Michelle Cassio

Occupation: owner at Cassio Creations Fine Jewelry; Oak Ridge North Planning and Zoning Commission vice chairwoman
[email protected]

Why did you decide to run for the Oak Ridge North city council?

I decided to run for Oak Ridge North City Council because I have been on the Planning and Zoning Commission for over three years. There are a lot of challenges and issues facing the city, and I want to continue being a part of the future for Oak Ridge North.

Why do you believe you are qualified to be on the Oak Ridge North city council?

I believe I am qualified because I have been serving as vice [chairwoman] of the Planning and Zoning Commission. I have a business in Oak Ridge North. I am involved in the community.  There are a lot of new younger families moving to Oak Ridge North, and I believe I represent this demographic. 

What would you contribute to the city of Oak Ridge North?

As a resident and a small business owner in Oak Ridge North, I believe that I have a vested interest in the city’s future and economic growth. My clientele, many whom are Oak Ridge North residents, are wonderful and like to talk about Oak Ridge North. With all the input and feedback, I feel that I could represent the city as a whole very well. I think that I will bring an open and honest opinion on how to make Oak Ridge North a safer and better place to live. With my interaction with Oak Ridge North residents, I believe I can [provide] the citizens wishes and opinions on important topics in city business.

What do you think is the most important issue facing the city, and how would you propose to solve it?

I believe the most important issue facing the city is growth in our surrounding areas and mobility. Robinson Road is a very hot topic that seems to have divided many in Oak Ridge North. As of now, there is no solution to Robinson Road traffic issues. Due to the defeat of the road bond, there are no funds available, even if there was an ideal solution. Council is currently waiting on engineering studies on several options addressing these issues. I am hopeful there will eventually be a resolution that will not divide the city and we will be able to keep our “hometown” feel.

Marilyn Cook

Why did you decide to run for the Oak Ridge North city council?

Candidate declined to comment

Why do you believe you are qualified to be on the Oak Ridge North city council?

Candidate declined to comment

What would you contribute to the city of Oak Ridge North?

Candidate declined to comment

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What do you think is the most important issue facing the city, and how would you propose to solve it?

Candidate declined to comment