Why I’m Running
To my friends, family, and the City of Springfield -
Given the challenges that our country is facing, the world we are living in, and the uncertain future ahead of us, I felt it necessary to spend a minute explaining what I hope to accomplish during this campaign for an at-large seat on the Springfield City Council.
I have the great fortune to have lived in Springfield for nearly my entire life. I have benefited from a diverse upbringing, a safe neighborhood to grow up in, great teachers and schools, beautiful parks and recreation spaces, and boundless opportunities to grow, have fun, and give back. I understand that these opportunities were not and are still not available to every child in our city . This has always driven me to give back.
As my experience supporting Springfield has grown, so has the voice of friends and well wishers asking that I take this next step. Running for public office requires ambition, but serving the public demands that my ambition be for the advancement of my neighbors - not myself.
I will bring a new perspective to the City Council. I want to raise its’ reputation and expectations. I am an engineer by trade, which has prepared me to work on projects of all sizes. I have served numerous non-profits over nearly 20 years, always benefiting from what I have learned far more than I could ever give. My own personal struggles and triumphs have prepared me for what I know will be a strenuous campaign.
I am seeking a city-wide at-large seat because I have the vision, drive, and motivation to support every neighborhood in the city. I want to strive for every resident to be afforded the opportunities I’ve enjoyed. I want to give back to the city that has given so much to me.
In the coming days, I will be speaking with old friends and meeting new friends across the city to talk about my hope and vision for this campaign. I pick up nomination papers on Friday, February 26th, and will spend my first official weekend seeking signatures to be on the ballot this Fall.
In the weeks and months ahead, I ask for your support to help me enhance the voice of every resident, every business, and every member of the Springfield community.
Your Friend -
Juan (Jay) F. Latorre III
