Minneapolis Ward 11 City Council candidate responses

Minneapolis Ward 11 City Council Candidate Responses

John Quincy

Email: None.

Website: www.JohnMQuincy.org

Endorsements: Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party (DFL), TakeAction MN, Sierra Club , ACORN, Stonewall DFL, Latino DFL Caucus, Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation, AFL-CIO, AFSCME, SEIU, Building & Construction Trades Council, Operating Engineers, Local 49, Minnesota Nurses Association, Teamsters Local 120, UNITE HERE!

Gregg A. Iverson

(Did not respond to questionnaire)

David A. Alvarado

(Did not respond to questionnaire)

What's one burning issue that's prompted you to run for this office: (25 words)

Quincy: I want to enhance the livability of our city and work to improve everyone's access to our "quality-of-life" treasures.

Since 2003, the city has increased the amount of taxes it levies on property by 8 percent annually. Do you favor continuing this policy, or do you favor a lower or higher amount of property tax increase? What specifics increase would you support, and what budget adjustments would you make in light of your choice? (100 words)

Quincy: Though I have supported these policies in the past, continuing them at this rate going forward will be very challenging for our residents and businesses. Current market forces, declining property values and a fragile economy, compounded by pension costs and state cuts require us be as frugal as possible, while also being creative on how we meet constituent needs. We need to prioritize spending for public safety and streets, while adopting balanced spending reductions in other areas. Legislative actions and reforms as well as improved collaboration with other governmental units is needed, so prudent and equitable decisions can be made.

With state aid declining and property taxes rising, should the city diversify the taxes and fees through which it derives income? If so, how? (100 words)

Quincy: The challenge unfortunately for diversification of revenue streams, though an important need, is that we are not able redirect significant revenues sources beyond their intended use. The vast majority of our revenues are dedicated to spending on specific purposes. Funding our major spending priorities (police, fire and streets) are limited. Redefining our relationship with the state, and being able to use local sales taxes for general fund items, is one way to reduce the property tax burden.

The council is considering how to use the property taxes from its older development districts. This tax increment by law may only be used to pay for Target Center debt and for neighborhood revitalization, or alternately, the tax base in these districts can be returned to the general tax base. What percentage would you allocate to each of these three purposes? (100 words)

Quincy: NRP projects are of immense importance, and need to be funded. We also need to manage the debt on Target Center. The reality is we need to balance those worthy needs against general fund items that fall on property tax payers. I would support an allocation that returns at least 50% of the districts to the tax base. I feel this approach is better tax policy, and creates equity for city and county taxpayers. I would eagerly explore new funding streams that would create opportunities for enhancing the funding for neighborhood revitalization.

Council members may collect up to $400 monthly as a car allowance. Would you do so or collect a lesser monthly allowance (how much?) or collect only per-mile payments for actual miles driven? Explain your choice. (50 words)

Quincy: I will NOT accept the $400 monthly car allowance. I do not think it is appropriate for the city budget to absorb commuting expenses for any employee of the city. I will only accept per-mile reimbursement for city business related travel expenses when outside the ward.

What are three specific things that you'd like to accomplish in your ward by the end of your four-year term? (50 words)

Quincy: 1. Improve public safety in our neighborhoods. Improve communication, collaboration between neighborhood organizations and police. 2. Enhance youth programs and recreation opportunities promoting active, healthy families. 3. Improve transportation options/infrastructure. Relieve traffic congestion and improve traffic safety. Develop more walking and bike paths and lanes for recreational and commuter uses.

What's one specific city-wide accomplishment you'd like to make happen by the end of your term? (25 words)

Quincy: Provide leadership for sensible and equitable financial policies that create living wage jobs, smart development and foster a positive business climate for our city.