Dahl Launches Vibrant Kickoff Party for Tucson City Council Reelection Campaign

City Councilman Kevin Dahl announced his campaign for re-election at a lively launch party on Wednesday, emphasizing his dedication to environmental and neighborhood initiatives that he has championed since taking office in 2001. “We’re going to work on climate change,” Dahl stated. “It’s not going to get cooler. We’re going to focus on water. The Colorado River doesn’t have enough water to supply everyone.”

Approximately 60 supporters gathered at Brother John’s Beer, Bourbon and BBQ to hear Dahl speak, including Tucson Mayor Regina Romero and Pima County Supervisor Adelita Grijalva. The event included tributes to Raúl Grijalva, a notable political figure and Adelita’s father, who passed away recently after battling lung cancer.

Adelita Grijalva recalled her father’s emphasis on supporting genuine public servants: “I said, ‘Oh, no, my dad would be really mad if I didn’t.’ Because we have to keep people like you. People who have a pure heart and want to do the right thing.” She praised Dahl’s collaborative approach to problem-solving, noting the importance of working together over time to achieve goals.

Mayor Romero reflected on her mentor, Raúl Grijalva, stating, “We do this work for love, for the love of our community.” She highlighted Dahl’s longstanding support for crucial initiatives such as the city’s fare-free transit program and the Housing First initiative, urging his continued advocacy amidst challenging political circumstances. “Cities and counties and states are going to be attacked,” she warned, stressing the need for resilience and commitment to fundamental values of inclusivity and justice.

Dahl recounted his initial conversation with U.S. Rep. Grijalva when he considered running for the Ward 3 seat, where the congressman simply advised him, “Don’t think about it. Just do it.” Having built a foundation of local environmental advocacy with organizations like Native Seeds/SEARCH and the Tucson Audubon Society, Dahl expressed a desire for a second term to further his projects. “There’s still so much to do,” he remarked, proud of the office’s accomplishments and the staff’s dedication to addressing community needs.

As the campaign heats up, Dahl faces a potential challenge from TUSD Board member Sadie Shaw, who recently filed to run. If successful in the Democratic primary on August 5, he may contend against Republican Janet Wittenbraker. Candidates must submit their nominating petitions by April 7, with specific signature requirements for their party affiliations.

Shaw described Tucson as being at a pivotal moment, calling for thoughtful and effective decision-making. Meanwhile, as of February 22, Dahl has raised the highest amount of funds in the City Council race, totaling $22,975, with $20,202 remaining in his campaign bank after expenditures.