Scott Neely

Scott Neely was born in Hemet, California. His career experience includes working as a small business owner and in construction.[1][2]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Scott Neely is the voice that Arizona has been waiting for — the voice that refuses to be ignored, pushed aside, or talked over. He speaks with the fire and conviction of someone who knows exactly what everyday Arizonans are going through, because he’s lived it too. While career politicians argue, Scott stands up and says what the people have been shouting for years: Enough. It’s time for real leadership.

Scott is a true conservative with the backbone to fight for what matters. He doesn’t just list Arizona’s problems; he confronts them head-on with bold, clear solutions rooted in common sense and real-world experience.

But what sets Neely apart is this: he isn’t just speaking to the people — he’s speaking for them. His message breaks past party lines and resonates with Republicans, Independents, and Democrats who feel unheard, overlooked, and tired of politicians who don’t deliver.

Scott Neely is the people’s voice.

The voice of the fed up.

The voice of the forgotten.

The voice ready to fight for a stronger, safer, freer Arizona.

And he’s just getting started.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Scott Neely brings bold ideas and strong leadership to Arizona. A lifelong entrepreneur who started his first business at sixteen, he built his career from hands-on concrete work to founding Action Concrete Pumping and Action Concrete Pumping Supply in Arizona. He has contributed to major state projects—including the Arizona-Mexico border wall and infrastructure across the Valley—and founded the National Shotcrete Association to train future operators.Sea of Cortez Pipeline: Build a 75-mile pipeline to Yuma, expand the existing desalination plant, and add a new one using advanced technology.

Keep Water Control in Arizona: Reject foreign-controlled desalination projects in Mexico.

Use Arizona’s Brackish Groundwater: Develop mini-desalination plants to tap over 600 million acre-feet of in-state brackish water.

Arizona is getting $5.3 billion to repair roads, bridges, utilities, airports, and expand broadband. Many areas still lack reliable internet.

With 24 years of construction experience, Scott Neely will ensure these funds are used efficiently, prevent waste, prioritize rural communities, expand internet access, and support EV charging networks.Arizona's education system is ranked 49th in the country, and Scott Neely has plans to tackle the issue that involves redirecting funding and maximizing tutoring opportunities.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Workers in AZ and the AZ economy

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

The most important endorsements I have recieved are the over 5000 supporters who have signed my petition to get me on the ballot. Those everyday Arizonans mean more to me than any "high powered" endorsement!

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Video submitted to BallotpediaReleased June 10, 2024

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a devoted father, loving husband & proud business owner, I have been part of Mesa for over two decades.

My Christian faith guides my commitment to community leadership and is a testament to my belief in the values that bind us together. Beyond being a successful businessman, I have worn many hats over the years – a foreman, a community servant, and

a stalwart resident who has witnessed Mesa's growth and challenges firsthand.

With roots firmly planted in Mesa for more than 20 years, children who graduated from Mesa HS, I understand the pulse of the

city and its diverse residents. My business acumen has not only contributed to the local economy but has also provided employment opportunities, fostering a sense of community and mutual prosperity.

My community service endeavors underscore my genuine concern for Mesa's well-being. Whether it's supporting local initiatives or actively engaging in community development projects, I have consistently demonstrated a commitment to giving back.

Mesa stands at a crucial juncture, and I believe it's time for the next generation of leadership to shape a better future. My slogan is "People over politics, the next generation of leadership," this encapsulates my vision for a city that thrives under progressive,

inclusive, & visionary leadership.

In my candidacy, Mesa finds a compassionate leader, a forward-thinking businessman, and a community advocate with a heart dedicated to service.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

People over politics. It's time to restore the trust of the Mesa tax payors. I believe in the power of skilled hands-on education. While we welcome major tech companies, including semiconductor firms, to Mesa, we must also ensure our educational system prepares students for all career paths. I will expand programs like EVIT to ensure our students have the skills needed for a successful future.

I am deeply committed to restoring safety in our schools. As Mayor, I will create a task force to tackle violence and drug issues plaguing our educational institutions. Additionally, I will prioritize student health by implementing a "say no vape" program to

protect our children.We must rebuild: Education funding must be used wisely. I will work closely with the school board to conduct a thorough audit, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent in the classroom, not on bloated administrative salaries.

To rebuild our economy, we must address our non-competitive tax rates. I will spearhead tax reform initiatives to attract and retain small and medium-sized businesses, revitalizing Mesa's economic landscape while continuing to welcome major tech companies that bring innovation and opportunity.Its time for the leadership of Mesa to reclaim our communities! Public safety is paramount. I will increase law enforcement staffing and ensure officers receive proper training to combat crime effectively. By making panhandling illegal, we will reclaim our streets from vagrancy and drug-related activities, making Mesa safer for all.

I oppose the expansion of light rail, which neglects essential infrastructure and harms small businesses. Instead, I will redirect resources to support local businesses and improve existing infrastructure, reclaiming Mesa's economic vitality.

As a Mesa resident and business owner, I am not a politician—I am one of you. Together, let's bring real change to Mesa.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Education Reform: I believe in hands-on education & want to expand programs like EVIT to equip students with practical skills.

Ensuring our educational system prepares students for all career paths.

Public Safety: Creating safer school environments and combating issues like violence and drug use are crucial. I'm dedicated to

implementing initiatives like the "say no to vape" program to protect our children's health.

Economic Revitalization: I'm committed to responsible use of education funding and advocating for tax reform to attract and retain

businesses. Revitalizing Mesa's economy while supporting local businesses.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

"The Republic" by Plato: This ancient philosophical work delves into topics such as justice, morality, and the ideal state, providing insights into foundational concepts of governance and civic responsibility.

"The Federalist Papers" by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay: These essays, written during the American founding era, provide arguments for the structure of government, the balance of powers, and the importance of constitutional

principles.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

It's time for a non-politician businessman to be the lead of our great city as there are several characteristics and principles that are crucial for an elected official:

Integrity: Upholding honesty, ethical behavior, and transparency.

Accountability: Taking responsibility for actions, decisions, and promises made to the public to serve the community's best

interests.

Leadership: Inspiring and guiding others toward common goals, even in challenging times, tackling tough problems effectively.

Empathy: Understanding and empathizing with diverse perspectives and needs within the community to make inclusive and informed decisions.

Collaboration: Working collaboratively with colleagues, stakeholders, and community members to promote consensus-building,

effective problem-solving, and the ability to enact meaningful change.

Adaptability: Being open to new ideas, feedback, and evolving circumstances to respond effectively to changing needs and

challenges.

Commitment to Public Service: Prioritizing the public good above personal interests, This would be NEW for a Mesa Mayor

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

The core responsibilities of someone elected to public office, particularly a mayoral position, typically include:

Leadership: Providing vision, direction, and effective decision-making to guide the city toward its goals and address its challenges.

Policy Development: Collaborating with stakeholders, city council members, and community members to develop policies that address the city's needs and promote its well-being.

Budget Oversight: Managing the city's finances responsibly, allocating resources efficiently, and ensuring transparency in budgetary decisions.

Community Engagement: Engaging with residents, businesses, and community organizations to understand their concerns, gather input, and foster a sense of belonging and participation in civic affairs.

Economic Development: Promoting economic growth, job creation, and investment in the city to enhance its prosperity and quality

of life for residents.

Public Safety: Ensuring the safety and security of residents by supporting law enforcement efforts, promoting crime prevention strategies, and addressing community safety concerns.

Infrastructure and Services: Maintaining and improving the city's infrastructure, including roads, utilities, parks, and public facilities, to meet the needs of residents and businesses.

Representation: Serving as the city's ambassador, advocating for its interests at the regional, state, and national levels, and representing the city's values and priorities to external stakeholders.

Crisis Management: Responding effectively to emergencies, disasters, and other crises that may impact the city, ensuring the safety and well-being of residents and coordinating response efforts with relevant agencies and organizations.

Ethical Conduct: Upholding high standards of ethics, integrity, and accountability in all aspects of governance, and serving as a role model for ethical behavior in public service.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

The first historical event that happened in my lifetime would have to be September 11, 2001. I was 19 years old at the time and getting ready to start a concrete job that I was hired for at 5 o'clock in the morning. After 9/11 occurred, I vowed to be the most

patriotic man that I could be, and vowed to protect our nation in any way that I could.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

I started my first company in high school when I was 17 years old in January of 1997. I named it "Instant Lawn & Rock Services", and I provided the full package including landscape design, installation, concrete installation, masonry installation, sprinkler & drip

irrigation systems and installation and more.

Instant Lawn & Rock Services lasted until I graduated high school and went to work for my father in sales and marketing at BestLine Materials Inc full time, until my father's death in 2002.

What is your favorite book? Why?

"Lord of the Flies" is my favorite book. Although I was young when I read it, it has stuck with me all the way into my adult years and now. The book entails stranded boys on an island and their failed attempt to govern themselves. Now, this book reminds me

of the current political struggles, we are suffering through as a nation and is still relevant today.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

If I could be a fictional character, I would choose to be Captain America.

A mayor is a leader in his or her city. What does that mean to you?

A leader as a mayor I will have a focus on the voters, not special interests. This means prioritizing the needs and aspirations of the residents who elected me. It involves maintaining transparency, integrity, and accountability in government operations, engaging with the community to understand their priorities, and making decisions that benefit the broader public rather than catering to big donors or special interest groups. By staying accessible, responsive, and committed to improving the quality of life for all residents, I aim to lead with the interests of the voters at the forefront of governance.

If the mayor in your city is a member of the city council and there's a city manager appointed to handle the day-to-day administration of the city government, what do you believe should be the mayor's top priority in office?

As a member of the city council with a city manager overseeing daily operations, the mayor's primary focus should be on strategic leadership and policy direction. This involves working collaboratively with the council and stakeholders to establish a vision for the city's future and develop policies that address key priorities such as economic growth, public safety, infrastructure, sustainability, and social equity. Additionally, the mayor plays a crucial role in engaging with the community, representing the city's interests at higher levels of government, providing oversight for the city manager, and fostering collaboration and partnerships to achieve shared goals. This strategic approach ensures effective governance and positive outcomes for the city and its residents.

If the mayor in your city is not a member of the city council and oversees the day-to-day administration of the city government, what do you believe is the ideal relationship between the mayor and city council?

In a scenario where the mayor oversees the day-to-day administration without being a member of the city council, the ideal relationship with the council is one of collaboration and communication. The mayor and council should work together closely, sharing information, seeking input, and making decisions that reflect the community's needs. Clear communication channels, regular meetings, and updates help keep everyone informed and aligned on key issues. Mutual respect for each other's roles and responsibilities is crucial, with the mayor focusing on administration and implementation while the council provides oversight and policy direction. Transparency, accountability, constructive dialogue, and a shared vision for the city's future are key elements in fostering a positive and effective relationship between the mayor and city council, ultimately benefiting the community as a whole

What do you love most about your city?

What I love most about my city is its incredible diversity, vibrant suburban culture known across America as the "largest suburb of America," and the rich educational environment with the largest community college in the US. Additionally, the city boasts some of the most picturesque trails in the state, offering nature enthusiasts a beautiful escape. What makes it even more special is the blend of small-town charm within a bustling big city, creating a unique and welcoming atmosphere.

What do you perceive to be your city's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Over the next decade, I perceive Mesa's greatest challenges to be the balancing act between progress and community well-being.

As a large and growing city, we face issues such as homelessness and crime, which are characteristic of big cities. At the same time, there's significant development happening, bringing both opportunities and challenges.

One of the key challenges will be ensuring that this development, often influenced by special interests and financial flows, doesn't overshadow the safety and security of our community. It will require solid leadership to navigate these complexities and prioritize the needs of residents while embracing growth and economic opportunities. Balancing the interests of various stakeholders, fostering inclusive growth, and maintaining a strong focus on community safety and quality of life will be critical in addressing these challenges effectively over the next decade

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between your city and the state government?

The ideal relationship between my city and the state government is one built on collaboration, partnership, and mutual respect.

Effective communication channels must be established, fostering regular dialogue between city officials and state representatives to address shared concerns, exchange information, and coordinate on policy matters. This partnership should extend to funding initiatives, where both entities collaborate on grants and resources to support key projects, infrastructure development, public services, and community programs that benefit residents at both levels. Policy alignment is crucial, ensuring that city and state policies, regulations, and initiatives work together to promote economic growth, environmental sustainability, public safety, education, healthcare, and other critical areas of governance. Advocacy and representation play a significant role, with both parties advocating for the city's interests at the state level and ensuring that legislative decisions consider the needs and perspectives of local communities. Flexibility and autonomy are essential, respecting the city's decision-making authority while navigating within the broader framework of state laws and regulations. Collaborative problem-solving is key, addressing shared challenges such as transportation infrastructure, affordable housing, healthcare access, environmental protection, and economic development by leveraging the expertise and resources of both entities. Finally, mutual support during emergencies, disasters, and crises underscores the importance of effective communication, coordination, and cooperation for the safety and well-being of residents. This collaborative approach fosters a strong, mutually beneficial relationship that promotes the overall prosperity and

well-being of our community.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between your city and the federal government?

The ideal relationship between my city and the federal government is one founded on partnership, collaboration, and mutual support across various key areas. Firstly, there should be a focus on resource allocation, with the federal government providing adequate funding, grants, and resources to support critical infrastructure projects, public services, and community programs that directly benefit residents. Additionally, both entities should work together to align policies, regulations, and initiatives that promote economic growth, environmental sustainability, public safety, healthcare access, education, and other essential aspects of governance. Advocacy and representation are crucial, with the city maintaining strong representation at the federal level to lobby for its interests, priorities, and funding needs, while also leveraging federal programs and initiatives to benefit the community.

Collaborative projects and partnerships can address shared challenges like transportation infrastructure, affordable housing, environmental protection, and disaster response. Moreover, data sharing, research collaboration, regulatory cooperation, and mutual support during emergencies further strengthen this relationship, fostering a cooperative approach that enhances decisionmaking, service delivery, and overall quality of life for residents

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the mayor's office and law enforcement?

The ideal relationship between the mayor's office and law enforcement is characterized by collaboration, transparency, accountability, and mutual respect. Both entities work closely on public safety initiatives, crime prevention strategies, and emergency response planning to ensure the safety and security of residents. Transparency and accountability are crucial, with law enforcement agencies providing regular updates and reports to the mayor's office and the public, fostering trust and confidence. The mayor's office supports law enforcement by providing resources, training, and technology to enhance effectiveness.

Community engagement efforts, including outreach programs and partnerships, strengthen relationships and build trust with residents. Oversight and review mechanisms ensure adherence to legal and ethical standards, promote accountability and address any misconduct promptly. During emergencies or critical incidents, coordination between the mayor's office and law enforcement ensures a cohesive and effective response. Respecting civil liberties and human rights while upholding law enforcement's duties is paramount. This collaborative and respectful relationship ensures public safety, upholds the rule of law, and creates a safer and more inclusive city for everyone.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

As a candidate for mayor, I'm not seeking endorsements from organizations or politicians. Tough decisions must be made without influence from

special interests seeking favors. The endorsements that matter to me are from the thousands of Mesa citizens who signed my

petition, urging me to take on this role. Their trust and support drive my commitment to serving the community's best interests and

making decisions that benefit all residents.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

I believe financial transparency and government accountability are fundamental pillars of a healthy democracy and effective governance.

Financial Transparency: Governments should strive to be transparent in their financial operations by providing accessible, accurate, and timely information about budget allocations, expenditures, revenues, and public debts. This transparency enables citizens to understand how taxpayer money is being used, promotes trust in government institutions, and allows for informed public discourse on fiscal policies.

Government Accountability: Elected officials and government agencies should be held accountable for their actions, decisions, and use of public resources. This accountability involves mechanisms such as regular audits, oversight by independent bodies, public hearings, and the ability for citizens to hold officials accountable through elections and legal channels. Accountability fosters integrity, ethical conduct, and responsiveness to the needs and priorities of the community.

Ethical Standards: In addition to transparency and accountability, upholding high ethical standards is crucial for public officials and government institutions. This includes avoiding conflicts of interest, disclosing financial interests, adhering to codes of conduct, and maintaining integrity in decision-making processes. Ethical governance builds public trust, promotes fairness, and ensures that government actions serve the public interest rather than personal gain or special interests.

Citizen Engagement: Engaging citizens in the oversight of government finances and accountability mechanisms is essential. This can be achieved through platforms for public participation, citizen audits, whistleblower protections, and transparency initiatives that involve citizens in monitoring government performance and promoting accountability.

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Video submitted to BallotpediaReleased February 20, 2022

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am an ultra-conservative, multiple small business owner running for Arizona Governor. I have self-funded my campaign thus far, and would just like the opportunity to allow Arizonan's to get to know me and understand my unique vision for Arizona. I am a blue-collared, middle class, worker who wants to free the Arizona middle class. What motivated me to run was the simple fact that the other candidates running do not understand what the middle class life is like, when middle class workers are the foundation of Arizona. Being a part of the people and working beside them every day gives me a unique point of view. I want to make Arizona a place where people love to work, play, and live. Right now, people are beginning to believe that their are only 4 republican candidates for governor, and it is my goal to change that and give them a different option, an option that involves me. I am confident that if the media was not biased against people like myself, without millions of dollars to spend on my campaign, I would receive exposure and the people of Arizona would enjoy my perspective and what I have to offer them. Again, I am with the people, and I am for the people, and I want to continue being for them if I am elected governor.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

I have personally helped build sections of the border wall in Douglas, Yuma, and Nogales, and as governor, I will offer my hands-on labor, my company's equipment, and my crews to do it again. Arizona tax-payers have already paid for the materials, so I will take and apply THEIR steel where it belongs to protect our state from human and drug traffickers, and any other threats. Arizonan's work hard for their money, and I will not let their, already paid for steel, continue to rust away at the hands of the Biden Administration.Arizona water, food, and energy is one of my top priorities, and as governor, I want to address the current drought conditions that are negatively impacting Arizonan's, including the tribal communities and our farmers. I want to offer the implementation of a desalinization plant in California for a cut of their portion of Colorado River water. Arizona is reaching dangerously low levels, and I want a solution that would stimulate American jobs, while saving our precious water.Election integrity has been a concern for a large amount of Arizonan's, and I want them to be assured that, when I am in the position to do so, I will travel every avenue to figure out the result of the 2020 audit. I have had the opportunity to meet with fellow Arizonan's who worked on the audit, and can comfortably say that our election was fraudulent and purposefully deceitful. As the results of the audit sit on the desk of our current Attorney General, it has not been addressed and I plan to do the opposite to restore election integrity that have left Arizonan's with distrust.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

At this time, the border wall, or the lack there of, is my biggest situation that I want to take care of. With that comes the issue of immigration as a whole. I have spend the last 17 years, physically, helping build the border wall and I have become seriously concerned about the failure of it thus far. I am unhappy with the way this problem has been addressed. The solution is simple but our federal and state government has made it difficult. As long as this issue remains, the American people are at risk, and that does not sit well with me. Truly, it never will. Arizona is at risk of the exposure of drug smuggling, human trafficking, and even death. Immigration has turned into a concept of taking care of others before our own, and that is not the foundation that our constitution was built on. We must take care of our American people before we are in any position to take care of anyone else. As Arizonan's, we are facing issues like homelessness, addiction, and lack of senior care, and it will never be okay to put the needs of our peopl