Financial Experience That Delivers for Flagstaff Citizens – Flagstaff Business News

Hello, my name is Stephen (Steve) Puhr. I am a registered Independent and am running as a write-in candidate for Flagstaff City Council. The recent decision approved by Council demonstrates a need for someone with my experience and ability. On April 19, 2024, the Draft report on the Water Rate Study was released. Since this report was issued after the deadline for nominating petitions to run for Council and I was disappointed how the rate case was handled, I decided to run as a write-in. 

 I have more than 23 years of experience in analyzing and investing in companies in the S&P 500. Four times a year I would analyze earnings forecasts and company investment plans. This unique experience has equipped me to add value to the City Council’s oversight of the city’s budgeting forecasts and capital improvement investments. 

 During the last 16 years of my career, I helped Native American Tribes with economic development investments. Successfully implementing different economic strategies with multiple cultures and needs, this experience gives me confidence in my ability to help guide the City of Flagstaff in a more financially accountable future. 

 The rate increases for Water, Wastewater and Reclaimed Water are significantly higher than needed. The analysis used in forecasting the need for these increases was dubious at best. I am the only citizen that brought forward an alternative rate increase plan.  My plan would reduce the proposed water rate increase to 40%, compared to the proposed 167% increase; and reduce the proposed wastewater rate to 43%, compared to the proposed 146% increase. With my encouragement and support, City Council was able to reduce the final rate increase on water to 50% and wastewater to 96%. I will fight to reduce the water rate increase 20% more and the wastewater increase 50% more.

 I am also committed to reduce last year’s stormwater increase by 66%.

 I will work to save taxpayers approximately $600 million in expected cost for the Carbon Neutrality Plan. Flagstaff can get investors to build a solar farm to sell electricity to Arizona Power Service, which would satisfy our carbon reduction goals.

 Flagstaff’s minimum wage law has cost more than 923 jobs and numerous business closures; Flagstaff voters need to reconsider their decision to have the highest minimum wage in all 50 states. 

 My overall goal is to take actions to bring the cost of living down in Flagstaff. I am the only citizen who has physically attended Flagstaff Budget Retreats spanning the last two years. Hence, I am more prepared than other candidates for Council. 

 I believe we must always understand both sides of an issue before we can conclude what is best for all of Flagstaff citizens. I will always ask three questions before concluding anything: 1) Compared to what? 2) At what cost? 3) What hard evidence do you have?

 Councilwoman Deb Harris and Councilwoman Lori Mathews have endorsed my candidacy. 

 In next month’s Flagstaff Business News, I will address housing, Flagstaff’s water supply, Prop. 488 and more on Flagstaff’s minimum wage.

 On Oct. 9, mail-in ballots will be mailed to Flagstaff voters. I appreciate your consideration to fill in the oval and write in Steve Puhr for City Council. FBN

 By Steve Puhr

Paid for by Stephen P Puhr for Flagstaff.

[Political Candidate Column]