Why Run for Mayor?

The fiscal and financial issues of St. Petersburg must be addressed. From 2001 to 2007, the property taxes collected nearly doubled from $58 million to $104 million. Yet, the City failed to address its growing debt obligations, especially unfunded health care supplement liability which is presently $184 million. Incredibly, in the midst of that financial need, the City participated in unauthorized risky investments resulting in the loss of $15.8 million of operating funds last year and the potential loss of another $15 million this year. This specific risky investment was one I cautioned against before leaving City Council in 2001.

We cannot afford such lack of oversight. We need a leader we can trust to tirelessly guard the public funds.

Public safety is important. Our police officers should be a visible reminder that St. Petersburg is a city with safe neighborhoods, safe parks and safe business districts.

Our Police and Fire Departments must be kept up to strength with all of the resources necessary to protect our citizens. We need a leader who will make public safety a top priority.

The environment is important. The blue green waters of Tampa Bay must be protected. We must address the City’s infrastructure to prevent runoff and spills. While on Council, I initiated the study which resulted in the aggressive replacement program to address the aging sewer infrastructure. Now, the City needs to aggressively address the water pipes which are leaking nearly 1.4 million gallons per day.

We need a leader who will ensure a safe, sustainable drinking water supply.

As a mother, I share the hopes and fears parents face in choosing the right path for their children’s education. Our schools are an integral part of this City. Working with dedicated school administrators, faculty, students and their families is critical to achieving educational success and school safety.

The City should strengthen its partnership with Pinellas County Schools, as well as institutes of higher education including The University of South Florida, Eckerd College, St. Petersburg College and nearby Stetson University College of Law.

We need a leader who understands the importance of educating students with the necessary skills to succeed in a global society.

As a small business owner and as an attorney representing other businesses owners, I am keenly aware of the challenges business faces today. Like private businesses, the City is impacted by health care costs, compliance with complex regulation and reporting at the local, state and national level.

We need a leader who knows the law and how to act quickly in the City’s best interest. This is no time for beginners.

St. Petersburg is a wonderful place to work, live and play. Through collaboration between neighborhood associations and dedicated City staff, our citizens enjoy many city sponsored activities held in our beautiful parks, libraries and recreation centers. Such activities help our children grow up healthy and strong and provide adults with enrichment.

We need a leader who understands the importance of neighborhood organizations, community parks, recreational facilities and libraries and the roles each play in making our City incredible.

St. Petersburg is an international destination for tourists and our cultural jewels shine. The City should continue to nourish its world class museums, flourishing performing arts and thriving arts and music community.

We need a leader who understands that supporting our cultural amenities is important for growing our economy and for sustaining our human spirit.

The citizens of St. Petersburg need a leader they know and one they can trust to address the needs of all of citizens, not just the privileged few. Now more than ever, the City of St. Petersburg needs open, accessible, accountable and affordable government.

I am that leader.

I ask for your vote on September 1.

Kathleen Ford