Phoenix City Hall.
By Taylor Seely || The Arizona Republic
Half of the eight Phoenix City Council seats are up for grabs in the Nov. 8 election, with at least one new representative guaranteed as Sal DiCiccio is term limited.
The changing of the guard in District 6 has prompted a crowded field of candidates. DiCiccio is a conservative voice on the more progressive council, which has led to numerous endorsements for his successor.
The winners could shift the balance of power on the council, where progressive Democrats are often in a tug of war with the more moderate members, including Mayor Kate Gallego.
Gallego and Councilmember Debra Stark support former Phoenix police officer and Arizona State University professor Kevin Robinson. Councilmembers Carlos Garcia and Betty Guardado want labor union employee Kellen Wilson.
And DiCiccio has endorsed Sam Stone, who resigned as his chief of staff to run for the seat.
The other contenders in the eight-person race are Harry Curtin, Joan Greene, Mark Moeremans, Moses Sanchez and Juan Schoville.
Garcia faces three challengers —Nick Griemsmann, Kesha Hodge Washington and Denies Ceballos-Viner — as he seeks a second term representing District 8 in south Phoenix.
Jim Waring, first elected in 2011, faces challengers Matt Evans and Heli Nielson in northeast Phoenix’s District 2.
Laura Pastor is unopposed for a third term in central and west Phoenix’s District 4.
