For as many challenges that we face Colorado Springs is on the on the verge of greatness! Now is the time to elect leaders who can take us to the next level. A leader who has been in the trenches as well as the stage. I have worked diligently to build coalitions and bridges, opportunities and successes in Colorado Springs. Now I ask for your support as I take my dream and vision to Colorado Springs City Council.
1. Joe Barrera is running for Colorado Springs City Council, District One because he believes that it’s time for the City Council to tackle difficult issues and achieve resolution. Like many citizens, he feels that the present Council has been too indecisive on important issues and has stumbled in its relationship with the executive branch of the City under the new strong Mayor system approved by the voters. This situation needs correction, and soon.
2. He believes that the most pressing issue for our City is the economy and jobs. He will work to bring in quality employers who can create middle-class jobs. There have been many efforts in the past about doing this, but somehow nothing much happens.
3. Joe Barrera believes that planned sensible growth, business expansion and the arrival of new enterprises is essential for the prosperity of our City. He will work to make City government more business-friendly, in line with Mayor Bach’s initiatives.
4. As a combat veteran, Joe understands the military and the central role it plays in the economic and social life of Colorado Springs and will work to preserve the relationship between the Air Force, the Army, and the community.
5. Joe wants to preserve our beautiful outdoor assets and amenities that attract businesses and newcomers and make our City a wonderful place to live. He will work to complete the Ute Valley Park land acquisition, and to re-open the Blodgett Peak Access trail for the many outdoor enthusiasts in District One.
6. Joe believes that no part of our Colorado Springs Utilities should be sold. The City and the citizens own Utilities and this needs to continue. Joe believes that Council should continue to act as the Utilities Board. A big decision looms for the next City Council: to keep Drake and modernize it with expensive anti-pollution technology. Or to close Drake. Joe is confident that the right decision can be made, but it will take new Council members to do it.
7. Joe feels that oil and gas wells inside the City limits should be well-regulated. The next Council will need to negotiate the issue of this heavy industrial activity with State regulators. For a successful negotiation, the Council will need to stand up for the interests of citizens first. The “fracking” technique, requiring millions of gallons of scarce water per well which cannot be re-used, needs more study before approval. No one should be allowed to pressure City Council to approve this usage until all options are completely examined and the question of where the water will come from is resolved.
8. Joe wants to fix the Waldo Canyon Burn Scar, and do it before the Summer 2013 monsoon season. Uncoordinated attempts have been made. There are partnerships announced, proposals made for federal funding for erosion mitigation and watershed management, etc. But where are the concrete results?
