Largely missing from the Hollister City Council is the type of edge that sets apart Victor Gomez in the race for the open District 5 seat. Despite his relative inexperience in dealing with government issues, Gomez appears to have a charismatic, firm leadership presence needed locally.
A majority of editorial board members chose Gomez as the top choice over two other qualified candidates, David Huboi and Roy Iler, while we believe all three of them were largely in agreement and correct on their priorities, such as promoting strategies to curtail gang activity and focusing on attracting new industry to the area.
Gomez gets the nod, however, for a few reasons. We agree with his business-like approach to finding difficult solutions. If it makes sense economically, then do it. If not, then don't, says Gomez. That's the type of mindset necessary to make the tough decisions that are inevitably ahead for the next several years. Gomez is clear that council members will direct city policy and that he won't be placated easily by anyone.
He also has that experience in business, and the council has shown it could use some additional financial expertise. Gomez is the franchise owner for the local Papa Murphy's, an establishment he called successful in touting how he'd bring the same approach to government that he brings to work.
While economic development will be a priority, he contended, Gomez also noted how he would push to expand neighborhood watch-type programs as a way to deter crime.
All three candidates, in fact, offered wise approaches to crime fighting. It's an area where our board thought Iler, a sheriff's office lieutenant and veteran of the county department, would offer a particular benefit to the council and the city's direction in decreasing gang activity. He talked about prevention and suppression as two crucial methodologies to cutting back on gang activity. He's right, because the fight starts in neighborhoods, at home, and in schools.
The board, meanwhile, is supportive in particular of Huboi's approach to economic development. Huboi is coowner of a local architectural services business - which also helps to give him a slight leg up on Iler - and he pushed his ideas for promoting green building and concentrating on developing near the Hollister Municipal Airport. Huboi also has experience with growth issues as a current Hollister Planning Commissioner.
Although we believe voters can't go wrong in this race, Gomez brings the greatest chance to shake things up and offer a fresh perspective to city government.
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