Sedona, AZ — Republican candidate Lori Drake is presently running for the Yavapai County District 3 Board of Supervisors.
It takes a lot of work and a lot of courage to put one’s whole soul and being into running for office, and few have what it takes to do so.
Lori Drake is one such individual.
For Drake, her desire to serve began at an early age, motivated by a family immersed in public service.
“My passion for public service was ignited in my childhood, influenced by a family deeply committed to civic duty,” she said. “My grandparents were actively involved in various community organizations, and I often volunteered alongside them. My parents also made a significant impact, especially through their work with the Verde Valley Fair Association. Growing up in such an environment, I learned early on that community involvement relies on volunteers—often entire families.”
For those who put themselves out there to run for office, their motivation goes beyond the desire for public service, but the love of working with people as well.
“What I love most is connecting with people and serving the community,” she said. “Our citizens are genuine, caring, and resourceful. Over the past eight years on the Mingus Union High School Governing Board, and now during my campaign, I have met and listened to people across District 3. I am committed to continuing that dialogue, earning trust, and providing representation that turns concerns into real solutions. I want to help create a better environment for everyone in our community.”
Drake recognizes the challenges facing Verde Valley and Yavapai county and is ready to meet them head-on.
“Our community faces significant challenges, including recovering from COVID, rapid growth, and the pressures of record inflation,” she said. “Small businesses, the backbone of our local economy, are struggling, and tourism is overtaking other sectors, making it difficult for families to start businesses or secure stable, well-paying jobs.
“I believe county government should focus on providing essential services that ensure health, safety, and security, so that families can build better lives. I advocate for thoughtful, well-planned growth that aligns with our rural values and supports long-term prosperity.
“Flood mitigation is another critical issue. Rapid growth has exacerbated flooding and soil erosion, and we need updated zoning ordinances that coordinate flood control efforts across towns and cities. This includes creating retention areas to protect both our infrastructure and our natural resources. Additionally, revitalizing our aquifers is essential for future water security.”
Having lived and grown up in rural communities her entire life, she is especially keen on preserving the lifestyle rural communities provide.
“Rural life offers a unique connection to history and a quality of life that is increasingly rare,” she said. “I am committed to preserving that by opposing high-density developments in Yavapai County’s unincorporated areas. Our community values conservation and self-reliance, and I believe growth should be measured and consistent with those values. By doing so, we can ensure that our cherished rural lifestyle endures for future generations.”
While recognizing the challenges Verde Valley is facing, she also notes the challenges Sedona itself is facing as tourism continues to grow. She also believes the city should not try to take ocer the operation of Sedona’s airport.
“Transportation remains a major challenge for Sedona and the Village of Oak Creek, but the upcoming Verde Valley Master Transportation Plan offers an opportunity for solutions,” she said.
“Short-term rentals (STRs) are another significant issue, displacing families and making communities more transient. I support the new Sheriff’s substation, which will improve response times and enhance public safety. While many residents want restrictions on STRs, especially in unincorporated areas, I believe the state should provide clear guidance to help local governments manage these issues, and I hope to influence those decisions.
“Regarding Sedona Airport, I believe it should remain under the Sedona Oak Creek Airport Authority. The airport is vital for both residents and tourists and contributes significantly to our economy.
As a Republican, she hopes to govern with her party’s principles in mind.
“As a Conservative, I am deeply committed to fiscal responsibility, integrity, and respect for the people I serve,” she said. “With a background in business operations and accounting, I have the skills to find effective, efficient solutions to the challenges our county faces. I grew up in a family business, so I am pro-small business, but I also recognize the need for industries that create high-paying jobs in our region. My goal is to help families create a home here, enjoy the natural beauty of the area, make a successful living, and preserve our small-town way of life.”
She believes that through the office of the county board of supervisors, much could be accomplished politically to improve her community’s quality of life.
“A county supervisor plays a critical role in ensuring the well-being of Yavapai County residents,” she said. “They provide responsible, fiscally sound leadership, while fostering cooperation with other government agencies to best serve the people. The focus should always be on prioritizing the needs and concerns of the citizens. They are responsible to ensure essential services that ensure health, public safety, and security.”
Drake believes there is a clear differentiation between her and her political opponent, both in leadership style and approach.
“I offer bold, transparent representation with deep roots in this community. As a lifelong Republican and fourth-generation Cottonwood resident, I understand our rural lifestyle and the importance of farming, ranching, public safety, personal property rights, and preserving our small-town values. I have spent eight years working for the people, and I am firmly against government overreaches, especially when it comes to issues like the metering or measuring of private wells.”
As a candidate who has run a campaign free of special interests, she believes she would serve voters best.
“I have a proven record of serving the people, whether as president of the Mingus School Board or as a community advocate,” she said. “I have made tough decisions and have consistently stood up for parents, students, and teachers
“I am running a campaign free of special interests—I have not accepted donations from PACs, large businesses, or NGOs. My only obligation is to the people of District 3, and I am free to make decisions that truly serve their needs.
“Responsible growth that protects our rural character and enhances quality of life, is what I am all about.”
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Tommy Acosta
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