The retirement of Sharon Bronson, who served on the Pima County District 3 board for an impressive 27 years, has led to a flurry of interest in finding her successor. After a recent fall followed by a hospital stay, Bronson posted her resignation letter on Facebook to Chairwoman Adelita Grijalva, marking the end of an era. Her official last day was Nov. 27, while her term technically concludes on Dec. 31, 2024.

Applicants for the Position

Eight candidates have stepped forward to fill this crucial role in the Pima County District 3 Supervisor’s office. Each candidate brings a unique set of experiences and qualifications to the table:

1. Kristen Randall: A former constable who currently serves as the administrator of the Green Valley Justice Court.
2. April Hiosik Ignacio: A founding member of Indivisible Tohono, a grassroots organization dedicated to the interests of the Nation.
3. Brian Johnson: With 14 years in finance, 5 years in risk management, and 9 years in the assessor’s office at Pima County, Johnson offers a wealth of experience.
4. Joe L. Machado: A former city attorney for Nogales and a finalist for a similar position in Sahuarita in 2022, Machado brings legal expertise to the forefront.
5. Sylvia M. Lee: A former member of the Pima Community College board, Lee understands the intricacies of educational governance.
6. Matthew A. Kopec: A member of the Amphitheater Public Schools governing board, Kopec’s focus lies in educational policies and administration.
7. Jennifer Allen: A former executive director at the Arizona ACLU, Allen possesses a background in civil liberties and advocacy.
8. Edgar Soto: Serving as the campus vice president for Pima Community College, Soto brings a perspective rooted in education and community development.

Requirements and Selection Process

Applicants for this esteemed position had to meet specific criteria, including being at least 18 years old, a resident of District 3, and a registered Democrat – the same party affiliation as Bronson.

The Board is set to appoint Bronson’s replacement on Dec. 19, emphasizing the urgency and importance of selecting the right individual to fill this significant role.

Importance of the Appointment

The position of Pima County District 3 Supervisor holds immense responsibility, overseeing crucial decisions impacting the community’s welfare, economic growth, education, and public services. The chosen candidate will be entrusted with representing the interests of the district’s residents while navigating complex governance challenges.

Conclusion

As Pima County embarks on this pivotal decision to select a new District 3 Supervisor, the diversity of applicants and their varied backgrounds reflects a commitment to finding a qualified leader. The upcoming appointment on Dec. 19 will mark a new chapter in the district’s governance, with the expectation that the chosen individual will continue the legacy of service and dedication exemplified by Sharon Bronson.