Editor’s note: The last two lines of this letter that ran Tuesday was inadvertently cut-off. The letter follows in its entirety.

Editor, Manteca Bulletin,

I am supporting Ben Cantu for Mayor for one simple reason: Steve DeBrum fights for the developers, and Ben Cantu fights for me. 

We have leaders that believe more and more new developments and expensive houses are the solution to all of our problems. Leaders that believe more warehouses and entry level jobs are a solid foundation for Manteca’s economy. Leaders who are content to scratch the surface of our problems without really addressing them. 

I want a leader for Manteca who understands we can’t continue on our present course if we want to be a sustainable city. A leader who has had a lifetime of experience working with the City. A leader who has no agenda other than doing what’s best for the people. For me, that leader is Ben Cantu. 

My husband and I have lived in Manteca for almost 40 years. I remember a time when our city’s landscaping was in perfect condition, when our schools were the best you could find, and our neighborhoods were safe. Manteca has changed a lot since then; in some ways for the better, in some ways not. I’m happy to see Manteca grow, but not if we lose sight of the important issues: keeping our police department as strong as possible, building up Downtown, and fixing the roads. 

I support Ben Cantu because he has demonstrated that he wants to address the important issues Manteca faces. He has never given up the fight to make Manteca a better place, and his only goal is to make sure all of us have a voice in our city. I am proud to support Ben Cantu, and I hope you will as well. 

Vicki Martin

Manteca