“The July 21 election is about more than candidates. It is about whether Sedona chooses stability, Home Rule, and responsible leadership — or risks creating uncertainty at the very moment confidence matters most.”
Opinion by Al Comello, Sedona Resident
Sedona, AZ — The July 21 election is about more than candidates. It is about whether Sedona chooses stability, local control, and responsible leadership—or accepts uncertainty at a time when confidence matters more than ever.
Sedona’s property values are supported by more than its red rock scenery. They are supported by confidence: confidence in public safety, infrastructure, city services, financial stability, and competent local government.
People invest in communities they trust. They buy homes, open businesses, retire, and put down roots when they believe a city is well managed and moving in the right direction. When that confidence weakens, uncertainty follows—and uncertainty can affect investment decisions, housing demand, and long-term economic health.
That reality makes this election especially important.
Sedona’s real estate market is already showing signs of moderation, with more price reductions and increasingly cautious buyers. The city remains a highly desirable place to live, but desirability alone is not enough. Communities must also project stability, sound governance, and a clear vision for the future.
At the center of this election is Home Rule.
Home Rule does not create new taxes. It allows Sedona to spend the revenue it already collects according to locally adopted priorities. Without it, the city could face significant spending restrictions under a state formula that bears little relationship to Sedona’s modern needs and responsibilities.
Voters should expect candidates seeking to govern the city to clearly explain where they stand on this issue. The authority to manage public safety, infrastructure, planning, and community services is fundamental to effective local government.
Ultimately, this election is about stewardship. Every generation inherits a community built by those who came before and leaves it for those who follow. The decisions made on July 21 will influence public services, civic confidence, economic vitality, and quality of life for years to come.
Sedona’s beauty is enduring. Confidence is not.
Protecting that confidence requires stable leadership, sound financial management, and a continued commitment to local control.
Support Home Rule, Proposition 300 and support the candidates who publicly support Home Rule.
The future of Sedona depends on it.
Note: Those candidates that openly and publicly support Home Rule are: Brian Fultz for Mayor and Melissa Dunn and “Coach” Tony Housemen for City Council. The other candidates do not openly support and encourage a “YES VOTE” on Home Rule. A.C.
Editor’s Note: Al Comello has been a Sedona resident for 28 years and has served in leadership roles with numerous Sedona and Verde Valley nonprofit organizations. He has spent decades studying Sedona’s housing, real estate, civic, and community development issues, including the impact of short-term rentals. Before moving to Sedona, he was Real Estate Editor of the historic St. Louis Globe-Democrat and owned a marketing agency specializing in the new-home industry.