For the record I’m not advocating a position, but stating an objection to what appears to be a lack of apathy for the consequences of an inadequate response to an ongoing deteriorating economic situation; by the city.

In fact, even after all has been said and done the city councils only response, is to give a raise to one of its own. It wasn’t like this was an over night development or there wasn’t anytime to take preemptive action.

Under your line of reason the mayor of New Orleans is competent to be President. Of course I’m focusing on the fact that he had no emergency vehicles in a position to evacuate citizens after the Hurricane hit.

Here is a tip, if you see the nations economy tumbling, why not contact local businesses and see if they are being affected and how, (not just a few). Then work out the number of people whose jobs may be affected, and begin generating potential “job haven project ideas”. Then work with local businesses, to stimulate where you can help through state and federal funding grants and loans; or to create new business partnerships. If worst comes to worst begin contacting and arranging for business to relocate to Victoria.

If companies are closing elsewhere because of their current situation, maybe Victoria could offer something that would enable them to stay open here.

If you don’t get this, It’s not your ears that were not working its your “mind”.

An intelligent man can sell you on nearly anything, but something to remember he is selling it for his benefit, not yours.

I actually have a great deal of respect for his intellect, just wanted to express my concern on something.

I’m sorry if that was wrong of me.

Wow, I guess I heard something completely opposite what John heard.

When Lyon said "it happens" I took it to mean that businesses sometimes have to layoff, do paycuts or even close. Some businesses in Victoria didn't have to do any of those at all. All of those things happen in the course of being in business. I would have to say that's why Lyon is pushing for more economic development. More jobs to replace those are lost. He had to correct Rangel who thinks VEDC needs to bring in more retail businesses. Lyon reminded her that VEDC recruits industry not chain food restaurants. And Rangel says that the city should help local businesses hire more people. How does this work? If your business is suffering already, why would you hire more people if your sales are down? Me thinks Rangel has no business sense.

Rangel is not in business. Never has been. She's never been in a supervisory position. She's never done a budget based on long term financial objectives a city might have to do.

She's says she is independent but why did current city councilman Phil Guittard sit in the debate in support of her the whole time? He doesn't work for the Advocate. Why was he there? How can you be independent when a current councilman is directing you?

I don't know, do you?

Federal funding is needed to attract new industry to the area, industries that have the greatest long-term potential. This is a time for “innovative thinkers” not “supporters of the status quo”.

When discussing jobs leaving Victoria one of the candidates said something to the effect “It happens”, nonchalantly. As if Victoria residents losing their jobs or being forced to settle for lower paying jobs is none of the City councils businesses. He may be very intelligent and present an overwhelming sense of confidence, but that is probably because he is not one of those Victoria citizens worrying about the financial security of their family. Companies closing mean jobs lost, Jobs lost mean residents without work; which mean families suffer. This man should not take families suffering so precariously, especially if he represents them.

You do not need to be an F.B.I. agent to read the most obvious expression, just have an unbiased position. Running a city government is not about being emotional connected to every issue, but know when to place a vested interest in one, or else you treat people like cattle. I think the people of Victoria, unemployed or are receiving a pay check less than they earned, are getting tired of “BullS”.

What next bring a business to Victoria that increases their water bills and contaminates their ground. Aren't they trying to bring a business named, Ex-something to the Victoria area?

It's good to see that two articulate and seemingly well-qualified candidates are running for city council. Thanks to both of them for agreeing to serve.

Rangel’s three planks of her platform require spending money. Lyon started out with how to generate revenue.

Biggest priority for Rangel—tough economic times, but no real suggestion as to what to do about it. Lyon—city is in good shape. Continue economic development.

Over all, it was clear to me that Lyon has put a great deal of thought into what he thinks would be positive for the City. Rangel’s ideas are not so bad, but it sure comes across as fluff and puff. Good, fast answers by Rangel, but Lyon had her on depth. It is clear he had done his homework. He seems more able than Rangel to look at and grasp the big picture.

I am still thinking Lyon is the best choice.

My thanks to all of you at VA who put this broadcast together. I think there should be more of these debates.