Michelle Ugenti-Rita

Ugenti-Rita's core principle is that Scottsdale must "live within our water means," basing water policy on existing and projected supply rather than growth demands. She opposes approving growth beyond assured water capacity and special water carve-outs for developers. She called Scottsdale's recycled water program "reckless" before the city fully understands its long-term costs and health implications.

"This is reckless before we understand the long-term costs, health implications."

No official stance on record.

No official stance on record.

Ugenti-Rita does not view housing affordability as a municipal issue, arguing it is driven by the free market and broader economic factors. She limits the city's role to clear, consistent regulations and avoiding policies that drive up costs.

"I do not believe solving housing affordability is a municipal issue... The free market ultimately dictates the housing market."

No official stance on record.

No official stance on record.

Ugenti-Rita prioritizes fully supporting police and fire, empowering officers to enforce the law with no "stand-down" orders. She is endorsed by the Scottsdale Police Association and the county sheriff.

"I will prioritize fully supporting our police and fire departments and ensuring they have the resources they need to do their jobs effectively."

No official stance on record.

Given Scottsdale's strong existing brand, Ugenti-Rita wants the Council to be thoughtful about partnerships and investments, with its role being to maintain an environment that supports businesses, the arts, and tourism.

"The Council's role is to maintain an environment that supports businesses, the arts, and attracts people to visit."

No official stance on record.

Ugenti-Rita focuses on addressing real congestion where residents feel it most, improving traffic flow, maintaining existing roads, and being cautious about where expansion makes sense, with infrastructure supporting (not chasing) growth and parking for local businesses.

"My priority is making sure we're addressing real congestion issues in the areas where residents feel it most... That means improving traffic flow, maintaining the roads we already have, and being thoughtful about where expansion actually makes sense."

Drawing on 11 years on the legislative appropriations committee, Ugenti-Rita defines fiscal sustainability as living within the city's means and maintaining strong reserves. When revenue exceeds projections she favors paying down debt, cutting taxes, and eliminating fees.

"Fiscal sustainability is about being responsible with taxpayer dollars and planning for the long term. It means living within our means, maintaining strong reserves, and not taking on obligations we can't sustain."