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residents that their voices matter, is simple yet powerful. "Creating a business-friendly environ- ment will strengthen the local economy, meaning more jobs, opportunities, and prosperity for our community,” Johnson emphasizes. His goal is to retain local talent by keeping college graduates in the city. “Steps to making that happen include enhancing infrastructure and transportation to support business growth, expanding small business sup- port programs, and promoting El Paso as a hub for emerging industries.” As the founder of METI Inc., John- son’s entrepreneurial spirit is woven into his governance. “As a business owner, I understand the challenges local entrepreneurs face—whether it’s securing funding, navigating regulations, or expanding operations” he shares. “This experience has shaped my policies to create a more business-friendly environment.” His policies aim to streamline permitting processes, enhance infrastructure, and offer targeted incentives. The goal is to transform the city into a launchpad for emerging industries like aerospace and advanced manufacturing. “We will actively market El Paso to aerospace and advanced manufacturing firms, showcasing our strategic advantages and pro-business policies,” he adds. Johnson’s venture into the spirits industry with El Perro Grande Tequila is a testament to his belief in the power of local investment. “El Perro Grande is more than just tequila—it represents the spirit of hard work and innovation,” he says, highlighting the role of local businesses in driving eco- nomic growth. This entrepreneurial
El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson is sworn in by El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego at the Plaza Theater on Jan. 6, 2025. Mayor Johnson was accompanied by his daughters, Nevaeh, 15, (right) and Aviva, 11. “CREATING A BUSINESS-FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT WILL STRENGTHEN THE LOCAL ECONOMY, MEANING MORE JOBS, OPPORTUNITIES, AND PROSPERITY FOR OUR COMMUNITY.”
ACHIEVEMENT AND INCLUSIVITY
approach extends to his vision for the city’s future: a thriving commu- nity where small businesses are the backbone of economic resilience. “My venture with El Perro Grande Tequila aligns with my vision for economic growth by demonstrating the power of local investment and brand-build- ing,” Johnson explains.
Achievement in Every Field of Human Endeavor—the motto of Kappa Alpha Psi®, has been a guiding principle in his leadership. “Our motto has shaped my approach to leadership, pushing me to set high standards for the city of El Paso and work tirelessly to improve the
30 THE JOURNAL ♦ WINTER 2024-2025
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