Potter to run for city council

Former mayoral candidate Leon Potter announced he will run in 2012 for a seat on the Maricopa City Council.

Potter lost in the March 2010 primary to incumbent Anthony Smith and Ken Hunt. Smith went on to retain his seat in the general election.

Potter is a manager for the county’s volunteer income tax assistance program where he trains other volunteers to help middle- and low-income families, citizens with disabilities and individuals who do not speak English as their primary language.

He currently serves on the Parks, Libraries and Recreation Committee and cites his time serving on the PRL as giving him more insight into the workings of the city.

“I like to be involved in city government and have some influence on decisions,” Potter said. “And I have learned a lot since I last ran.”

He has been involved lately with the Maricopa Unified School District’s efforts to pass an override to maintain the district’s general operations, as the district is anticipating more cuts to its already-reduced budget.

“It’s my focus right now,” Potter said. “Between now and the November elections when the override is on the ballot I want to make sure the voters receive what they need to make a decision.”

Potter has lived in Maricopa since 2005. He had served in the U.S. Navy for 11 years, and said that experience gave him an understanding of “public interest over self-interest.”

“I understand that there are codes, rules and laws that are to be abided by everyone,” Potter said. “The rights of everyone are to be upheld equally under those same codes, rules and laws. I put a higher standard on myself to follow the rules and play by the rules. I expect consequences if the rules are broken.”