Scottsdale Hosted City Council Candidate Forum
The Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce held a candidate forum as the race for two open council seats intensifies.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in City Hall
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The Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a city council candidate forum on September 29, 2026. Eight candidates are currently vying for two open council seats.
Why it matters
The forum served as a key opportunity for voters to evaluate candidates on critical issues like water policy before the upcoming election. Identifying candidate positions on infrastructure management is vital for the city's long-term planning.
There are 8 candidates currently running for the 2 open seats available on the council in 2027. The council forum registration confirms the field size as the election cycle moves toward the final vote.
The players
Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce
This organization represents the local business community and facilitates civic engagement through events like candidate forums.
Barry Graham
He is a candidate for the Scottsdale City Council participating in the 2026 campaign cycle.
Raoul Zubia
He is a candidate for the Scottsdale City Council participating in the 2026 campaign cycle.
Michelle Ugenti-Rita
She is a candidate for the Scottsdale City Council who opted not to attend the chamber-hosted forum.
The details
Candidates Barry Graham and Raoul Zubia participated in the event, where water policy served as the primary topic of discussion during self-introductions. Candidate Michelle Ugenti-Rita did not participate in the forum.
Timeline
The Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce held a candidate forum on September 29, 2026.
Two city council seats will be filled in 2027.
Political Context
The intense focus on water policy among council candidates follows the regulatory frameworks established by the Arizona Groundwater Management Act. This focus highlights the ongoing challenge for city officials to balance regional growth with strict state-mandated water conservation requirements.
Residents should review candidate stances on water policy to understand how upcoming council decisions might affect local utility rates and development approvals. The election results in 2027 will determine the city's leadership regarding these essential infrastructure priorities.
The takeaway
Voters should actively monitor upcoming debates to better grasp how competing candidates plan to address the city's long-term resource management. Evaluating these platforms early allows citizens to make informed decisions before the 2027 election cycle concludes.
Further reading
For more information on local elections, visit the City Hall section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Your Valley.
Live Poll
Do you trust your local candidates to prioritize water security for the community?
