Mayor Spotlight

Name, title & city/town:
Arturo R. Garino, Mayor, City of Nogales
Year elected to office: 2010
Years served as mayor: 3
Hometown: Nogales, Arizona

City of Nogales
Incorporated: 1893
Population: 20,837
Elevation: 3,865 ft.
County: Santa Cruz
Area within Limits: 20.25 sq. mi.

Why did you decide to serve in local government?
I was born and raised in Nogales and felt there was a commitment on my part to give back to the community. With my knowledge and experience in other levels of city government, I knew that I could make a difference in helping improve the quality of life for members of our community.

What are the biggest challenges facing your city today?
The biggest challenges were improving the image of our city and our border region by changing the negative perception people had. Another challenge was improving relations with our sister city Nogales, Sonora, Mexico.

What opportunities do you see for your community?
Continued trade with Mexico and continued partnerships with other Arizona communities and councils of government such as PAG and MAG are great opportunities. The expansion of the Mariposa Port of Entry will help increase business profitability and job growth, not just for our city but also for the entire state of Arizona.

What are you most proud of during your time in office?
Some of the things I am most proud of are the signing of the historic Sisterhood Agreement with Nogales, Sonora, Mexico; the creation of the Border Mayor's Association; and the increased political alignment of the Sun Corridor. I am also proud of taking Nogales in a new direction by establishing a responsible and sound government that has helped our city become a business-friendly community.

Why is the League important to cities and towns in Arizona?
The League of Arizona Cities and Towns is the first organization we go to for all our local government questions. Their representation and assistance with the legislative body of the state of Arizona is crucial for all communities.
 

League of Arizona Cities and Towns
1820 W. Washington St.
Phoenix, AZ  85007
Phone: 602-258-5786
Fax: 602-253-3874
http://www.azleague.org

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