Amelia Romero Hollis
Candidate for City Council, District 2
Core issues:
We need action to resolve our challenges: water shortage, needed affordable housing, threat of terrorism, economic development, job creation, and our waning education system. We need leaders who know our problems in detail, make decisions and take action; proactive councilors with leadership skills, experience and a proven record of effective results.
Top three priorities:
Water
Procuring new water supply sources, securing existing ones and implementing a comprehensive water conservation program. In terms of supply we should look at the diversion of water and infrastructure to the City of Santa Fe and look for perpetual or long-term water rights. I will suggest a regional approach to the problem, maybe through the Regional Planning Authority, and serious consideration of proposals made by community-based organizations (SF Water Coalition, TAP Water Santa Fe, etc.).
Housing
Promoting and fostering affordable housing among our developers, builders and neighborhood groups. I would suggest developing a collaborative between the city, banks, builders and non-profit organization aimed at making quality affordable lots and homes available to people with low and moderate income within the City of Santa Fe. Seek financial assistance from federal, state and non-profit agencies that support the provision of housing opportunities for low and moderate-income families. The Santa Fe Affordable Roundtable could become a broad non-profit organization that can assist our city in resolving this problem.
Finance
Evaluate the real financial situation of our city and implement a budget that is feasible to work with the General Plan.
Further Comments by the Candidate
Why am I running for City Council?
Recent descriptions of our City portray us as a community in crisis, because of inert leadership not because of lack of resources.
That's why I am running for City Council.
Why am I qualified?
I am a twelfth generation Santa Fean aware of our needs. My familiarity with the political process is a result of my upbringing and experience. As a dedicated citizen, I devote time, energy and resources to our community serving in multiple civic and non-profit organizations such as the Arts Commission, the City's Intercultural Affairs Committee, Children's Museum, Villa Theresa Clinic, Palace of the Governors, Santa Fe Community Foundation, among others.
Recently, I helped organize Voices of Santa Fe, an inclusive advocacy organization working to improve our quality of life. Some of the topics we've addressed through community forums included: water shortage, education, health care, affordable housing and economic development. My record stands of proven results.