LYNN — Local business owner Roger Garcia has announced that he is running for a city councilor-at-large seat in the Nov. 7 election.
Along with his brother, Julio Garcia, he owns April’s Restaurant in Lynn and April’s II Restaurant in Salem. According to a press release from Garcia’s campaign, the two have been operating restaurants since 2004.
Garcia has been living in the city since 1990, when he immigrated to the United States from the Dominican Republic. He has been a U.S. citizen since 1998.
“Lynn is a great community that has been very good to me and my family. It is time for me to give back to this city, this community, that has done so much for me,” Garcia said.
If elected, he plans to focus on quality-of-life issues for seniors, youths, homeowners, and businesses, the press release said. It added that Garcia will be an advocate for stable management of city finances, improved public safety, educational opportunities for every Lynner, and economic-development strategies that can bring in new jobs and tax revenue.
“I see my candidacy for councilor-at-large as an opportunity to share my positive outlook, business skills, and work ethic for the betterment of the community,” Garcia said.
Besides owning April’s, Garcia is also a member of the Lynn Area Chamber of Commerce and the North Shore Latino Business Association. According to the press release, he is an active member of the community.
“I will always be informed and prepared to discuss any issue that is brought before the council,” Garcia said.
Others running for City Council include Councilor-at-Large Nicole McClain, Ward 3 Councilor Coco Alinsug, and Ward 1 councilor candidates Peter Meaney, Todd Bacon, Paul Gouthro, Michael Satterwhite, and Jennifer Long.
Nomination papers can be pulled until July 14 at 5 p.m., and they can be filed until July 18 at 5 p.m.
Those looking to run for a councilor-at-large seat need to obtain 350 signatures. No more than 100 signatures can come from any one of the city’s seven wards.
Those looking to run for a ward-specific council seat are required to obtain 100 signatures from that ward.
