Scottsdale residents gathered on Oct. 19 at the DC Ranch Community Center for the last scheduled forum of the three candidates seeking two open seats on the City Council. The event, sponsored by the Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce, gave voters a final chance to hear directly from former state representative Michelle Ugenti‑Rita, incumbent Councilman Barry Graham, and retired banker Raoul Zubia.
Key issues discussed
Water policy dominated the conversation. Zubia warned that the current council majority has delayed critical recycled‑water projects, saying the city “cut funding and put projects on hold” while neighboring municipalities invest in new supplies. Ugenti‑Rita countered, labeling Zubia a “one‑trick water pony” and accusing him of shifting positions on water availability.
Development and housing were also hot topics. Graham highlighted a nearby Axon apartment campus, noting a $5,000 donation from Axon president Josh Isner to Zubia. Zubia insisted he is not a pro‑development candidate, emphasizing the need to “pull back on development” and focus on areas that truly need growth. Ugenti‑Rita dismissed the idea of government‑sponsored “workforce housing” as a “very socialist point of view” and claimed the Democratic Socialists of America had endorsed Zubia, a claim Zubia denied.
Short‑term rentals received attention as well. Graham said the city is working to regulate them and pointed to a $13,000 contribution Zubia received from the Arizona Realtors PAC, suggesting the donor group opposes reform.
Campaign dynamics
Ugenti‑Rita highlighted her legislative experience, while Graham reminded voters of his record exposing $150 million in cost overruns during his first four years on council. Zubia promised to “shift the balance back to the council that actually listens” if elected.
The forum ended with a brief exchange between former Councilman Bob Littlefield and his wife, Councilwoman Kathy Littlefield, who encouraged Graham to “smile more” after his remarks.
Election logistics
Scottsdale’s nonpartisan municipal elections will appear on the ballot without party labels. Key dates: Oct. 23 is the deadline to request a replacement ballot by mail; Oct. 27 is the final day to return mailed ballots; and Nov. 3 is Election Day. In‑person voting began Oct. 7 at two city locations – Florence Ely Nelson Desert Park (8950 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd.) and Indian Bend Wash Visitor Center (4201 N. Hayden Rd.) – with additional drop‑off sites at City Hall and the Maricopa County Tabulation and Election Center.
Voters must present a valid form of identification, as outlined in the city’s voter guide, to cast a ballot. Those lacking proper ID will receive a conditional provisional ballot, which must be verified before it can be counted.
Original reporting: Scottsdale Progress — read the source article.
