Cover Story: Creative Loafing City Council questionnaire - Council District 3

CL last month asked Atlanta City Council candidates to fill out a questionnaire related to the 2013 municipal election. We asked each individual about his or her opinions regarding public safety, the Falcons stadium, the Atlanta Beltline, homelessness, ethics, and other key issues. Many responded and some didn’t. We’ve compiled all the answers we received to give readers a deeper look at the candidates’ views. Note: These responses are unedited and directly what respondents sent our way.

Name: Ivory Lee Young Jr.

Age: 51

Occupation: Architect/Planner/Construction Manager

Neighborhood: Vine City

Hometown: Butler, Alabama

Website: n/a

Name: Patricia Crayton

Age: 63

Occupation:

Neighborhood: Westlake

Hometown: Atlanta

Website: patriciaforthepeople.org

Name: Darrion Fletcher

What is the most pressing issue facing your district? If elected (or re-elected), how would you try and address it?

Young: The City of Atlanta’s policy to address vacant and abandoned property is flawed. It can best be described as a citation program in our department of Code Compliance. When a property owner violates a code an inspector issues a citation. When the code violator is brought to court and found guilty they are fined. The fine is paid with no guarantee the code violation has been corrected. Until on a future date another citation for the same violation is issued. We should no longer accept this as a solution when nothing is solved. Many residents live among property owned by property owners who are never accountable for the condition of their property. These properties are uninhabitable, have depreciated in value, and represent a public health and safety hazard. These properties provide free room and board for illegal activity increasing crime in with large numbers of vacant properties. Developing a better response to address vacant and abandoned property throughout Atlanta is a priority.

To create opportunities for legitimate occupancy in these vacant parcels I have introduced an ordinance which have proven successful in other states. If approved by the State of Georgia can represent a positive shift in how we address vacant/abandoned property through “PROPERTY CONSERVATORSHIP” (similar to the In-rem processes through our local courts). It will give local governments across Georgia the power to renovate vacant property while still protecting the rights of owners. This process will allow owners the chance to buy back renovated property and if the owners are fail to rebuy, the City can sell it on the open market. This provides the city a chance to preserve valuable housing stock before we are left with no choice but to tear it down. The sale of these properties also produces program revenue that is recycled back in the program.

Crayton: Public Safety is the most pressing issue facing my district. I would address residential burglary, aggravated assault, robbery, auto theft and vehicle larceny first, because these are the crimes that effect our homes and peace of mind. Increased police presence 24/7, help neighborhoods create watch programs, adopt telicity models using video cameras on streets to prevent, arrest and apprehend criminals , non-profits,and have a satellite office in district open evenings.

Fletcher: Did not respond.

Mayor Kasim Reed has claimed that the crime rate in Atlanta is the lowest it’s been in 50 years. But in many parts of the city, the perception of crime remains up. How would you address public safety in your district? What actions would you take as a councilmember to improve conditions?

Young: As chairperson of the Public Safety Committee I led the effort to restore funding for The Atlanta Municipal Courts which now enables our court to aggressively prosecute criminals throughout the City of Atlanta. For my hard work, in 2011, I received the “Atlas Award” from city’s judges for my dedicated service and support of our Judicial System.

Reducing crime remains a priority for me. Also as chairperson, I led the effort to implement the city’s new community oriented policing policy which has produced meaningful returns for safer neighborhoods. The District 3 Office has contributed to the cost of new surveillance cameras in some of our toughest neighborhoods. We have been told that the intelligence provided from the cameras has had a positive impact in reducing crime. I have also been very supportive to provide resources in our budget to increase the number of police officers to the highest numbers in our city’s history.

I believe that real public safety does not happen only with increased numbers of police officers and fire fighters. Our neighborhoods are safer when existing/new families occupy vacant/abandoned properties. Code Compliance alone will lead to increased numbers of citations but occupancy in these vacant structures with WORKING FAMILIES is the real solution. Working families have zero tolerance for crime which is how we historically kept our neighborhoods safe.

Crayton: I will work with the department of public safety , seek senior citizens, homeowners, community advocates, etc. input on the most pressing issues regarding their neighborhood safety. Train the community on neighborhood watch and implement the crime prevention project See Something Say Something by increasing visiual aides, psa’s, bill boards and signs in the community.

Fletcher: Did not respond.

If you’re an incumbent and you voted for the proposed Falcons stadium, why did you do so? If you’re a challenger, how would you have voted and why?

Young: I support the development of the new stadium. The existing GA Dome produced in fiscal year 2012 $270,000,000.00 of annual economic impact to the Atlanta Metropolitan Area and a significant amount of that finds its way into our general fund which reduces the tax burden on Atlanta taxpayers. It is anticipated the amount of dollars from visitors to Atlanta through sales tax would increase with the new stadium which continues to fuel our city budget even in this bad economy.

The New stadium is being funded by the Atlanta Falcons and the Hotel Motel Tax for the purpose of new stadium construction legislated by the state. We have also successfully negotiated the largest investments in the city’s history for community investment to protect and restore the stadium impacted communities with $15,000,000.00 from the Atlanta Falcons and $15,000,000.00 from the Westside Tax Allocation District. We are presently working cooperatively with these communities to perfect where the investments should focus.

It is also well documented the numbers of temporary and permanent job creations that will be a direct impact from the development of the new stadium.

Crayton: I would have voted how my constituents would have wanted me to vote. I would have been transparent with them during the planning process having a clear understanding of the benefits for everyone in writing.

Fletcher: Did not respond.

Last year, metro Atlanta voters rejected the T-SPLOST, which would have raised billions of dollars in funding for large-scale transportation projects throughout the region and smaller projects inside the city limits. Mobility remains an issue in Atlanta. What ideas do you have for improving transportation?

Young: We must improve our streetscapes along corridors that link residential and business centers to make them more pedestrian and bicycle friendly. As I have supported the Beltline there is real evidence that the new trails and paths from existing and new parks enhances the quality of life in many neighborhoods.

I also supported the new StreetCar Project that improves the movement of people at the King Center and historic Auburn Avenue to the attractions at Centennial Olympic Park. There are other destinations that justify further expansion of the street car that should be considered.

Those of us who live in close proximity to large event venues like Turner Field, GA Dome, Phillips Arena witnessed great transportation planning in action during 1996 Olympic Games when every venue incorporated the cost to ride mass transit in the price of attendance. This simple act if it were policy would relieve congestion by removing thousands of cars off the street during every event.

The T-SPLOST failed simply because the project list was not a reflection of the priorities of communities across the State of Georgia. If it were a reflection of the priorities vetted in every region of the state I believe it would have resulted in a better outcome.

Crayton: Support public transportation to increase routes, bus stop improvements, establish vehicular and pedestrian connectivity routes.

Fletcher: Did not respond.

Homelessness in Atlanta remains a pressing problem. However, the city’s charter limits what it can do to fight the issue. What realistic options does the city have when it comes to tackling homelessness?

Young: Several years ago the council approved a $25 million housing opportunity bond. This not only provided funding for the Gateway Facility but a number of supportive housing facilities some that are located in District 3 that I have supported.

I have supported programs that provide transitional and permanent housing for homeless veterans; facilities that provide emergency housing for homeless adults facing complex challenges associated with substance abuse, mental illness, HIV and AIDS and chronic homelessness; single-women with children providing shelter, job and liffe-skill training.

It is critical that even in support of these much needed facilities that the City of Atlanta strictly enforce and adhere to legislated distance requirements and zoning in determining where these facilities can be placed to support our efforts to strengthen our demographic in District Three.

Crayton: To reexamine the city’s charter, make changes to help the houseless, partner with non profits to train the houseless to reenter the community with dignity and pride.

Fletcher: Did not respond.

Councilmembers are policymakers; they’re technically not supposed to serve as liaisons between constituents and city departments (for example, failure to pick-up trash or broken traffic lights). Yet they often fall into that role. How would you handle your job once the 311 call center, which is designed to address residents’ and businesses’ complaints, comes online?

Young: Even the most efficient programs have problems. When departments miss the mark with expected services our Council offices should still be prepared to adequately respond to citizens when they call to help mitigate the complaint.

Crayton: I would get the information regarding this project to my constituents working to ensure the period of adjustment will take place smoothly, during this time I will stay informed and in touch with my constituents and the call center.

Fletcher: Did not respond.

What can you bring to the Atlanta City Council that it currently lacks?

Young: My personal experiences as an actively engaged 22 year resident of District 3 of which I served six (6) years as an officer of my Neighborhood Planning Unit; as a Graduate of Hampton University with a Bachelor of Architecture Degree, my professional experience of 28 years as an Architect, Planner and Construction Manager bring a unique view to issues that are presented to our progressive city and the district; and my years experience as a Councilmember have all aided in my deliberation of very complex issues. None of these experiences and qualifications are shared by those that oppose me. My service to the community and the city did not begin with my election to Council. I will continue to bring a passion to support the people, families and businesses of District Three and The City of Atlanta.

I will continue to be an ethical, professional and independent voice advocating on their behalf of the constituents that I am proud to represent while keeping the lines of communication open with my colleagues on the City Council and the Mayor.

Crayton: My ideal is to have internet access from the public viewing audiance during committee and council meetings or live phone calls, all under the guidelines already in place for public commit.

Fletcher: Did not respond.

What is a city issue in Atlanta that, in your opinion, very few people have paid attention to? Could you — and would you — address it?

Young: I have a passionate concern about issues confronting the city’s student population. Producing better outcomes in the classroom is essential to reducing the documented dropout rates for decades ranging 40% to 50%. A main factor that families are leaving our neighborhoods and city is for better performing schools. This must be addressed to attract families.

Long before I took office I championed causes that supported our youth. As a daycare owner, I invested $150,000.00 of personal resources to support young people. I have known for some time the importance of education. It’s the Atlanta Board of Education’s responsibility but I will always advocate for every child’s right to have access to quality schools in their neighborhood. There is also a direct tie to having quality education and improving our graduation rate to reducing crime and improving our quality of life.

I hope to expand the Mayor’s Center of Hope campaign to bring a first class recreation center to District 3. I support providing wrap around services for District 3 Schools and much needed supportive services such as GED, career training, reentry services for youth and adults that will provide real alternatives to negative behavior.

Crayton: Did not respond

Fletcher: Did not respond.

Southeast Atlanta residents recently raised concerns about a big-box retail center along the Atlanta Beltline. As the Beltline continues along in its development, what steps would you take to make sure its vision — specifically, the one residents laid out in planning meetings — is fulfilled?

Young: Planning is one thing implementation is another. Many of the Beltline plans are guilty of painting flowery pictures of things to come without a practical look at who owns the land and its existing zoning designation, funding or the cost of implementation.

Beltline Implementation strategies are as important as plans.

I will encoujrage every neighborhood in District 3 (its residents and stakeholders) to complete a REDEVELOPMENT PLAN aimed at mapping out their own planning and how its blends with the vision of the Beltline Master Plan. Residents and stakeholders of a Community with the help of experienced planners will work to identify projects which are necessary to stabilize your community and protect our investments.

Communities can then partner with public or private developers to implement their plans which will be reconciled with the Beltline Master Plan. Our focus, to implement strategies to improve living conditions and addressing poverty and blight in your community and always protecting your investment.

Crayton: I would work with the plans to fulfill the residents and the development team has in place.

Fletcher: Did not respond.

What’s your favorite part of the district you want to represent? What’s your least favorite part that you hope to change?

Young: The historic neighborhoods of District Three. Even with the challenges of vacant and abandoned property. The history of these neighborhoods give us a blue print of what’s required to stabilize them.

As stated previously, changing the law to put some teeth in how we enforce codes and restore property with families occupying vacant and abandoned property.

Crayton: My favorite part of my district are the trees and how beautiful it is in the spring .

My least favorite part is all the empty houses that look so bad and are in need of repair and then I think of all the houseless people in my district who could be living in them.

Fletcher: Did not respond.

How would you feel about Atlanta’s current ethics and transparency practices? What, if anything, would you do to improve the current rules? If nothing, why?

Young: Ethics cannot be legislated. You are either committed to ethical transparent government or you are not. Your life, what you have produced and how you have produced should give a transparent view to help yourself and the public to know the substance of your character.

Crayton: Atlanta’s ethics and transparency practices and rules are among the finest and fairest. The web site is user friendly and appealing and the staff I’ve worked with during my campaign are very helpful and friendly

Fletcher: Did not respond.