Drake and Check Engage Voters in Powerful Dialogue

In Yavapai County, the race for District 3 supervisor is heating up as candidates Republican Lori Drake and Democrat Nikki Check made their sole joint appearance during the Sedona Chamber of Commerce’s Community Pulse event on October 9. Held at the Mary D. Fisher Theatre, the candidates laid out their platforms and engaged with audience members through a question-and-answer session.

Nikki Check emphasized the significance of sustainable economic development, particularly regarding food security. “Food security is a key issue for our county, especially as we address water policy,” she noted, highlighting the need to maintain agriculture’s role in future water management.

Water management emerged as a central theme in the discussion. Check underscored that local solutions are vital to circumvent mandates from higher authorities, especially since the Prescott Active Management Area is projected to miss its safe yield targets by 2025. She also advocated for a revision to Yavapai County’s zoning ordinance to create a conservation open space overlay, which would help protect local natural resources.

“Prioritizing the Big Chino Aquifer for open space is crucial,” she added, referencing recent conservation successes. The preservation of 1,800 acres at Yavapai Ranch exemplifies the progress being made, according to Check, who expressed a desire for similar initiatives.

Lori Drake conveyed her deep-rooted connection to the Verde Valley, noting her family’s history in the area. “I am passionate about supporting small businesses and recognize the need to attract more industry to the district,” she stated, addressing the community’s economic challenges. She believes that increasing industrial presence could significantly elevate median incomes and support family stability.

Drake stressed the importance of balancing growth with environmental conservation. “I am committed to preserving our open spaces while we expand,” she remarked, identifying herself with community programs like 4-H and FFA.

Both candidates expressed opposition to the metering of water on private property, illustrating a shared concern for property rights. They also discussed local infrastructure improvements, with Drake noting the installation of new substations to enhance emergency response times, particularly in the Village of Oak Creek.

Fire safety, a pressing issue during Arizona’s hot summers, was another topic of concern. “We must prioritize fire breaks,” she added, highlighting the need for community safety measures.

The candidates also faced questions about their campaign financing. Check acknowledged contributions from Sedona Mayor Scott Jablow and political action committees like Arizona List and the Democrats of the Red Rocks, which endorsed her over incumbent Donna Michaels. Meanwhile, third-quarter campaign finance reports for both candidates were still pending.

Drake responded positively to a question regarding collaboration with irrigation ditch bosses to enhance water management systems in the district. “Working together on that is a fantastic idea,” she said, sharing insights from a recent farm tour that highlighted innovative water conservation techniques.

When asked about supporting small businesses, Drake proposed the idea of incentives for growth to facilitate the sustainability of local enterprises. “It’s essential that we provide small businesses with the support they need to thrive,” she stated.