Other Issues
Aquatic Center
There is no doubt that an outdoor water facility enhances our quality of life. However, I have continuously voted against the proposed Aquatic Center for a number of reasons. First, given the City’s high debt load, tightening budgets and a shaky economy, I did not feel it was financially responsible to the taxpayers to issue another $2 million in debt that they might not be able to afford. Second, I feel that financial planning for the facility should have begun when the pool closed in 2003, instead of simply relying on debt to fund it. Third, the scope and cost of the project was repeatedly downsized, while the City’s financial obligation remained the same. I do not feel that it is fair to taxpayers to ask them to pay for a larger percentage of the project than originally agreed upon.
I did not just vote no, though. I and another Alderman brought forward an alternative plan that expanded on the current pool infrastructure, adding amenities at a cost that could have been covered 100% by private donations and no taxpayer obligation. The plan was killed on the Council floor.
Beaches
We are extremely privileged to have such an amazing asset on the shores of Lake Michigan. Unfortunately, we haven’t given it the attention it deserves. I will place a greater emphasis on maintaining clean beaches for the use of citizens and tourists alike.
Mirro Building
The Mirro Building is an issue that the City must find a way to tackle. Aside from being one of the City’s biggest eyesores, it is also one of the biggest public safety concerns. Fire Safety officials will tell you that because of the condition of the building and the oil-soaked floors, if the building were to catch fire, it would not be an issue of putting the building out, but rather an issue of how many of the surrounding blocks could be saved.
I will work with public safety officials, the owner of the building, and all other relevant players in determining a plan of action to utilize the land and/or building and ensuring public safety.
Downtown
Our historic downtown is the heart of our city, and needs to be treated as such. I support, and will continue to support, the Mainly Manitowoc Main Street Program that is working to revitalize our downtown. As Mayor, my focus for retail development will be heavily geared toward our downtown, and less toward the Harbor Towne/I-43 corridor.
Economic Development Corporation (EDC)
I support and will continue to support the EDC and the public/private cooperative that drives it. The EDC has been integral in creating jobs and maintaining them within our community, even as we have headed into tough economic times, and support of this organization will be integral in ensuring economic success into the future.
Public Safety
I will, as I have as a member of the City Council, continue to support both the Police and Fire Departments. Public safety must always be a top concern, and I will continue to give these departments the tools they need to keep our community and themselves safe.