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Barry unseats Chavez for Mayoral post
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For the past nearly 30 years, Albuquerque has had a Democrat as mayor – but this year’s election changed that with Republican Richard Barry, taking the helm Dec. 1. Actually, despite Barry officially claiming the four-year post, I never actually heard former Mayor Martin Chavez make a concession speech. Don’t think he is a sore loser per say, although he did take credit for helping the city “spread its wings.” Barry’s first job, his staff said to a local news outlet, is to remove the Mayor Martin Chavez signs posted around Duke City, (which could also reportedly be Barry’s first big expenditure.)
As a women, feminist, Liberal Democrat, I’m a bit concerned how Barry will change things. For instance, he voted against domestic partnerships for homosexual couples.
During debates, Barry assured he would go through city budgets line by line and sort out efficiencies, and deficiencies. Combating gangs and reducing property damage is Barry’s main concerns, as is fostering a small-business friendly atmosphere. He is also OK with confirming citizenship on routine traffic stops – prompting complaints of possible racial profiling.
Republicans also took majority of City Council, with incumbents Don Harris and Issac Benton keeping their seats. With election of Dan Lewis (reportedly upsetting incumbent Michael Cadigan), the GOP gets a 5-4 majority, which means the tone of politics could change in Albuquerque. Other Republications rounding out the council seats include Trudy Jones, Brad Winter and Michael Cook, who ran unopposed in District 7, and replaced Sally Meyer.
Scary – because the New Right (conservative Republicans) is fundamentally wrong.
In addition, residents approved all Bond measures for $160 million for ‘socialist programs,’ such as energy and water conservation, public safety, senior and family community centers, libraries, streets, storm sewers, cultural facilities and affordable housing. All propositions (10 of them) were also approved by voters.
Voters also approved the transportation tax, which is one quarter of 1 percent gross receipts tax for roads, buses and bike lanes – by 15,000 votes. It translates to 25-cents added to a $100 purchase, and starts July 1.
As a women, feminist, Liberal Democrat, I’m a bit concerned how Barry will change things. For instance, he voted against domestic partnerships for homosexual couples.
During debates, Barry assured he would go through city budgets line by line and sort out efficiencies, and deficiencies. Combating gangs and reducing property damage is Barry’s main concerns, as is fostering a small-business friendly atmosphere. He is also OK with confirming citizenship on routine traffic stops – prompting complaints of possible racial profiling.
Republicans also took majority of City Council, with incumbents Don Harris and Issac Benton keeping their seats. With election of Dan Lewis (reportedly upsetting incumbent Michael Cadigan), the GOP gets a 5-4 majority, which means the tone of politics could change in Albuquerque. Other Republications rounding out the council seats include Trudy Jones, Brad Winter and Michael Cook, who ran unopposed in District 7, and replaced Sally Meyer.
Scary – because the New Right (conservative Republicans) is fundamentally wrong.
In addition, residents approved all Bond measures for $160 million for ‘socialist programs,’ such as energy and water conservation, public safety, senior and family community centers, libraries, streets, storm sewers, cultural facilities and affordable housing. All propositions (10 of them) were also approved by voters.
Voters also approved the transportation tax, which is one quarter of 1 percent gross receipts tax for roads, buses and bike lanes – by 15,000 votes. It translates to 25-cents added to a $100 purchase, and starts July 1.
For more info: albuqerquejournal.com
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