Councilmember Stokes Backs Finn For Peoria

Current Ironwood District Councilmember touts Finn’s commitment to residents and businesses.

Contact: Michael Finn, 623-308-5919

PEORIA (January 13, 2026) — Momentum continues to build for Michael Finn in his bid for Peoria Mayor as Councilmember Rick Stokes joins the growing chorus of local leaders endorsing his candidacy. Stokes represents the Ironwood District on the Peoria City Council serving the central portion of the city. This latest endorsement demonstrates Finn’s support hailing from ALL of Peoria – North, Central, and South.

As part of his endorsement Stokes stated, “After being elected to serve the Ironwood District on Peoria City Council in January of 2025, I have come to know Michael Finn as someone who has a strong foundation of service-oriented leadership both in the public and private sector.  Michael has an incredible passion for Peoria and creating an environment where its residents and businesses can succeed.  Peoria can count on Michael Finn to continue serving Peoria with strong leadership, commitment, and integrity as Mayor.”

Mayor Pro Tem Michael Finn said, “Councilmember Stokes has brought an entrepreneurial spirit to the City Council since he joined last year. His commitment to job creation and economic development will be critical as we continue to finish many the amazing economic opportunities that we have started. I am proud to have his support and look forward to working with him to build a stronger and resilient Peoria.”

About Rick Stokes

Councilmember Rick Stokes was elected by voters to serve the Ironwood District beginning January 2025. Rick brings a unique blend of experiences and values to the table. As an Air Force veteran, he understands the importance of service, integrity, and dedication to our nation and its people.

His vision for Peoria is one of prosperity and opportunity, grounded in economic development and job creation. Inspired by the Mayor's initiatives, the councilmember is committed to attracting manufacturing opportunities and fostering an environment where businesses can thrive.

About Michael Finn

Mayor Pro Tem Michael Finn has served on the Peoria City Council for more than a decade representing the Palo Verde District. During his time on council, he has served twice as Vice Mayor as well as Mayor Pro Tem and has been committed to financial responsibility, public safety, and economic development. 

As a fiscal conservative, Finn utilizes his more than 30 years of experience in the public and private sector to protect Peoria taxpayers and keep taxes low. For the past decade, while also serving on city council, he has been a member of the Executive Leadership Team for a private equity backed commercial heating and cooling company that stretches across the southern belt of the United States. Finn also previously served as the Chief Financial Officer for the Peoria Unified School District – managing a staff of over 400 people and an annual budget over $200 million. During his time, he earned several awards for transparency and helped the district develop a reputation for sound financial management. In addition, Finn brings over 20 years of leadership experience in the private sector with United Parcel Service (UPS) and US Airways. Finn graduated from Arizona State University and has earned a master’s degree in business administration. 

During his time on council, Finn has developed a reputation as a consensus builder – bringing people to address important issues and find creative, common-sense solutions. He has been dedicated to listening to residents and addressing the issues that impact their day-to-day lives. Through these efforts, Finn has been instrumental in creating a more responsive local government that gets things accomplished quickly and efficiently.

Mike has been married to his wife Joy for more than 30 years and, together, they have lived in Peoria for more than two decades raising three children. They are immersed in their neighborhood, schools, and recreational programs. They take great pride in working in their community to ensure that it remains safe and a great place to raise a family.