Background, experience give me a unique understanding - SanTan Sun News SanTan Sun News

Background, experience give me a unique understanding

August 6th, 2018 SanTan Sun News
Background, experience give me a unique understanding
Opinion
0

By DR. WILLIAM CRAWFORD

As a 20-year resident of Chandler with 47 years of leadership and service in higher education and law enforcement, my background and experience give me a unique understanding of the issues facing Chandler.

Chandler citizens and businesses can expect me to be a collaborative leader, committed to working with Council colleagues to keep the City fiscally sound, with a structurally balanced budget. My vision is for “One Chandler,” which is inclusive and welcomes all families to enjoy the high quality of life that Chandler offers its residents.

One Chandler – where all neighborhoods are safe and secure with adequate police, fire, and emergency medical services. One Chandler – where all students have access to high-performing and safe schools. One Chandler – where businesses are sustainable and successful.

Chandler’s diverse population, from young families to seniors, enjoys the success of their careers and deserves a voice on the council that will advocate for them. I am committed to doing my part to keep Chandler a great place to live and work.

I will bring a unique combination of professional experience and background to the Chandler City Council. I recently retired from the Maricopa County Community College District after 24 years of service – most recently as a vice president at Chandler-Gilbert Community College.

During my tenure at CGCC, I held progressing leadership positions including associate dean, senior associate dean, and dean. Prior to CGCC, I served as director of Mesa Community College’s Justice Studies Department and 10 years as a tenured professor.

Before the Maricopa Community College District, I was employed with the Phoenix Police Department as a sworn law enforcement officer for 23 years and then volunteered for another 10 years as a reserve officer – totaling more than 33 years of law enforcement experience.

I am active in the community, serving as the chair of the Chandler Merit Board; president of the Arizona Justice Educator’s Association; member of the Chandler Police and Fire Pension Boards; member of the Chandler Men of Action Board of Directors; and chair of the Si Se Puede Foundation Board of Directors. More information about my community service can be found on my website at crawfordforchandler.com.

My professional careers and community service have enabled me to hone my leadership skills, strategic planning abilities, financial acumen and prepared me to serve the citizens of Chandler as their voice on the City Council.

To be considered a world-class city, it is imperative that the Council reflects the growing needs and diversity of its residents. The Council works for the people of Chandler and they need all viewpoints represented and someone that will champion and protect their interests – a councilmember who will listen to their concerns and assist them in getting issues resolved.

I ask for your support and vote because I am confident that “together we can and will make a difference…”