Candidate Profile: Jennifer Adams, Tempe City Council

TEMPE, AZ — Jennifer Adams is one of seven candidates running for three open seats on the Tempe City Council in the upcoming March 8 primary election. If a general election is necessary it will be held May 17.

The city recommended that voters mail their completed ballots by March 1 to ensure they're received in time to be counted, but there's still time to drop off your ballot or to vote in person.

Other candidates running for the 4-year terms that begin in July are: Arlene Chin, Casey Clowes, Berdetta Hodge, Gina Kash, Harper Lines and John Skelton.

Patch submitted the same questions to each candidate. Below are Adams' responses.

Education

Bachelor's in Social Work, University of Nebraska. Master's in Social Work, Arizona State University.

Occupation

I am a licensed clinical social worker. I worked for the City of Tempe for 29 years in three different departments, and upon my retirement, I ran for City Council. I've been serving the City of Tempe for 33 years, and hope to add four more!

Family

I live with my family and our pets in South Tempe.

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government?

No

Age

57

Previous public office, appointive or elective

I am a current Tempe City Council member, first elected in 2018.

Why are you seeking this office?

I am seeking re-election because I am passionate about helping the people of Tempe. I like to take my extensive knowledge of the City from my experience working within it and use that to get things done for Tempe - whether that means finding ways to save the City money, or finding out about new things that need to be fixed. I like to listen to my neighbors and community about what their needs are, and look for ways that I can address them.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I am the only incumbent in the race, and I have decades of experience with this City that can't be imitated. I listen to our community and then cut through red tape to get things accomplished. If you want results, I'm your candidate.

What other issues do you intend to address during your campaign?

Fiscal responsibility, responsible, sustainable development, supporting Tempe small businesses, promoting sustainability, increasing wraparound/transitional homeless services and affordable housing, to make Tempe a place where all can live, work, and thrive.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I have served the City as Councilmember for 4 years. I secured $55 million in funding to fix our roads, led the effort to annex the county island north of Tempe - something I was told couldn't be done - which will bring in additional tax revenue and opportunities for business growth. I've also led efforts to rebuild Clark Park Pool.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

My parents taught me to listen to people.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I look forward to continuing to do my part to solve the homelessness issue in Tempe and the Valley, promote sustainable practices in development and throughout City policy, and finding ways to save the City money.

Click here to visit Adams' campaign website.