by Joe Courter
The Gainesville City Commission run-off election is April 14, and the Iguana strongly endorses Harvey Budd for the At-Large seat and Yvonne Hinson-Rawls for the District 1 seat. Please vote. Your vote is rendered even more powerful as the general population seems to be slacking in the civic responsibility of going to the polls. Early voting will run through Saturday, April 11, and can be done at the Millhopper branch library, downtown at the County Administration building, or the Cone library at 2841 E. University Ave. On election day, voting is at your designated polling place.
In the At-Large race, the general election saw a close three-way outcome forcing a run-off between Harvey Ward and Jay Curtis. Coming in a close third was Adrian Hayes-Santos. The Iguana had endorsed Budd, but Hayes-Santos would have been our second choice. Thus we are happy to print the following statement from Adrian:
“I’ve chosen to endorse Harvey Budd for Gainesville City Commission At-Large 1. Harvey Budd’s progressive platform and his focus on equality and fighting poverty in Gainesville are ideas that I can get behind. This is what we need to see more of on the city commission. I urge you to vote for Harvey Budd on April 14. This election and your support have been incredible. Thank you all so much! I will continue to be involved in improving our community and supporting issues that help all Gainesville residents.”
So yes, Please vote Harvey.
In District 1, the Iguana endorsed Chris Weaver, a promising newcomer. Chris never caught fire, and in a crowded field Yvonne Hinson-Rawls came in first, with Charles Goston second. Between these two, we have no question in endorsing Yvonne. She has a long record of positive community service, and adds to a collegial atmosphere on the commission, something her opponent would not do. She deserves another term on the Commission.