Reelect Jon Mallo

There are times when reelecting someone is the right choice. This is one of those times. Council Member Jon Mallo is running for reelection in Ward 4, and he has earned our support — especially because of his stance during the Centerra South Urban Renewal (URA) discussions.

When the developer claimed that the farmland south of Target on U.S. 34 qualified as “blighted” to justify URA status and millions in taxpayer subsidies, Jon’s response was clear and honest: “It’s a farm.” That simple statement cut through the spin. Jon stood firm and voted No on a proposal that would have funneled public money to a private developer based on a questionable claim. Other council members voted Yes, siding with the developer instead of the public.

Jon Mallo showed integrity, independence and common sense. He voted for what he believed was right, not what was politically easy. We need more leadership like that on the City Council.

I hope voters in Ward 4 his commitment and reelect Jon Mallo this November.

Joseph Mondello, Loveland

Zeke Cortez for Ward 4

I was thrilled when I learned Zeke Cortez is running for Loveland City Council, Ward 4. Zeke offers a refreshing combination of youth, more than 30 years of Loveland residency, 10 years running a small business including through the COVID pandemic challenges, being father of a young family he plans to raise in Loveland, compassion for our residents, and demonstrated pragmatism through our Affordable Housing Commission board participation and routine insightful public comments in City Council meetings.

Having observed and interacted with Zeke many times in public and private settings including at city and commission meetings, through his management of an online social platform and in-person social events, and even at the local gym, I am impressed with his energy, good humor, open-mindedness,and wisdom beyond his years. He is inclusive and genuinely concerned about others’ input and points of view. Zeke will be the fresh perspective and sounding board Loveland residents seek who will welcome and listen to our input and improve transparency of our city government and council.

I encourage Ward 4 to embrace Zeke over the incumbent for the refreshing energy, balance and compassion he is sure to bring to Loveland City Council. Vote for Zeke Cortez!

Greg Petruska, Loveland

Firearms, or instability of shooters?

I have something for the high school students who left class to protest the recent criminal activities utilizing firearms on Wednesday.

I have owned a variety of firearms for over 53 years including both semi-automatic and bolt action rifles as well as both flavors of handguns, yet none of the weapons I own have ever shot a fellow human being, including students, law enforcement officers, or political figures. How can it be then that these weapons seem to be responsible for the recent murders of innocent people? Do you think it could possibly be related to the emotional or mental instability of the actual shooters? Just wondering.

Greg R. Snyder, Loveland

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