The Courage to Run, the Desire to Serve: Kevin Barrett

Everyone knows someone who has a lot to offer the community.
You may even think the person would be a great elected official. But most people who have a lot to say about their community and great leadership qualities, do not run for office. Their main reason: they are too busy with work and family or fearful of public speaking.
No doubt, that can be an issue. Because it takes courage to stand up and run for public office.
In September, I won the Independence Party primary. My opponent clearly had no interest in getting more than six votes. He is even quoted in the newspaper saying the Independence Party line is “not critically important.” Yet, while having his name on Bramson’s signs, he claims to be “independent.” The fact is the Bramson family has guaranteed my opponent’s loyalty by contributing $2,000 to his campaign fund. End of story.
My opponent has been here for 20 years and has never held public office and is barely known outside of Glenwood Lake. But he wants you to vote for him because he has been here longer. I believe the criterion for electing a public official should be based on experience and the ideas the candidate presents.
I may have not lived here 20 or 30 years, but I have been in public service for that period of time.
On Tuesday, November 8, my name will be on the ballot for New Rochelle City Council District 4. I have the courage and the acumen to serve this or any other community. Over the past few months, I knocked on hundreds of doors and wore out two pair of shoes. I have been well received by the voters because I listen to them without regard to their party affiliation. I have reached out to the diverse communities that make up our city.
My position on issues that affect District 4 are clear. I offer a fresh new perspective to the serious issues that face our city. I have shown my independence of thought by standing against the new parking regulations which extend metered parking from 6PM to Midnight. I find downtown parking policy to be a revenue generating operation and not designed for increasing visitors and shoppers.
I pray that voters will choose on Tuesday the candidate who is accessible, has the courage to speak out on issues of public concern and will represent all New Rochelle residents. And that candidate is me. Kevin Barrett

Coming next: My plan for Downtown Business Revitalization.