Letter To The Editor: Mayoral Candidate David Goins’ Response to False Claims 

As candidate for Alton Mayor, I want the residents of Alton to know the truth. Unfortunately, politics can get ugly and there have been many false claims made against me by my opponent and his supporters. The decision to run for Alton Mayor was made by me in consultation with my family, and without any outside influences. To suggest otherwise is an insult to me and my family.

I have been a servant of this community my entire career, including a police officer, pastor, and school board member, each of which requires making difficult decisions. I have no conflict of interest, nor have I made any future business promises to any person or organization. My campaign team consists of bipartisanship, along with numerous volunteers, donors and supporters.

I am running to unseat Brant Walker because he has failed to keep the promises he has made to the residents of Alton and to address the critical issues facing our stakeholders, including: promises to the Building Trades and other labor unions, solutions to our declining population, the unsafe perception of our community, the terrible condition of our streets and sidewalks, and city beautification and cleanup initiatives. We are losing too many Alton families to other communities. Our population has continued to decline over the past eight years, which is a serious problem and depending on the 2020 census results, Alton could possibly lose its home rule status.

As a retired Alton Police Officer of 25 years, father, grandfather, pastor, and school board member, I understand the importance of public safety, crime prevention, and a quality education system. Unfortunately, another false claim is that if I am elected Mayor, I will dismiss the current Police Chief, Fire Chief and the Director of Community Programs. This is 100% untrue. All three of these city employees grew up in Alton and care about our city. They will be on my team.

Another false claim is that if elected Mayor, the Alton Housing Authority will be merged into the Madison County Housing Authority. This again is untrue and only aimed at sowing fear and doubt. If elected Mayor of Alton, I can assure our citizens that the Alton Housing Authority will remain independent from Madison County.

Finally, the allegations that if I am elected, Dr Hightower will be running the city of Alton is again false and yet another ridiculous rumor put out by my opponent and his supporters. Dr. Hightower has been a mentor and father figure to me since my father died when I was 11 years old and he coached me when I was in junior high school. Dr. Hightower has encouraged thousands of young people across this country, specifically people of color to strive to be better and I am no exception.

In conclusion, I do not pretend to have all the answers, but I promise to represent you with integrity, truth and trust.

Respectfully,

David Goins for Mayor

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