Berdetta Hodge is a trailblazing public servant, trusted advocate, and the first African American woman ever elected in the City of Tempe. Throughout her first term, she has become a respected leader known for championing public safety, strengthening community partnerships, and pioneering solutions that reflect the values and needs of Tempe residents.
With more than twenty years of experience serving children, families, and educators as a longtime community volunteer and former Governing Board President of the Tempe Union High School District, Berdetta entered city government with a clear belief that strong cities are built on strong schools, safe neighborhoods, and leaders who always show up for the community.
On the City Council, Berdetta has delivered meaningful and measurable results. She helped make Tempe the second city in the country to sign the national Sandy Hook Promise, strengthening school safety, prevention, and mental health efforts. She passed the Brass Knuckles Ordinance to reduce violent crime. She supported the city’s partnership with Google Fiber to expand digital access. She organized community drives that provided water, food, school supplies, toys, and holiday gifts to families across the city. She also worked to elevate local businesses and ensure Tempe remains a vibrant place to live and work.
Berdetta has been a pioneer on several critical and emerging issues. She chairs the Animal Welfare and Cruelty in Tempe Subcommittee, leading work to strengthen humane policy and public education. She serves on the Drink Spiking Education and Prevention Subcommittee, partnering with nightlife, public health, and university leaders to create safer drinking environments. She is a member of the Motorized and Electric Mobility Device Safety Subcommittee, helping guide policy for e-bike and scooter safety as the city adapts to new mobility trends. She also serves on the Revitalization of Tempe Town Lake Subcommittee, supporting long-term planning for one of Tempe’s most iconic public spaces.
Importantly, Berdetta chaired the Subcommittee on Increased Advocacy for Tempe Youth with Disabilities, where she worked to expand inclusion, strengthen support services, and elevate the voices of families whose needs are too often overlooked. Her leadership helped lay the foundation for stronger citywide awareness and programming geared toward youth with disabilities.
Berdetta also understands that leadership is about connection. She hosts Breakfast with Berdetta, a widely attended monthly gathering that offers transparent conversation, community problem-solving, and direct access to city leadership. She also maintains regular communication with thousands of residents through her email newsletter and text message updates so Tempe families always know how their city is working for them.
As she seeks re-election, Berdetta remains focused on expanding affordable housing, improving public safety, enhancing transportation options, supporting small businesses, strengthening youth and family services, and ensuring that Tempe remains a city where every resident feels seen, valued, and supported.
A mother, leader, and community builder, Berdetta raised her family in Tempe and continues to serve with heart, humility, and a deep love for the city she calls home.