JOHN WEBER

I am running for a seat on the Coralville City Council because I want to see our city continue to grow and develop.

I am a resident of Coralville as well as an owner of a retail furniture and gift shop that includes a commercial and residential design studio.

Before opening “The Luxe Zone” two years ago, I worked for Hewlett-Packard and Philips for 27 years - giving me a wide variety of experiences with regard to developing budgets, time management and working with teams of engineers and managers to create new growth markets and development of new products.

The basic priority of any city council and administration is to provide and maintain a safe and healthy environment for its citizens. In Coralville, Police Chief Barry Bedford has 33 officers on his staff, all of whom are EMTs, providing not only protection but firsthand assistance in any emergency.

Fire Chief David Stannard has only four salaried full-time fire fighters, yet he has obtained a “2” rating for the department. There are only three other fire departments in the state to receive such a high rating - none of them is a volunteer department.

There isn't enough room to list all the accomplishments of Sherri Proud and her Parks and Recreation department. Our trail system is well used for recreation and commuting to work.

It is important to continue the plan for redevelopment and development of the Old Town area as well as the Iowa River Landing, the Research Park and the Coral Ridge Mall commercial areas.

The infrastructure for much of the development is already in place because of the use of TIF money. The TIF funds have provided and/or enhanced the flood mitigation programs, the parks and trails, the performing arts center, library, the Research Park additions, and several other additions. (TIF money wasn't just used to develop the IRL).

There are plans in place for development and for paying down the debt. There always has been a plan. The plan is working.

The debt will be cut in half by 2018. Look at the well-planned new city emerging from all the efforts of the Coralville citizens and administration.

It's something called “Coralville Pride” at work.

I am ready to take on the outside interest groups and the nay sayers. I am ready to serve my city.

Please consider casting your vote for me on Nov. 5

l Comments: john.weber6@mchsi.com