Age: 72
Spouse: Fran
Children: Cindy Propst, Kathy Sedlacek, Michelle Burris, Dr. Doug Rediger
Occupation: Retired
Employer: 38-year career with J.C. Penney
Previous offices: Cape Girardeau School Board, 1995-1997.
Question 1: Over the past decade, Cape Girardeau used incentives to spur job creation, including using sales tax revenue to support the Sears and Kohl's development and renovation of Town Plaza. Have these incentives been worth the cost? If so, should they be used more aggressively? If not, what alternatives would you suggest the city try?
Answer: We should continue to use incentives to attract new and expanded business and industry. It should be done selectively based on the size of the project and the number of jobs created. Our city revenue is created largely through sales tax receipts. This strategy will produce jobs in our community and strengthen our revenue growth through increased sales taxes.
Question 2: In August, voters will be asked to renew the half-cent sales tax for road construction known as TTF, which provides a little more than $4 million annually. If voters say no, should it be resubmitted? What would be the consequences of a defeat?
Answer: I have been closely involved in our TTF program since its inception. The concept of a 5 year program with specific projects funded by specific sales taxes held in a trust fund has made good sense to our citizens. We have performed and completed designated projects within each TTF. I am very confident that the voters will approve TTF-4 for years 2011-2015.
We have completed or have in design more than $60 million in new and renovated transportation projects. This program has greatly enhanced our cities infrastructure, resulting in new jobs, new growth and increased city revenue.
Question 3: The city is paying almost $200,000 a year to pay bonds on the airport building housing Commander Premier Aircraft Corp. The company owes $500,000 in back rent. Should the city wait for a promised buyout of the company or evict it? Explain.
Answer: This issue is being addressed by council and staff in closed sessions. I do not have information available to make an informed decision or observation in regards to this issue. I feel 2010 will see a more positive economy that will enable this important issue to reach a positive conclusion for all entities.
Question 4: City employees have not received a raise for two years. In the same period, the city's unrestricted reserves have dwindled to almost nothing. If the next city budget can either give raises or rebuild the reserve fund, which will you choose and why?
Answer: I would, of course, like to do both, award increases to deserving city employees and also replenish the reserve fund. I would prefer to address the salary issue initially due to past salary freezes, then slowly replenish the reserve fund over the next several years. A more positive economic outlook will enhance the decision making process as we address future budgets.
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