Dear Editor : I wish to take the opportunity to answer the questions you "wish you could have asked" this week's candidate forum. First let me correct you, Monday's Forum was the second Forum, the first being hosted by the Porterville Area Republican Assembly. A forum, ignored by the Recorder.
A major disappointment with the joint Recorder-KTIP-Chamber forum was the lack of dynamic questions that reflect real issues. Many of the questions asked were the same questions asked in 2010.
It should also be noted that some candidates have indeed been speaking out on a broad range of issues, but have been ignored by local media, but has been covered by Visalia and even Fresno media.
As to your questions:
I already spoke out in favor of moving the Council election to November, including direct election of the Mayor on March 14th, the Recorder failed to report it: PDF
Of course the City Council should hold Joint Meetings with other entities, but more meetings between the City Council and its constituents would be far more important.
I would support the new Jail site, only after a thorough and very public vetting.
I am not convinced that "new" taxes should be imposed on citizens for streets before a complete review of our spending priorities.
Regarding city financial support of the Chamber of Commerce, my position was well documented in the Recorder on October 1, 2009, well before it became a recent hot topic: Story
Unlike other candidates, I have proposed specific details and proposals on my web site and am unafraid to discuss issues, all issues, nor am I afraid to take a stand. We are at a point where we must be bold for the benefit of all our citizens.
Thanks ... Rodney Martin rodney@rodneymartin.com from the Porterville area.
