About Cengiz Arik.

Hello Kingman residents,

I am deeply committed to serving our wonderful city and addressing the key issues that matter most to our community. As someone who has grown up in Kingman since 1996, I understand the unique challenges and opportunities we face. My top priorities include water conservation, improving our roads, ensuring government transparency, driving economic development and preparing for the Silver Tsunami by enhancing senior services. These issues are at the forefront of my agenda, and I am dedicated to making meaningful progress in each area. I look forward to your support and collaboration as we work together to make Kingman a better place for everyone.

1)    What is your background, and what makes you qualified for a seat on the Kingman City Council?

I have grown up in Kingman since 1996, deeply understanding the community and its needs. As a business owner, father and University of Arizona graduate, I bring a unique perspective and dedication to the role. My passion for the city, combined with my energy and dedication, drives me to take initiative and join various programs and delegations to bring benefits to our city. I'm bringing new blood into the system and look forward to serving YOU. YOU will hold me accountable. I will be transparent. WE will get things done! #ARIKforACTION

2)    What are the most important issues facing Kingman today?

Key issues include economic development, infrastructure maintenance, and our aging demographic. We must ensure smart spending to address problems efficiently, not just applying expensive band-aids. Providing necessary services to our senior citizens is also crucial. We need to create sustainable solutions that address the root causes, improving the overall quality of life in Kingman. I don’t have enough space here but read about the Silver Tsunami at www.kingmanvoice.com/blog.

3)    Name one specific goal you would like to see the city accomplish in the next two years?

I am thrilled to aim for the completion of the Rancho Santa Fe Traffic Interchange, a pivotal project for Kingman's future renaissance! This exciting development will spark the Kingman Crossing TI, the I-40 Tradeport corridor, and the FAA Land Release at the airport. Imagine new shopping centers, diverse food options, and a surge in job opportunities. Enhanced infrastructure and connectivity will transform Kingman, making it a magnet for businesses and professionals, including doctors and essential services. This project will elevate our community, bringing vital services and a vibrant economy to Kingman.

4)    Are the council’s current plans for road maintenance sufficient? What, if anything, would you change?

Our road maintenance system is recovering from COVID-related work stops, supply issues with fleet vehicles, and ineffective past strategies. The department is finally finishing its backlog, and regular maintenance is back on track. We need a comprehensive catalog of our road system to prioritize areas requiring immediate attention and address root problems. For example, instead of just patching potholes on Hualapai Mountain Road, we opted for a full resurfacing to ensure long-term solutions and avoid repetitive, costly repairs. Transparency is crucial; when someone asks where the money for the downtown streetscape is coming from, they should be able to find it easily on our website. We’re also giving the Streets page a facelift, allowing citizens to submit requests and track progress. Accountability is the name of the game.

5)    What should be the council’s focus when it comes to economic development?

The council should focus on attracting unique businesses, supporting local entrepreneurs, and leveraging our existing resources like the Industrial Park and Airport. By creating a business-friendly environment, investing in infrastructure, and promoting workforce development, we can stimulate economic growth and provide more job opportunities for our residents. While tourism is vital, we must also focus on the broader city. Many businesses in Kingman are outside downtown, including commercial yards by Armour Ave., airport businesses and those along Stockton Hill Road. Our approach should encompass the entire city, ensuring balanced economic growth and support for all businesses.

6)    Is the city doing enough to protect its water supply for future generations?

While the city has made strides in water conservation, more can always be done. Ensuring a sustainable water supply is essential for Kingman’s long-term viability and growth. Foreign farms sapping our groundwater is a significant issue. Of the annual draw on Hualapai Valley Basin, private residential wells use 2%, Kingman proper uses 17%, and foreign farms use 80%, providing no local benefits. These farms use our water for water-intensive crops shipped out of state or country, tearing up our roads without contributing to solutions. We must address this to protect our future.

7)    How would you balance spending on tourism promotion with amenities for full-time residents?

Balancing spending on tourism and amenities for residents requires a strategic approach. Tourism promotion is vital for economic growth, but we must also invest in amenities that enhance the quality of life for our residents. Focusing on projects that benefit both tourists and locals, such as Lewis Kingman Park upgrades that improve the park for everyone and make it more suitable for big events like our world-famous Route 66 Fest, is crucial. Upgrades to baseball parks will support local leagues and attract traveling teams. Imagine transforming dilapidated lots into vibrant community gardens or outdoor art spaces that showcase local artists and become tourist attractions. These innovative ideas will make Kingman a dynamic and attractive place for everyone.