POST FALLS - Barry Rubin wants to bring his leadership, managerial and analytical skills to the Post Falls City Council.

Rubin, who has often spoken at council meetings during the past five years, will seek Seat No. 2, currently held by Ron Jacobson.

Rubin, a retired 62-year-old who has a bachelor's degree in political science, challenged Skip Hissong for the council two years ago and lost. It was the first time Rubin ran for office.

"I can make a meaningful contribution to the future of Post Falls and its people," said Rubin, who has lived in Post Falls for seven years. "I think that I am the best candidate because I have a proven track record of leadership and managerial experience."

Rubin has been in leadership positions since being commissioned as an officer in the Navy in 1973. The positions include credit manager, auditor, accounts receivable manager and working for the Federal Aviation Administration.

"I have held positions which required being able to motivate people and get the best out of them, as well as making sure that projects and tasks were kept on track and completed in a timely manner," he said. "I have held positions in which I have been responsible for millions of dollars and people's safety. I ask the questions which need to be asked and am not satisfied with superficial explanations."

Rubin said he would like to see a citizens tax advisory board formed to assist with the budget decision process. He also wants public comments to be allowed at city workshops and the police department to hold regular meetings which the public can attend and offer comments.

Rubin believes the city should focus more on attracting manufacturing businesses to widen the tax base. An ad hoc committee formed by the city for such a purpose would help, he said.

Rubin said he doesn't believe that a sufficient in-depth analysis on the Greensferry overpass was done. Construction on the project is expected to begin next year. Rubin said he would like to take part in decisions about the project.

"My analytical capabilities and problem-solving abilities would be an asset, along with my leadership experience," he said.

Rubin said he has a strong understanding of the city government and has offered ways to improve it while attending council meetings in recent years, ranging from ways to graphically present information to citizens to suggestions on public comment times at meetings.

"One of the proudest decisions I have made since living here was to initiate the public discussion on essential city services and spending based on setting priorities," he said. "The city has now instituted priority-based budgeting."

He said the city is well-run, but elected officials should be more engaged with the public, especially when they come forward with ideas, praise or complaints.

Rubin has served as a volunteer with Kootenai County Fire and Rescue for nearly four years and completed the multi-agency Citizens Police Academy. He served on the Post Falls Historical Preservation Commission from 2009 to 2010.