A CLOSER LOOK AT BEN NEECE/PEDRO CARDENAS RACE IN DISTRICT 4

 

For those undecided on how to vote in the soon-to-be scheduled runoff for city commissioner in District 4 between incumbent Ben Neece and challenger Pedro Cardenas,  we've gathered the available evidence and statements to compare the two.

Since Neece has a long record of public service, first as municipal judge and, more recently, as a city commissioner, summarizing his performance is not difficult.

Pedro Cardenas, however, has not held public office, although he briefly served on the GBIC Board,  with his service was marked by chronic absenteeism.  His name was actually on the GBIC agenda for removal before the entire board was disbanded by the city commission in December.

Cardenas also missed all four of the public forums where citizens can question and observe the relative skill set and knowledge of the candidates.

So, with respect to Cardenas, all we have is a note he wrote me, sharing what he feels he offers the voters:

"Mr. Barton,

The reality is that all candidates generally want the same thing: a thriving and well run city that provides basic services in a cost effective and reliable manner; public employees and elected officials that are public servants above all else and treat all of our citizens with respect; a clean environment with parks and recreational opportunities including a vibrant downtown; more good paying jobs for our hardworking people; low taxes, and a positive can-do spirit that welcomes and supports employers and employees alike.

On this I believe we can all agree. But what distinguishes us is how we prioritize our goals and what means we use to reach them. 

The incumbent and I differ on how we intend to reach our goals. I believe in respectful dialogue and healthy compromise in order to work with all members of the commission towards common goals.

I believe I will make a better commissioner for two important reasons. First, I will prioritize focusing on three critical and basic needs for our community in a non-self serving way: good jobs, low taxes  and well maintained cost effective roads, drainage and electricity services. And second, I will work to unite, not divide our community and to expand our collaboration not only to other entities in Brownsville but throughout the region.

I am fully committed to serving our community as City Commissioner. If the citizens of district 4 entrust me with their vote and support, I pledge to work tirelessly for them. My priorities have always been God, my family, and my work; if given the opportunity, the needs of my constituents will be amongst them.

Thank you for the opportunity to reach your followers.

Pedro Cardenas"

With respect to Ben Neece, he has a extensive history of public service, 32 years as a municipal judge, followed by one term as city commissioner.  

As District 4 includes downtown Brownsville, much of Neece's effort has been directed there.  Neece pushed for increased lighting, cameras and a downtown police substation.

Neece is also proud of his contribution to simplifying and revising Brownsville's antiquated housing codes and reorganizing the city's Planning Department.

Along with others on the BCIC Board, Neece helped create the B.I.G. Grant, giving downtown business owners assistance with store fronts and signage.

The commissioner worked hard to help create a permanent Oversight and Audit Committee and also helped restore the expired Ethics Committee.

Neece has also been heavily involved in the Ozanam Homeless Shelter, providing relief for the homeless including those downtown.