Running for Office: Gonzales City Council

Kenny Matassa

GONZALES — Kenny Matassa is seeking a fifth term on the Gonzales City Council.

Matassa, a 62-year-old Democrat, pointed to the success the council has had over the past four years — investing nearly $35 million in transportation, recreation and public safety improvements while keeping a budget surplus and not raising taxes — as why he should be re-elected.

“I have done my best to represent the interests and priorities of the people of Gonzales,” Matassa said. “Although we continue to attract new families and businesses, I believe it is critical that we preserve our small town values and sense of community. I believe that we can attract good paying jobs and better opportunities for all our citizens without sacrificing our unique character and quality of life.”

Matassa said the council spent more than $10 million over the past four years on road projects and plans to spend $1.5 million more in 2012-13 for road overlay projects.

“I will have three priorities in my next term: roads, roads and roads,” Matassa said. “Our great blend of location and friendly, hardworking people is no longer secret to businesses and families looking for a place to relocate. As your councilman, I will continue to reinvest the revenue raised from increased business investment into safer streets, improved intersections and other transportation improvements for our community.”

Matassa moved to Gonzales in 1976 and opened Guiseppe’s Restaurant, and he currently is employed as the director of the Health and Utilities Department for Ascension Parish government.

He cited the new police headquarters and upcoming Kidz Kove Discovery Park as key investments the city’s government has made in the community.

“The new police department was necessary to keep up with technological requirements and innovations in public safety,” Matassa said. “It will help to keep our city safe and guarantee that those that commit crimes in our city are brought to justice. The Kidz Kove is just another great example of the small town values of our great city. Whether recreational, economic or educational, our community shares a commitment to providing opportunities everyone.”