At a time when violent crime is in the news and a sense of despair grips neighborhoods, New Haven needs strong leadership and clarity.

We face crushing budget problems, a shortage of police officers, and an apathetic voter base, fearful of the future and disillusioned with "politics as usual" in the Elm City.

Despite this, the Mayor denied that Chief Limon quit. At a time when we need a proactive and strong representative, our Mayor attempted to bury the truth, claiming the the Chief was on an "indefinite leave of absence".

Merely 2 days later, he recanted, admitting that the Chief had quit and he had a replacement already on tap.

Sadly, this is the type of behavior that keeps voters home and away from the polls. We have had a nightmare year of murders, thefts, muggings, and serious crimes. When citizens see their top official ducking hard questions and pretending that all is fine, it only convinces them to drop out of the process.

We need a Mayor who is held accountable and who deals openly and honestly with our citizens--not a man so afraid of losing the job that he lies and denies obvious truths.

I'm voting for Jeffery Kerekes on November 8th, because I believe we need an honest and transparent top official, who values the city over his own career ambitions. I hope that the voter apathy can transform to a sense of hope for the positive changes and reforms that a sincere Mayor can make.