Occupation: small-business owner
Party affiliation: Democrat
Political experience: six years as a councilwoman and four years as mayor
Endorsements: Sierra Club and Asheville Firefighters Association
1) How much money have you raised for your campaign, and who are your top three donors and how much did each give?
Total: $25,072
Top three: Tony Fraga, $4,000; Craig Madison, $1,600; Rusty Pulliam, $1,000
2) What resolution would you like to see for the I-26 connector?
As this is still a fluid situation, we must continue working with Metropolitan Planning Organization, staff of North Carolina Department of Transportation and North Carolina Department of Transportation Board of Directors. This has hung over us for 20 years, but I'll continue fighting for the most community-friendly design possible.
3) What is the best route for addressing the city's homelessness problem?
Continue to implement the Ten-Year Plan to end Chronic Homelessness and continue to work for living-wage jobs and affordable housing.
4) Should height limits be implemented for new construction in the city? Why or why not?
The city of Asheville currently has height limits on construction in certain areas of the city. Expansion should be limited to development that is not out of bulk, scale or character with the surrounding uses and structures.
5) What oversight should Council delegate to other boards/commissions with the adoption of the Downtown Master Plan?
Council is ultimately responsible for the implementation of this plan, but I feel it is important to regularly seek input of citizens and the various associated boards and committees.
6) Should Council reconsider a development buffer around Pack Square Park? Why or why not?
Council will reconsider the issue of development around Pack Square Park as part of the Downtown Master Plan implementation process. It is a high-priority area and is recognized as such by Council and the Downtown Master Plan.
7) Should Asheville be allowed to increase or dedicate part of its room tax to make infrastructure improvements? Why or why not?
The state General Assembly should allow Asheville to dedicate part of room taxes towards infrastructure and civic-center improvements and/or performing-arts-hall developments. Promotions used by private businesses to draw tourists to Asheville promise a quality experience. This funding can help ensure they get it.
8) What associations or business dealings would cause you to ask to be recused for conflict of interest if they came up in Council deliberation?
Currently, I do not have any associations or business dealings that would cause me to be recused due to conflict of interest.
9) What question would you like to ask to any other candidate and to whom would you ask it?
I believe it is most appropriate for the voters of Asheville to continue to ask questions of all the candidates and vote according to their responses.
10) Which other candidates will you be voting for?
In keeping with my unique, inclusive, consensus-building process, I feel maintaining my right to private balloting best serves my needs and the needs of the citizens of Asheville.
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