GOODYEAR ELECTION WATCH
CANDIDATE FOR COUNCIL: JAYSON BLACK
Q. Tell me about yourself and why you are running for City Council.
A. I am a proud Arizona native, born and raised in the West Valley. Growing up in Peoria, I attended Peoria High School, Glendale Community College, Yavapai College and Arizona State University. Earning my Bachelor’s degree from ASU West in Elementary Education, I taught 8th grade language arts and self-contained 6th grade. I went on to earn my Master’s degree in Educational Leadership also from Arizona State University and took a position as an assistant principal for two years before being promoted to a building level principal. Having then the opportunity, a few years later, to lead the opening of a new school in a neighboring school district, I moved to Surprise were I remained for another 6 years as a principal. I am currently the principal at Incito Schools, a charter school in Goodyear, Arizona where I have been for the past 4 years. Living in Goodyear with my wife, April, we have raised our three beautiful children (Brooke, Carter and Emma) in a loving home where they know that, second only to God, our family comes first. Time together is a priority in our family. We absolutely love traveling the world together as a family, playing vast variety of games, camping, playing hide-n-seek in the dark and watching our favorite television shows. We enjoy attending church, school events, community events and so much more. Raising a family in Goodyear, I do believe that there is great opportunity to focus on a future city that encompasses the entire spectrum of the family. Ensuring that young families with babies and young children have entertainment opportunities, school choice and childcare facilities that support today’s working parents. Having teens myself, I understand the importance of providing citywide activities, events and opportunities for young adults to be actively involved and safe. Whether with their friends or in an environment where they can meet and mingle with others, it is important to parents that these options be safe, secure and focused on strong positive personal values. |
Making my living in Goodyear, I understand the necessity of a strong business community and the realities of industry. As a member of the city council, I will continue to focus the attention of our local government on opportunities that will provide small business a chance to establish their brand in our community while providing jobs and gainful employment to all of Goodyear. It is also important to focus on the infrastructure of this great city to so that businesses continue to seek out the grand opportunities that are available here to thrive. As our retirement community continues to grow, I want to ensure that our city provides active adult lifestyle options both through entertainment and recreation choices. Retirement facilities should also be of the highest standards to meet the needs of our senior residents, as that becomes an option for their living environment.
PRIOR EXPERIENCE
Q. What experience do you have qualifying you as a good representative for our All-America City? How many hours a week can you devote to serving on City Council? (Time includes meetings, attending events, and reviewing reading materials.)
A. As a schoolteacher and school administrator for 19+ years in three different and diverse geographical areas, I come with the experience of a unique and “behinds the scenes” view of what makes a community successful. I am very familiar with small business operations, budgeting, staffing, community service, customer relationships and most importantly, building trust through open and honest conversations. As a city council person, it is vital that relationships are established to ensure the forward progress and positive growth of our community to drive the entire community forward. This is ever present in the day-to-day operations of a school and an experience that sets me apart from all other candidates. I have a proven and successful track record of overseeing, managing, facilitating and leading both large and small schools. I have learned through these experiences how important it is and beneficial it can be to listen to the needs, desires and concerns that my community has so that I may support department leads and committee chairs in making the best decisions possible for our city.
As council member, I will devote and dedicate any number of hours necessary to ensure the work and opportunities awarded to this position are met with excellence. I am committed to attending all meetings, enjoying the many events this great city has to offer and delving into the necessary studies and reading to ensure I am representing this city to the greatest extent of my abilities and skills. Beyond that time, I do believe it will be my continued responsibility to take every opportunity to get out, be visible, and continually hear from the residence of Goodyear to ensure that I deliver on the promise to see Goodyear thrive far into the future for all residence.
A. As a schoolteacher and school administrator for 19+ years in three different and diverse geographical areas, I come with the experience of a unique and “behinds the scenes” view of what makes a community successful. I am very familiar with small business operations, budgeting, staffing, community service, customer relationships and most importantly, building trust through open and honest conversations. As a city council person, it is vital that relationships are established to ensure the forward progress and positive growth of our community to drive the entire community forward. This is ever present in the day-to-day operations of a school and an experience that sets me apart from all other candidates. I have a proven and successful track record of overseeing, managing, facilitating and leading both large and small schools. I have learned through these experiences how important it is and beneficial it can be to listen to the needs, desires and concerns that my community has so that I may support department leads and committee chairs in making the best decisions possible for our city.
As council member, I will devote and dedicate any number of hours necessary to ensure the work and opportunities awarded to this position are met with excellence. I am committed to attending all meetings, enjoying the many events this great city has to offer and delving into the necessary studies and reading to ensure I am representing this city to the greatest extent of my abilities and skills. Beyond that time, I do believe it will be my continued responsibility to take every opportunity to get out, be visible, and continually hear from the residence of Goodyear to ensure that I deliver on the promise to see Goodyear thrive far into the future for all residence.
CHANGES
Q. What is one thing you would like to change or improve at Goodyear’s City Hall?
A. I believe the use of my experience and expert level skill sets of collaboration, understanding and ultimately consensus building techniques will truly benefit the continued success of Goodyear’s City Hall.
A. I believe the use of my experience and expert level skill sets of collaboration, understanding and ultimately consensus building techniques will truly benefit the continued success of Goodyear’s City Hall.
FUTURE WATER NEEDS
Q. What are your thoughts on the City of Goodyear’s water needs? Under what circumstances would you approve a water rate hike?
A. As the 3rd fastest growing city in Arizona, according to the 2010 census, water is going to be a constant topic of discussion. Our need to seek out, find and ultimately secure long lasting water sources will be vital to the continued long term growth and development of our community.
To approve an increase in water rates I believe there are several factors that have to be explored and diligently studied to ensure such an action is appropriate. Current water usage, opportunities to save on water use and sustainable water sources are just a few of the many factors that play into a decision that impacts both current residence and those calling Goodyear home far into he future. Other considerations have to be further explored as to the current cost effectiveness of our current system. For example, if water infrastructure needs are considered when evaluating a potential increase in our water rates, I would want to ensure that we are also exploring the long-term implications and overall sustainability. There is so much that goes into a decision of which every member of our community is impacted, that a great deal of study would be imperative prior to drawing a final conclusion. Seeking council from the water conservation committee would also add to my overall understanding of such implications and ultimately support the decisions I make.
A. As the 3rd fastest growing city in Arizona, according to the 2010 census, water is going to be a constant topic of discussion. Our need to seek out, find and ultimately secure long lasting water sources will be vital to the continued long term growth and development of our community.
To approve an increase in water rates I believe there are several factors that have to be explored and diligently studied to ensure such an action is appropriate. Current water usage, opportunities to save on water use and sustainable water sources are just a few of the many factors that play into a decision that impacts both current residence and those calling Goodyear home far into he future. Other considerations have to be further explored as to the current cost effectiveness of our current system. For example, if water infrastructure needs are considered when evaluating a potential increase in our water rates, I would want to ensure that we are also exploring the long-term implications and overall sustainability. There is so much that goes into a decision of which every member of our community is impacted, that a great deal of study would be imperative prior to drawing a final conclusion. Seeking council from the water conservation committee would also add to my overall understanding of such implications and ultimately support the decisions I make.
JOB GROWTH
Q. Do you feel the west Valley can benefit from bringing in more jobs and what kind of jobs would be most beneficial? If you answered yes, how would you work to bring those jobs here?
A. Yes, the west valley would benefit from continued job growth and increased employment opportunities. To support this opportunity in Goodyear, I would work more closely with our city’s department of economic development to further promote all that we have to offer the market. As one of the fastest growing cities in the United States, our population is expected to double in the next 20 years and with that growth comes wonderful business opportunities. Both on the national scale and at the local level, Goodyear is primed for a major business boom. It is time to look further into the processes that support small businesses in establishing themselves within Goodyear’s already welcoming business community. With a median age of 36 years old, we are a city of young families looking to permanently establish their legacy and that can be done through our robust workforce and the solidification of quality owned and operated businesses.
Along with family and education, supporting job growth in Goodyear will be one of my priority areas of focus and continued attention.
A. Yes, the west valley would benefit from continued job growth and increased employment opportunities. To support this opportunity in Goodyear, I would work more closely with our city’s department of economic development to further promote all that we have to offer the market. As one of the fastest growing cities in the United States, our population is expected to double in the next 20 years and with that growth comes wonderful business opportunities. Both on the national scale and at the local level, Goodyear is primed for a major business boom. It is time to look further into the processes that support small businesses in establishing themselves within Goodyear’s already welcoming business community. With a median age of 36 years old, we are a city of young families looking to permanently establish their legacy and that can be done through our robust workforce and the solidification of quality owned and operated businesses.
Along with family and education, supporting job growth in Goodyear will be one of my priority areas of focus and continued attention.
FIRE SERVICE DEMANDS
Q. What is your opinion on the fire station study? Do you support moving up the timeline to build fire stations or would you prefer to start construction on stations as outlined in the study?
A. The fire station study was expertly conducted and well vetted to ensure all necessary measures were extensively reviewed prior to publishing. I support the study as presented and maintain that it would be prudent to review the needs of city’s emergency response protocols as necessary to ensure the safety and well functioning operations as Goodyear continue to grow.
A. The fire station study was expertly conducted and well vetted to ensure all necessary measures were extensively reviewed prior to publishing. I support the study as presented and maintain that it would be prudent to review the needs of city’s emergency response protocols as necessary to ensure the safety and well functioning operations as Goodyear continue to grow.
PEOPLE AND PARKS
Q. The people of Goodyear recently stated in a survey they support more parks. What are your thoughts on amenities in Goodyear and which do you support or not support and why?
A. Community and family recreational opportunities are vital to the longevity and overall positive culture of our All-American city. I whole-heartedly support the introduction of city parks into our community and with them, all the necessary amenities to ensure their continued upkeep, sustainability and overall appeal and safety. Incorporating large-scale elements such as softball, baseball and soccer fields along with opportunities for our younger residents via splash pads, playgrounds and skate parks; community parks should be just that, opportunities for the entire community to gather together and build friendships. Dog parks, picnic areas, walking trails, drinking fountains and of course restrooms all culminate in an inviting entertainment area to bring friends and families together. To further promote safety, I also support emergency call boxes and superior lighting during the evening and early morning hours. Supporting the growth and expansion of our city parks will positively impact Goodyear’s family focused culture and prove to be very inviting to those future residence looking to move into our All-American City.
A. Community and family recreational opportunities are vital to the longevity and overall positive culture of our All-American city. I whole-heartedly support the introduction of city parks into our community and with them, all the necessary amenities to ensure their continued upkeep, sustainability and overall appeal and safety. Incorporating large-scale elements such as softball, baseball and soccer fields along with opportunities for our younger residents via splash pads, playgrounds and skate parks; community parks should be just that, opportunities for the entire community to gather together and build friendships. Dog parks, picnic areas, walking trails, drinking fountains and of course restrooms all culminate in an inviting entertainment area to bring friends and families together. To further promote safety, I also support emergency call boxes and superior lighting during the evening and early morning hours. Supporting the growth and expansion of our city parks will positively impact Goodyear’s family focused culture and prove to be very inviting to those future residence looking to move into our All-American City.
HIGHER EDUCATION
Q. What is your opinion on attracting higher education in Goodyear? How can Goodyear support education on all grade levels?
A. As the Principal of Incito Schools, a Kindergarten – 8th grade public charter school in our great city of Goodyear, I believe that education is absolutely essential to the present and future success of our city. Through the introduction of quality and affordable preschools to the availability and access to our many elementary schools, both district and charter, Goodyear has long maintained a rich focus on providing quality educational choices to our families. I will continue to work closely with all our city school districts and charter holders to ensure that the level of excellence that is expected of a world-class education is a focus of all of our school leaders. I do believe that there is great opportunity for successful collaboration in the creation of a community education summit that brings together our local schools along with our established businesses. Together, these entities and voices can look at the state of our educational infrastructure and what it can look like moving forward to ensure the continued success of our community. I will work tirelessly to further open doors to our state universities and invite institutions for high education into our community. The city is already in talks with ASU to bring a campus to Goodyear and I would like to see that dream realized in the very near future.
A. As the Principal of Incito Schools, a Kindergarten – 8th grade public charter school in our great city of Goodyear, I believe that education is absolutely essential to the present and future success of our city. Through the introduction of quality and affordable preschools to the availability and access to our many elementary schools, both district and charter, Goodyear has long maintained a rich focus on providing quality educational choices to our families. I will continue to work closely with all our city school districts and charter holders to ensure that the level of excellence that is expected of a world-class education is a focus of all of our school leaders. I do believe that there is great opportunity for successful collaboration in the creation of a community education summit that brings together our local schools along with our established businesses. Together, these entities and voices can look at the state of our educational infrastructure and what it can look like moving forward to ensure the continued success of our community. I will work tirelessly to further open doors to our state universities and invite institutions for high education into our community. The city is already in talks with ASU to bring a campus to Goodyear and I would like to see that dream realized in the very near future.
NEXT FIVE YEARS
Q. If you had a magic wand, what would you like to see Goodyear accomplish in the next five years?
A. This great city of Goodyear will have completed their community park expansion to further promote family and community togetherness. There will be stronger relationships between schools throughout the community and a new expansion of higher education opportunities will be in full force. Within the next five years, our entertainment and community arts programs will build upon already well established traditions such as our Art’s Expo, the Heart & Sole 5K, the many public band and music gatherings, the Star Spangled Forth, our Home Plate for the Holiday’s community event and so much more. I also believe we will easily establish, within the next five years, a world class network of first responders, to include our fire, police and EMS personnel.
A. This great city of Goodyear will have completed their community park expansion to further promote family and community togetherness. There will be stronger relationships between schools throughout the community and a new expansion of higher education opportunities will be in full force. Within the next five years, our entertainment and community arts programs will build upon already well established traditions such as our Art’s Expo, the Heart & Sole 5K, the many public band and music gatherings, the Star Spangled Forth, our Home Plate for the Holiday’s community event and so much more. I also believe we will easily establish, within the next five years, a world class network of first responders, to include our fire, police and EMS personnel.
20 YEARS AND BEYOND
Q. How do you envision Goodyear 20 years from now?
A. The year is 2037, two years prior we celebrated Goodyear’s 50th year as a city. It was over the stretch of the past 20 years we experienced exceptional growth in the area due to our strong work force and our world-class educational opportunities, pre-k through college and other professional career pathways. Our emphasis on community relationships has been recognized worldwide as our focus has been on celebrating one another and believing that everyone is capable of walking their own path of contribution to the community. Our water needs are being exceptionally met through the ongoing efforts and hard work of our city offices to ensure strong and sustainable relationships with water providers. The airport is now a nationally recognized hub for some of the most robust air travelers as Goodyear’s transit system too has experienced a revitalization that can provide quality and affordable commuting options to all those that visit. Our vast entertainment options provide ideal environments for kids of all ages, sporting events for enthusiasts and spectators alike, endless recreational opportunities and a huge array of both shopping and dining options to round it all out.
A. The year is 2037, two years prior we celebrated Goodyear’s 50th year as a city. It was over the stretch of the past 20 years we experienced exceptional growth in the area due to our strong work force and our world-class educational opportunities, pre-k through college and other professional career pathways. Our emphasis on community relationships has been recognized worldwide as our focus has been on celebrating one another and believing that everyone is capable of walking their own path of contribution to the community. Our water needs are being exceptionally met through the ongoing efforts and hard work of our city offices to ensure strong and sustainable relationships with water providers. The airport is now a nationally recognized hub for some of the most robust air travelers as Goodyear’s transit system too has experienced a revitalization that can provide quality and affordable commuting options to all those that visit. Our vast entertainment options provide ideal environments for kids of all ages, sporting events for enthusiasts and spectators alike, endless recreational opportunities and a huge array of both shopping and dining options to round it all out.