http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wium/local-wium-991701.mp3
Burlington, IA – Eric Renteria says he is running for a seat on the Burlington City Council so he can help the city become less reliant on the state and federal governments.
He would rather see the city rely on its own resources instead of waiting for state and federal funding.
An example is a proposed update of Burlington's comprehensive plan.
Renteria says the city is considering paying a firm $80,000 to do the work ($30,000 local/$50,000 state grant).
He says that state grant was taxpayer funded so residents are covering the entire cost for work that should be able to be done in-house.
Renteria also says if the city is going to update the plan, it should use it.
He cites the recent rejection of the housing development at Florence Avenue.
Renteria says the plan calls for development in that area, so the city council's vote in favor of a dozen neighbors went against the rest of the 25,000 residents of Burlington.
He would also like the city council to review Burlington's current form of government before hiring a new city manager.
Renteria says he would favor a strong mayor/city administrator form as opposed to putting so much power in a position that is not elected.
You can hear more with Eric Renteria by clicking the audio link above.