Editor,
City Councilor Eric Griego is unique among the candidates in the upcoming mayoral race to be held in Albuquerque on Oct. 4 because he is the only candidate who seems to value the concept of interdependence in his policy agenda.
I usually associate the word interdependence with the science of ecology, as it explains that all living and non-living things are connected to one another in what is commonly referred to as the web of life. While Griego is endorsed by the Sierra Club and the Conservation Voters of New Mexico for his common-sense conservationist platform, his understanding of interdependence is illustrated in his stance on issues other than just the environment.
Griego has a degree in Public Management and has been a leader in our City Council for years. He argues that allowing for uncontrolled growth that favors special interests is antithetical to creating a city that is healthy, vibrant and sustainable. He knows effective punishment for crime needs to be coupled with treatment of the causes of crime. He knows increasing the minimum wage in Albuquerque will benefit everyone because our working poor will be more able to provide for their health, education and family.
He also knows that while allocating money for basic services such as roads and sidewalks may not have the same political appeal as allocating money for a panda exhibit at the zoo, it is a necessary ingredient in Albuquerque's recipe for success as a city attractive to both high-end businesses and culturally refined urban dwellers.
Valuing the concept of interdependence means having a vision big enough to see that investments in others are investments in oneself.
Cary Weiner
UNM graduate student
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