Wayne Brown (American politician) facts for kids

Wayne Brown (born November 16, 1936 – died May 14, 2013) was an American politician and accountant. A politician is someone who works in government. An accountant helps people and businesses manage their money. Brown served as the Mayor of Mesa, Arizona for two terms, from 1996 to 2000. He was a key leader in building the Mesa Arts Center in downtown Mesa. This center is now the largest performing arts campus in Arizona.

About Wayne Brown

Early Life and Education

Wayne Brown was born in Mesa, Arizona, on November 16, 1936. He had a twin brother. He went to Mesa High School. After high school, he studied accounting at Arizona State University. He earned a bachelor's degree there.

His Career

Wayne Brown worked in government for many years. He was on the Mesa City Council from 1968 to 1976. A city council helps make decisions for a city. Former Mesa Mayor Wayne Pomeroy said that Brown helped plan the old Hohokam Park. This stadium was used for baseball training by the Oakland As and later the Chicago Cubs.

Wayne also started his own business, Wayne Brown & Co. This was a company that helped people with their taxes and finances. Later, he and his wife bought Evans Distribution Co., which delivered fuel. He was the main leader, or CEO, of this company.

Mayor of Mesa

The Mesa Arts Center.

Wayne Brown was the Mayor of Mesa for two terms, from 1996 to 2000. A mayor is the head of a city government. He cared a lot about keeping old buildings safe. He also wanted to protect the Sonoran Desert from too much building.

During his time as mayor, Brown strongly supported building the Mesa Arts Center. This center would be a place for plays, concerts, and art. In 1998, the city held a vote, and people agreed to use money to build the center.

Even after he stopped being mayor in 2000, Wayne and his wife, Kathye, kept raising money for the arts center. They hoped to raise $3.5 million but collected over $4.5 million from private donations. The Mesa Arts Center opened in 2005. A part of the center, the Brown Sculpture Courtyard, is named after him.

Wayne Brown found being mayor more difficult than he expected. He said that he "burned himself out" quickly. He wished he had slowed down more.

Wayne Brown passed away on May 14, 2013, at age 76. He had been sick for a while. He left behind his wife, Kathye, his mother, Elva, and his three children: Elizabeth, Kent, and Marty. He also had thirteen grandchildren and two brothers.