Occupation: owner, Cesar's Family Services LLC owner (David's Transportation)
Party affiliation: none
Political experience: "I might not have political experience but I am a successful business owner."
Endorsements: none listed
1) How much money have you raised for your campaign? Who are your top three donors, and how much has each contributed?
I raised $150 ($50 personal contribution and $100 from Ms. D.C. Murphy). I believe that democracy should not be run through a check book. So if the citizens of Asheville want a candidate who is in no way beholden to any special interest, they should vote for democracy. Therefore, everyone should vote for me."
2) Do you favor district elections for Council members? Why or why not?
No, because I do not believe in segregation.
3) What steps, if any, should the city take to deal with graffiti?
As a City Council member, I would introduce an educational campaign for all Asheville citizens, and include a mandatory and educational program for all students about the negative consequence of graffiti.
4) Do you support the implementation of domestic-partner benefits for city employees? Why or why not?
Yes, I do. I do not believe the city should discriminate based on sexual orientation. Moreover, this is a right that is earned by any Asheville job-holder.
5) Given the city's current and likely upcoming budget shortfalls, how would you make ends meet?
I will review the city budget and make sure that we are not wasting our resources in order to accomplish our budget obligation. However, if the budget still has shortfalls, I will try to reduce all services but I will not stop providing services.
6) Which key elements of the Downtown Master Plan, if any, do you want to see implemented in the next year?
I will support the implementation of any key element of the Downtown Master Plan, as long the plan that will improve the standard of living of our community. I believe that we need to grow in order and harmony with our planet. The best way to do it is by city authorities working together with Asheville residents.
7) What measures, if any, do you support to promote bicycle and mass transit?
I will be the voice of the Bicycle Master Plan among the City Council members. I will organize a forum to encourage citizen participation in the Bicycle Master Plan.
8) How much of a role, compared to its current one, should the city play in putting on festivals?
I believe that the city should review the expenses occurred by city festivals and make sure that each event pays for itself.
9) Which sitting members of City Council are you most like politically, and which do you differ the most with?
I believe that I'm unique. I'm the "missing color" with a new vision aside from the other city Council members.
10) What should Asheville's policy be regarding forced annexation of surrounding areas?
I believe that we live in a democracy and the citizens should always have the last say in this matter.
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