On October 10, El Paso News asked all city council candidates running for city council in the November 8, 2022 ballot to answer our questionnaire for our Voters’ Guide 2022. Out of 17 candidates, two did not respond to our request. One candidate for District 1, Freddy Klayel Avalos announced on October 12 that he was suspending his campaign. Although Avalos is no longer running for office, his name remains on the ballot. As such, we have listed him on our Voters’ Guide as having withdrawn.

Four city council seats are open in this election cycle. They are Districts 1, 5, 6 and 8. Two incumbents, Isabel Salcido (5) and Claudia Lizzette Rodriguez (6) are facing challengers.

El Paso News is profiling each candidate by district. Their profiles are the answers they provided us. We are publishing their answers, in full, without any editing.

We are only publishing the profiles for the candidates that answered our questionnaire. Download our Voters’ Guide for a complete list of candidates running for office.

Our printable and downloadable one-page Voters’ Guide is available for download at the bottom of this article. We have also created one-page profiles for each of the candidates. They are available for download as well after each of the candidates’ profiles.

Today we are publishing the profiles for the District 1 candidates.

Analisa Cordova Silverstein

Education: Bachelors of Business Administration, Marketing, UTEP, 2008

Current Occupation: Tech Project Manager

Arrest Record: No

Previous Political Office: None

Current on city taxes: Yes

One sentence message to the voters:

I am the only candidate with a proven record of fighting corruption and improving the quality of life for El Pasoans.

Top Three Issues:

1. Taxes
2. Public Safety
3. Neighborhoods – Streets, Parks, and Community

What motivates you to run for office: I am a fourth generation El Pasoan that loves this city and I want to see us more economically competitive.

How will the candidate vote, as a trustee or as a delegate:

Delegate. We need to represent the views of the constituents of district 1.

The 2012 Sports Arena:

70%+ El Pasoans voted for the quality of life bond including me. We can restore historic buildings and build a multipurpose center in Downtown. I like the idea of it being and amphitheater with retails space for restaurants and gathering spaces.

How do you plan to stay in touch with your constituents: I want to keep the text messaging program, go to neighborhoods for meetings, have a newsletter, and when elected I am going to be a full time representative so I will be available when the constituents need me.

Open narrative to the voters:

My vision for El Paso and motivation to run for City Council is to encourage people to be more involved in their community and help them understand how to get involved in their neighborhood. In my nearly 20 years of government, non-profit, and business leadership, I’ve seen how El Paso has flourished when we invest in our natural resources, embrace collaboration, and foster public-private partnerships. I’ve also seen how missing out on these opportunities leads to delayed projects, revenue losses, and stalled progress. To me, progress is action. Let’s work together to be proactive with economic development opportunities and responsible with community investment.

Go to my website to submit a question or call me directly! I want to hear from you the voter.

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Erin Tague

Education: Project Management Professional (PMP) – Project Management Institute, MBA – UTEP, BA Spanish – Eastern Washington University, BA Interdisciplinary Studies – Eastern Washington University

Current Occupation: SaaS Implementation Project Manager

Arrest Record: I have never been arrested.

Previous Political Office: I have never previously held political office.

Current on city taxes: Yes I am current on my city taxes.

One sentence message to the voters:

I want to serve God and our community by employing the principles of Limited Government, Individual Liberty, Free Enterprise, and Timeless Truths and ensure our children have the opportunity to pursue prosperity and happiness.

Top Three Issues:

1. Economy – reduce taxes, cut spending, and increase opportunities for employment and economic growth.
2. Engagement & Safety – proactive community programs to engage our neighbors and our youth, reactive community programs such as Neighborhood Watch to support our law enforcement, and improvement of flood control measures and lighting on city streets,
3. Education – Parents have a right to know what is being taught in our public schools. While this topic does not directly fall under City Council jurisdiction, it is a top issue. I will work to educate parents on the rights we already have and just don’t know about, and I will work to empower parents to have more oversight of their children’s education.

What motivates you to run for office: “Freedom is only one generation away from extinction,” said Ronald Reagan. If not us, then who? I selected City Council because the greatest impact to community happens at the local level. Reverend Matthias Burnet said, “Let not your children have reason to curse you for giving up those rights and prostrating those institutions which your fathers delivered to you.” And finally, as John Quincy Adams said, “Duty is ours, results are God’s.”

How will the candidate vote, as a trustee or as a delegate:

If elected I will represent the people as a delegate acting within the parameters of fundamental principles and moral truths. As George Washington said in his farewell address, “Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports.” Majority rule ought not to infringe on minority rights, and law and morality ought not to contradict each other.

The 2012 Sports Arena:

I think the bond that was approved for the downtown arena needs to be revisited. We’ve already spent too much money on frivolous lawsuits and the proposal the voters approved doesn’t really exist anymore given the increased cost from inflation and 10 years of no progress. Should the project proceed, I do not believe it belongs in the Duranguito neighborhood, but rather on existing city property.

How do you plan to stay in touch with your constituents: Communication is key. I will take various approaches to connect with as many people as possible. From virtual and in person town halls, to engaging in community events, through social media and of course via phone and email.

Open narrative to the voters:

I am a Child of God, Daughter, Sister, Wife, Mother and Stepmother, Army Veteran, proud adopted Texan and El Pasoan, Patriot Academy Graduate and Lifetime Constitution Coach, and Project Manager by trade. I believe that God is the ultimate authority and thus I will not only be accountable to the citizens of District 1, but I will be accountable to God. I appreciate the opportunity to contribute to this voter guide and encourage you to exercise your right to vote.

As a Veteran, I understand service. According to a recent NBC poll, 58% of Americans believe our country’s days are behind us. Over half the country has lost hope in our future! This is not a career move for me. Benjamin Rush believed that children ought to be taught to have a love for God, a love for country, and a love for family. He placed country above family because he understood that if we lose the country, it would become the great enemy of the family. I took an oath nearly 17 years ago, and it still stands today. We need to unite under what we have in common and stop being divided over what we disagree on. It is my goal to defend truth, proclaim liberty, and restore hope for the next generation.

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Brian Kennedy

Education: I have a multi-disciplinary BA from UTEP in Accounting, Business and Border Studies. In 2018, I received my law degree with honors from Mitchell Hamline School of Law. I am licensed in Texas, New Mexico, and the federal court of the Western District of Texas. I am a CSEE (Certified Sports Executive) specializing in ingress/egress. I have a certificate in International Negotiation and Arbitration and I am certified by the Texas Association of Mediators.

Current Occupation: Attorney

Arrest Record: None

Previous Political Office: None

Current on city taxes: Yes

One sentence message to the voters:

I am the most qualified candidate with a long track record of proven experience, a willingness to tackle the hard issues, and a complete set of skills to address them, including: understanding of finance; experienced organization and communication skills; a belief in solutions; experience with diverse revenue streams of high potential like sports tourism; a long history of public service; a long-standing commitment to El Paso; respect for my constituents and a willingness to work with all parties.

Top Three Issues:

1. Taxes
2. Debt
3. City Manager

What motivates you to run for office:

I am running because I just can’t take it anymore. I am a voter too… and I’m tired of broken promises, lies and sellouts.

Property tax increases are driven by runaway spending. We have a bloated $1 billion budget (that gets a rubber stamp approval after 2 days review). We have a $1 billion dollars of debt (that doesn’t include interest with interest it’s more like $2.4 billion). El Paso has the second highest property taxes of the 50 largest cities. Our growth has slowed or stopped as people flee high property taxes. First time home owners are shut out. Just getting an apartment is looking dimmer and dimmer. And if you don’t think all this impacts economic development as we try to attract out of town companies bringing jobs…think again. On top of that there’s Certificates of Obligation that often commit taxpayer dollars without our approval; and a general willingness to commit our dollars for projects that may or may not pan out…and may or may not benefit the community as a whole. I don’t consider any of this “moving forward”.

Course correction requires open inquiry, honest actions, smarter spending, more conscientious management review, the vigilance to make dozens of small decisions dollars at a time that all add up, and finally, diligently seeking opportunities to diversify and expand revenue streams other than property taxes.

I know we can do better. I’m willing to ask the tough questions and I’m willing to give the tough answers. There are a lot of people that want the job. I can do the job and I feel I’m the best prepared candidate to address these tough times.

How will the candidate vote, as a trustee or as a delegate:

I think an effective policymaker must be both. and that’s an honest answer. For example, City Council is a non-partisan body. We are there to represent all constituents regardless of their party affiliation. There will always be some things we can’t all agree on. But there are some things we pretty much do all agree on…we all agree we want our streets and parks maintained. We all agree we want protection from police and fire. And we ALL agree that our property taxes are too high. The burden is on the City Representative to stay in close touch with their constituent’s views and needs. There are inevitably some issues that come up in the moment which may not have that clarity. That is exactly when it is crucial that you can depend on your Representative to exercise good judgement and represent the your interests.

The 2012 Sports Arena:

It’s been 10 years since the taxpayers voted for a Multipurpose Performing Arts and Entertainment Center at a set price. We have a responsibility to provide that. Of the $180 million approved (which was never enough) there’s about $150 million left. Both of those promises can be kept by moving the project to expand and improve the Abraham Chavez and Convention Center. That provides the facility promised at the price promised to the taxpayers. I would vote for that project. There are discussions beginning with variations involving public private partnerships. Whatever we do, if taxpayer’s money is used, a representative portion of those profits should go back to the City. We should make a better deal on behalf of the taxpayers than we made on the ball park.

How do you plan to stay in touch with your constituents: I think it is reasonable for the El Pasoans of District 1 to expect responsive, robust representation. That should include internal staff processes based on accessibility, respect and responsiveness. Besides the usual one on one get-out-in-the-District forums, town halls and other activities, there are many tools available now to facilitate effective inbound and outbound communications for questions, concerns or suggestions. The important thing is it shouldn’t be difficult to communicate with your representative, request information, or get an honest answer to a question. The more we keep the people of District 1 informed the more we can rally together to make the changes needed. I truly believe District 1 can lead the way as a powerful voice in the City.

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Deliris “DMB” Montanez Berrios

Education: Business Administration Bachelor Degree with Concentration in Accounting and Master of Arts with Concentration in Management.

Current Occupation: Minority Woman Service Connected Disabled Veteran Business Owner.

Arrest Record: None.

Previous Political Office: No. I was on the 2022 Primary Ballot for the TX-16 Congressional seat.

Current on city taxes: Yes

One sentence message to the voters:

By far, I am the only candidate without a personal political agenda with the education, and boots on the ground experience to hit the ground running on day 1. My soul is not for sale and I cannot be bribe by any political party. I work for our constituents, not the other way around.

Top Three Issues:

1. Improvement of roads and streets.
2. Reduction of property taxes.
3. Accountability, transparency, and justice within our city government.

What motivates you to run for office: The neglect and dereliction of duty within our Sun City by our elected officials to maintain the status quo.

How will the candidate vote, as a trustee or as a delegate:

As a delegate. The Sun City is not my city, it belongs to our people.

The 2012 Sports Arena:

The proposed sports arena funds were allocated by the federal government and the funds must be used only for that purpose if not those funds must be return to the federal government or get their written approval to use them for another purpose. The sports arena will bring binational economic growth but I oppose to have it constructed anywhere downtown due to traffic, parking, and emergency personnel response time.

How do you plan to stay in touch with your constituents: I will hold bi-weekly zoom and in person meetings with the recordings posted on social media and the district’s website as well as conducting semi-annual surveys on crucial matters that affect our constituents within the district and our Sun City.

Open narrative to the voters:

In my humble opinion, I am the best qualified candidate for our Sun City District 1 for all the reasons stated above in the Q & A. Local candidate races are non-partisans and political organizations should have no control no authority on decisions made.

I encourage EVERY eligible voter to educate themselves on the candidates not only by viewing their websites and political marketing campaign but by taking the time to contact them. If a candidate doesn’t have time to address your concerns as a constituent, they will not make the time when in elected office.

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Lauren Ferris (like Bueller or the wheel)

Education: Graduated Magna Cum Laude from UTEP with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and Minor in Criminal Justice in 3.5 years. I then obtained my Doctorate of Jurisprudence (Law Degree) from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Bowen School of Law in 2.5 years. I am also a trained mediator and volunteer with the El Paso County Dispute Resolution Center.

Current Occupation: Attorney

Arrest Record: None

Previous Political Office: Yes. Municipal Court Judge.

Current on city taxes: Yes

One sentence message to the voters:

I am the only candidate with relevant government experience working as an Assistant City Attorney for the City of El Paso.

Top Three Issues:

1. Fiscal Responsibility- not increasing taxes.
2. Street Repairs and Maintenance.
3. Communication with constituents.

What motivates you to run for office: There are many motivating reasons I want to run for office. I worked for the City for almost 7 years as an attorney. I have the experience and knowledge of the City operations. I am not happy with our City’s current state of affairs in addition to the lacking of a regular individual speaking out on behalf and truly representing of the majority of El Pasoans. I want to make change and I am not afraid to use my voice. I believe there has been a lack of accountability, respect, humility, and transparency which needs to change immediately. As an attorney, I question and analyze issues before me. We don’t need puppets in office or anyone that will cater to special interests or big money, we need a strong voice willing to advocate for the common citizen. I have been involved with public service most of my life. This is not something new for me. A quote I love to preach and put in to action is “Be the change you wish to see” and here I am trying to do just that.

How will the candidate vote, as a trustee or as a delegate:

I don’t believe this would be a one size fits all question. As a trained mediator, I have gained the knowledge and experience on conflict resolution. When making a policy decision, if there are different groups of constituents that have different opinions on a matter, I would bring all the stakeholders together to try and reach a compromise. If my belief in a decision is different, then I would be transparent and explain why, as I have previous experience that may offer a different perspective on an issue. It is extremely important for an elected official to listen to those that elected him or her. Not all constituents will agree on a matter, but I will not make a decision on my sole belief alone and will consult or listen to those that may offer additional insight or perspectives to consider.

The 2012 Sports Arena:

The arena is costing us more than I believe it will make and ultimately, tax payers will be burdened yet again. We currently have multiple, multipurpose venues that are hardly filled or sold out. The arena will not be any different. We need to maintain the integrity of our rich, El Paso history. If legally allowed, we should repurpose the bond funds in to revitalizing the Abraham Chavez Theatre or Convention Center, both of which are downtown. Additionally, we should look at revitalizing the proposed location of Durangito in to a vibrant tourist location while preserving the history. I have visited many areas similar to this such as, Old Town in Wichita, Kansas, Bricktown in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Old Mesilla in Las Cruces, New Mexico, etc. These were all once blighted areas, but full of history and transformed into unique areas that tourists love to visit in addition to boosting the local economy.

How do you plan to stay in touch with your constituents: My plan is to continue at least once a month meetings with constituents in a casual setting (like the existing Coffee with your City Rep.) to discuss concerns. As I do with my clients, I will leave multiple lines open for communication, such as email, text, and social media. I have experienced not getting responses from a representative and I do not want my constituents to get that same feeling. We are elected by and for the people, and need to respond as such with open ears.

Open narrative to the voters:

We are all tired of increased taxes and little to show for it. We are tired of going off roading on our streets. We are tired of bonds and funds being approved for projects us tax-payers had no say. We are tired of City officials making decisions as if they are immune and not understanding what most of El Pasoans face from such decisions. We need leaders that are not afraid to speak up, question decisions, and go against the grain. We need a leader that has worked with citizens and served the community prior to running for office, someone that can relate to the citizens. I am that person. With my experience as a former Assistant City Attorney, Judge, and long time public servant involved in multiple non-profit organizations, I know what it takes to lead this City and advocate for the best public interest. I am not bought by special interests or big money. As my record shows, I have always worked for the people. I will communicate with my constituents and treat everyone equally and fairly as should always be the case, not only seeking to help those who donated to a political campaign.

I have been hands-on in our community prior to running for office (more background information can be found on the website, or message me) as well as serving on a national board as Humanitarian Coordinator. I currently sit on the UTEP Board of Directors, am a member of the Texas Bar College (invitation for attorneys that go above and beyond their professional and ethical requirements), El Paso Young Lawyer’s Association Board, member of the El Paso Women’s Bar Association, Vice President of my local church ladies society, and more. My heart, passion, and motive is in the right place for this position. I care for my City and want to see it thrive. I am not involved only for a photo op, but to see that change is made, people’s voices are heard and their pockets become more full. I humbly ask for your vote and support for your next City Council Representative of District 1. Vote for the Ferris Wheel of Justice! Thank you.

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