1. What is the most important issue in Council District 13 you would address if elected?

Jobs and Economic Development: We need to support our small businesses, non-profits, and community groups because they create jobs and stabilize communities. I will support Business Improvement Districts, economic revitalization projects, manufacturing retention, and other initiatives to improve our economy.

2. What other important issues would you address if elected?

Promote home ownership, maintain public housing in good repair, and keep our neighborhoods as "jewels of the Bronx."

Education: Build new schools and repair old ones; get teachers a fair contract; and make sure parents are kept informed.

Safety and Health: Fight to increase police and fire personnel, and to maintain high standards in district hospitals.

3. What makes you the best candidate for this office?

As a social and business entrepreneur, I have created jobs, programs, and partnerships in diverse communities. I have a successful track record of promoting better inter-group relations, and of helping to create opportunities for people of all religions, races, ethnicities, genders, age groups, and economic backgrounds.

As a long-time Bronx resident and activist, I have brought reform to the electoral process, and have helped open doors for minority leadership. As a Puerto Rican I am fully bilingual in Spanish and English and will be able to communicate easily with Latinos, who constitute one of the largest cultural communities in the district. However, I will create opportunities for everyone in the district.

You do not have to Latino to vote for Ismael!

(Reprinted as supplied by the candidate.)

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