Candidate questionnaire: Barbara Lohr

__Name:__ Barbara Lohr

__Age:__ 77

__Place of Birth:__ Sikeston, Missouri

__Spouse, children's names:__ Bob, deceased

Jim Lohr, Lane Lohr, Kathy Jansen

__Occupation:__ Retired teacher

__Employer:__ Career and Technology Center

__Business owned, all or part:__ NA

__Previous offices held or sought:__

City of Jackson Alderman, elected in 2002

City of Jackson Mayor, elected in 2007, re-elected in 2009, 2011, 1013

__What do you see as the biggest short-term issue facing Jackson today, and what can be done about it?:__

Extensive water system improvements/expansion: Currently in planning stages. Project includes a new water well, new water storage tower, and replacement of old, 2 and 4 inch pipes with 8 and 12 inch pipes. The project will increase water distribution throughout the City and will increase fire flow pressure, a needed safety measure for fighting fires. It requires a bond issue be put before the voters to fund the project so they will determine the outcome.

__What do you see as the biggest long-term issue facing Jackson, and what can be done to address it?:__

Police Department Complex: space and security issue improvements needed, processing and prisoner housing system in the jail totally antiquated, needs new sally port (enclosed garage attached to jail so an officer with prisoner in vehicle can drive inside to unload and process prisoner in a secured area).

Communications Division: cramped conditions, no room for much needed additional equipment, needs to be "storm proof."

Committee already formed, architect hired, report on options and cost estimates forthcoming.

__What makes you the most qualified candidate for this position?:__

I know Jackson and its residents from having lived here 53 years.

Government experience:

* Planning and Zoning Commission 11 years, Chairman 5 years

* Alderman 5 years

* Mayor 8 years

* Magnet Board

* Jackson Industrial Development Company Board 8 years, currently secretary

* SEMO Regional Planning Commission Board

* Southeast Metropolitan Planning Organization, currently Vice Chairman

* Missouri Municipal League, Certified Municipal Official

I answer all inquiries/calls; treat everyone fairly and respectfully.

__What do you think the city could do better than it is doing right now?:__

Our City is constantly improving infrastructure. This inconveniences some of our citizens when these projects are under construction. We try to make them aware of these projects through newspaper, radio, and television so they can make plans accordingly. In some instances, an emergency situation may require us to start a project immediately without prior warning. Within budget constraints, we hope to be able to use expanding technology to provide "text alerts" to communicate quickly.

__How would you describe your leadership style?:__

I "work with" rather than "order." We have a competent, responsible, and professional staff, which is evident in the way they do their jobs. I trust them to do their jobs properly, working within the framework of our City codes and ordinances. I support their decisions. However, when citizens bring up concerns, I work through the proper channels to research those concerns. Usually we can determine a solution, but we must follow our ordinances.

__What is the best strategy for Jackson to recruit businesses and jobs to the area?:__

I like to show representatives of prospective businesses around Jackson. It is attractive and a desirable place to establish a business. Police and Fire Departments provide a safe environment. Streets, electric, water, and sewer systems are constantly upgraded to provide excellent infrastructure. A TIF District was established as an incentive for retail businesses. Depending on number of new industrial jobs established, the City applies for economic development funding for public infrastructure to lure new industries.