What is the biggest issue facing Carolina Beach, and how do you plan to tackle it?
With Federal funding for beach renourishment and inlet dredging unavailable, these became our biggest issues. As town representative to Ports, Waterways & Beach Commission, and the Tourism Development Authority, I’ve worked hard on short and long term approaches to sustain beach renourishment, inlet funding, and the resulting tourism dollars. With the help of community groups, and without using tax money, not only have I secured funding for inlet dredging, we are also establishing long term fund raising and outreach programs to meet future funding needs. Revenues generated by our beaches and boating are essential for funding improvements to our Senior Center facilities and maintaining other community programs critical to our citizens’ quality of life.
What sets you apart from your opponents? What initiatives would you bring to the table as mayor?
This election is about “hands-on” leadership and a willingness to be proactive on behalf of our town. Past Councils, when faced with a seriously deteriorating CBD/Boardwalk ignored the problem, or drove down property prices in hopes the owners would sell. When facing a similar challenge, I chose to work with business owners, Town, Chamber and residents to implement a CBD Revitalization Plan. That plan became the Boardwalk Makeover and completely transformed our CBD bringing pride and tourists back to our community, making CB a “family friendly” community once again. I’ve proven that my hands-on approach to leadership and my vision for our future will be the key to maintaining our success and prosperity.
What should the town do with the property purchased for the proposed N.C. Aquarium pier and Ocean-to-Sound Access Park?
No one predicted the sudden downturn in property values, but when it happened, we took advantage by purchasing this property. Not only will the NC Pier and Park be wonderful assets when built, the new found tourism will provide substantial economic benefit to the entire island and county. Fiscal prudence tells us to reassess this commitment periodically; and reevaluate the State’s commitment, as well as, our ability to sustain the investment. We should always revisit aspects of any town project as circumstances change, and explore options available to us. However, until I hear otherwise I’m holding the State to their commitment.
Are you in favor of Wave Transit’s proposal to extend a bus service to Carolina Beach and to add an extra $7 to residents’ $28 vehicle registration fee to help fund the service? Why or why not?
I understand the pros and cons of public transport, especially when traffic volumes continue to increase. However, I don’t believe a traditional bus service is in our best interest, especially at the expense of taxpayers. I think a privately funded beach trolley would work best, and is something both visitors and locals would ride. I can see a substantial benefit to our citizens, visitors, and businesses by connecting the Ferry, Aquarium, Kure and Carolina Beach, via a trolley service. I’ve held several discussions with a local trolley company and will resume those talks prior to next season.
Are you in favor of a tax increase next fiscal year? Why or why not? If not, what would you suggest to maintain or reduce the town’s tax rate?
I’m not in favor of a tax increase. We’ve just recently completed this year’s budget, so not only have we not had an opportunity to assess next year, it would be irresponsible to speculate. Many things affect our budget including the pending property revaluation, tourist economy, and planned growth. Every year folks talk about a tax increase, but that hasn’t happened in almost four years since I was elected. We’ll measure circumstances as they develop, hope for a turn in the national economy, and continue to make our way until things improve. Our local economy is doing well compared to other towns, we’ve had a great summer seasons, and I expect more to come.
What components of the Master Development Plan should the town move forward on implementing? Should the plan change? How?
The Master Plan is a conceptual framework that identifies key elements and objectives a town should strive for. It’s a living vision that should bend with the times, and while the sequence of improvements might shift, the key elements of the plan should remain constant if we want to maintain our community vision. I will not let individual or minority interests compromise our Plan’s core principles, or undermine the benefits it will bring. The entire community worked hard on this Plan and it gave us a vision of what our town could look like under the right circumstances. Without it, we’ll be doomed to repeat past mistakes, and likely miss wonderful opportunities to help improve our town.
