1. What are the responsibilities of Board of Estimate and Taxation?
The responsibilities are threefold:
- set the property tax levy for the city and the park board;
- do the bonding (borrowing) for capital improvements;
- oversee the audit.
2. Why are you running to represent the citizens of Minneapolis?
In tough times, we must work to responsibly reduce the growth of property taxes, which are not based on ability to pay. They are regressive.
3. Why should I vote for you?
I bring extensive experience and insight to the position. I was a Duluth City Council member who chaired the Finance Committee, and served on the Duluth Economic and Development Authority as a Commissioner. It was that body’s responsibility to do the economic development and bonding for the City.
I have always believed that all governmental entities (municipal, county and state) must work together in ways that benefit the entire community. In this time of reduced resources, thoughtful and creative collaboration is essential. I have useful connections with elected officials at all these levels of government, and will never hesitate to be a strong advocate for the City of Minneapolis.
4. What are your goals for the Board of Estimate & Taxation?
- Increase openness, accountability and public involvement.
- Make the case for Minneapolis with allies across Minnesota to restore responsible budgeting at the State, so State problems are not simply pushed down onto Cities.
- Never stop working to get the most value for our tax dollars.
5. What is your position on the Charter Commission's proposal to end the Board of Estimate and Taxation?
Because it’s important to build a positive relationship of trust between the Board of Estimate and Taxation, Park Board, and City Council, I am not using my campaign to advocate for or against the amendment. I will vote to keep the Board of Estimate and Taxation. But I do reject the fear mongering of certain groups who would have voters believe that the fate of our City depends on either the elimination or the continuation of the Board of Estimate and Taxation as an independent body. Such extreme arguments are often self-serving. The fact is this: the work of the Board is very important. My progressive “people first” values and my experience with municipal finance are the right background for this job. In tough times, we must work together in a fiscally responsible manner for the good of all citizens, instead of jockeying for power and control.
6. How would you raise the public profile of the Board of Estimate and Taxation?
- More public accountability through broadcasting meetings, and making detailed proceedings easily and quickly accessible;
- Make budget reports more user friendly and understandable for the public;
- Seek additional public input by meeting in different neighborhoods;
- Work collaboratively with the Park Board, the City Council, and the Mayor.
6. What is your position on beefing up the internal audit capability of the Board staff?
While the State Auditor has a large presence in Minneapolis government, we also need to strengthen our internal audit function because we are understaffed for a city of our size. But there’s no budget for additional staff in 2010. Everyone I’ve spoken to about this, including Mayor Rybak and eight Council Members who have all endorsed my campaign, agrees the need is there. But the dollars are not. I do not expect the City to hire new auditors while many other employees are getting laid off. An effective solution will take time, money, and leadership. I will bring that leadership.
7. What does Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) mean for the City elections this year?
We are fortunate that Minneapolis is pioneering RCV this election cycle. Simply it means that you will have even greater say over who is elected to represent you in 2009. By ranking your votes for several candidates, you will help ensure the election of those with the greatest support. If you would like to learn more about this important reform please check out the Minneapolis Ranked Choice Voting website. I would like to earn your first vote, but if not, please cast your second vote for me. Thank you for participating in RCV this November!
