As a community, Fort Collins has largely put the economic consequences of the “Great Recession” behind us and an optimistic attitude is apparent across our city. But let’s be realistic, many challenges remain and we will need effective leadership to address the issues ranging from homeless housing to Poudre River corridor development. I believe that Ray Martinez is the leader the voters of Fort Collins District 2 should elect to tackle these challenges.

I have known Ray Martinez since the early 1970’s and through the years he has always impressed me with his dedication and commitment to the Fort Collins community.  We first met when he was a police officer and I was the resident manager of the College Inn. There were occasions where Officer Martinez handled himself with the utmost courtesy and good humor in dealing with our college residents— lessons that exemplified restraint in contentious situations. Later as Mayor of Fort Collins, Ray was an ardent supporter of revitalizing the cooperative leadership the City government had enjoyed for decades. I particularly appreciate the balanced and enlightened leadership Ray has provided in the formulation of Fort Collins land use policy and development regulation.

We need Ray’s seasoned and responsible leadership and I strongly encourage Fort Collins District 2 residents to vote for Ray Martinez and give our City a true leader.

 Ron Young