Chamber's political-action committee doesn't mince words: Corbett, not Fagan, is what city needs for mayor

Linn Area BizPAC, a political-action committee sponsored by the Cedar Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, has endorsed Ron Corbett for mayor.

Corbett, vice president at trucking firm CRST Inc. and a former state lawmaker, was president/CEO of the Chamber from May 1999 until June 2005.

The BizPAC Board based its endorsement on answers to a questionnaire and interviews with the three mayoral candidates, Corbett, City Council member Brian Fagan, and P.T. Larson.

The endorsement is based on the candidate that best demonstrates he is pro-business and is  pro-Cedar Rapids on critical issues such as local disaster relief, high-performing government and aggressive economic development initiatives, the BizPAC Board said in a Monday news release.

On its questionnaire, Corbett scored 93 percent, Fagan, 83 percent and Larson, 75 percent.

In endorsing Corbett, BizPAC called Corbett “a leading voice to move us forward.”

BizPAC said Corbett is a “take-charge leader,” who has the ability to listen and forge alliances to get things accomplished. Corbett is “not afraid to make tough decisions,” he welcomes the assistance of others and he understands economic development, the group said.

“Our community needs jobs, disaster recovery and tangible partnerships,” the BizPAC Board said. “Ron will bring all of these to Cedar Rapids.”

The BizPAC Board said Larson has a passion for Cedar Rapids. But the board said he lacks the vision, leadership, experience and cooperative spirit to lead the community.

The board credited Fagan with working hard during the city's disastrous 2008 flood and subsequent recovery to get essential services to residents, and “his efforts are very much appreciated.”

“However, Brian did not exercise the kind of forward leadership needed for an aspiring mayor,” the group said. “Furthermore, at this time, Brian has not exhibited actionable results.

“It's time to accelerate, change or abandon the process-weary nature of our existing council and city manager. At this time in our history we need a mayor who will provide more action, clear leadership and results.”