Each city council candidate was asked the same questions by NNB reporters. Here are their unedited responses.
- Why are you running for City Council?
“To continue the work that I have started and that community has worked on with me for the last six years. Lots of things to continue and move forward. I haven’t even stopped. I’ve been doing things the whole time I’ve been up for re-election working on issues and pushing things forward. Things like the Skyway Marina District, purchasing environmental land like we did with Boyd Hill – expanding Boyd Hill, making sure that we fixed the sewer issues that we’ve had for a long time that have now really come to light and making sure that gets moving. So, I’m going. It’s not like what I will do after the election. It’s what I’ve been doing and continuing moving forward with that.”
- What is your plan for Midtown?
“Well, I think there is a broader area. Like for example, Jabil Circuit moving into South St. Petersburg is good. That is very good. There is a lot of potential there. If we can get corporate headquarters into South St. Petersburg that will bring jobs. That’s a real game changer for South St. Petersburg, and Jabil Circuit coming in on 34the Street South is fantastic for example. So, I think that’s important. I think the Midtown campus of St. Pete College is important. I think public transportation that serves the community is important.”
- What do you feel are issues impacting Midtown?
“Well, I think we need to make sure the city does things that are fair. You know, I think jobs. I think jobs are the most important thing. I think housing is important. I think jobs and housing are two of the most important things and giving people those opportunities that are important for everybody to have.”