Candidate survey responses
Why are you running? Why are you running as a Democrat?
It’s extremely important that we engage the citizens who we represent as early in the process as possible on city matters and then communicate with and update them throughout the process or project. I believe I’ve done those two things on a consistent basis during my three years on Council and would like to continue to provide that level of service for another term. Also, with the possibility of three or four new Council members next year, it’s important to have experience and continuity so that Council can continue the progress that it has made to date.
What is your previous political or public office experience?
I’ve served two terms on Council and before that was chair of the Arts, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.
What do you see as Athens’ biggest issues?
Housing, housing, housing – for seniors, for first time home buyers, for renters, for everyone.
What experiences, knowledge, expertise do you think you can bring to council? Relevant major accomplishments?
As a former public school teacher and coach, independent yearbook sales representative, sales executive, and university development officer, I’ve had the opportunity to work with many diverse groups with unique needs. Additionally, I’ve developed managerial skills with an emphasis on education and training as well as fiscal accountability.
In terms of city related accomplishments, I introduced and helped pass legislation so that every resident pays the same fee for garbage pickup whether they rent or own a home. This has saved renters over $100 per year. I’ve visited every property where the owner has asked for the use of the city right away so that Council is fully informed of the appropriateness of granting those requests.
Where and how do you think the city could improve life for its residents?
I’d love to see an outdoor “bandstand” built like I’ve seen in Boulder, CO, Asheville, NC, and Charlottesville, VA, which could be used for a variety of community events throughout the year. A permanent home for the Farmers Market that could also double as a community event space and indoor recreational facility would be a real plus. And finally, I’d like to see increased enforcement of traffic laws. If we want to encourage people to walk and bike, we need to make sure those in cars are following the law.
What committees would you like to serve on?
I’ve served on the planning and development committee this year and would like to continue on that committee.
Some hot-button items over the past year have been the Athens-Hocking Solid Waste District plan (and Athens-Hocking Recycling Centers becoming Southeast Ohio Recycling Terminal council of governments), construction on West Union and the Lostro Project, a recent cyber theft and an income tax increase. Any thoughts on how the city/council handled problems that arose during these circumstances?
I hope that as a city government, both the administrative and legislative branches, we have learned that we need to thoroughly analyze the impact that construction projects might have on affected businesses and develop a plan in conjunction with those businesses to minimize any necessary disruptions.
