Cynthia Malla

Government Reform As mayor, my first task would be to try and restore the recent damage to the faith and trust of an important sector of the people of Clarkdale in their elected officials. Respect, truthfulness, transparency, a willingness to admit mistakes and to listen to the citizenry is essential in restoring that trust. The process is not always quick, comfortable or convenient but it is essential for building credibility. As the mayor I will always strive to do that. Arts / Culture Clarkdale’s history is unique. The Clarkdale Historic District, listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, includes over370 structures that are certified as historically significant.They are one of Clarkdale'smost important assets. They are not only important historically, but they are important for Clarkdale's economic development. The Historic Bandstand is an example of this. It'san iconic structure that is widelyrecognized and is part of what brings tourism to Clarkdale. It'spreservationisan important statement of the town’s commitment to preserving history whilepromoting economic growth. I believe that this is a priority and I will act accordingly. Economy Regarding other undeveloped commercial areas,I have heard from some citizens about businesses and services they would like to see in Clarkdale, such as a grocery store, pop-up shops and an ATM. I look forward to collaborating with the citizenry and the Clarkdale town staff in shaping Clarkdale’s commercial future. Infrastructure / Transportation The mayor and council need to be focused on repairing and extending sidewalks, repairing streets, the century old sewersystem,the cost of water,maintaining common areas and the parks as well as implementation of the newly passed Trails System. As the town builds new assets, we should beplanning for their perpetual maintenancewith enough public works staff and funding. Economy In growing commerce in Clarkdale, we need to listen carefully to business owners. What dothey look forwhen deciding whether to invest in a community? What do they need in order to continue to be successful once they make that investment? What can the town do to assist them? The cycle of businesses opening and failing in the historic downtown needs to change. In addition, the town needs to do everything possible to encourage and enablethe preservation and renovation of the downtown historic buildings in order to attract businesses. Historic buildings do not just add to the charm of Clarkdale, they are also assets that attract money in the form of grants and tax credits as well as tourism. Economy Preventing growth completely is not possible in Arizona. If a developer makes a proposal the Council has to bring it to a vote - whether there is infrastructure to support the development or not. However, we can be pro-active rather than re-active. We can decide what we want Clarkdale to be and look like, as we move into the future. Then we need to put the right tools in place to achieve that vision. Transparency and careful listening to the citizenry during that process is essential.