Traverse City Record-Eagle

Election 2007

November 4, 2007

How the candidates weigh in

Traverse City mayoral and commission candidates weigh in on local issues, including:

A city proposal for a charter amendment to cap the Brown Bridge Trust Fund at $9 million, allowing a projected $3.6 million to go toward street, sidewalk and sewer repairs over five years:

Michael Estes: No

Linda Smyka: Yes

Barbara Budros: No

Jim Carruthers: No

Scott Hardy: Yes

Scott Sieffert: No

Ralph Soffredine: Yes

Support the one percent administrative fee?

Michael Estes: No

Linda Smyka: Yes

Barbara Budros: No

Jim Carruthers: No

Scott Hardy: Yes

Scott Sieffert: No

Ralph Soffredine: No

A possible city ordinance allowing accessory dwelling units in certain residential zones:

Michael Estes: Opposed to the proposed ordinance as written, doesn't see how it would stop sprawl.

Linda Smyka: Supports ADUs, open to more dialogue on the ordinance.

Barbara Budros: Opposed to proposed ordinance, said it is too broad and would allow for too many rentals too soon.

Jim Carruthers: Opposed to proposed ordinance, suggested allowing the rentals in certain areas where residents want them.

Scott Hardy: Supports ADUs as an opportunity for young professionals, would consider permitting them in areas where residents want them.

Scott Sieffert: Could be a good option for affordable housing, but said it comes down to property rights.

Ralph Soffredine: Suggested allowing ADUs in blocks or neighborhoods where residents want them.

Support a proposed parking for Old Town?

Michael Estes: Wants to see the plans, but supports publicly financed parking as long as there's no liability to the city.

Linda Smyka: Supports more public parking, wants to proceed with caution and keep in touch with residents about the project.

Barbara Budros: Hasn't seen parking plans, but doesn't want taxpayers to solely foot the bill.

Jim Carruthers: Skeptical of public benefit, wants to know why Hagerty Insurance hasn't provided its own parking.

Scott Hardy: Wants to find an appropriate role for the city to play in a partnership to build the deck and retain area businesses.

Scott Sieffert: Wants more info on the plans, is in favor of public parking as long as the city benefits and residents don't have to pay for it all.

Ralph Soffredine: Supports an Old Town deck, said it will bring and retain jobs.

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