The Need to Rescue Riverside

Riverside, CA, a city known for its rich history and vibrant community, is currently facing a critical issue — the poor voting patterns in local elections, particularly for local offices such as City Council, Mayor, and School Board. The citizens of Riverside have, unfortunately, been voting against their best interests, influenced by a powerful “old boys network” and the self-serving liberal wealthy elite. These groups sway the electorate through highly funded campaigns, high-priced fundraising events, and substantial war chests, effectively “buying” votes.

The Consequences of Electing Elite-Backed Candidates

The results of electing these elite-backed candidates are evident in the declining quality of life in Riverside. The city is grappling with an explosion of homelessness, rising crime rates, and vagrant issues. Moreover, the citizens are overpaying for City Services, as their votes are sold to union-backed candidates focused on personal financial gains and future political ambitions rather than the welfare of the taxpayers and citizens.

Examples of Mismanagement

• Trash Services Debacle: Reduced service levels, inconsistent service, and increased fees, all to repay campaign debts.
• Utility Mismanagement: Wasteful spending by staff without oversight, leading to rising utility rates and lack of modern infrastructure.

Riverside Unified School District (RUSD) Issues

The current RUSD school board, influenced by their campaign financiers, has made questionable decisions. They approved Project Labor Agreements (PLAs), ignoring warnings from the Measure O Oversight Committee about the increased costs and community division. This decision has led to the neglect of necessary repairs in many schools. Additionally, RUSD has been criticized for misusing taxpayer money on extravagant “State of the District” events, despite the district’s declining test scores, divided and unsafe schools, and failure in adequately educating students.

The Path Forward

When choosing a candidate, it’s crucial to scrutinize their funding sources, endorsements, and social media presence. The current trend of electing candidates who align with Governor Newsom’s “housing first” ideology has only exacerbated issues like rising costs, crime, and homelessness. Ward 1’s candidate, backed by previous failed administrations and endorsed by groups with socialist leanings, is a prime example of this misguided direction.

A Call for Change

Riverside needs a shift in its voting behavior. Electing the same officials or those who have long been part of the system, relying on taxpayer funds and staff positions, is not the change Riverside needs. It’s time to break free from the influence of the “old boys network” and choose candidates who genuinely represent the interests of the citizens, not those of the wealthy elite or special interest groups.