Les Simpson announces re-election bid for Amarillo City Council Place 4

Les Simpson, Place 4 Amarillo City Council member, business owner, and former publisher of the Amarillo Globe-News, has formally announced his intention to seek re-election. His campaign highlights achievements in public safety, infrastructure, and community programs, with a focus on maintaining progress and ensuring efficient use of resources.

“Serving Amarillo has been an incredible honor. We’ve achieved many milestones the past two years, but there’s still work to do,” Simpson said. “I’m running to keep Amarillo on the path of progress while ensuring every tax dollar is used wisely.”

During his first term, Simpson said he worked on various initiatives aimed at addressing local needs and improving city services. Key areas of achievement highlighted by his campaign include:

Public Safety

Emphasized public safety as a priority. Crime rates in Amarillo were reduced by 12.9% in 2024, a result attributed to investments in technology such as a regional crime center and license plate readers. The city also provided salary increases for police and fire personnel, collaborated on a regional law enforcement initiative, and prepared for the construction of a 14th fire station.

Infrastructure Development

Significant infrastructure projects were initiated, including a $46 million flood mitigation effort and a $71.2 million sewer expansion for North Amarillo. Other projects involved street repairs, wastewater treatment upgrades, and equipment to streamline pothole repairs starting in 2025.

City Services

The city launched a dumpster replacement program, replacing 1,000 dumpsters annually to improve waste management. Additionally, alley trash removal funding was reinstated, with more than 40 miles of alleys cleaned as part of an annual program.

Economic Development

Simpson supported programs like the West Texas A&M University Enterprise Challenge to encourage business growth and job creation. He also backed initiatives by the Amarillo Economic Development Corporation to attract investments and employment opportunities to the city.

Community and City Operations

The council made adjustments to retirement benefits for city retirees, reinstating cost-of-living increases for the first time in over a decade. Simpson also supported efforts to enhance quality of life, such as reviving the city’s Independence Day celebration, allocating $1.4 million for a Women’s Health Clinic, and completing work on Transformation Park, a project aimed at addressing homelessness.

Taxpayer Considerations

While pursuing these initiatives, Simpson noted that the city reduced property tax rates for two consecutive years, highlighting efforts to balance investments with fiscal responsibility.

Looking ahead, Simpson’s campaign focuses on transparency and practical solutions to Amarillo’s challenges. He stated his commitment to continuing work on public safety, infrastructure, and community programs while managing resources effectively.

“My focus has always been on solving real problems for real people,” Simpson said. “I’m asking for your vote so we can continue working together to make Amarillo a great place to live, work, and raise a family.”

Simpson’s announcement sets the stage for what is likely to be a competitive election. Residents can expect more details about his campaign platform and goals in the coming months.