SJ Issues

This week’s question from the newspaper:

WHAT WOULD YOU DO, IF ANYTHING, TO RESTORE RECYCLING OF PAPER, GLASS, AND MORE PLASTICS?

My goal is to restore all recycling. Since the demand for purchasing recyclables has changed, and the market is not as strong as it used to be, the economics must make sense for the city to provide it as a service.

If the cost to the taxpayer is little or nothing, then restoring recycling is a no-brainer. But if the costs are substantial, innovative alternatives beyond the city will need to be considered. I believe that most citizens feel positive about recycling, but some may not want to increase taxes or fees in order to do so.

We have recycling professionals in the Public Works Department, and I would work with them (and the County Solid Waste Coordinator) to determine cost-effective ways to keep more from going to the landfill.

The silver lining in the recent recycling restrictions is an increased public awareness of how much we do consume and our reliance on recycling as an excuse to continue the status quo. Now that economics is forcing us to send more waste to the landfill, perhaps we will learn to reduce and reuse instead. As mayor, I will ensure the city leads the way.

This week: WILL YOU ACCEPT PAC MONEY?
Answer: No. I am uncomfortable with the idea of any organization whose members or motives may not be publicly known, providing support to my campaign.

I believe in full transparency and am proud to publicize my campaign contributors. These contributors represent a broad spectrum of our community who all believe that Frankfort needs fresh ideas and leadership.

Fortunately, due to this overwhelming and humbling grassroots response to my campaign, PAC money will not be missed.

Leslie Morris Park holds special importance to me as it is practically right outside from my front door. My grandparent’s lived in Thornhill, and I explored the area as a kid, long before I knew of it as Fort Hill or any of its historical significance.

Due to its prominent location almost in the heart of the city, Leslie Morris Park and Fort Hill is a welcome refuge and offers some of the best views of Downtown Frankfort. It is a tremendous (but underused) asset for Frankfort and has the potential to be a focal point of downtown residents and tourists alike. The park’s strategic location means even more with the future development of the Capital Plaza site, and the anticipated influx of new residents and employees.

The Parks Department is overdue for a comprehensive master plan that encompasses all the park system, not just Leslie Morris Park. It is my understanding that initial steps have been taken to begin updating the comprehensive plan, so it may be premature to consider any major initiatives before the experts have weighed in. As mayor, if no progress has been made to update the park’s new master plan, I will make it a priority to make it happen.

I am all for more biking and other recreational opportunities in Frankfort. Whatever plans are considered for Leslie Morris Park and Fort Hill should involve the Park department’s Historic Sites division and public input. After all, the park contains a historic Civil War site, an archaeological site, and a cemetery. Above all, I want an open and transparent process and a plan that balances historic preservation and increased usability.