Fayetteville, are you better off this year than you were a year ago? Two years ago? Fayetteville continues to lack decisive leadership at City Hall. This wonderful town has continued its downward trajectory because of continuing failures in City Council.

As a citizen, I owe it to my family, my friends and neighbors, to try and turn Fayetteville into a safe and prosperous city for them. It is for these reasons that I, Jose Alejandro “Alex” Rodriguez, have decided to run as a City Council candidate for District 1.

This city is in dire need of conservative leadership, and I am more than capable, experienced and willing to provide it. As a retired soldier and former police officer, I have served my country and community. I will continue to do so should the citizens of my district bless me with the opportunity to serve them.

I continue to believe that the success of our community lies in the following issues that I have made my platform:

1. Work with the Police Department leadership on effective solutions to reduce crime and homicides in a city that has established new records for both in the last two years. The safety and security of all citizens is of utmost importance to me. Nothing else can improve in the city if the safety of all citizens continues to erode. It is important that everyone feels safe and secure, so that everyone can succeed.

2. Cut unneeded and wasteful spending to avoid future tax increases that will adversely affect everyone, especially during these tough economic times. The city and county continue to waste money on unneeded projects and “throw” money at problems that don’t seem to go away. Add to the fact that they are now increasing taxes AGAIN, and in these tough economic times, continue to hurt Fayetteville residents. It is time to cut that unneeded spending and shift its focus to important problems that need immediate resolution such as the homeless, crime and public mental health.

3. Improve transparency and accountability at City Hall so that the public can review and stay informed of the actions of their public servants. Too often, the City Council and to some extent, the Fayetteville Police Department, refuse to release public information in a timely manner. This is public information that citizens are entitled to by law, so why do we have to wait?

4. The Formation of an Office of Public Safety to provide resources and assistance to the community and our first responders in difficult times and situations. Much of the crime and homelessness in Fayetteville derives from mental health issues. One of the things the city government should be doing is providing basic services to those in need to assist them in rehabilitation and recovery.

Part of my transparency plan is to be available to you. Please feel free to email me alex4faync@yahoo.com