Though his term as UF Student Senate president ended in October, Robert Agrusa is not done with politics.
Agrusa, 22, who graduated in December, is running for the Gainesville City Commission At-Large District 2 seat.
As a commissioner, Agrusa said he would tackle transportation, public safety and economic development.
UF research can be used to update Gainesville's traffic light system, which recently received a grade of "F" from the state, he said, adding that the efficiency of Regional Transit System buses could be improved.
Agrusa would also like to bring more living-wage jobs to the city by promoting biotechnology industries in East Gainesville and reducing regulations for businesses.
"We don't have a lot of jobs for people who finish at the university and want to stay here," he said.
The city also needs to become more environmentally sustainable, especially by looking into solar and biomass energy, which is energy converted from organic matter, he said.
With possible budget cuts looming, Agrusa said it could be a tough year for the city.
But, he said, "This is the year for change. This is the year we can make a huge difference."
In his four and a half years since coming to Gainesville, Agrusa has helped bring about Sunday bus service, campus recycling bins, sustainability programs and the UF Book Market, a Web site to sell and buy textbooks, he said.
"When I say I'm going to do something, I follow through on it," he said.
His work with the Student Senate has prepared him well, he said. His experiences from his Senate days could help rejuvenate a "stagnant" commission, he said.
"I think we need to continue with a lot of new innovation and new vision, not only for the university but for the community," he said.
Though his opponent, Thomas Hawkins Jr., is also a UF graduate, Agrusa said he feels more deeply connected with the university.
Agrusa said the ages of the current commissioners do not represent the median age of people in Gainesville, which is in the mid 20s. He asked that all students remember to vote in the elections Jan. 29.
"It is very important to your rights as a citizen and adult to make a difference in your community and nation," he said.
