Former AGN publisher Les Simpson seeking Place 4 on the Amarillo City Council

On Tuesday, former Amarillo Globe-News publisher Les Simpson announced his candidacy for the Amarillo City Council. Simpson said he will run for Place 4, which is being vacated by Howard Smith after serving three terms in the seat.

“I’m running because I love Amarillo and care about the people who live here," Les Simpson said. "It shouldn’t be hard to get the City’s attention. I want to listen and help change that. Every voice counts."

Retired Marine Hobert 'Gunny Brown' has also filed to run for Place 4.

According to a press release, Simpson's campaign will focus on the following areas:

1. Make it easier for business owners to thrive and grow

2. Improve customer service (trash pick up, roads and infrastructure)

3. Improve accountability, transparency and communication

4. Prioritize public safety and keeping neighborhoods safe

5. Keep taxes low and cut wasteful spending

6. Consider Amarillo citizens first

Simpson spent 15 years as publisher of the Amarillo Globe-News. He is an elder at First Presbyterian Church and has served in leadership roles at numerous nonprofit organizations, including the Amarillo Chamber of Commerce, Young Life, United Way of Amarillo, and the WTAMU Foundation.