McLain to run for city council

John “Jack” McLain announced last night he is running for Maricopa City Council. McLain is a Vietnam veteran and the current commander of the Maricopa Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 12043.

“I have always been one to look for challenges and ways to utilize my capabilities,” McLain said. “Since 2004, I have actively engaged in many public and civic projects. Now, it is simply a matter of having learned the issues and the system. I want to be elected to a position where I can effectively help resolve them. I believe in Maricopa’s potential and I know I can help to move us forward during the present and to prepare for the future.”

McLain had a 30-year career as a scientist, where he handled large-scale contract negotiations and managed other researchers in the pharmaceutical industry. He said that experience helps him make complex decisions and look at situations based on facts.

“I do not believe in making snap judgments or reacting spontaneously to the loudest voices in the room,” McLain said. “I am well prepared to see the not-so-obvious consequences of questionable decisions. I prefer to analyze and confer with affected parties and gain consensus when possible.”

McLain currently serves on the Planning and Zoning Commission and in the past has served on the Parks, Library and Recreation Committee. He believes both of these public service roles have helped prepare him for responsibilities on the city council with insights on current issues and the workings of city hall.

He has also been observant of the current council.

“There has been a significant change in the public face of the council since the last election,” McLain said. “I have been glad to see much more dialogue occur between the councilmembers during the meetings.

“I am a firm believer of accountability, and while the council meetings seem to take longer, the public gains understanding of the councilmembers positions and more of the subtleties of the issues when discussions and debate occur openly. When elected, I will definitely continue with this trend. The public will know where I stand and why I voted one way or the other.”

McLain said he is frustrated by the relationship between the city of Maricopa and the Maricopa Unified School District. He is hoping to see the sports fields more open to the community, which he believes would encourage better community involvement for both the district and city.

McLain said State Route 347 and Maricopa’s foreclosures are at the top of the list of problems.   In the past there had been discussion about building other roads to connect Maricopa with Interstate 10.

“The one way in, and one way out situation with Route 347 is one big obstacle. Also, the unfortunate perception of being the foreclosure capital is another,” McLain said. “As for a priority, I believe we need to be more flexible and ready to think out of the box to gain business development.

“I do believe in sensible code restrictions and due diligence but I want to be sure that each potential new business opportunity be worked through with as few restrictions as possible. We need business development and public confidence in our city’s viability and more jobs right now.”

McLain said he will be attending as many public meetings as possible and wants to listen to the concerns of citizens. He encouraged readers to e-mail him at [email protected].

“I truly want to understand the concerns and wants of our community,” McLain said. "This job will require constant listening to the people and learning their needs. I look forward to that.”

The council seats currently occupied by Marvin Brown, Carl Diedrich and Marquisha Griffin will be on the election ballot in 2012. As of today, Brown, McLain and business owner Bridger Kimball have announced publicly they will run for a seat.