2010 Growth Questionnaire
1. What is your vision for Lexington-Fayette County?
My campaign platform is simply to place “Citizens First”. I share hope for an improved quality of life in our neighborhoods, schools and workplaces. I offer innovative leadership to guide Lexington’s growth in the areas of Affordable Housing, Economic Empowerment, Infrastructure and Community Improvements, Open Government, and also importantly, Urban and Historical Reinvestment.
2. As a Councilmember, you will adopt the “Goals and Objectives” of the Comprehensive Plan—which governs land-use in Fayette County. Do you support an expansion of Urban Service Boundary during the next Comprehensive Plan Process?
Yes, I will adopt the Goals and Objectives of the Comprehensive Plan if I am assured that proper citizen input has been incorporated by the LFUCG Division of Planning and the LFUCG Planning Commission.
No, at this time, I will not support the expansion of the Urban Services Boundary during the next Comprehensive Plan Update. I am committed to further implementation of the Infill and Redevelopment strategies which will profoundly improve housing stock and promote commercial investment within District 1.
3. As a Councilmember, what will you do to ensure that the land bank authority is properly established? What should be the criteria for awarding parcels for infill-redevelopment projects and/or real estate deals?
I will fully support the establishment of the Land Bank Authority to create new and redeveloped housing opportunities within District 1. Our land banking activities shall incorporate the stakeholder contribution and input of community neighbors and property owners.
4. Will you support continuing funding of at least $2 million, annually, for the PDR program?
Yes. I also hope to utilize the PDR program as a model and leveraging tool for implementing Infill and Redevelopment initiatives within the Urban Services Boundary.
5. As a Councilmember, how will you address Lexington’s affordable housing needs?
I will support the creation and implementation of the Affordable Housing Trust Fund (AHTF). As a non – profit housing executive and member of the original AHTF Commission, I clearly understand the challenges, opportunities and rewards of affordable housing. I am equipped and prepared to exhibit leadership in this area.
6. As a Councilmember, would you change the LFUCG Divisions of Planning, Building Inspection, & Code Enforcement? If so, how?
I would support the centralization of these Divisions, particularly those functions which have direct impact on safe and decent housing stock within our communities. I also recommend LFUCG re-create the position of Housing Commissioner, which should serve as the “point of contact” on governmental housing finance, development and sustainability.
7. As a Councilmember, how will you handle CentrePointe and similar development projects moving forward? How will you implement the Downtown Master Plan and its recommendations?
The process must be clearer and transparent, with great sensitivity to community impact and private property rights. Local government has a responsibility to communicate active development planning with the community at large (particularly large scale projects). But also, government must provide leadership in facilitating subsequent discussions to educate of the investments made of private property owners, which comply with local planning and development regulations. Lastly, government should lead a fair and public analysis of the economic, historical, and environmental impacts associated with such developments.
8. As a Councilmember, how do you propose addressing—in the long term—the student housing issues in Lexington’s established neighborhoods? How should LFUCG incentivize infill in the Urban Service Boundary, while protecting the character of established neighborhoods?
In addition to re-creation of the LFUCG Housing Commissioner, I would encourage our post – secondary institutions (University of Kentucky, Transylvania University and Bluegrass Community & Technical College) to commission detailed plans for the off – campus housing needs of its students. LFUCG leadership must also be exhibited with its formulation of sound land – use planning, and the ability to influence the universities and adjoining neighborhood residents to engage in constructive dialogue.
9. Fayette County agri-business and agri-tourism generate over $3 billion for the regional economy each year. As a Councilmember, how will you promote these signature industries?
I look forward to learning much more on the economic impact of these signature industries. I will explore the economic and income – generating opportunities agribusiness and agritourism might offer to District 1 businesses and residents.
