Local business owner and community leader Leif Kertis has officially announced his candidacy for Amarillo City Council, Place 4, bringing a wealth of experience in business, finance, and public service to the race.
Kertis, an entrepreneur with Floor Coverings International and two other local businesses, has built a career in business development and corporate finance, previously managing a $250 million budget for a $2.3 billion company. His background, he says, makes him uniquely qualified to tackle Amarillo’s economic and budgetary challenges.
"I bring experience in both building organizations from the ground up and redirecting them toward a better future," Kertis said. "Amarillo needs leaders who can deliver results, and I’m ready to step up."
A Track Record of Leadership and Service
A graduate of West Texas A&M University, Kertis holds degrees in Criminal Justice-Administration, Business, and Finance & Economics. He is also furthering his education with a Master of Arts in Christian Studies from Denver Seminary.
Beyond business, Kertis has been deeply involved in community service. Through First Baptist Church, he teaches financial responsibility and life skills to soon-to-be-released prisoners, helping them transition back into society. His work with multiple nonprofit organizations reflects his belief in giving back to the city he calls home.
"Amarillo has given me so much, and now it’s time to give back," Kertis said. "I fell in love with this city in 2008 and have built my life here. I’ve raised my daughter here, built lifelong friendships, and witnessed firsthand the strength of the Texas spirit."
His dedication to service has earned him local and national recognition. Kertis was named one of Amarillo Chamber of Commerce’s Top 20 Under 40 in 2022, a BizX Young Entrepreneur of the Year Finalist – North America in 2023, and was recently inducted into Marquis 'Who’s Who in America'. In 2024, Floor Coverings International honored him for his outstanding community engagement.
Key Priorities for Amarillo
Kertis is running on a common-sense platform focused on fiscal responsibility, economic growth, public safety, and infrastructure.
Fiscal Responsibility & Transparency – Ensuring tax dollars are spent wisely, eliminating waste, and increasing government transparency.
Sustainable Economic Growth – Strengthening partnerships with the Amarillo Economic Development Corporation to support local businesses, attract corporations, and create a thriving job market.
Public Safety – Fully supporting police and fire departments, ensuring they have the resources to protect the community.
Infrastructure – Addressing Amarillo’s growing infrastructure challenges with proactive solutions instead of postponing critical improvements.
"Amarillo still faces serious challenges," Kertis said. "Our police and fire departments are understaffed, and infrastructure issues continue to pile up. Fiscal responsibility and transparency must be a priority. Our city’s economic future depends on strategic, sustainable growth. Amarillo needs leaders who will take action, not just talk about it."
