Why are you seeking public office and what are your qualifications?

I am seeking reelection so that I can continue my interest in making Bloomington a better place for all citizens to live, work, retire and enjoy their lives. My emphasis on council has been on improving neighborhood infrastructure such as sidewalks and storm water improvements, city parks and recreation programs, support for social service activities that help those in need and enhancing our water and wastewater infrastructure.

Thank you for taking the time to fill out this form. While these next questions do not represent all of our members. concerns, they do address selected key business issues. At least two of your responses will be featured in the Business Network, our monthly paper publication produced in cooperation with The Herald-Times. In addition, responses to all questions will be published on the Chamber website. All statements and responses provided will be relayed to the public in an impartial manner without endorsing any particular candidate or party. Please take note of allotted word count, in order to ensure your entire message will be properly communicated to the public. Answers will be printed exactly as submitted with no editing and if need be, we may contact you to clarify information in your response.

It is a privilege to serve and be a voice for our entire community. Bloomington is a broad-minded, compassionate, active community where citizens strive together every day to advance social justice and equity, and to create economic opportunities and improve the quality of life for everyone. But there is always more progress to be made, and I have a tremendous amount to contribute to moving our City further towards our shared community goals in economic development, neighborhood improvement, social justice, and environmental stewardship and sustainability.

I was elected to an at-large seat on the Bloomington City Council in November of 1999. I served a four-year term and was reelected in November of 2003. I served as Council vice-president in 2004 and as president in 2005. I have also worked in our community and in the 9th congressional district as the special assistant for outreach for Congressman Baron P. Hill.

In my capacity as member of the City Council I have served on the Metropolitan Planning Organization Policy Committee, the Solid Waste Management District Board, the Bloomington Economic Development Corporation Executive Board, the Jack Hopkins Social Services Funding Committee, and several other boards and commissions. I am also a member of the University Elementary School Public Law 221 Committee.

I have a master's degree in public affairs, which included graduate classes in public finance, public administration, public law, and other relevant subjects. I worked for over 12 years in local government in the County Planning Department, and I am a lifetime resident of Bloomington.

It is a privilege to represent Bloomington, a diverse and vibrant city that I love. As an incumbent I bring experience and a proven commitment to public service. I have a background in social services and the arts along with an avid interest in public policy and urban planning. My interests in city issues are broad, and I base decisions on the long-term best interest of Bloomington. I have the ability to make tough decisions with respect to the rights and responsibilities of all citizens. I'm eager to do my share in maintaining a prosperous and inclusive Bloomington.

I am seeking public office because I have been member of this community for a long time. I believe it is time the working class had a voice on the city council. I have worked with every sector of population in this town for 30 years in my current job and I believe I have a grasp of the needs and wants of our community.

How would you support a vibrant downtown (transportation initiatives, parking, etc.)?

I have supported downtown development since my first term on council (1983-87 and from 1997-present) through things such as right-of-way dedication, streetscape projects, the Downtown Plan, Community Accessibility issues, the first Growth Policies Plan, the B-Line Trail system and the current GPP/Unified Development Ordinance. I will continue my support by addressing parking needs for merchants, residents and patrons. Supporting infrastructure improvements to meet the needs of future development and by taking a hard look at the feasibility of a downtown shuttle system.

Our outstanding downtown not only significantly enhances the day-to-day quality of life for existing residents, it is also an economic engine that brings people and investment to our community. It brings visitors and tourism dollars, and it also is a major factor in investment and location decisions of creative people and entrepreneurs that we want to come to Bloomington. Our downtown has a vitality and character unrivalled in Indiana. The public, private, and non-profit sectors must work together in every way possible to protect and enhance our downtown.

I have supported and would continue to support aggressively addressing parking issues (for example the recently approved garage management contract), improving transit service (for example the recently proposed downtown trolley) and walking and bicycling. I support increased amenities (for example the BEAD initiative and B-Line Trail), employment opportunities (for example the certified technology park), and housing options (including affordable housing).

I support a thriving, interactive downtown and look forward to an ongoing discussion in choosing the best direction for improvements. The discussion involves members of the public, the business sector, churches, the arts and social service communities and city planners making recommendations to city government. I welcome input from the garage management firm, REI, in crafting efficient parking solutions and fair pricing. I support the public investment of a downtown trolley to transport visitors, shoppers and employees who make downtown an energetic hub of commerce and social activity. I encourage the development of the Bloomington Entertainment and Arts District and the B-Line Trail in support of public attractions to keep Bloomington on the cutting edge of smart urban planning. All modes of energy efficient transportation and parking options should be considered to meet the needs of pedestrians, individuals with physical challenges, cyclists, and drivers with respect to the environment.

We need an integrated transportation system to include commercial carriers (e.g. Greyhound, Trailways) and commercial air. Also, we need a parking plan that recognizes the current mode of travel to downtown area by most people. This plan would allow wages earners working in downtown area to park reasonably close to their place of work for a rate that is in line with prevailing wages.

Are you in favor of committing city resources in the downtown? If so, specifically what would you support?

Yes. I have supported investing taxpayer and utility ratepayer dollars in the downtown in the past and will continue to do so in the future to make our downtown vibrant and livable. Sewer, water, sidewalks, digital underground, the downtown specialists position, streetscape enhancements, and the B Line Trail are all city/utility enhancements that have met the needs of downtown businesses and residents.

I support whatever amount can be reasonably afforded to protect and enhance downtown vitality. I believe Mayor Kruzan has presented that amount in past budgets and in the proposed 2008 budget.

Part of the current budget is committed to downtown, and the same goes for the proposed $60 million 2008 budget. Much of that includes basic services and infrastructure downtown (streets, public safety, stormwater, etc.) like everywhere, but it also includes special downtown projects and initiatives (funding and/or staff resources).

The City subsidy for downtown parking, resources for historic preservation to protect downtown character, planning efforts to implement the Downtown Plan (part of the UDO), Parks and Recreation Department activities (like the Farmer.s Market) are just a few examples of City resources committed to downtown. I supported the downtown specialist position, help for the Buskirk-Chumley, BEAD initiative, B-Line trail development, the Certified Technology Park, and the list goes on.

Yes. Public investment in a people-moving trolley is sound, and I approve of selective subsidies for parking solutions and amenities that promote an economically thriving downtown. However, I will be judicious about approving incentives and tax abatements. I will not always support public subsidy for a specific business or private interest, but will favor investment in projects that benefit all citizens who live, work, and shop in our downtown and surrounding neighborhoods. President Lincoln said, "Government should do for the people what they cannot do so well for themselves". I carefully consider where assistance is required for the public benefit. Maintaining a dynamic, mixed-use downtown begins with a comprehensive community plan to guide public investments that are mindful of that collective vision. Providing incentives for infrastructure projects our community needs and values are solid investments in Bloomington's future, and I will approve those investments wisely.

I would like to look at infrastructure improvements to reduce the amount of high water that accumulates during moderate to heavy rain showers (e.g. East Kirkwood).

Would you support a CBU proposal for a second water line (36'') from the Monroe Plant along with associated pumping and storage facilities?

I do support the addition of increased fresh water processing capacity and distribution. Currently, our treatment and distribution facilities reach capacity during peak times of the year. The expansion will require ratepayer increases, which I will encourage the Utilities Service Board to support and from the City Council when the appropriate times come. CBU must also look to ways to encourage water conservation - small steps by consumers will help conserve electric energy and processing costs.

Yes. Redundancy of our water source line would be prudent in my opinion. Cost will be significant, but not as high as the cost of being cut off from our water supply, which could happen to a line in several ways.

Yes. As a former member of the Utilities Service Board, I am aware of the need to plan ahead to ensure water quality and availability for our community. It is simply the most essential service we provide for our citizens, and one we must never take for granted. I support this redundant water line as a prudent back up to our existing infrastructure. Failure to address this issue will place increasing burdens on future decision-makers. It is incumbent upon us now to move forward with this second line needed to protect our water supply.

The current line is adequate but this is something that should be considered if main line where to be severely damaged or growth of community exceeded the output of current line.

Would you support funding to increase the capacity of our water treatment facility?

The City of Bloomington's Water/Sewer Utility is ratepayer-based system. All improvements to the processing and distribution system are paid for through customer payments for services. As the council's representative to the USB, I will encourage the board of directors to use responsible fiscal policy to pay for the needed improvements.

I agree with Mayor Kruzan's assessment that we should invest in increased capacity of our facility, and as an expansion would allow, we should then petition the State government to increase our allotment of water from Lake Monroe. Water supplies will likely become even more critical to sustaining community economies in the future as energy costs increase and more production of goods and services becomes localized. We know from experience that other user groups beyond Bloomington are interested in Lake Monroe water. Effects of human induced climate changes could also increase local needs.

Yes, with evidence of need. One of our highest priorities is to provide an adequate supply of clean water. There are high costs involved in running water utilities, and Bloomington is fortunate to have a well-managed operation. The cost of the City of Bloomington Utilities is incurred by rate-payers, and with new developments come new costs for providing services. Service expansions must be approved cautiously with respect to current rate-payers. As need for increased capacity is proven, resources should be provided for the CBU to meet that need. Good stewardship includes plans for conservation and secondary water sources.

Again, the current facility meets our demand and this demands on how our community expands.

Would you support allocating city resources for infrastructure improvements on east-west thoroughfares, namely the Second and Third street corridors?

I do support infrastructure improvements to both of these city streets. However, I think that we must take a long-term view regarding the projected need and impacts to the intended capacity, neighborhoods and the environment in making those decisions. While it is important to move traffic it is also important to maintain neighborhoods and to protect property values. We should look to the South Walnut expansion as a bad example of street widening and one that we should not replicate. We will have to work together as a community to meet the interest of all . especially those most directly impacted.

Broad, informed community discussion should precede and determine plans for road projects. West 3rd is 4-lane to Landmark, and plans are to extend 4-lanes to Franklin Rd. That leg is largely commercial rather than residential. I support the project, with sensitivity to needs of existing businesses.

Reducing transportation costs (making it easier/cheaper to drive) causes substitution of more transportation relative to other inputs, creating more trips. This goes for businesses and individuals (an easier trip will cause some to drive to a movie across town when they otherwise would walk to a nearby park concert). That.s why we cannot build our way out of congestion. We need balance that provides adequate roadways necessary for commerce, real needs of citizens, and public safety, yet provides the incentive for us to develop a more community, country, and planet-sustaining transportation system. Widening both 2nd and 3rd will likely do more harm than good.

I look forward to working with professionals in the Planning Department, Public Works, neighborhood associations, business entities, and all interested parties in making sound decisions about Bloomington streets, sidewalks and landscapes. Traffic control becomes increasingly difficult as the city expands. Infrastructure decisions will be made in accordance with our Growth Policies Plan and shaped by the input of neighborhoods and businesses impacted by various changes and improvements. Our shared goals for energy efficiency, public safety, and quality of life will guide these decisions. Streets and intersections should be designed for safety and efficiency over speed, and bigger isn't necessarily better for core neighborhoods. I urge citizens to take part in public hearings about street corridor proposals. The McDoel Gardens and Prospect Hill neighborhoods and Bloomington Hospital will be important stakeholders in the outcome of these corridor proposals. Planning decisions must take existing road capacity into account for future development.

This is something that should have been done 30 years ago. Due to growth and development, this may be impossible without being extremely costly and time consuming and displacement of a lot homes and businesses.

Do you support funding of infrastructure improvements that provide a good foundation to develop key areas in the community for new business recruitment?

Yes. Infrastructure improvements such as water, sewer, roads and sidewalks are all valuable tools that can be used to direct economic development in to those parts of our community that have been identified in our GPP. Especially, if the improvements serve a double role in correcting long-term problems, such as connecting homes on septic systems to the sanitary sewer, bringing city water to homes on wells and cisterns and adding sidewalks for pedestrian safety.

While there are existing developed areas with vacant or underutilized commercial, office, and industrial spaces that should be redeveloped, I'm not sure there are "key areas in the community" we need to "develop". I support investment in community infrastructure that includes a clean, beautiful, healthy natural environment, strong social services network, a good school system, a thriving and diverse arts and cultural scene, extensive parks, trails and recreational opportunities accessible to everyone, distinctive community character, productive community partnerships, affordable housing, transportation options, an active and involved citizenry, and public safety, in addition to well maintained roads, sidewalks, sewers, and water.

Bloomington is a diverse and comfortable place to live and work. We must evaluate infrastructure already in place for new ventures and ensure that existing businesses thrive. I strongly support small and sustainable business initiatives in addition to recruitment in the basic sector. Bio-technology and life sciences pave the way for growth opportunities, and job training for the new economy is critical for displaced Bloomington workers. Attracting new jobs that pay well is important, as is supporting all commerce that strengthens our economy. While expansion is often desirable, we must balance new infrastructure with resulting costs to the community.

I support infrastructure improvements that provide a foundation for new businesses. As long as they are in line with the needs of the community and are not too taxing on our resources.

What are your views on the government's role in supporting economic vitality (i.e. TIFs, incentives, abatements, etc.) to promote new and expanded business in the community?

City government should use its economic tools first and foremost to retain and expand locally owned businesses. Housing initiatives must set aside a sizable affordable component with a long-term affordability requirements built in to the agreement. All abatement agreements must include demonstrable benefits to the community, which should include increased employment, good wages, and benefits - these must be reviewed by the Mayor's office and City Council on an annual basis. TIF district monies should be used for the greatest common good . such as fire or police protection and infrastructure improvements.

It's encouraging seeing this question elevate the discussion above the un-productive questions we've seen in the past used about how candidates would address Bloomington's "anti-business" climate, which of course was not the climate.

Local government's most important role in contributing to economic vitality is to help create a strong "people climate". A strong people climate includes a clean, beautiful, healthy natural environment, strong social services network, a good school system, thriving and diverse arts and culture, extensive parks, trails and recreational opportunities accessible to everyone, distinctive community character, productive community partnerships, affordable housing, transportation options, an active and involved citizenry, and public safety, in addition to good roads, sidewalks, sewers, and water. Studies show that these factors are more important to attracting business investment and creating economic vitality than tax abatements and TIF's.

Tax incentives should only be granted when overall public benefits outweigh the public costs, using full-cost accounting.

The government has many obligations in meeting the needs of all its citizens. As a city official I take that responsibility seriously in allocating resources for the common good. Where public assistance is absolutely required, I generally approve incentives as an investment in a better Bloomington. TIFs and abatements are useful tools in the government toolbox that help us build a thriving community. Fortunately, many private entities in Bloomington are robust and self-sufficient allowing public subsidies to be allocated for those with greater need for assistance. There are growing needs in many segments of our community with ever-shrinking resources to meet them. As responsible public, private and corporate citizens, we need to give equal consideration to a host of civil interests and human services. As a member of the City Council, I enjoy partnering with the business community to meet shared goals for economic vitality as public resources allow.

Tax abatement should only be used when the revenue returned (e.g. tax dollars: income tax, sale tax, county tax and local taxes) exceeds amount of revenue lost on property tax.

Please list any additional information or comments here:

Serving the citizens of Bloomington is an honor for me. During my tenure on the council I have learned to keep an open mind and listen with care to all points of view. I always try to vote in the best interest of the citizens and our community. I thank the citizens of Bloomington for their support in the past and hopefully the future.

Thank you for providing me the opportunity to share my views and thoughts on the issues that the Chamber has asked about in this survey.

I'm an approachable Councilmember who likes hearing from constituents and meeting with community groups. I have the temperament to deal with pressures of competing interests and conflicting opinions. I listen to different viewpoints before casting my votes, and I urge citizens to contact me to share their ideas for a better Bloomington. It takes all of us looking forward and giving back that makes Bloomington the dynamic city I am proud to call home.

Thanks to the Chamber of Commerce for giving City Council candidates this opportunity to express our views.