PRESS RELEASE TED MERTENS 9 - 11 - 2008

By Ted Mertens

DESERT SUN PRESS RELEASE FOR TED MERTENS 9 - 11 - 2008

Ted Mertens declared his candidacy for Indian Wells City Council. With his passion for City Government since 1965, Mertens, 63, said, "Even though Indian Wells is one of the finest cities in the world, there is room for improvement and I want to continue to contribute my expertise and be part of the City leadership. I can make this City stronger and better for us + the residents. I have the time and the energy. IT'S IN MY BLOOD."

Since 2001, Mertens has regularly attended IW City Council meetings and behind the scenes, Mertens focused on volunteering his expertise to improve the Indian Wells Public Safety Services. He currently serves as Vice Chairman on the City's Architecture and Landscape Committee and he is President of the Colony Cove Homeowners' Association.

As a retired Police Chief from Manhattan Beach, he is not only TOUGH ON CRIME but TOUGH ON BUDGET and wants the RESIDENTS HEARD. Mertens said, "While my public comfort level is extremely high, my old mantra `to protect and to serve' has taken a new meaning. Now it means to make sure the City does the job of protecting and serving our Community."

With over three decades of public service, Mertens brings to the City a wealth of experience and knowledge about city government within California - a priceless background. He claims he has a "no nonsense" approach and, throughout the years by attending over 450 city council meetings, he has learned first-hand what works and what doesn't. Mertens claims he is a team leader and a team player who is not afraid to say "yes" or, more importantly, say "no." He says he has "experience you can count on."

Mertens focuses are on Public Safety, Fiscal Oversight, and Resident Satisfaction. Since he has experienced the effects of the Northridge earthquake in Manhattan Beach and flooding in Placerville, he understands the needs for a solid citywide disaster plan. He wants the next council to be more proactive to enhance the City's response for community safety and survival in the event of any disaster or potential increase in criminal activity.

On Fiscal Oversight, Mertens recognizes that accountability is imperative for any city government. Oversight of spending will be a priority to assure that approved projects are completed within budget and that the City's financial strength remains intact. "All City projects should have a defined budget and plan," recommends Mertens. The City has over $30 million in reserves but money still matters.

"Residents must be heard and have input into City Council decisions or none of this works," said Mertens.

With impressive credentials including holding a Master of Public Administration Degree from the University of Southern California, he is ready to serve the public as a Council Person for the City of Indian Wells. Ted Mertens and his wife of 32 years, JL, have owned a home in Colony Cove since February 2001.