Romero Lone Vote for Predators

Although usually quiet at Council proceedings, Rep. Larry Romero today, in effect, supported payday predatory lenders.

Although usually silent at City Council meetings (probably having gotten his voting instructions ahead of time), District 2 Rep. Larry Romero* was the lone vote on City Council this morning against the ordinance to regulate predatory payday lenders. El Diario reporter, Karla Guevara Walton**, tweeted: "City Rep Larry Romero concern with the City invading personal lives . . ." Romero also used an analogy that the City should control alcoholism by limiting drinks at bars. (Sounds like someone may be concerned about his tab at the Pershing Inn.)

By a vote of 6-1 Council voted to support the ordinance passed last year and let it go into effect on January 16th. 

The payday lending scheme that victimizes so many families in financial crisis has been in the news recently also because of the CRRMA's contracting with the North Texas Tollway Authority which uses ACE, a payday lender. (elpasonaturally blog post HERE.) Disgust has been voiced with our regional mobility authority for a plan that will introduce some of El Paso's most vulnerable citizens to loans of up to 533% per annum. At today's Council meeting Lisa Turner, the Conscience of El Paso, criticized CRRMA's contract that allows a payday lender to collect tolls for the newly completed Border Highway.

The issue has even spilled over into the Texas gubernatorial race. Senator Wendy Davis, the likely Democratic candidate, laid blame on Greg Abbott, the likely Republican candidate.

*BTW, does Rep. Romero still live in District 2 as he has not resided with his wife at 2630 Savannah Avenue for most of his term now. Can the Municipal Clerk certify that he is a resident of District 2?

**Also BTW, if you can't attend City Council or watch it on digital television (there is no other way to watch it), then I highly recommend that you follow Karla's tweets HERE.