Texas Border Business
Our community has been through a challenging period this past year. I have witnessed the devastating effect this virus has had on our local economy and its impact on hundreds of thousands of individuals.
Many of the places that I frequented had to close for some time, then began operations at modified capacity. Other businesses have closed their doors for good because their customers who traveled from Mexico are no longer with us since the bridge is closed to non-essential business.
Significant entertainment operations are still in lockdown, but we might be seeing the light at a distance, which gives us all hope for a better tomorrow.
This pandemic made me think about how I can serve the community to improve all the great work that others have already done. I served in the United States Air Force for over 19 years- eight years enlisted and 11 years commission. Also, I was the dean for business, public safety, and technology at South Texas College for 23 years, giving me the depth and breadth of experience to give back to my community what I have learned throughout my career.
I have been an integral part of the community since 1996. My work on community boards is extensive. It includes such great organizations such as the Mission Chamber of Commerce, Valley Symphony, Mission Economic Development Agency, and Advocacy Alliance of Central Texas, to name a few. Furthermore, I served on the Budget Board and Traffic Commission for McAllen.
The relationships that I have established throughout the years have taught me to understand the business tempo that our entrepreneurs and businesses expect from their city governments. Also, I have a deep appreciation and understanding of the quality of life expected from a prosperous city like McAllen.
For a boy that grew up in Mission and El Cinco, Alton now, wanting to serve you in your city council is an opportunity for me to give back to the community. The lessons in strategy, planning, and decision making that I learned in leadership schools while I was in the United States Air Force will serve me well as I participate with other leaders in our community to bring prosperity and a better quality of life for all in our community. I will share my ideas in the coming days, so we work together to ensure the excellent quality of life experienced by many continues to improve for all McAllen citizens. I ask for your suggestions and support.
Related
“If You Understand the Mission in Detail, Then You Should Be Able to Sell It,” Mario Reyna, STC Dean for Business, Public Safety, and Technology
