With Scottsdale’s City Council election approaching, Scottsdale Vibes created a special candidate interview series to help residents make informed decisions before heading to the polls.
Rather than debates or sound bites, each participating candidate sat down for an individual conversation and answered the exact same five questions in the same 15-minute format. This allows voters to compare ideas, priorities and leadership styles fairly.
Our Goal: Inform, Not Influence
Local elections have a direct impact on everyday life in Scottsdale—from roads and parks to water resources, public safety, development and neighborhood quality of life.
That’s why we wanted to create a resource where voters could hear directly from the candidates without interruptions or unequal formats.
Every participating candidate received:
- The same questions
- The same interview length
- The same opportunity to explain their vision for Scottsdale
Meet the Candidates
Ethan Knowlden & Barry Graham
In their interviews, Ethan Knowlden and Barry Graham discuss issues including responsible growth, public safety, infrastructure, economic development and the future direction of Scottsdale.
Bob Littlefield & Raoul Zubia
Bob Littlefield and Raoul Zubia share their perspectives on development, fiscal responsibility, preserving Scottsdale’s character, government accountability and community priorities.
Michelle Ugenti-Rita & Crystal Carroll
Michelle Ugenti-Rita and Crystal Carroll discuss leadership, infrastructure, economic opportunity, public safety, housing and how they believe City Hall should serve residents.
Solange Whitehead
Current Councilmember Solange Whitehead reflects on her time in office while discussing water security, housing density, tourism, short-term rentals, Arizona legislative actions affecting Scottsdale and government transparency.
Why These Conversations Matter
Scottsdale continues to face important decisions about:
- Water security
- Growth and development
- Housing
- Public safety
- Transportation
- Tourism
- Fiscal responsibility
- Preserving neighborhood character
- Government transparency
Every City Council member helps shape these decisions, making local elections among the most important elections for Scottsdale residents.
Listen Before You Vote
We encourage every Scottsdale voter to listen to each candidate interview before casting a ballot.
Our mission has always been to connect the community, highlight local voices and encourage civic engagement.
Election Day is July 21.
Your vote helps shape Scottsdale’s future.
Listen to every Scottsdale City Council candidate interview on the Scottsdale Vibes Podcast, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and wherever you listen to podcasts.