Editor, Manteca Bulletin,

The mayor serves as the public face for our community. That person should have a proven track record of community service and a vision for where he wants our city to go in the future. He is not afraid to roll up his sleeves and assist the seniors at a breakfast or be an auctioneer at a chili cook-off.

Steve DeBrum has served on the City Council and has the experience and positive attitude to tackle the tough issues facing Manteca. All I hear and read from his opponent, Ben Cantu is negativity and anger. That’s not what our community needs. Manteca has been able to grow in a sustainable way, bringing in new business and shopping opportunities for our residents so we are able to spend our money where we live and also to finance the hiring of more police and firefighters to address crime.

We still have some major challenges that must be addressed, the homeless problem being the most visible. Ben Cantu who criticizes nearly every bit of public spending since he began running for office nearly 10 years ago now wants the City to build a multi-million dollar homeless shelter that will only become a magnet to draw people from other cities here who need city services.

DeBrum and Police Chief Obligacion have organized a Homeless Summit to solicit public comment and involves non-profit organizations, churches and community groups to find ways to get the truly needy the help , while addressing the loitering, public drunkenness, drug and vandalism of the criminally homeless.

Manteca needs a mayor with new ideas, common sense and a proven track record of accomplishment. Please disregard the negativity and name calling from Ben Cantu and join me in voting for Steve DeBrum for Mayor of Manteca.

Carol Lazetera

Manteca