Meet the candidates for Tempe mayor

April 18, 2012

This May two candidates will appear on the ballot to replace Tempe Mayor Hugh Hallman. Michael Monti and Mark Mitchell talk about their histories with Tempe and their plans for the city’s future.

Monti, the owner of Monti’s La Casa Vieja, says he’s answering a call to action by running for mayor. He wants to clean up Tempe and work on its economic development. Monti says Tempe was able to grow from the recession by allowing room for entrepreneurs to come in and develop the city’s identity.

Current City Councilman Mitchell says he wants to improve the quality of life in Tempe. He believes the attracting businesses is key in keeping the city alive, and that a regional mindset will help everyone in the Valley. He says Tempe's boxed-in geography has given the city an opportunity to get creative about sustainable structures.