April 18, 2007
District 3 is on the move and if the number of candidates seeking to become the next city council representative is any indication, there’s going to be plenty of activity going on in this area.
Some refer to District 3 as having a “step-child” image.
With such a crowded field—as candidates attempt to fill the seat vacated by councilman Ed Oakley, who is running for mayor - candidate forums, advertising and walking the district are just a few ways that the candidates are able to get their message out to voters.
At a recent forum sponsored by the West Dallas Chamber of Commerce at the Goodwill Industries headquarters, eight of the candidates discussed everything from code enforcement, the Trinity River project and poor lighting, to the high crime rate and stray animals.
According to a report from the Dallas Police Department, District 3 citizens should be concerned about the rising crime rate, especially with the high increases in almost all areas.
An officer said they are working really hard to decrease the number of crimes in the area.
Good news said the candidates, who all presented their vision for the district that includes parts of Oak Cliff and West Dallas.
Angela Phillips is the youngest candidate on the ballot. A senior at Bishop Dunne High School, Ms. Phillips knows that people are saying that she is too young but she does not see her age as a liability.
“It’s the quality of age, not the quantity,” she explains, adding that she is disappointed with the state of District 3 and would like to preserve its culture and diversity.
Charletta Compton currently sits on the Dallas County Community College District Board of Trustees. Elected to the board in 2000, Ms. Compton said she is seeking a seat on the city council because she cares about the issues and is ready to “move on to a more challenging position.”
Joseph Hernandez is a banking executive who recently served as president of the Fort Worth Avenue Development Group. Stressing his desire to serve, Mr. Hernandez said he is responding to a “calling.”
Kawannia Lynn said she is not “currently satisfied with the services” her district receives. A self-proclaimed advocate, she said she is very excited and looks forward to working to implement changes.
A former City of Dallas Plan Commission vice chair, Dave Neumann is the owner of a women’s apparel manufacturer and touts his community service and said he wants to “continue meeting the needs of the people.”
Business owner Victoria Walton says she is an advocate for the community and also operates a nonprofit organization.
“I will be a new voice down at City Hall,” she said. “I will work hard to make sure we brighten lights, clean up the river and I will go out and meet the public.”
Attorney Linda Wise said she knows “what is going on” and has had experience working at City Hall. Having served on the Plan Commission and as vice chair of DART, Ms. Wise touted her ability to work with others, a point she says is critical, especially since there will be eight new members on the council.
Joe Tave is back for another chance to represent citizens on the council. Citing numerous concerns, Mr. Tave spoke strongly of his connections to the area and knowledge of the issues.
As Election Day approaches, all candidates had one goal in mind, to get as many voters out as possible. Note – Candidates Rena Renfroe and Irby Foster were not in attendance at the forum.
Cheryl can be reached at csmith@dallasweekly.com
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