Denette Dunn

Former Vice Mayor

Denette Dunn, a Peoria's Pine District council member, has consistently demonstrated her dedication to advancing public welfare through innovative leadership and strategic governance. Her journey from a successful career in the private sector to influential roles in municipal governance, including a tenure as vice mayor, showcases her commitment to enhancing community engagement and driving sustainable development.

Bridging Public Needs and Government Action

A landmark initiative in Dunn's career is the establishment of the Pine Citizens Advisory Committee. This forum was created to strengthen the collaboration between Peoria's citizens and governmental bodies, ensuring that public voices are heard in policymaking. Under her leadership, the committee has grown to include over 100 members, reflecting a diverse cross-section of the community. This initiative highlights Dunn’s commitment to fostering transparent and responsive governance.

Before her public office, Dunn accumulated extensive experience in the private sector, most notably at Republic Services, where she excelled as the Municipal Services Manager. In this capacity, she managed significant municipal contracts across the Southwest, valued at over $85 million, demonstrating her expertise in strategic project management and effective public-private partnerships.

Her work in legislative advocacy as a registered lobbyist further underscores her capacity to effectuate positive change. Dunn has been instrumental in pushing for legislation that encourages beneficial collaborations between municipal governments and private entities, enhancing local infrastructure and community services.

Dunn also contributes her expertise to several civic boards and commissions. Her involvement with the WESTMARC Board, the Peoria Planning and Zoning Commission, and her roles on Tucson Clean and Beautiful and the Solid Waste Association of North America underscore her dedication to sustainable urban planning and environmental conservation. Her leadership in the Arizona Recycling Coalition, where she served as president, is particularly noteworthy for advancing recycling and sustainable practices throughout Arizona.

Catalyzing Change Through Professional Excellence

Denette Dunn’s pre-public service career was marked by influential roles in marketing, sales, and regional management, which provided a solid foundation for her later achievements in public service. Her significant shift occurred in 2007 when she joined Hudson Baylor Corporation as the Director of Marketing and Community Relations. Dunn was pivotal in promoting the company as Arizona’s leading recycling processor, enhancing its community relations and environmental stewardship through targeted public relations and outreach programs.

Her role involved direct interaction with municipal and state officials, managing significant recycling operations, and spearheading community education programs that boosted the company’s public image and commitment to environmental sustainability.

In 2011, Dunn transitioned to Republic Services, where she took on the role of Municipal Services Manager. Her expertise in managing substantial municipal contracts and her strategic insights were instrumental in shaping legislative processes that supported industry growth and enhanced public services.

Her journey continued at Dickson Sweeping in 2016, where, as Director of Marketing and Government Relations, she led initiatives that expanded the company’s services and operational reach, emphasizing environmental sustainability and strategic market expansion.

Advancing Community Welfare through Civic Leadership and Philanthropy

Since being elected to the Peoria city council in 2019, Denette Dunn has championed numerous development and sustainability projects. Her influential positions on the city’s Board of Directors and the Vistancia Community Facilities District Council have allowed her to significantly shape Peoria’s development strategies and sustainability policies.

Dunn’s commitment to community service extends beyond her professional roles. She is actively involved in philanthropic efforts that support educational initiatives, community health, and social welfare. Her participation in You Matter Too, an organization dedicated to combating bullying, highlights her dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive community environment.

Additionally, her support for organizations like Hart Pantry and West Valley Connect demonstrates her commitment to enhancing the quality of life for vulnerable community members, ensuring they have access to essential resources and support.

Denette Dunn’s extensive career and her ongoing contributions to her community showcase her as a visionary leader who is deeply committed to improving public infrastructure, promoting sustainable development, and enhancing the quality of life for her constituents. Her ability to meld strategic insights with effective public service inspires significant improvements. It fosters comprehensive development across multiple areas of community life, affirming her status as an invaluable asset to Peoria.