KJZZ is a service of Rio Salado College,
and Maricopa Community Colleges

Copyright © 2024 KJZZ/Rio Salado College/MCCCD
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Recall Election Set For Phoenix Councilman Michael Nowakowski

Michael Nowakowski
(Photo courtesy of Phoenix)
Michael Nowakowski

On May 21, voters in parts of southwest Phoenix and much of downtown will have a chance to remove Michael Nowakowski from the council. Recall advocates filed a petition with the required number of verified signatures, so the council is required by state law to schedule an election. Before voting, three members expressed displeasure.

“I don’t know anyone up here who supports the recall of Councilman Nowakowski,” said Councilman Sal DiCiccio. “It’s just something we have to do, we’re required to do, because signatures were turned in.”

“As Councilman DiCiccio suggested, this is something, yes, we at least have to put on the table,” said Vice Mayor Jim Waring. ”I’m not happy making this motion. I just wanted to say that. So, I move a call for a recall election in Council District 7.”

“And I am unhappy, but I will make a second,” said Mayor Thelda Williams.

Nowakowski was not present to vote on the election and did not address it once he joined Tuesday’s meeting. He spoke with KJZZ’s The Show about the recall attempt last August.

That’s also when Sean Sweat, the chair of a political action committee behind the recall effort, talked to KJZZ’S The Show. Sweat has criticized Nowakowski as being anti-transit and engaged in cronyism.

People who are interested in running in the recall election must be registered voters living in District 7 and gather 200 signatures on nominating petitions. More information can be obtained by calling the City Clerk Department at 602.261.8683.

As a senior field correspondent, Christina Estes focuses on stories that impact our economy, your wallet and public policy.