Mayor Jonathan Rothschild came to City Hall promising accountability in government, increased emphasis on economic growth and help for those most in need.
Since taking office, the mayor has helped settle the long-standing Rio Nuevo dispute, opening a new era of downtown redevelopment. He codified and increased incentives for Tucson businesses. And, he led efforts to invest in Tucson’s roads and police and fire departments, making for better streets and a safer city.
Mayor Rothschild’s work in Mexico has been recognized in both Washington, DC and Mexico City. He is a leading advocate for developing infrastructure in Sonora and Arizona that will create an economic region where both states are prosperous and secure.
During his first year in office, the mayor focused on revamping the Planning and Development Services Department, reducing wait and processing times for building permits, and consolidating inspections.
- Citizenship Campaign, helping eligible immigrants become U.S. citizens
- Community Schools, supportive services to promote college and career readiness
- Help for Homebuyers, providing down payment and other assistance
- Mentor Tucson Youth, encouraging more Tucsonans to become mentors
- Second Chance Tucson, helping the formerly incarcerated successfully re-enter society
- Steps to Success, re-enrolling dropouts in high school
- 10,000 Trees Campaign, planting trees to shade and beautify the community
- Veterans and Chronic Homelessness, coordinating efforts to provide permanent supportive housing
Mayor Rothschild is a native Tucsonan. His grandmother moved to Tucson in 1942 and opened a used furniture store, Valley Fair, on South 6th Avenue.
He is a graduate of Canyon del Oro High School, Kenyon College and the University of New Mexico Law School. After serving as a law clerk for District Court Judge Alfredo C. Marquez, he went on to a 30-year career practicing law with the firm of Mesch, Clark and Rothschild. He served as managing partner for the firm and concentrated his practice in the areas of business law and estate planning.
The mayor has a long history of service with many nonprofits in the community and served as Board President for Casa de los Niños, Handmaker Services for the Aging and Temple Emanu-el. He is married, with three children and two grandchildren.