A former Camp Pendleton Marine who was based on remarks he made on the Facebook page, "Armed Forces Tea Party," has announced he wants to put his energy toward his city of residence—Murrieta.
The former Marine Sgt. Gary Stein, , told Patch he intends to run for Murrieta City Council during the upcoming Nov. 6 election. He plans to pick up an election packet Monday from City Hall, he said.
"...I firmly believe that real 'Change' comes from from real leadership within the cities and towns around the nation," Stein said, about his decision to run for office. "I believe the city of Murrieta needs to be ran on common sense principles of Fiscal Responsibility and Limited Government. I believe that the city owes it to the citizens to be as transparent as possible since the city belongs to the people."
"It also seems that the current city council is more concerned about bringing new business into the city instead of helping the small businesses we currently have.
"Also I have noticed some council members are too concerned about what they have done for the city and nothing else. City Council members need to remember that they work for the people of Murrieta."
Stein would not be the only former Marine throwing his hat into the council race.
Harry Ramos, 36, who said he retired from the Marines because of injuries, has already picked up an election packet.
"Since 9/11 I have felt really compelled to serve," said Ramos, who is originally from the Bronx. "Since I can no longer serve in the Marines, let me serve in this capacity."
Ramos described himself as a Republican "who leans conservative."
Others who intend to run for the two open city council seats are David Meuting and current City Councilman Randon Lane. As of Thursday, Lane was the only candidate to have turned in a completed packet,
