Modern Arizona

Building a Stronger Mesa: Scott Smith’s Return to Leadership

• Attorney Billie Tarascio • Season 7 • Episode 10

Share episode

Send us a text

In this episode of the Modern Arizona Podcast, host Billie Tarascio sits down with Scott Smith, former mayor of Mesa and current mayoral candidate. Scott reflects on his previous term from 2008 to 2014, a period marked by the Great Recession, and how he helped guide Mesa through a crushing economic downturn. He shares his leadership strategies for managing challenges and preparing the city for future growth. Now running for mayor again, Scott outlines his vision for addressing today’s key issues like housing affordability, economic development, and revitalizing underused areas.

Scott explains how his background in business shaped his approach to city leadership, emphasizing the need for government to support, not hinder, economic progress. He also dives into the complex relationship between government and business, offering practical solutions for balancing regulation and growth. The conversation covers pressing local concerns, including managing short-term rentals and ensuring Mesa continues to thrive in today’s competitive economic landscape.

Listeners will gain insight into Scott’s leadership style, his innovative ideas for tackling Mesa’s current challenges, and his commitment to maintaining the city’s upward trajectory. This episode offers a compelling look at how Scott’s past experience equips him to lead Mesa into the future.

Episode Highlights:

  • [1:10] Scott reflects on leading Mesa through the Great Recession and lessons learned.
  • [4:45] How his business background influenced his approach to government.
  • [9:30] The key differences between running a city and a business.
  • [12:15] Scott’s ideas for solving the housing crisis by repurposing commercial properties.
  • [20:00] How short-term rentals impact Mesa neighborhoods and what Scott plans to do about it.
  • [25:30] His vision for continuing Mesa’s economic growth.
  • [32:40] Scott’s thoughts on public safety and the future of Mesa’s police force.

Links & Resources:

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share the podcast. Stay tuned for more insights into Arizona’s political landscape and local issues!