the Controversial Committee Report
“We don’t raise sacred cows...we just butcher them.”
“Horses and Streams”
What appears to be happening in ‘beautiful downtown Irving,’ since the horrendous reign of ex-mayor BVD ended, is a new era of political peace, harmony, and actual accomplishment of doing what is best for all citizens and the city.
Why, there is even a renewed sense of prosperity in the city as the Entertainment Center (which ex-mayor BVD fought against) gathers tremendous amounts of positive publicity around the metropolitan area. The Toyota Music Factory, Alamo Drafthouse, and restaurants abundant are at the center of being noted and featured. And this is undeniably a long overdue drawing card to the city.
(Also overdue would be kudos for the city’s ICVB. This is warranted for all the time, effort, and promotion they generated to make this entertainment venue a success.)
So, what’s next? How do denizens of ‘beautiful downtown Irving’ keep this economic and politically friction-free cycle growing in the upcoming days?
The staff of the CCR is glad you asked this question. The answer is rather simple…be sure to vote in the upcoming city council election.
Yes, ballot breath, there is an election on the horizon, and now is the time to ensure Irving stays on a positive course. And this course is closely akin to the old adage of “don’t change horses in the middle of the stream.”
Early Voting: April 23rd to May 1st
Election Day: May 5th
The time to keep riding those steeds, which have or can prove to be the best for the city, is crucial. Irving is too grand a city to return to self-aggrandizing politics which stymied progress and growth during the previous administration.
With this in mind, staff of the CCR outlines the most probable candidate to cast your ballot when going to the polls.
City Council
While there are three positions open this election season, only one place has a contested race. Here is the complete layout.
Place 4: Phil Riddle (I) No opposition
Place 8: David Palmer (I) No opposition
Place 6
Al Zapanta
Shayan Elahi
Without a doubt, the race for Place 6 is an easy call to make!
Al Zapanta has lived in the city and district (12-years) much longer than his opponent (3-years). Mr. Zapanta has worked (running his business) in the city, and has been actively involved in community organizations much longer than his opponent. Mr. Zapanta does not have any hidden agendas. Mr. Zapanta is a decorated Army (Retired General) Ranger hero. Mr. Zapanta served on the city’s Planning and Zoning commission, so he knows how to approve and ensure residents that their property values are being protected. Mr. Zapanta’s background of service and activities to our country and community reflect the leadership skills necessary to carry Irving forward.
Irving residents in Place 6 should be advised, encouraged, and asked to make every effort to turn out the vote and elect Al Zapanta.
(You must live in Place 6 to vote, but you can encourage, pester, and harass all your friends and associates, of the district, to support Mr. Zapanta.)
The city needs and requires good, honest and capable leadership to ensure progress is maintained and residents have a listening voice on the city council who can attend to their needs.
Do your part to ensure this all happens: Vote: Al Zapanta in Place 6.
As a reminder, if things don’t go right in the city — according to your satisfaction — complaining is not an option…if you haven’t voted. This is the only way to ensure your voice has been heard and registered with those elected to serve you.
Don’t get all wet this election. Stay on the horse of progress as it crosses the city’s stream of economic prosperity and accountability.
…………………………………………………Mark Holbrook
