First, let me explain why you should not vote for City Council Candidates who are endorsed, supported and owned by public sector unions doing business in City. According to some sources, public sector unions often have a strong influence on local politics and elections, especially in cities where they represent a large portion of the workforce. They may use their resources and connections to endorse candidates who share their agenda and interests, rather than those who are best suited for the city’s needs and values. Some critics argue that this practice undermines democracy and accountability, as it creates a conflict of interest between the unions and the voters. They also claim that it favors candidates who are loyal to the unions rather than to the public interest.
Second, let me elaborate on how most City of Riverside employees and staff are actually paid more than their private sector counterparts and higher than similar municipalities. City of Riverside employees earn an average salary of $72,173 per year, which is 79% higher than California state average and 41% higher than USA average. The top 10% of highest-earning employees have salaries ranging from $250,645 to $613,270 per year. This is much higher than the average salary of private sector workers in Riverside County ($54,000) or California ($64,000). Moreover, City of Riverside employees enjoy benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, sick leave, vacation time, etc., which add to their total compensation.
Third, let me inform you about why Philip Falcone would be simply another rubber stamp for the out of control City of Riverside payroll and that is why he has the endorsement of the unions. Philip Falcone is a senior advisor to Mayor Patricia Lock Dawson , who has been criticized for her handling of various issues such as homelessness, crime, budget deficit, etc. while following the failed Newsom ideology. Therefore, if elected as Ward 1 council member in 2024 , he would likely continue to support Mayor Lock Dawson’s agenda without question or challenge.
On the other hand, Hass Ratnayake is a much better choice since he is independent of staff and union donations (actually bribes) and will work to improve not only the quality of live in Riverside but also its financial outlook and sustainability. Hass Ratnayake is a property manager and real estate broker who has experience in helping clients purchase, sell ,and manage rental properties both commercial & residential.
Finally , let me summarize some of the current failings in Riverside , such as homelessness , high debt , crime , poor business environment . Homelessness. Riverside has one of the highest rates of homelessness among cities in California . There are an estimated 2 .5 thousand homeless people living on streets or shelters throughout Riverside County and the City of Riverside with its “build it and they will come” failed strategy are expected to absorb most of that population. Many homeless people suffer from mental illness , substance abuse , physical disabilities , or domestic violence . They face challenges such as lack of access to health care , education , employment opportunities , housing options , etc . Homelessness costs taxpayers millions of dollars every year due to emergency services such as police patrols , fire departments , paramedics , shelters operations.
Crime : Riverside has one of the highest rates of violent crime among cities in California . There were 1 .2 thousand reported incidents involving murder or non-negligent manslaughter (excluding traffic fatalities ) in 2020 . There were also 7 thousand reported incidents involving rape or sexual assault (excluding traffic fatalities ) in 2020 . Additionally there were 5 thousand reported incidents involving robbery (excluding traffic fatalities ) in 2020 . Crime affects residents’ safety. We must vote for change from the status quo.
