Board of Supervisor District 2

Kathleen L. Gomez




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Transportation infrastructure

Access to transportation plays a crucial role in fostering economic development, promoting good health, and enhancing the overall quality of life within our communities. If elected, I am committed to urging the Board to conduct a thorough examination of our future transportation needs, particularly addressing the glaring deficiencies in District 2. Transportation serves as the vital link connecting producers to raw materials and facilitating the movement of goods and services. As we anticipate the construction of the new Douglas Port of Entry, it's essential that we are well-informed about the proposed plans from Federal, State, and Local governments, as well as their strategies for accommodating the future growth of our community. Adequate public transportation is a lifeline, especially for the older populations and individuals with disabilities who may lack access to or the ability to drive cars. The absence of reliable transportation options can result in social isolation, which, in turn, escalates the risk of adverse health outcomes like early mortality, depression, and dementia. Intercity buses play a critical role in connecting rural communities and providing transportation to significant regional transit hubs, including airports and healthcare appointments. If elected, I will prioritize exploring all available avenues, such as enterprise zones and State and federal programs, to attract private bus providers to our region. It's important to recognize that transportation is more than just a means of getting from one place to another. It forms the bedrock of economic growth, social inclusivity, and access to essential services within rural communities. Addressing our transportation needs is not only crucial for sustainable development but also for the overall well-being of our citizens.

Economic Prosperity and Employment Opportunities

Many residents in District 2 share a common concern: their desire to stay within our community while facing a scarcity of job opportunities. I understand as someone who would like to stay in my home community but see the lack of jobs, to address this issue, I would like to do a deep dive into the economic status of our county. Thriving rural communities excel by leveraging their distinctive regional strengths, nurturing industries like agriculture, manufacturing, energy, and tourism. If elected, I am committed to initiating an investigation and evaluation of all existing economic and enterprise zones within our county. We must determine the whereabouts of these zones, assess their promotion and effectiveness, and explore opportunities for expansion. By delving into their impact and functionality, we can identify areas of improvement and strategize on how to attract and support small and medium-sized businesses effectively. It is my firm belief that by meticulously examining our economic landscape and optimizing existing economic zones while incorporating new ones, we can create an environment that encourages economic growth, job creation, and enables more residents to stay and prosper within our community.

Tourism

I would like us to look at promoting all of Cochise County as a destination. Our County is rich in history and that history is coveted and envied around the world. From Tombstone to Bisbee and Willcox, the tourists know the richness of these communities. We must also promote the rich history of Douglas, once the third largest city in Arizona in the 60’s and where the offices of New York City based Phelps Dodge operated from. From the first International Airport of the Americas, to participating in the Powder Puff Tournament of women pilots in the early 20’s there is so much to explore. From the stories of Pancho Villa and Blackjack Pershing to John Slaughter, from Cave Creek, the Dragoons to Kartchner Caverns, from the history of Fort Huachuca, Naco, McNeal and Elfrida there is endless interests for all tourists. One thing I know from personal experience is how much our history of cowboys, Apache’s and other tribes as well as Mexican vaqueros is fantasized abroad. I believe we can find creative ways that will bring economic benefits to the whole county.