Q&A: Get to know the candidates running for Richardson mayor

What are the most important challenges facing the city of Richardson, and how do you propose to address them?

Our most important challenges are to ensure we maintain the quality of life that our citizens have grown to expect. This includes quality water, parks, trails, safe streets, solid waste management, and the best fire and police, that keep us safe. These are all accomplished through a balanced budget.

If elected, what would be your top priorities?

Top priorities are to create a positive team approach that utilizes the strengths of the staff and council. We will build a new balanced budget and start implementing promised capital projects, while ensuring retention of quality workers, including police, fire and administration. I am qualified to be in this position due to a lifetime of training.

What qualities or expertise make you uniquely qualified for this role?

I have been placed in leadership positions my entire life and have excelled. I have successfully handled a multimillion-dollar budget and have successfully helped pass bond packages. I also have experience running and managing meetings.

What do you plan to accomplish in your first 30 days? In your first 90 days?

The first 30 days are critical. We will have orientation for new council members, start capital projects, continue budget talks, continue with the relocation of the library and civic center, try to finish hiring and work in two fun things, as we celebrate our 150 years and Wildflower. The first 90 days will be very complex and overlap with the first 30 days. Projects like our bond outreach, Fourth of July celebration, annual budget, the comp plan, the Arapaho station RFP, animal shelter improvements, fire station 5 improvements, and the radio replacement project will all be priorities.

What are the most important challenges facing the city of Richardson, and how do you propose to address them?

We’ll be working on the Comprehensive Plan, an important roadmap for our city’s land use. We’ll be having a bond election on May 6 to determine the future of City Hall and the renovation of our Library. We’ll continue to work with state legislators to bring back local control.

If elected, what would be your top priorities?

The Comprehensive Plan would be a top priority, determining the best use of our scarce open land. Planning for our City Hall and Library, and working with legislators on local control, property tax reduction, ceasing unfunded mandates. I’m also passionate about revitalization of W. Spring Valley, and our city’s CORE district.

What qualities or expertise make you uniquely qualified for this role?

I’m well-versed in land use, economic development, housing options, transportation planning, both roadways and trail systems. I have a regional reach serving on three regional committees, so I know how Richardson and our neighboring cities work together. It’s vital we keep a seat at the regional table.