We were excited to have a chance to sit down with District 5 Councilmember David Luna, who is running for re-election to the Mesa City Council.
He is looking for your support and vote, either by early ballot or by the primary election, which will be held on Aug. 28.
As a District 5 councilmember, David Luna has been a proponent for strong public schools, important public safety initiatives and the building of vibrant neighborhoods. David is familiar with the education arena, from more than 30 years working in Mesa Public Schools, as well as teaching as an adjunct professor for Arizona State University (ASU) and Mesa Community College (MCC).
As a councilmember, David works with partners such as the Mesa and Arizona chambers of commerce, the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, the Arizona Commerce Authority, and most importantly, his District 5 residents.
His fellow council members recognized his efforts when he was appointed as vice mayor last year.
We have some questions for Councilmember Luna as to what he hopes to accomplish should he receive another term.
Q: David, what do you believe you bring to this race that will help District 5?
As a Mesa resident, I have seen the growth of our community and felt the growing pains. As a council member, I want to ensure that we continue working on that community spirit, building neighborhoods, not just houses, so everyone who lives in Mesa feels like they belong.
Today, we have such great neighborhoods, each with their own characteristics, such as the Desert Uplands, Las Sendas, Red Mountain Ranch, the Citrus Groves and Alta Mesa. I want to maintain the personality of the areas, while also providing support for their day-to-day needs.
Among the simple needs is the Dark Sky ordinance, which was created to help residents who prefer living in low-lit areas. There also are the more layered needs, such as building our fire, police and medical services. I would suggest growing those core services, so they are readily available. Having shorter response times in District 5 is a campaign mission I speak about regularly with residents. They want to feel safe, and I want to help them feel safe.
Q: How will you make your residents feel safe?
My history as a council member shows that, while I am fiscally responsible, I also know there are needs in our growing community. I will continue to balance and respect property rights through sensible developments, so we can improve the lives of all District 5 residents—not just our new neighbors—but also the families who have established their homes with us for decades.
I also believe in increased business opportunities through the strategic plan initiated by the Falcon Field Economic Commission. I want to ensure that the Falcon District remains an innovative, high-tech hub for aviation/aerospace and defense, advanced manufacturing and business services.
Q: Are there other campaign missions where you believe you can make a difference?
Everyone knows my history in education with Mesa Public Schools, ASU and MCC, so they know I am passionate about learning at all levels. However, I also believe that the Mesa K-Ready initiative should be a true focus because it prepares preschool-age children for their future education opportunities in our community. Mesa K-Ready strengthens our children before they enter kindergarten to help them be ready to learn and have the opportunity to excel academically.
I also will continue to make sure District 5 is considered in all City Council discussions related to streets, parks, bonds, public safety and residential development. I take my role as a speaker for the entire community seriously and with great respect.
Q: Is there anything else you would say to your constituents before the election in August?
I am here for you—in person, by phone or by email. I maintain mobile office hours at the Red Mountain Public Library and listening sessions specifically for constituent services at my Luna Landing community gatherings. In addition, you can always reach me by phone at (480) 935-8765.
I am here for the District 5 community today, and I hope to be here in January 2019 for another four years of work toward a stronger, more vibrant Mesa.