GUTTER GAZZETTE

Gutter Trash Alley may be a city with cracks in its sidewalks, abandoned buildings, and tension simmering between community and law enforcement, but one candidate believes its best days are still ahead. That candidate is Jamie Valentino—the current Fire Chief of the GTAFD, a former police officer with the GTAPD, and co-manager of Valentino’s Lounge, one of the most popular establishments in town.

In a recent interview with the Gazette, Valentino laid out her vision for a safer, stronger, and more unified Gutter Trash Alley.

Public Safety at the Core

When asked about her top priorities, Valentino emphasized the importance of boosting the ranks of first responders.

“I plan to work with the police to bring in more recruits as well as the FD. We also need more medical personnel. I’d like to implement a better emergency system, but ultimately, more people in the field is needed,” she said.

Her dual experience in both police and fire service gives her a unique perspective on balancing resources and trust. She promised to increase department budgets where needed and sit down with leaders to ensure requirements are met.

“I want more community outreach programs so people can see that police are there to protect them,” Valentino added, noting ongoing conversations with local law enforcement leadership.

Business Roots and Community Spirit

Beyond her service in uniform, Valentino helps run Valentino’s Lounge, a local bar owned by her brother Von. The venue has become a hub for nightlife and a safe haven for residents to unwind.

Her time in business, she says, has deepened her understanding of the struggles small establishments face.

“Most of all, I see the hard work so many in this city go through and the dangers. The biggest thing for nightlife is that people just want a safe place to relax, enjoy, and blow off steam,” she explained.

It’s this sense of community that fuels her belief in GTA’s potential.

A City Worth Fighting For

While downtown wrestles with crime and decay and uptown continues to shine, Valentino insists that the gap can and must be closed.

“From the cracking streets to abandoned buildings, I want to replace or repair to make the city more clean and lively. We should shift some funds from uptown and bring them to help the rest of the city out,” she argued.

Her long-term vision is simple yet powerful:

“A city people are proud to live and work in.”

Valentino sees Gutter Trash Alley not as a lost cause, but as a place with untapped potential.

“I’ve met and made so many friends and wonderful people here. While the city may be run down a little, it is a beautiful place with a beautiful community—and that community deserves someone to fight for them.”

Building Trust and Transparency

With crime on the decline and fire incidents at a low, Valentino acknowledges progress—but she isn’t complacent. She advocates for harsher punishments for offenders while also demanding accountability from law enforcement.

“The only way for the citizens to trust the police is transparency and showing them the police aren’t above the law,” she stressed.

Her pledge is clear: hold officers accountable, expand community outreach, and strengthen trust between the public and those sworn to serve them.

A Candidate of Service

From her early days as a police officer, to her current role as Fire Chief, to her commitment as a small business leader, Jamie Valentino embodies service to Gutter Trash Alley. Her campaign is built on the belief that this city, often underestimated, can be transformed into a place of pride and opportunity.

“My greatest goal of this election is to strengthen our city and its community.”

With passion, experience, and a track record of service, Jamie Valentino isn’t just running for mayor—she’s fighting for the heart of Gutter Trash Alley.