The August Primary election is coming up and it’s a big one for the City of Holbrook. In February, a recall committee headed by Robert Black and Richard Peterson submitted numerous reasons why they believe Mayor Merrill Young should be recalled from his position. The petition garnered 131 signatures, placing the matter on the next election ballot, which is the Primary election. Going up against Young, who is a retired animal control officer for the city and has served as mayor since 2019, is longtime Holbrook resident Kathleen Smith who is a former community development director for the City of Holbrook, and is a current realtor and owner of Grow Arizona, a workforce development non-profit organization.
The petition that was presented against Young included claims that he facilitated the cancellation of the 2020-21 city election cycle, which in effect extended the time of office for the sitting council, allows City Manager Ted Soltis to understaff city workforce, allows relations to degrade with outside municipalities and organizations, and permits Soltis to manipulate and disregard proper procedures and decorum to the detriment of citizens and employees. It also claims that he elevates the office of mayor above what is authorized by city charter, giving himself the responsibility of approving financial activity in concert with Soltis, and permits the cancelation of council meetings while the city faces many needs that are not being addressed, giving Soltis the authority to control the city council agenda and direct the council in its activities, and fails to lead the city council in a strategic plan.
Young has denied each of the allegations, stating that the high priority needs of the city were neglected prior to the hiring of Soltis, making the 2007 strategic plan still viable, stating that no safety positions were eliminated at the city, and that he was within city charter in other actions. He also denies facilitating the cancellation of the 2020-21 election, stating the council was simply aligning with state standards.
Also on the ballot are three council seats currently held by Kip Woolford, Adam Marsh and Earl Kester. Marsh is looking to retain his seat with five other candidates on the ballot including Arcenia Pacheco, Barbara Blythe, Karina Pack, Kristie Peterson and Robert Black.
Those winning a seat on the council in the primary will take office in December. If Smith should win the seat of mayor she would take office immediately following the canvas of votes. The Primary Election will be held on Aug. 2.
