Commission for the last three years and know the town issues, concerns and more importantly the needed action to move forward. I have many years of professional experience managing and leading people and overseeing corporate budgets. My core competency is in strategic planning and execution. I know how to build coalitions and find common ground. I am a good listener and respect all viewpoints. I invite discussion and discourse, and work for those things that will grow our town yet keep its unique character and charm.
- What do you think should be Carefree's long-term priorities, and what should be addressed and accomplished during the next two years to help secure these long-term priorities?
Many wonderful town enhancements have been done to date; improved Gardens, bike lanes, archways, a splash pad and more. However, to further secure Carefree’s place in the future we must build a clear, specific, measurable action plan to bring and build economic development. This is job number one in my view. That plan should be shared and vetted with the people of Carefree. If this is not a priority, I fear we will suffer the consequences of a slow decline.
- How do you plan to contribute to developing and achieving Carefree's priorities during the next two years?
My primary focus will be working with Council and the people of Carefree on the development of our go forward economic development plan.
I am a seasoned retired insurance executive with experience in the areas of strategy, human resources and technology. I know how to bring these key business areas together to make a focused approach to align, control, and drive growth and performance. I currently run a professional training organization. I hold a Ph.D. in organizational administration from SUNY-Buffalo and a Master’s Degree in counseling psychology from Gannon University.
I have been involved in town government for the last 4 years, being part of some of the revitalization efforts. I have served on the Planning and Zoning Commission for the last 3 years and currently serve as Vice Chair.
Why do I want to serve you on Council? Our town is on the verge of tremendous positive growth or it can slide and become a ghost town. The work done thus far by Town Council and Town staff has been nothing short of fantastic, in my view. However, more needs to be done and I have the skills to help us keep moving forward together.
I will invite all voices to be heard and respected, work to find common ground, act in an ethical manner for the good of our Carefree and always act in the best interests of our Carefree.
Sponsored by the Committee to elect Michael J. Krahe.
- What aspects of your education, experience and current situation best enable you to make a solid contribution to Carefree as a member of the Town Council?
I have served on the Planning and Zoning Commission for the last three years and know the town issues, concerns and more importantly the needed action to move forward. I have many years of professional experience managing and leading people and overseeing corporate budgets. My core competency is in strategic planning and execution. I know how to build coalitions and find common ground. I am a good listener and respect all viewpoints. I invite discussion and discourse, and work for those things that will grow our town yet keep its unique character and charm.
- What do you think should be Carefree's long-term priorities, and what should be addressed and accomplished during the next two years to help secure these long-term priorities?
Many wonderful town enhancements have been done to date; improved Gardens, bike lanes, archways, a splash pad and more. However, to further secure Carefree’s place in the future we must build a clear, specific, measurable action plan to bring and build economic development. This is job number one in my view. That plan should be shared and vetted with the people of Carefree. If this is not a priority, I fear we will suffer the consequences of a slow decline.
- How do you plan to contribute to developing and achieving Carefree's priorities during the next two years?
My primary focus will be working with Council and the people of Carefree on the development of our go forward economic development plan.
Cheryl Kroyer
Before retiring, Cheryl spent 30 years in the advertising business on a wide range of national consumer goods. She was on the team that introduced American Honda’s Acura brand and worked on businesses as varied as Hunt Wesson foods, Polaroid, Gallo Wines, Porsche Cars and the ‘Got Milk’ campaign among others. As head of media services for these companies, she helped develop marketing strategies, pinpoint the best target audience and devise communications strategies and budgets. She then supervised the negotiating of all advertising dollars with the various media companies: networks, cable, magazines and social media.
Since moving here, she has been involved in a number of volunteer organizations: She served on the Auxiliary Board of Scottsdale Healthcare for three years and published and edited the hospital’s first electronic newsletter. She has also served on the board of The Arizona Institute for Breast Health as treasurer and public relations manager. For the last three years, Cheryl has worked Wednesdays at the Foothills Food Bank.
In her free time she enjoys golf, yoga, bridge, movies and can be seen walking her golden retriever, Riley, through town every morning.
Cheryl graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Journalism degree.
- What aspects of your education, experience and current situation best enable you to make a solid contribution to Carefree as a member of the Town Council?
I have no political agenda. I love this town. I will study all aspects of the current and future issues that the town faces and make fair and honest decisions on the best way to deal with them on an issue by issue basis.
With my 30 years of marketing experience, I believe I can help identify strategies to help the town grow and prosper. I can help make sure that we are generating the biggest bang for our buck with our marketing efforts and budget which is so critical to attracting new businesses, residents, visitors from other Valley towns and tourists.
As a longtime resident I feel I share the feelings of my fellow residents: we must keep Carefree special and unique while finding ways to generate growth and prosperity: showcasing the wonderful changes we are making in the town.
- What do you think should be Carefree's long-term priorities, and what should be addressed and accomplished during the next two years to help secure these long-term priorities?
Although expenses are rising faster rate than revenues (as can be expected during a time of investing in revitalizing the town) we are still in a good budget situation. Revenues generated from construction still offer a good revenue stream along with our share of local sales tax but the construction revenue will not last forever as the town gets built out. Therefore, I believe that it is vital that we find ways to revitalize our downtown shopping area, support current businesses, attract new businesses and attract more visitors to our town center; All that while ensuring that we protect the flavor and lifestyle of the town.
- How do you plan to contribute to developing and achieving Carefree's priorities during the next two years?
There are three things that I believe we should address right now:
1. Encourage property owners to participate in redevelopment to help attract new businesses.
2. Build on the town's current marketing efforts to attract visitors to our town. We must let tourists know that Carefree is a unique destination in the Valley.
3. Continue to generate ideas for current businesses to help them capitalize on and successfully participate in planned town events.
With my marketing and budgeting background, I believe that I am uniquely qualified to help do this.
Since moving here, she has been involved in a number of volunteer organizations: She served on the Auxiliary Board of Scottsdale Healthcare for three years and published and edited the hospital’s first electronic newsletter. She has also served on the board of The Arizona Institute for Breast Health as treasurer and public relations manager. For the last three years, Cheryl has worked Wednesdays at the Foothills Food Bank.
In her free time she enjoys golf, yoga, bridge, movies and can be seen walking her golden retriever, Riley, through town every morning.
Cheryl graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Journalism degree.
- What aspects of your education, experience and current situation best enable you to make a solid contribution to Carefree as a member of the Town Council?
I have no political agenda. I love this town. I will study all aspects of the current and future issues that the town faces and make fair and honest decisions on the best way to deal with them on an issue by issue basis.
With my 30 years of marketing experience, I believe I can help identify strategies to help the town grow and prosper. I can help make sure that we are generating the biggest bang for our buck with our marketing efforts and budget which is so critical to attracting new businesses, residents, visitors from other Valley towns and tourists.
As a longtime resident I feel I share the feelings of my fellow residents: we must keep Carefree special and unique while finding ways to generate growth and prosperity: showcasing the wonderful changes we are making in the town.
- What do you think should be Carefree's long-term priorities, and what should be addressed and accomplished during the next two years to help secure these long-term priorities?
Although expenses are rising faster rate than revenues (as can be expected during a time of investing in revitalizing the town) we are still in a good budget situation. Revenues generated from construction still offer a good revenue stream along with our share of local sales tax but the construction revenue will not last forever as the town gets built out. Therefore, I believe that it is vital that we find ways to revitalize our downtown shopping area, support current businesses, attract new businesses and attract more visitors to our town center; All that while ensuring that we protect the flavor and lifestyle of the town.
- How do you plan to contribute to developing and achieving Carefree's priorities during the next two years?
There are three things that I believe we should address right now:
1. Encourage property owners to participate in redevelopment to help attract new businesses.
2. Build on the town's current marketing efforts to attract visitors to our town. We must let tourists know that Carefree is a unique destination in the Valley.
3. Continue to generate ideas for current businesses to help them capitalize on and successfully participate in planned town events.
With my marketing and budgeting background, I believe that I am uniquely qualified to help do this.
Gene Orrico
Objective: To maintain & where possible enhance the Carefree way of living. To stop, through a concerted team effort, the exodus of business owners & merchants in the downtown core area. Seek to attract a strong downtown business anchor and small business entrepreneurs. Revitalization of the downtown area, providing a pleasant shopping and dining experience for not only out-of-town visitors but also all citizens of Carefree
Education:
De Paul Academy Graduated Class Valedictorian 1958
De Paul University Bachelor of Arts Degree
Major in Teaching: Minor in Music 1963
Purdue University Professional Management Institute 1973
Experience
Waller High School Chicago, IL. Teacher English Literature 1964 to 1965
Lincoln School Schiller Pk. IL. Teacher 5th to 8th Grade 1965 to 1969
Hamilton Financial & Alexander Hamilton Insurance Co.
Farmington, Michigan Sales of Securities & Life Insurance 1969 to 1974
Bellwood Insurance & Marketing Diversified Services
Owner/Operator Sales of Securities & All Lines of Insurance
Products. Three offices plus 14 sales people 1974 to 1995
Genore Corp. & Genore Enterprises Inc. St. Charges, Il. Owner
General Contractor, Remodeler & construction of new homes. 1995 to 2007
Du Page Housing Authority Glen Ellyn, IL. Sub. Contractor for
Section 8 Housing. 2007 to 2011
Past licenses Held
· Certified Illinois State Teachers
· National Association of Security Dealers Series 7
· All Lines P. & C. Insurance License Illinois
· Variable Annuities License IL.
· Real Estate Broker’s License IL.
2011 Purchased our present home & moved to Carefree, AZ.
Past President of the Hillside/Berkeley IL. Kiwanis Club 1983
2014
Serving on the Board of Directors & also Treasurer of the Carefree Shadows H.O.A.
Serving on the Board of Directors of the Carefree Kiwanis Club
Working with the Carefree Kiwanis Acktion Club providing programs for Autistic young adults
2015 to Present
Serving on the Executive Board of Carefree Kiwanis Foundation
Serving on the Carefree Kiwanis Property Management Committee
President-Elect to The Kiwanis Club of Carefree
Responsible for securing $135,000.00 donation for The Kiwanis Splash Pad in Carefree
Education:
De Paul Academy Graduated Class Valedictorian 1958
De Paul University Bachelor of Arts Degree
Major in Teaching: Minor in Music 1963
Purdue University Professional Management Institute 1973
Experience
Waller High School Chicago, IL. Teacher English Literature 1964 to 1965
Lincoln School Schiller Pk. IL. Teacher 5th to 8th Grade 1965 to 1969
Hamilton Financial & Alexander Hamilton Insurance Co.
Farmington, Michigan Sales of Securities & Life Insurance 1969 to 1974
Bellwood Insurance & Marketing Diversified Services
Owner/Operator Sales of Securities & All Lines of Insurance
Products. Three offices plus 14 sales people 1974 to 1995
Genore Corp. & Genore Enterprises Inc. St. Charges, Il. Owner
General Contractor, Remodeler & construction of new homes. 1995 to 2007
Du Page Housing Authority Glen Ellyn, IL. Sub. Contractor for
Section 8 Housing. 2007 to 2011
Past licenses Held
· Certified Illinois State Teachers
· National Association of Security Dealers Series 7
· All Lines P. & C. Insurance License Illinois
· Variable Annuities License IL.
· Real Estate Broker’s License IL.
2011 Purchased our present home & moved to Carefree, AZ.
Past President of the Hillside/Berkeley IL. Kiwanis Club 1983
2014
Serving on the Board of Directors & also Treasurer of the Carefree Shadows H.O.A.
Serving on the Board of Directors of the Carefree Kiwanis Club
Working with the Carefree Kiwanis Acktion Club providing programs for Autistic young adults
2015 to Present
Serving on the Executive Board of Carefree Kiwanis Foundation
Serving on the Carefree Kiwanis Property Management Committee
President-Elect to The Kiwanis Club of Carefree
Responsible for securing $135,000.00 donation for The Kiwanis Splash Pad in Carefree
- What aspects of your education, experience and current situation best enable you to make a solid contribution to Carefree as a member of the Town Council?
Attended Purdue School of Business. Owner of three Insurance Brokerage firms. Owned & managed two construction companies (building residential & commercial units). Owned & managed residential & commercial rental properties. At present, Chairman for Kiwanis Properties. Responsible for enhancing the values of the newly acquired Kiwanis Market Place.
- What do you think should be Carefree's long-term priorities, and what should be addressed and accomplished during the next two years to help secure these long-term priorities?
Attracting a strong downtown business anchor & viable small business entrepreneurs which are desperately needed to enhance Carefree's downtown business district. We have to develop Carefree into a year round destination, not just a festival driven place to visit.
- How do you plan to contribute to developing and achieving Carefree's priorities during the next two years?
Not only interacting with the present downtown merchants but also defining the needs that are of interest to the Carefree citizens.
Keeping the citizens of Carefree property tax free, plus Carefree citizens not having to pay for subscriptions to Fire Services.
Keeping the Town of Carefree in a positive cash position.
CAREFREE, LIKE NO OTHER PLACE !!
Attended Purdue School of Business. Owner of three Insurance Brokerage firms. Owned & managed two construction companies (building residential & commercial units). Owned & managed residential & commercial rental properties. At present, Chairman for Kiwanis Properties. Responsible for enhancing the values of the newly acquired Kiwanis Market Place.
- What do you think should be Carefree's long-term priorities, and what should be addressed and accomplished during the next two years to help secure these long-term priorities?
Attracting a strong downtown business anchor & viable small business entrepreneurs which are desperately needed to enhance Carefree's downtown business district. We have to develop Carefree into a year round destination, not just a festival driven place to visit.
- How do you plan to contribute to developing and achieving Carefree's priorities during the next two years?
Not only interacting with the present downtown merchants but also defining the needs that are of interest to the Carefree citizens.
Keeping the citizens of Carefree property tax free, plus Carefree citizens not having to pay for subscriptions to Fire Services.
Keeping the Town of Carefree in a positive cash position.
CAREFREE, LIKE NO OTHER PLACE !!
Les Peterson
I am currently the Mayor of Carefree, AZ, following a two year term as Vice Mayor. Prior to being elected to the Town Council I served on the Carefree Planning and Zoning Commission.
During my prior working career, I worked for both Procter & Gamble (four years) and the Pillsbury Company (two years) in marketing and promotion. Following this experience, I worked on the agency side of the business and developed assignments and/or supervised other professionals developing assignments. Assignments were typically either marketing, long range planning, “work-out” consulting or acquisition related.
Long term clients I worked with included NFL Properties, Marriott, IBM, Coca Cola, Shell Oil, Kodak, Ralston Purina, Frito Lay, Kimberly Clark and Quaker State.
In addition to this business development and related work, I:
- am a Director Emeritus of New Pathways for Youth (formerly Greater Phoenix Youth at Risk), having served as Chairman of the Program Content & Structure and Strategic Planning Committees,
- am a member of the Paradise Valley Community College Advisory Council,
- was President of the Boulders Homeowners Association, and continue to serve on the Architectural Review Committee, and
- was very active with Cornell University for fourteen years (1996-2010) interfacing with and evaluating over 5,000 MBA students serving as one of two outside “judges” for their MBA entrepreneurial studies program
I have also worked with several local charities including St. Vincent de Paul, Banner Hospice and the Scottsdale Cultural Council to address business problems they were encountering and to help them develop and implement solutions.
I have both a BA (1965) and a MA (1967) from Arizona State University. I and my wife, Mary, reside at the Boulders in Carefree, Arizona.
- What aspects of your education, experience and current situation best enable you to make a solid contribution to Carefree as a member of the Town Council?
I use the experience I gained in marketing and long-range planning frequently as I perform the duties of Carefree Mayor. Marketing starts out with an identification of the specific problem, a thorough investigation of the situation, an analysis of pertinent data followed by the development of a range of alternatives and the selection and implementation of the most appropriate. Long-range planning forces us to analyze our current situation and trend our past performance out into the future, identify our current strengths and limitations, identify which goals are meaningful to our residents and then to develop plans to achieve and maintain them as part of the town’s offering of services. Both of these are critical to success.
Once you get past the business portion of the tasks and problems before the Town, the difference between success and failure is often the ability to get diverse people to work together towards a common goal. Often, people of varying backgrounds and areas of expertise, make up the Town Council and Staff. Some people can work together well, others can’t. Getting them to work in tandem on portions of an overall project is key to successfully completing it.
- What do you think should be Carefree's long-term priorities, and what should be addressed and accomplished during the next two years to help secure these long-term priorities?
I believe that Carefree has two major long-term priorities: 1) preserve and protect the integrity of Carefree as a beautiful, residential-friendly town, and 2) focus upon “reasonable" economic development so as to enable Carefree to be in a financial position to offer the level of services desired by our residents without having to resort to a Carefree specific real estate tax.
For the next few years, I believe that the key priorities for Carefree include:
Continuing to attract residents and visitors to energizing programs such as the Enchanted Pumpkin Garden and the Carefree Christmas Festival.
Strengthening the business environment throughout Carefree.
Encouraging the selective addition of smaller, high-quality residences close to downtown in a manner which protects the environment and the rural, residential nature of the town for residents who want to downsize their large homes, but remain in Carefree
Achieving these priorities within tight budget constraints while maintaining Carefree’s strong reserves.
- How do you plan to contribute to developing and achieving Carefree's priorities during the next two years?
The Town Council has made numerous capital improvements to the entire “downtown” Carefree area within the last few years. We’ve engaged world-renowned artist Ray Villafane and other noted sculptors and artists to create the extremely popular Enchanted Pumpkin Garden, and they will continue working their magic through the upcoming season. We have made several enhancements to the Carefree Desert Gardens themselves. We are constructing dramatic “Gateways” into the downtown area off both Tom Darlington and Cave Creek Roads to provide a sense of entry into this special area, and the addition of bicycle lanes on Tom Darlington, Cave Creek and Pima Roads are nearing completion. All of this has generated a sense of pride and excitement among Carefree’s residents.
But to be fully successful, the revitalization of Carefree must not stop with these initial efforts. We also need to create an environment in which the town’s businesses can thrive and prosper. Creating a flourishing business environment is our next major set of tasks, and one in which I have been integrally involved. Some of the tasks necessary have been completed, and others need to be developed. If elected, I plan to continue focusing upon generating economic development within Carefree.
Candidate Jim Van Allen has not sent a response to Carefree Truth's invitation to submit a bio and to answer the questions.
Although there are 7 candidates for 7 seats, each candidate is required to have 50% plus 1 of the votes cast in order to be elected in the August primary election. Any candidates not receiving the minimum votes required will proceed to the run-off election in November. Should a run-off election be needed, it will cost the Town of Carefree approximately $7000.
We hope to see many of you at the Carefree Candidate Forum we are sponsoring at the Carefree Resort on Wednesday, August 3rd, from 6-8 PM.
Lyn Hitchon
Prepared by Carefree Truth
Visit our website at www.carefreetruth2.com If you know anyone who would like to be added to the Carefree Truth email list, please have them contact me. Feel free to share Carefree Truth with others on your list. Visit www.carefreeazbusinesses.com to see more info about businesses in Carefree. Please support our merchants.
During my prior working career, I worked for both Procter & Gamble (four years) and the Pillsbury Company (two years) in marketing and promotion. Following this experience, I worked on the agency side of the business and developed assignments and/or supervised other professionals developing assignments. Assignments were typically either marketing, long range planning, “work-out” consulting or acquisition related.
Long term clients I worked with included NFL Properties, Marriott, IBM, Coca Cola, Shell Oil, Kodak, Ralston Purina, Frito Lay, Kimberly Clark and Quaker State.
In addition to this business development and related work, I:
- am a Director Emeritus of New Pathways for Youth (formerly Greater Phoenix Youth at Risk), having served as Chairman of the Program Content & Structure and Strategic Planning Committees,
- am a member of the Paradise Valley Community College Advisory Council,
- was President of the Boulders Homeowners Association, and continue to serve on the Architectural Review Committee, and
- was very active with Cornell University for fourteen years (1996-2010) interfacing with and evaluating over 5,000 MBA students serving as one of two outside “judges” for their MBA entrepreneurial studies program
I have also worked with several local charities including St. Vincent de Paul, Banner Hospice and the Scottsdale Cultural Council to address business problems they were encountering and to help them develop and implement solutions.
I have both a BA (1965) and a MA (1967) from Arizona State University. I and my wife, Mary, reside at the Boulders in Carefree, Arizona.
- What aspects of your education, experience and current situation best enable you to make a solid contribution to Carefree as a member of the Town Council?
I use the experience I gained in marketing and long-range planning frequently as I perform the duties of Carefree Mayor. Marketing starts out with an identification of the specific problem, a thorough investigation of the situation, an analysis of pertinent data followed by the development of a range of alternatives and the selection and implementation of the most appropriate. Long-range planning forces us to analyze our current situation and trend our past performance out into the future, identify our current strengths and limitations, identify which goals are meaningful to our residents and then to develop plans to achieve and maintain them as part of the town’s offering of services. Both of these are critical to success.
Once you get past the business portion of the tasks and problems before the Town, the difference between success and failure is often the ability to get diverse people to work together towards a common goal. Often, people of varying backgrounds and areas of expertise, make up the Town Council and Staff. Some people can work together well, others can’t. Getting them to work in tandem on portions of an overall project is key to successfully completing it.
- What do you think should be Carefree's long-term priorities, and what should be addressed and accomplished during the next two years to help secure these long-term priorities?
I believe that Carefree has two major long-term priorities: 1) preserve and protect the integrity of Carefree as a beautiful, residential-friendly town, and 2) focus upon “reasonable" economic development so as to enable Carefree to be in a financial position to offer the level of services desired by our residents without having to resort to a Carefree specific real estate tax.
For the next few years, I believe that the key priorities for Carefree include:
Continuing to attract residents and visitors to energizing programs such as the Enchanted Pumpkin Garden and the Carefree Christmas Festival.
Strengthening the business environment throughout Carefree.
Encouraging the selective addition of smaller, high-quality residences close to downtown in a manner which protects the environment and the rural, residential nature of the town for residents who want to downsize their large homes, but remain in Carefree
Achieving these priorities within tight budget constraints while maintaining Carefree’s strong reserves.
- How do you plan to contribute to developing and achieving Carefree's priorities during the next two years?
The Town Council has made numerous capital improvements to the entire “downtown” Carefree area within the last few years. We’ve engaged world-renowned artist Ray Villafane and other noted sculptors and artists to create the extremely popular Enchanted Pumpkin Garden, and they will continue working their magic through the upcoming season. We have made several enhancements to the Carefree Desert Gardens themselves. We are constructing dramatic “Gateways” into the downtown area off both Tom Darlington and Cave Creek Roads to provide a sense of entry into this special area, and the addition of bicycle lanes on Tom Darlington, Cave Creek and Pima Roads are nearing completion. All of this has generated a sense of pride and excitement among Carefree’s residents.
But to be fully successful, the revitalization of Carefree must not stop with these initial efforts. We also need to create an environment in which the town’s businesses can thrive and prosper. Creating a flourishing business environment is our next major set of tasks, and one in which I have been integrally involved. Some of the tasks necessary have been completed, and others need to be developed. If elected, I plan to continue focusing upon generating economic development within Carefree.
Candidate Jim Van Allen has not sent a response to Carefree Truth's invitation to submit a bio and to answer the questions.
Although there are 7 candidates for 7 seats, each candidate is required to have 50% plus 1 of the votes cast in order to be elected in the August primary election. Any candidates not receiving the minimum votes required will proceed to the run-off election in November. Should a run-off election be needed, it will cost the Town of Carefree approximately $7000.
We hope to see many of you at the Carefree Candidate Forum we are sponsoring at the Carefree Resort on Wednesday, August 3rd, from 6-8 PM.
Lyn Hitchon
Prepared by Carefree Truth
Visit our website at www.carefreetruth2.com If you know anyone who would like to be added to the Carefree Truth email list, please have them contact me. Feel free to share Carefree Truth with others on your list. Visit www.carefreeazbusinesses.com to see more info about businesses in Carefree. Please support our merchants.