North Mesa precinct justice of the peace election 2024: Meet the candidates

The race for justice of the peace in the north Mesa precinct includes two people with longtime political experience.

Republican incumbent Kyle Jones and Democrat Kiana Sears are running against each other.

Jones has served as justice of the peace since 2019 and has held other elected and community leadership roles, including serving on the Mesa City Council from 2002 to 2011 and serving as Mesa's vice mayor from 2008 to 2011. Jones has also held spots on the Mesa Downtown Association Board and the Mesa Sister Cities Board. If reelected, it would be his second full term as justice of the peace.

Sears is a public policy professional. In addition to her current role as Arizona State University's assistant director of faith-based outreach and community partnerships, she is also a Governing Board member for Mesa Public Schools and previously served as a consultant for the Arizona Corporation Commission.

Maricopa County has 26 justice courts, each with one justice of the peace. Candidates do not need to be attorneys or have specific education. Among their duties, justices of the peace have oversight of cases about traffic infractions and evictions, civil suits up to $10,000 and protective orders.

Early voting began on July 3. Voters who cast their ballots by mail are advised to do so by July 23, and those who choose to submit their ballots in person can drop them off at a ballot drop-off or voting location by July 30.

The Arizona Republic asked Jones and Sears to answer questions about their vision for North Mesa's justice court should they be elected. Only Sears responded by the Republic's July 8 deadline. Here are her answers.

Why do you want this job?

Kiana Sears: I am running for justice of the peace because my core values are fairness, resourcefulness and community-centered service. My commitment is to reclaim our Justice Court for the people it serves, re-establishing it as "The People’s Court." This vision means transforming the court into a true resource hub for our community.

As justice of the peace, I will ensure the court is a place of compassionate and fair decision-making. It will not only be a place of authority but also a vital resource hub, providing support and guidance to all members of our community. My goal is to continue serving our community with integrity, fairness and a deep commitment to justice for all.

Why do you think you are the most qualified candidate for this position?

Sears: I believe I am the most qualified candidate for the position of justice of the peace because of my extensive experience as a community leader and advocate for equality. I have been at the forefront of addressing crucial issues that affect all people, including fair housing, healthcare access and disparities, education inequities, and combating discrimination in all its forms, particularly within the East Valley.

My active community involvement includes serving on our school board, working with local nonprofits, supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses, and overseeing the budget of one of the largest organizations in our area. This breadth of experience has equipped me with the skills, knowledge and dedication necessary to serve our community effectively and justly. As justice of the peace, I will continue to advocate for fairness and equality, ensuring that our court system works for everyone.

What qualities do you think make a strong foundation for a Justice Court?

Sears: A strong foundation for a Justice Court is built on clear communication, accessibility and empowerment. As justice of the peace, I believe it is crucial to have the voice and conscience to keep the public and individuals well-informed about their rights and the workings of the court. This includes providing accessible resources such as brochures, pamphlets and other information to help the community advocate for themselves.

Empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to navigate the court system, whether for small claims or community courts, is essential. By making information readily available and ensuring the court is a welcoming and supportive environment, we can help our community members stand up for their rights and effectively engage with the justice system.

What do you think of the eviction process in Maricopa County?

Sears: The eviction process in Maricopa County fails to prioritize the fundamental right to housing and neglects the significant investment people make to secure a home. It does not consider the essential role that stable housing plays in the physical, mental and psychological well-being of individuals and vulnerable children. It overlooks the harm caused to vulnerable children, including the disruption of their education and the long-term negative effects on their well-being.

The McKinney-Vento Act, a federal mandate designed to support homeless children and youth, should be included and offered in eviction proceedings.

This process lacks discretion and fails to recognize the rights and contributions of renters. It does not provide sufficient time for renters to find new housing when an eviction notice is issued, nor does it take into account the financial burden of relocation. The current system does not provide a clearly defined timetable or pre-prescribed steps that balance the interests of both landlords and tenants.

As justice of the peace, I will advocate for a more compassionate and fair eviction process that acknowledges the rights of renters and landlords and the critical importance of stable housing for all members of our community.

Reach the reporter at christina.avery@gannett.com .

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: North Mesa precinct justice of the peace election 2024: Meet the candidates