Hess and Ontiveros Clash for Coconino District 3 Seat

On Tuesday, Nov. 5, voters in Sedona — specifically in the Uptown, Gallery Row, and Chapel areas — along with residents in unincorporated Oak Creek Canyon, will cast their ballots to select their representative for District 3 on the Coconino County Board of Supervisors.

The election features incumbent Democratic supervisor Adam Hess defending his position against Republican challenger Tammy Ontiveros. Ontiveros secured the Republican nomination in a July primary, receiving 2,026 votes, equivalent to 64% of the total. Her opponent, Sean Golliher, garnered 1,111 votes.

“I was successful in the primary because I started engaging with voters early and built relationships with community leaders,” Ontiveros stated. She plans to continue this collaborative approach in the general election.

Ontiveros identifies as a “fiscal conservative” and boasts extensive public service experience, including 14 years on the Coconino County Planning and Zoning Commission, four of which she served as chairwoman. She aims to leverage her background in land use and her 28 years as a small business owner to address community concerns.

Concerns over slow response times from the Coconino County Sheriff’s Office have emerged as a significant issue among residents, prompting Ontiveros to advocate for increased funding for law enforcement services.

Hess, appointed in January following the retirement of former supervisor Matt Ryan, ran unopposed in the Democratic primary, receiving 2,617 votes. Prior to his appointment, he completed an internship in Ryan’s office.

In his previous remarks, Hess expressed his centrist political view, emphasizing a commitment to represent all constituents fairly. “I want to do what’s right for everybody,” he asserted, reflecting on his military background that shaped his principles.

Both candidates support relocating the Sedona Fire District’s Station 5 to Slide Rock State Park to accommodate modern needs, as the current site is deemed inadequate. Additionally, both have shown support for a proposed 20-year ban by the U.S. Forest Service on new mining claims within Oak Creek Canyon.

Ontiveros opposes plans to pave Schnebly Hill Road, while Hess remains uncertain, noting the need for community input on the costly proposition.

In terms of fiscal measures, both candidates voiced their backing for Proposition 482, a county-sponsored initiative aimed at increasing the county’s expenditure limit significantly. Ontiveros wishes to enhance funding for rural road maintenance, while Hess focuses on improving public safety in Oak Creek Canyon.

With a personal stake in the community’s future, Ontiveros stated, “As a third-generation Arizona native, my family’s history motivates me to preserve our local scenery for future generations.” Hess echoed the importance of civic engagement, urging voters to support local government through participation in elections.