After reporting in Phoenix for more than 20 years, Christina Estes has taken on a new role as Director of Communications for Phoenix Vice Mayor Ann O’Brien. Previously, Estes spent nine years as a Senior Field Correspondent for the local NPR station, where she covered Phoenix City Hall.
“For four years, I observed Vice Mayor O’Brien working with her colleagues, city staff and residents to address important issues including economic development, homeless services, and public safety,” Estes said. “I admire her willingness to work in a nonpartisan manner and am excited about contributing to my community in a meaningful way.”
“Christina’s knowledge of city operations, passion for local government, and love for Phoenix will serve my office and the city well,” said Vice Mayor O’Brien. “We look forward to sharing more information about Phoenix services and creating lasting improvements for our residents and businesses.”
Before reporting for the NPR member station in Phoenix, Estes worked for a variety of Phoenix TV and radio stations, including the ABC, CBS and PBS affiliates, along with KFYI and KTAR. Her award-winning reporting included presidential campaigns, public policy, education and business.
Vice Mayor Ann O’Brien serves as chair of the Economic Development and Housing Subcommittee where she is focused on reducing bureaucracy to spur housing growth—especially for first-time buyers, and ensuring Phoenix remains competitive and attractive to companies looking to grow and invest. O’Brien previously served as chair of the Public Safety and Justice subcommittee and continues to be an active member.
O’Brien’s policy successes include:
- Creating an alternative court system for unhoused people by offering individualized plans to help them avoid jail time and end their homelessness.
- Advocating for drones and artificial intelligence technologies to support first responders.
- Launching a lockbox program that allows first responders to access the homes of seniors and people with disabilities without causing property damage.
As Vice Mayor, O’Brien is committed to policies with purposeful results, including reforms for modern-day policing, safe and clean neighborhoods, and improved technology throughout the City of Phoenix.
Media Contact:
Derrik Rochwalik
Chief of Staff, Vice Mayor Ann O'Brien
480.202.7347 call or text
derrik.rochwalik@phoenix.gov
Christina Estes
Director of Communications, Vice Mayor Ann O'Brien
602.520.2762
christina.estes@phoenix.gov
About District 1
District 1 is located in northwest Phoenix. The southern boundary is Northern Avenue and the northern boundary is just north of New River Road. The district shares a boundary to the west with the cities of Glendale and Peoria, and the eastern boundary aligns with the I-17 Freeway. At Bell Road, the district extends east to 19th Avenue and incorporates the Deer Valley Airport north of the Loop 101 Freeway. Vice Mayor Ann O’Brien was elected in November 2020 and took office in April 2021. Her primary issue focus areas are public safety with an emphasis on supporting law enforcement, redevelopment of Metrocenter mall area in her district, roads and transportation, and education. For more information, please visit Phoenix.gov/D1
