Op-Ed: In Support of Raoul Zubia

By Cynthia Wenström

Scottsdale is fortunate to have scenic beauty, safe neighborhoods and amenities that contribute to an enviable quality of life. The McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt, generously equipped libraries and senior centers, are community assets worth protecting and maintaining.

The continuing question is how Scottsdale can sustain that quality of life while addressing the challenges ahead.

In 2023, I had the honor of chairing a City Council-appointed task force charged with developing a long-term plan for reinvestment and maintenance of parks, protection of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, expanded public-safety capabilities, and critical infrastructure improvements at WestWorld. In 2024, Scottsdale voters overwhelmingly approved that plan through Proposition 490, which passed in every precinct.

The task force brought together residents from diverse perspectives. Raoul Zubia, who served as vice chair, helped facilitate the process and build consensus. He also participated in subsequent community outreach.
Today, Scottsdale faces another significant challenge: water availability. With Colorado River cutbacks and continuing questions about long-term water supplies, the city must determine how best to provide residents with safe, dependable, and affordable water while responsibly managing growth and resources.

Scottsdale’s ability to address issues such as water, infrastructure, public safety, and quality of life will depend on constructive civic dialogue and thoughtful leadership, which is the reason I am grateful to Raoul Zubia for stepping forward to run for City Council in 2026. Proposition 490 is just one of the more recent examples of his leadership.

As Scottsdale voters consider the city’s future, candidates’ records of community involvement, ability to work across differences, and approaches to these challenges deserve careful consideration. The choices made today will shape Scottsdale for decades to come. I support Raoul Zubia and ask you to consider a vote for Raoul for Scottsdale’s City Council.

Cynthia Wenström, Chair
Protect & Preserve Scottsdale Task Force