Another potential candidate emerges for special election

There are now two potential candidates to succeed Neil Derry on the City Council.

Dena Peters, an administrative secretary at San Bernardino Valley College, is the second person to file paperwork for a possible run for Derry's soon to be vacant seat. Peters filed her candidate intention statement on Oct. 14.

Peters said over the telephone today that her main priorities are improving the city's appearance, controlling crime and attracting business.

"The first things are always beautification, revitalization. Not just Downtown but the whole city," she said.

Peters said she's registered as a Republican but wants to find common ground with both conservatives and liberals in city government.

The current council is scheduled to vote tonight to call a special election. If the council adopts the recommended plan, the 4th Ward voters will be able to vote by mail with an election date of March 17.

The first candidate to file papers was Fred Shorett, a self-employed salesman who has also outlined improving the city's aesthetics as a top priority. He struck me as a right-of-center, business minded candidate.

Whoever wins will serve the remainder of Derry's term, which expires in March 2010. Derry will leave the council in December to join the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors.

I plan on meeting with Peters Tuesday to learn more about her candidacy.