The Political Whore

UPDATE: We have 10 candidates for mayor, as Alex Haak didn’t qualify. They are Deveron Gibbons, Kathleen Ford, Bill Foster, Scott Wagman, Larry Williams, Jamie Bennett, John Warren, Richard Eldridge, Ed Helm and Paul Congemi. The primary election to determine the two finalists is Sept. 1.

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Today is the last day to file all the necessary paperwork to run for St. Petersburg mayor or city council, a day called Qualifying Day. We’ll know who is in and who is out by 5 pm.

A last-minute entry into the field, however, is entrepreneur, preservationist and restaurateur John Warren, 59, who owns Savannah’s Cafe on Central Avenue in St. Petersburg.

Warren, who has been frustrated by the city’s inability to help small businesses and truly grow its downtown in a sensible fashion, told supporters in an e-mail that he knows he is getting in late but doesn’t hear the issues he thinks ought to be disucssed.

“I don’t believe current candidates are addressing the issues that need to be discussed, nor do I feel they have the vision or experiences to deal with today’s challenges. Apparently many of you agree,” Warren wrote.

He also hints that he will get rid of controversial police Chief Chuck Harmon if the SPPD can’t start battling crime more effectively.

Here is his e-mail to supporters:

Dear Friend,

I’m sending you this note because I know you like surprises. And here it is—although I know it’s late in the campaign, I’ve decided to enter the race for mayor of St. Petersburg. Less of a shock, I’d like your support.

I don’t believe current candidates are addressing the issues that need to be discussed, nor do I feel they have the vision or experiences to deal with today’s challenges. Apparently many of you agree. The St. Petersburg Times recently completed a survey that reported over 60% of registered voters are undecided.

The public clearly wants more from their mayor. They want someone whose experiences give them confidence their concerns will be addressed. I believe I’ve got those experiences. I’ve 35 years running successful businesses and supporting many cultural programs. My activities include leading historic preservation efforts, advancing art and neighborhood interests, and fighting for small business.

My administration’s priorities will be protecting and expanding jobs, offering new programs to fight crime, and working to restore confidence in City government. To attract top jobs we need a quality of life that attracts creative and innovative entrepreneurs. They want to live where their values are supported. They support the arts and historic preservation. They want their businesses on vibrant Main Streets.

We can meet their demands; we can attract the investment that provides new jobs, provided we don’t tear down our remaining charm! I understand the balance between preservation and growth. I also understand the inextricable link between the arts and the economy. Do the other candidates?

Jobs will help reduce crime, but our police department needs leadership, as well as ideas and resources to handle a growing problem. If our police chief lacks these qualities, change will be made. Our relationship with local government must be strengthened. We need greater transparency, opportunities to be involved in big decisions, and a sense of direction.

St. Petersburg’s successes have been defined by the height of our skyline. But development without better planning ignores the fundamentals. It leaves you without a voice in the process.

On election day, ask yourself, “Do we need another career politician or someone with real life experiences?” Please consider my achievements. Visit my website and learn how you can be part of making St. Petersburg a better place to live.

Thanks for reading this email. I look forward to your questions and hope for your support and vote.

John Warren

P.S. : Regarding the website.. We’re developing a great website, but it won’t be active for another 7-10 days.

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