Scottsdale Council Candidates Debated at City Hall

Three candidates faced off to discuss development and water management ahead of the November 3 general election.

Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in City Hall

Scottsdale Council Candidates Debated at City Hall

Live Poll

Should your city prioritize new housing density over preserving the existing character of neighborhoods?

Scottsdale City Council candidates Barry Graham, Michelle Ugenti-Rita, and Raoul Zubia participated in a debate at City Hall on October 12. The forum focused on key local issues including civic tone, urban development, and water resource management.

Why it matters

The candidates are competing for two open council seats in the upcoming general election. Voters must decide which representatives will address the city's future growth and its reliance on Colorado River water supplies.

Three candidates are vying for two open council seats following the July 21 primary where no candidate won outright. The city relies on the Colorado River for 70% of its drinking water supply.

The players

Barry Graham

He is a candidate for the Scottsdale City Council running on a ticket with Michelle Ugenti-Rita.

Michelle Ugenti-Rita

She is a Scottsdale City Council candidate who is running in the general election.

Raoul Zubia

He is a candidate for the Scottsdale City Council who received a notable campaign contribution from a local business leader.

Josh Isner

He is the President of Axon who contributed $5,000 to the Raoul Zubia campaign.

Solange Whitehead

She is a Scottsdale City Councilmember who successfully secured her reelection during the July 21 primary.

The details

Candidates Graham and Ugenti-Rita are running as a joint ticket, while Zubia continues to campaign for one of the two available spots. The discussion also referenced a September 22 presentation indicating that multi-family housing developments utilize less water than single-family residences.

The city council primary election took place on July 21.
A city council presentation regarding water use occurred on September 22.
The candidates debated at City Hall on October 12.
The general election for the two council seats is scheduled for November 3.

Political Context

Opponents have raised concerns about the candidates' specific approaches to land development and high-density housing growth. Some community groups argue that current development plans may put too much pressure on the city's limited water infrastructure.

The upcoming election will determine which council members oversee future development projects and residential water policy. Voters should review candidate positions on housing density, as these decisions directly influence utility usage and municipal infrastructure planning.

The takeaway

Voters can evaluate the candidates based on their differing visions for urban development and sustainable resource management. Understanding these platforms helps residents prepare for the critical choices on the November 3 ballot.