JOE ARELLANO
AGE: 51 EDUCATION: Santa Fe High graduate, 1984
OCCUPATION: General contractor and owner, JNS Services LLC; owner, Longevity! Strength Training and Fitness
WHY I’M RUNNING:
I want to participate in City government for three reasons.
First, I am deeply concerned about the state of city operations and finances. The recent McHard report that addresses fraud prevention in the City’s operations and management pinpoints 66 issues, most of which should have been identified and addressed many years ago.
Second, poor planning and hasty decisions are damaging our ability to grow our economy and attract business.
One measure being discussed that I am concerned needs more careful consideration — rather than knee-jerk reactions — is the proposal to increase the minimum wage (the Living Wage) to $15/hour across the board. It is currently extremely difficult for young people to get a job in Santa Fe because they have to compete with experienced workers for “minimum wage” jobs.
I am proposing an Apprenticeship Wage to encourage employment of those with little experience or skills through vocational programs; keeping the current Living Wage for those who have some experience; and a Professional Minimum Wage starting at $15 or greater for experienced workers.
Finally, city decisions must include more community involvement, and councilors set project deadlines, and be watchful to assure plans are implemented effectively. We must put an end to backroom deals.
The new full-time mayor position should be an opportunity for better long-term planning and decision-making. For example, the redevelopment of the 60-acre SFUAD campus is an historic opportunity to include the community and conduct careful planning and implementation to help grow our local economy.
BACKGROUND QUESTIONS
1. Have you or your business - if you are a business owner - ever been the subject of any state or federal tax liens? No.
2. Have you ever been involved in a personal or business bankruptcy proceeding? No.
3. Have you ever been arrested for, charged with or convicted of drunken driving, any misdemeanor or any felony? No.