(updated 9/19/2009)
This office is a four-year term. Must be at least eighteen years of age, a United States citizen, a registered, qualified elector of the city and a resident of the city for at least one year prior to the date of filing their Declaration of Candidacy. Must submit a petition containing the signatures of at least two percent (2%) of the qualified electors to the City Clerk within a period specified by the City Charter. Salary: approximately $10,608 with $21,216 for City Council President.
For an interactive map of the Council districts, see the City Council page (scroll down to bottom).
Describe your specific experience and abilities that prepare you for the office of Albuquerque City Councilor. (75 words)
Having served eight years on the Bemalillo County Commission, completing by first term on the Albuquerque City and serving as Chairman of the Budget Committee, I have the knowledge, experience and dedication to continue to serve during these difficult economic times. I also serve on the Water Authority and the Albuquerque/Bernalillo County Government Commission Committee. I am Vice President of Gilbert Sanchez Tax and Accounting, President of Ken Sanchez and Associates Realty and licensed . . . .
What are your two highest priorities for the city as a whole and why? What future issues should the city begin addressing? (75 words)
My highest priorities for the city of Albuquerque are public safety and building a stronger and more sustainable community. If we have a safe community we have a prosperous city. We must continue to higher the brightest and the best to work and serve on the Albuquerque Police and Fire Department. The city should look at increasing the number of Police Officers to 1200. We need to work with Bernalillo County to create one communication . . . .
What will you do to promote responsible economic development and job creation/retention in Albuquerque? What do you consider to be "responsible economic development"? (75 words)
Economic development is critical to the success and stability of the future of Albuquerque. We must work to create, diversify and enhance job growth and to promote business development and stability. City leaders have worked to create a diverse economic base. Albuquerque has strong high-tech industry, research institutions, efficient transportation system, a trained workforce and many small and local business. We must continue to strive to create new and high paying jobs.
How will you work with other city councilors, the mayor, neighbohood groups, and other citizens to accomplish goals and build confidence in our city government? Please be specific. (75 words)
I have served in elected office for twelve years. The way you accomplish your objectives and goals his working together and communicating. I have worked with Mayors, Councilors, Commissioners and Neighborhood Groups in building confidence in Albuquerque. I have attended hundreds of neighborhood association meeting to listen to the voices and concerns of local residence. United as a community their his very little we cannot do. We control our future and destiny for this great city.
Describe your specific experience and abilities that prepare you for the office of Albuquerque City Councilor. (75 words)
I am nearing the completion of my first highly-productive Council term. My prior experience as an architect/planner in my own private practice has served me exceptionally well on the Council. It provides the fiscal, human resources and administrative perspective of a small businessperson. My business regularly dealt with the City's planning, zoning, neighborhood involvement, transportation, housing, public facilities, infrastructure and development processes. Much of District 3's unique needs revolve around these City functions.
What are your two highest priorities for the city as a whole and why? What future issues should the city begin addressing? (75 words)
The City must address public safety and transportation as its top priorities. With economic challenges come concerns about crime, personal and property safety. With the Rio Grande dividing our city, we face lost productivity and quality of life due to traffic congestion and a jobs/housing imbalance between east and west. Our key future issues revolve around sustainability: water, energy and food. I support local agriculture, a strong water budget, and planning for better transportation.
What will you do to promote responsible economic development and job creation/retention in Albuquerque? What do you consider to be "responsible economic development"? (75 words)
I will promote home-grown industry and enterprise. These demand an educated, well-trained workforce. Lifelong learning opportunities are needed; the City can contribute by better utilizing our community centers and libraries in partnership with UNM, CNM, and APS. Small businesses thrive in complete, walkable neighborhoods, along vital transit and commercial corridors - we must continue to rebuild our city's fabric accordingly. Responsible economic development requires strong analysis and accountability from recipients of government incentives, not handouts.
How will you work with other city councilors, the mayor, neighbohood groups, and other citizens to accomplish goals and build confidence in our city government? Please be specific. (75 words)
I was unanimously elected Council President this year, an indication of my evenhanded ability to reach across philosophical lines. I am open-minded to the mayor's and others' initiatives, basing my decisions on the quality and thoughtfulness of the individual proposals. Neighborhoods and citizens expect the same of my initiatives, and I always strive to openly communicate with them. These are the balanced roles our city fathers intended for the Council and Mayor.
Describe your specific experience and abilities that prepare you for the office of Albuquerque City Councilor. (75 words)
I am in my 7th year as a Bernalillo County Commissioner, the last 6 as Chairman. I served on the ABQ City Council 1989-2001, its President twice. Chaired the Water Authority 3 years, been a community volunteer, a teacher, coach and lobbyist. These positions have given me the experience to be able to work with and for people, to listen and work on issues that affect our communities.
What are your two highest priorities for the city as a whole and why? What future issues should the city begin addressing? (75 words)
District 3 has many needs. Public safety is a top priority. Overall, environmentally viable economic development is important for our city to continue as a vibrant, wonderful place to live. We need to address infrastructure needs; streets, water and sewer lines, especially in our older neighborhoods. We need to enhance programs for our youth and senior citizens. Revitalizing older neighborhoods and enhancing others need to be addressed.
What will you do to promote responsible economic development and job creation/retention in Albuquerque? What do you consider to be "responsible economic development"? (75 words)
I have a history of promoting economic development in our community. Temper-pedic, Shamrock Foods and Verizon are but a few of the companies I have worked to bring to ABQ. Currently, I am in discussions with 2 solar companies and a movie studio to establish businesses here. I will continue to seek environmentally friendly companies to provide jobs for our citizens. Smaller, local businesses will benefit by providing services to those companies.
How will you work with other city councilors, the mayor, neighbohood groups, and other citizens to accomplish goals and build confidence in our city government? Please be specific. (75 words)
My past experiences as an APS teacher, coach, lobbyist, as an elected official, and community volunteer have taught me to be a consensus builder. I work hard to make sure different groups are in a win-win situation. I strongly believe that an elected official needs to listen first, ask others their needs and take action. I have successfully followed this philosophy in my work with citizens, neighborhoods, legislators, councilors, and commissioners.
Describe your specific experience and abilities that prepare you for the office of Albuquerque City Councilor. (75 words)
I own two small businesses that provide jobs, goods, and services that people need. I taught high school and hold a secondary teaching licensure in New Mexico. I'm a pastor of a local church, a husband, and a dad. I look at the need for jobs, to get our economy healthy, provide safe neighborhoods, efficient roads and quality parks and athletic fields, and I sincerely believe that we have to do better.
What are your two highest priorities for the city as a whole and why? What future issues should the city begin addressing? (75 words)
Jobs are my top priority. I will promote an environment where small businesses flourish. The city must spend within its means and remove obstacles that impede the creation of jobs by small businesses. Public safety is also a top priority. I will promote safer neighborhoods through community awareness. In the future the city must focus on transportation infrastructure and ensure we deliver on basic services first.
What will you do to promote responsible economic development and job creation/retention in Albuquerque? What do you consider to be "responsible economic development"? (75 words)
As the city grows, government has the tendency to swell. I will make sure we stop the unnecessary expansion of city government, cut wasteful spending, and keep taxes low. We will get lean and focus on what is absolutely necessary to stay healthy. I'll remove undue regulations on business and homeowners and encourage partnerships with the private sector that bring quality jobs to the city.
How will you work with other city councilors, the mayor, neighbohood groups, and other citizens to accomplish goals and build confidence in our city government? Please be specific. (75 words)
I'll establish a fresh perspective and an attitude of collaboration with fellow councilors, the administration, county commissioners, and state and regional government. I'll focus on what we agree on, help others succeed, and work tirelessly on the needs and concerns of my district.
Describe your specific experience and abilities that prepare you for the office of Albuquerque City Councilor. (75 words)
I have been City Councilor for District 5 for eight years. I have knowledge of the city's operating and capital budgets necessary to get things done. Over eight years, District 5 has received more than its proportional share of capital spending for roads, parks and public safety. I know where wasteful spending is and how to eliminate it. I have long relationships with other elected officials that help get things done on the Westside.
What are your two highest priorities for the city as a whole and why? What future issues should the city begin addressing? (75 words)
Transportation and Crime. We have come a long way with Westside roads, Paseo, 4-lane Montano and Unser. But there is much to do. Rebuild Paseo/I-25/Jefferson, complete Unser, expand Rapid Ride, bus service and bike trails to the Northwest. We must act to stop the wave of property crime by putting more officers on the street and involving our neighborhoods in community policing efforts. We must do a better job of enforcing existing laws.
What will you do to promote responsible economic development and job creation/retention in Albuquerque? What do you consider to be "responsible economic development"? (75 words)
We must bring new economic base jobs -- jobs that pay well and provide benefits (not minimum wage call-center jobs). We must do more to support local small businesses, especially on the Westside. We will create a city office of small business development to provide technical assistance and advice and locate financing for new and existing small businesses. We should target tax incentives toward keeping existing jobs and growing our tourism and renewable energy sectors
How will you work with other city councilors, the mayor, neighbohood groups, and other citizens to accomplish goals and build confidence in our city government? Please be specific. (75 words)
I have worked with the council and the Mayor to bring public financing and significant ethics reform to City government. We will bring more openness and accountability to our budgeting process by requiring greater line-item detail in budgets and by eliminating the Mayor's authority to overspend budgets. We will stop the practice of "double-dipping" by high paid city employees and focus spending on basic city services like fire, police, parks, and solid waste.
Describe your specific experience and abilities that prepare you for the office of Albuquerque City Councilor. (75 words)
I grew up in Albuquerque and am a small business owner, employer, and Certified Financial Planner™. I am an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Army. My wife Julie and I have raised three sons in the general Uptown neighborhood. I have served as a member and chairman of the Police Oversight Commission, an officer of District 7's Coalition of Neighborhood Associations, and served our youth as a coach and mentor.
What are your two highest priorities for the city as a whole and why? What future issues should the city begin addressing? (75 words)
As City Councilor, I will focus on public safety and planning for our transportation infrastructure into the future. I also believe it is important to have a fiscally disciplined approach to city spending. For the future we need to address how to accommodate an aging population and the concerns and services they require.
What will you do to promote responsible economic development and job creation/retention in Albuquerque? What do you consider to be "responsible economic development"? (75 words)
will help foster small business growth which is critical to create local jobs. "Responsible economic development" includes helping businesses understand the necessity of contributing to finance the infrastructure that helps avail their services to the public. I think that such infrastructural support has to be fair and not be so extreme that we destroy the economy we are trying to grow.
How will you work with other city councilors, the mayor, neighbohood groups, and other citizens to accomplish goals and build confidence in our city government? Please be specific. (75 words)
This is a very important aspect of why I am running for councilor. Our present council representation has been marked by acrimony and hostility toward others in government and within our community and neighborhood organizations. I will set a new, collaborative tone and reach out to my fellow councilors and the executive branch. I will also strive to collaborate with our county and state governments to achieve a better result for all concerned.
WRITE-IN CANDIDATE
Describe your specific experience and abilities that prepare you for the office of Albuquerque City Councilor. (75 words)
I have an understanding, care, and concern for Albuquerque. As a former degreed software engineer I have the attention to detail and ability to analyze issues and discover solutions. I have concern for citizens, small business and the environment. I am not beholding to any large corporations or developers. The world is at a crossroads with global warming, extreme water and food shortages looming. My governance experience includes boards of my church and housing cooperative.
What are your two highest priorities for the city as a whole and why? What future issues should the city begin addressing? (75 words)
1. Energy use - We must reduce our use of fossil fuels through improved building efficiency and building a comprehensive and working public transportation system 2. Water - We must ensure Albuquerque has a sustainable pollution free supply of water for all its citizens Albuquerque must begin to address urban sprawl. Peak oil is coming soon and we are not ready.
What will you do to promote responsible economic development and job creation/retention in Albuquerque? What do you consider to be "responsible economic development"? (75 words)
Responsible economic development consists of rebuilding the main street economy. This means working with and supporting public transportation, infill, the arts, small business, local agriculture, green business, and energy efficient buildings. I will ensure we have a complete well-managed public transportation infrastructure that all citizens can depend upon. I will redevelop the Eastern Gateway making it a vibrant, safe showcase for the city.
How will you work with other city councilors, the mayor, neighbohood groups, and other citizens to accomplish goals and build confidence in our city government? Please be specific. (75 words)
Councilors must remember that they have dual roles in government, both as representatives of districts and as leaders of the city as a whole. Likewise, the mayor may sometimes need to be reminded that the needs of the whole city outweigh the needs of one area. My door will always be open to the citizens of District Nine, regardless of the scope of their problem. There'll be no "passing the buck" to disinterested city departments.
Describe your specific experience and abilities that prepare you for the office of Albuquerque City Councilor. (75 words)
I am the current City Councilor running for re-election. Before that, I worked in the City Attorney's office as part of the Safe City Strike Force, and working with land use matters. As a City Councilor, I sponsored the study that led to more police officers, began the revitalization of East Central, began the project to protect and acquire the Tijeras Arroyo, and I worked with other Councilors and the Mayor to cut taxes twice.
What are your two highest priorities for the city as a whole and why? What future issues should the city begin addressing? (75 words)
(1) Public Safety and (2) Economic Development. Public Safety because so much of what we all care about (such as jobs, education and the environment) cannot be enjoyed if we do not feel safe. Public Safety affects everything, and is the foundation of our quality of life. Economic Development is crucial for the City to grow well, and provide good jobs for its residents, and careers for our children and grand children.
What will you do to promote responsible economic development and job creation/retention in Albuquerque? What do you consider to be "responsible economic development"? (75 words)
We need to work with the state government and private industry to continue to recruit businesses to locate here or relocate here. We need to continue to offer assistance and incentives for new business development, such as the new business incubator which recently opened. Responsible economic development is ensuring that the public receives definite benefit for incentives (such as tax abatements) that businesses often receive to build or expand in Albuquerque.
How will you work with other city councilors, the mayor, neighbohood groups, and other citizens to accomplish goals and build confidence in our city government? Please be specific. (75 words)
I have held dozens of public meetings on the East Central redevelopment alone, which included over 1000 unique participants. That transparent, bottom-up governance is how to build a better City and better City government. Disagreement and tension are necessary, and in fact desirable, in a democracy based on checks and balances. However, the Council and the Mayor must do a better job of being more diplomatic with regard to those disagreements.