Members of the community have teamed up with members of the Kingsville Law Enforcement Association in a rally to change the electoral history in Kingsville. The Kingsville City Charter regarding how our city council and mayor are elected has not changed since 1916. For almost 95 years Kingsville has been doing things the same way.

We have grown, we have changed, we have progressed as a community. Why have we not had a city charter that has grown, changed and progressed along with us? It is a living, breathing document created to evolve as our community evolves. Our first city leaders had the forethought to create a charter with rules and ordinances, procedures and policies that allow for proper outlines to follow when that evolution occurs.

As members of the community we are not seeking change just for the sake of change. We are demanding to adapt to the needs of the community. And the needs of the community have outgrown having 4 at-large city council members and a mayor.

Our community-based group has recently notified the City of Kingsville leaders on our intent to circulate a petition outlining a city charter amendment that would allow for seven single-member districts and the mayor position to be chosen from the seven elected council members.

Seven districts would be drawn fairly across Kingsville and each district, or neighborhood, would have its own elected representative. Who better to know the needs of your district or neighborhood than one of your neighbors?

This would ensure that all of Kingsville is fairly and responsibly represented. As community members we know that each neighborhood has its own concerns and needs. They may not be the same as the next neighborhood’s concerns and needs.

Not everyone can afford to campaign for an at-large seat on the council. Having seven districts would allow for that civic minded person, dreaming of doing great things for the community, to campaign door to door and visit with their neighbors in order to get elected and represent their own district.

Our goal is to acquire enough signatures (560) on our petition to be able to place the charter amendment on the next City Elections ballot. Let the voters decide. Let our neighbors decide. Let our community decide.

This is a positive move for Kingsville. It is the right direction for Kingsville. Once we have voted FOR the charter amendments, we will have two years (the next city election in 2012) to have the districts drawn and begin the process of identifying those community members ready to make positive changes in their neighborhoods.

You may hear how this will hurt Kingsville as it will cost a lot of money to accomplish this history changing event. Yes, it will cost money. Look at it as an investment in the successful future of Kingsville. We believe Kingsville is worth it!

In order to qualify your signature on the petition, you must be a registered voter in the city of Kingsville. You may be visited by one of your neighbors to sign the petition. We will have people at the polls if you would like to sign there. On Friday, Feb. 26, from 1 p.m. until 8 p.m. we will be at 512 E. Kleberg (KLEA Building) with tables set up for those who wish to sign the petition and we will treat you to a hotdog, chips and a drink just for visiting with us.

Thank you and we look forward to seeing you.