Q: In what ways would you increase transparency in City Government? A: 1 - Better utilization of the website. 2 - Continue televising council meetings. 3 - Use a phone or e-mail system like the school board to share important information. 4 - Make public records more easily accessible. Q: How would you increase public input opportunities? A: We could certainly have a few town hall meetings, or presentations to civic clubs, but even more than that - we need to reach out to our residents and businesses that are impacted by certain ordinances. We should not make major changes to zoning without reaching out to our developers for instance. Q: What about the current process does not encourage business growth? A: For Sulphur to be the #1 business friendly city in SWLA we have to go above and beyond basic requirements and incentives. We have to assist with planning, provide clear guidance up front, help people to pass inspections and come up with creative ways to encourage business growth and development. Q: What's going on with roads, buildings, etc? A: Of course I will be inheriting certain situations that need to be addressed - such as "where will the council meet?", but with your input, we can better utilize our infrastructure dollars by setting real priorities. Q: How do you feel about the West Cal-Cam tax? A: The hospital is a vital part of this community, not only does it service Sulphur but Vinton, Hackberry, Westlake and Cameron Parish. Due to the state and federal government cut backs on funding this tax may be needed so we don't lose programs affiliated with the hospital and the outpatient clinics. As an individual, I only have one vote, same as you. Q: What are you going to do about flooding? A: I understand how significant this problem is. I've heard from the people impacted and believe the only way to resolve the problems are to have a comprehensive plan. I have several ideas on how to go about this differently so that it will work - instead of just studying with no results. Q: What are you going to do about bringing a recycling center to the city of Sulphur? A: My work will begin on this project as soon as I take office because recycling is something I have been actively involved in for many years. I do believe that we can have recycling available and at little or no cost to our citizens. Q: What are you going to do about Zoning? A: Two things. First we'll use the budgeted funds to work with our Land Use Commission and draft a long-range plan with community input. Secondly, we'll put additionally training and systems in place to ensure that we all understand and enforce the ordinances in the same manner. Q: What do you think about the Speed Van/Camera issues? A: Clearly this is a case where you have spoken. The citizens of Sulphur were against this decision and they came out to speak against it with resounding vote last year. I will honor that. Q: How come we don't get grant money? A: I will work with all the local delegation to apply for more grants that are available through the state and federal government. I can't guarantee we'll get them, but we will apply. Q: Carlyss Water issues? A: This is an issue that has been talked about for many years. Under my administration we will put the time and effort into finding a workable solution for all parties involved. It's time to fix this problem. Q: What is this about a City Charter review? A: The last time the charter was reviewed was in 1986. I do believe that a review is needed to update it. As your mayor I fully support a transparent government that allows the citizens to help make these decisions. Q: 2010 is the year of a new Census, how will you handle redistricting? A: Under my administration I want to clean up the lines. I want to know which Council member is responsible for its district and so should the people that live in each district. Also I would like to explore and see if 5 council members are enough. This is done under a Charter review. I think it's important that your voice be heard and I need to know if 5 is the right choice. Maybe we need more council members and maybe we don't, but I need your input. Q: How are you going to work with the City Council? A: When elected I will bring all council members together for an introductory educational session to go over their roles and how we will work together. We may not always agree, but I will treat each member with dignity and respect.