Lewis’ political stands are not related to city’s needs

DAN LEWIS spouts so many positions that have nothing to do with being mayor. He tells us he is anti-abortion, which is not a municipal issue. He tells us he wants the state Legislature and governor to impose the death penalty and also tack on another layer of penalties for felons who have a gun — it appears the only thing he favors about gun control. He wants to break up the Albuquerque school district, but that is not in the mayor’s power. Worse, when it comes to policies he can implement as mayor, such as controlling urban sprawl, his proposal is to do nothing but let it happen. Hence, his hands-off policy toward the 21-square-mile Santolina plan, which will only add to water woes for the city and surrounding areas. And though a clear majority of residents like the idea of mandating sick leave pay for employers in the city — we note a bare majority did not like the recent proposed plan, but many who opposed the plan support mandating sick leave pay — Lewis says he has no intention of ever seeking municipal laws to support the idea of sick leave pay.

Dan Lewis, please run for Congress or maybe even governor and test the popularity of your state or federal policies. You have no business running for mayor. My Dad used to say, “There is no Republican or Democratic way to collect the garbage...” I am starting to think people like Lewis do not understand that at all. At least Keller shows a clear understanding of what it means to be the mayor of a great city such as Albuquerque, which is to promote, maintain and enforce policies that will enhance the lives of the people who live and work in the city. MITCHELL J. FREEDMAN Rio Rancho