By Peter Svarzbein
The role of a 21st-century mayor goes beyond simply governing. A successful mayor must be a steady leader who brings people together, creates opportunities for economic growth and positions their city to compete in an increasingly globalized world.
Having served two terms as a city councilman and as the recent national chairman of Sister Cities International, I understand the unique challenges and opportunities El Paso faces. It is through this lens that I wholeheartedly believe Renard Johnson is the best candidate for mayor.
His exceptional business experience, global perspective and proven leadership make him uniquely qualified to elevate El Paso’s economy, expand its global reach and secure a prosperous future.
A leader who brings jobs and opportunity to El Paso
One of the most critical responsibilities of a mayor in our council-manager form of government is to be the face of the community – to advocate for El Paso and attract opportunities that will grow the local economy. Johnson is particularly well-suited for this role.
As the founder of METI, a global professional services and support company started in El Paso, Johnson has demonstrated a remarkable ability to build and sustain successful enterprises. His company has 800 employees in offices around the world. This global presence underscores his ability to navigate both corporate and government environments effectively, skills that will translate directly into bringing investment and good-paying jobs to El Paso.
Johnson’s experience positions him to hit the ground running on day one. He knows how to be in the rooms where decisions are made – whether it’s a corporate boardroom or a government office in Washington. In fact, he already has an office in D.C., which speaks to his readiness to leverage those connections for El Paso.
His ability to tell El Paso’s story, communicate its unique advantages, and advocate for its future is impressive. This is the kind of leadership our city needs to compete globally and build a stronger commercial tax base that will fund infrastructure and services for generations to come instead of primarily residential taxes.
The face of a global city
My experience as national chairman of Sister Cities International taught me that the role of a mayor extends far beyond local governance. Mayors represent their cities on the global stage, forming relationships with other municipalities, communities and governments, fostering cultural exchanges, and creating economic development opportunities.
During my tenure as national chairman, I engaged with mayors from South Africa, Mexico, across the United States and the world. One common thread was the necessity of having a mayor who not only speaks about their city but listens and builds relationships that lead to tangible results.
Johnson has shown that he is ready to take on this role. His campaign has demonstrated his ability to connect with El Paso residents, evidenced by his knocking on thousands of doors and earning broad support from voters and donors alike.
This grassroots approach reflects a leader who listens and understands the needs of the community. It also shows his ability to engage stakeholders at every level, a critical skill for a mayor who must navigate both local concerns and global opportunities.
Avoiding the mistakes of the past
The contrast between Johnson and his opponent, Brian Kennedy, could not be more stark. While Kennedy spent decades managing the County Coliseum, the facility fell into disrepair and required an ultimately unsuccessful taxpayer-funded bailout through a bond package this past November.
This record of mismanagement is not what El Paso needs at a time when our city must compete for investment and jobs. Running an entertainment venue is simply not the same as leading a global enterprise like METI or positioning El Paso for success on the world stage.
Moreover, Kennedy’s limited experience in City Hall – less than two years – raises concerns about his readiness to serve as mayor.
Public service requires a deep commitment to the voters and the issues they face. When I served on City Council, I fulfilled the terms I was entrusted with, respecting the trust voters placed in me.
Kennedy’s decision to run for another office so quickly after being elected to City Council suggests a focus on personal ambition rather than the needs of the community.
A vision for El Paso’s future
Johnson understands that the future of El Paso depends on attracting good-paying jobs, retaining our brightest minds and growing our tax base. He has the experience and vision to accomplish these goals.
As someone who represented District 1 for eight years, I know the challenges our city faces, from brain drain to a lack of 21st industry and quality jobs. I also know what it takes to succeed as a leader in our unique council-manager system. Johnson is that leader.
His global experience, commitment to equitable economic growth, and ability to represent El Paso on the world stage make him the clear choice for mayor.
Together, we all can help build a vibrant, competitive 21st-century economy and secure a brighter future for all El Pasoans.
But that starts with you coming out to vote in this run off election.
Early voting continues through Tuesday, Dec. 10, and Election Day is Saturday, Dec. 14.
Peter Svarzbein served as District 1 city representative and mayor pro tempore from 2015-2023. He was national chairman of Sister Cities International from 2023-2024.
The post Opinion: Renard Johnson is the right choice for El Paso’s future appeared first on El Paso Matters.
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