Candidates were asked to limit their responses to each of the following questions to 200 words or less.
NAME: Rafael Rodriguez Jr
AGE: 50
OCCUPATION: Automotive Technology Adjunct Instructor / Small Business Owner / Military Retiree
INCUMBENT: No
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: None
-Why have you decided to run for a position on the City Commission? If you are an incumbent, why did you decide to run for re-election?
I have made the choice to campaign for the city commission as there is a need for fresh perspectives in order to foster development and explore alternative sources of funding for underfunded programs.
-What experience/background do you have that would make you a good city commissioner? If you are an incumbent, what experience/background has made you a good city commissioner? Having served in the military for almost 24 years and retiring with dual military service totaling 39 years, I possess a wealth of knowledge about federal programs. With this expertise, I can offer a unique perspective on obtaining funding for underfunded programs. Additionally, my background in Renewable energy and Automotive technology positions me well to assist the city in transitioning to becoming the first municipality in the state with a Solar Power Plant.
-What are the top three issues you believe the city will face during your term, if elected/re-elected? If I were to win the election, the main issues I would focus on include promoting economic growth, addressing mill levy taxation, and fostering cooperation among local businesses for upcoming initiatives.
-What is the number one issue you plan to tackle if elected/re-elected? If chosen as your representative, my primary focus would be on transforming the city into a financially viable local administration. The existing concept of a revenue-neutral local government has become obsolete and is burdening both the community and potential businesses.
-Is there something you would like to see change about any city ordinance or program? The salary regulation does not align with the cost of living in the region and fails to meet the Locality Payment standards stated by the Office of Personnel Management. It is my desire for the salary and hourly rate to correspond with the established schedule for the Locality Pay Area of Kansas City-Overland Park-Kansas City, MO-KS. Currently, the newly approved ordinance does not include a specific salary or hourly wage framework for the city manager position.