My Platform
I want to be your Smithville Alderman. I have some ideas for how we can ensure Smithville continues to be the wonderful place to live that it is today. Here are a few of them.
Small Business Growth
As a small city and bedroom community, small businesses are vital to our city's financial well-being. That's why it's important that we create an environment in which small businesses can thrive without over-developing and leaving more retail and office space than we have businesses to fill them. As Alderman, I will support measures that encourage organic small business growth without using ineffective and wasteful taxpayer-funded stimulants such as Tax Increment Financing (TIF).
Property Taxes
Nobody likes taxes. At the same time, nobody disputes that Smithville was on the verge of a budget crisis in 2007 which made it necessary to find new sources of revenue. The city government at that time elected to raise property taxes from the long-standing level of "none" to the highest level they could without putting it to a vote of the people. This was a slap in the face to Smithville's citizens, particularly in the wake of the city's approval of wasteful TIF projects. As Alderman, I promise that I will uphold the trust you put in me, and I will likewise trust you to make the right decisions when it comes to taxes. I will fight to ensure that any future tax increases are enacted only after the citizens of Smithville have voiced their approval.
Technology
I have always been fascinated by technology. I have over 15 years experience as a software engineer, but my love of technology doesn't stop there. I pride myself on being an expert in my field. To me, the term "geek" is a badge of honor. As Alderman, I will leverage my years of experience in software and technology to influence policy and purchasing decisions in technological areas.
Curbside Recycling
Smithville has a monthly drop-off for recycling, but I find myself asking if that's the best we can do. As Alderman, I will research the feasibility of a curbside recycling program and what measures we can take in a responsible, cost-effective manner to make such a program a reality.
