David Ibarra: I have the executive skills to be mayor of Salt Lake City

Voters have an incredibly important decision ahead of them. Do we stay with the same crew of politicians who have been leading us, or do we bring in some new blood, with the experience to lead a group of people and reach a goal? I hope voters choose the latter.

My brother Mickey and I grew up on the streets of Salt Lake City. For as long as I can remember, I’ve taken a daily 45-minute walk through Salt Lake City. Progress in this city seems to have stalled. I got in this race because Salt Lake City deserves better.

Too many of our problems have gone unsolved by our mayor, our City Council and our state leaders, and most of my opponents fit into one of those categories.

Our air quality continues to get worse, our homeless plan isn’t coming together, we’ve lost our seat at the table on the inland port and our basic infrastructure needs as a city aren’t being met. Shouldn’t we tackle these issues with fresh eyes?

The job of the mayor is an executive level job, and requires leadership experience and proven ability to get things done. Shouldn’t the mayor’s race be treated like any other job interview?

Since my 20s, I’ve been managing teams to reach desired outcomes. I’ve held positions as everything from a dishwasher to a CEO, been appointed by a U.S. president to a national board, mentored up-and-coming entrepreneurs, built seven successful businesses, put 89 students through college and have received an honorary doctorate from Salt Lake Community College.

This position isn’t about my resume. It’s about executive leadership. It’s about which candidate can lead Salt Lake City through the tough decisions of the future. Who can ensure that if the inland port is built, it is built clean? Who can bring the right people together to clean up our air?

I can.

This city needs someone who is more interested in the work of the mayor and not just being the mayor. I bring both an understanding of city government and executive leadership experience. I know what it is like to take responsibility; to have the buck stop with me.

This city has a bright future and for me this job will not be a stepping stone, it is a landing place. Now is the right time for me to be a public servant.

To find out more about me, go to www.ibarra4mayor.com or I return my own phone calls. Call me at 801-209-7998.

David Ibarra is a candidate for mayor of Salt Lake City.