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Hear from the candidates in their own words.
 On Saturday, May 9, Austin voters will be electing a new mayor, and four of the six City Council seats are on the ballot as well.
Incumbents Mike Martinez and Sheryl Cole each face one opponent in their re-election runs, while two other seats are wide open since their current occupants, Lee Leffingwell and Brewster McCracken, are running in a five-way race to be Austin’s next mayor.
While in the last issue, we did brief "previews" on each candidate, in this one, we have stepped it up a notch, offering the reader exclusive interviews with all the candidates on this year's ballot (except Mrs. Strayhorn). In the interest of fairness, we asked the candidates to respond to the same five questions, and the varied responses should shine some light on each candidate's unique priorities for our city.
Candidate interviews for: Place 1 // Place 2 // Place 5 // Place 6
The Race for Mayor
David A. Buttross
(512) 494-0000
mayoraustin.com
 1 -- What are the biggest issues in Austin that no one seems to be talking about? What issues would you concentrate on if elected?
Providing Good Basic Services – Our city government has gotten away from the basics. City government should ensure that we have good roads, good infrastructure, good public safety, and a business-friendly attitude that will help increase our tax base.
Making Wise Use Of Taxpayer Money – Our current city council has not been a good steward of taxpayer money. We currently have to make drastic cuts in our city budget because we did not plan for the economic downturn. In these tough economic times, we have got to re-examine the mentality that says city government should be the provider instead of the enabler. There have been too many instances, such as a recent decision to provide tens of thousands of dollars for a mural at a skate park instead of spending taxpayer money on services that will benefit all in our city.
2 -- Who are the major supporters and top donors to your campaign? What private and public organizations have endorsed you or helped with your campaign?
At this point, we are just beginning our fundraising efforts. I have contributed an initial amount to begin the campaign and we expect a diverse group of contributors who support new leadership that will keep a close watch on the city budget and get us back to providing the good basic services that city government is supposed to provide.
3 – Big banks and governments are facing a debt crisis, and the U.S. Congress and Obama administration have responded by creating more debt through federal “bailout” and “stimulus” programs. Do you think it is wise or necessary for city, county, and state governments to depend on federal “stimulus funds” to pay today’s bills and to finance local projects? Do you think City of Austin officials are willing to balance the budget without needing to petition for federal “stimulus funds”?
I am not a supporter of the federal stimulus package. I believe that the city should balance its budget without using federal stimulus funds to do so. That being said, it would be unwise for the city not to take its share of any additional federal funding to help finance local projects, as long as the money doesn’t come with any strings attached. Not accepting stimulus funds will simply move that money to other cities when it could be used on needed projects in Austin. However, we must be extremely careful that stimulus money does not include future unfunded mandates that will place the city in an even more precarious financial situation down the road.
4 -- What do you see in the future for Austin transportation and land development?
Land Development -- I am a big believer in some facets of the “smart growth” concept, which makes use of existing infrastructure while redeveloping and improving existing spaces. This will help reduce city spread and is both environmentally friendly and economically feasible. I am also a strong supporter of building “green” and keeping Austin ahead of the curve when it comes to finding common ground between developers and environmentalists. However, I think that in some instances, we may go too far and make it too difficult to get the necessary development to move our city forward. I think we should take a close look at our development services to make sure our city is business and development friendly for those willing to invest in our community.
Additionally, while I believe that in some instances, the city should work on incentives to bring new business to town, I do not believe that should come at the expense of existing businesses who are already a part of our tax base. We should not favor new business over existing businesses by giving incentives for land development that would compete with businesses who have been a part of this community for a long time.
Transportation – First of all, our city must maintain its existing transportation infrastructure. While we must look toward the future transportation needs of the city, if we fail to maintain the roads we already have, we are doing a disservice that will cost future generations millions of dollars. I am a big supporter of staying ahead of the curve when it comes to the future transportation needs of our city, but we have allowed the spending of some agencies to get out of hand. For example, Capital Metro’s recent spending spree that resulted in almost no surplus, even though they owed the city of Austin millions of dollars. At this point, I think we need to take a breather on spending and get all of our existing transportation, such as our new commuter program, working properly and then move on to new issues.
5 -- What distinguishes you from your opponent(s)? Why should Austinites vote for you?
It is time for new leadership in the city of Austin. We owe a debt of gratitude to those current and former city council members who are running for office, but we need new ideas and new leadership in the city of Austin. We cannot afford again to elect a tax and spend city council that continues to govern in a fiscally irresponsible manner.
I am a businessman, not a career politician. I am running because I chose to make Austin home for myself and my family and we can do better! I am not running for perceived power or to advance my political career, or even to relive politics of the past. That is what distinguishes me from the other candidates. I am running because I care about Austin, its future and the people who live here. That is why Austinites should vote for me for mayor.
Josiah Ingalls
(512) 487-5689
josiahingalls.com
 1 -- What are the biggest issues in Austin that no one seems to be talking about? What issues would you concentrate on if elected?
The biggest issues are education and the causes that lead to homelessness. If elected I would concentrate on education, and amending our tax code to equally fund our schools according to how many students are enrolled. I would also focus on establishing low income public housing in all areas of the city as well as working towards mandating that all residential, business and local government entities must recycle.
2 -- Who are the major supporters and top donors to your campaign? What private and public organizations have endorsed you or helped with your campaign?
Most candidates wear endorsements like badges of honor, but I will not do so. I want someone to vote for me for what I believe in, not just because I may have certain endorsements.
3 – Big banks and governments are facing a debt crisis, and the U.S. Congress and Obama administration have responded by creating more debt through federal “bailout” and “stimulus” programs. Do you think it is wise or necessary for city, county, and state governments to depend on federal “stimulus funds” to pay today’s bills and to finance local projects? Do you think City of Austin officials are willing to balance the budget without needing to petition for federal “stimulus funds”?
No, I do not think it is wise for city, county, and state governments to depend on federal “stimulus funds” to pay today’s bills and to finance local projects. I think that the current City of Austin officials are not willing to balance the budget without needing to petition for federal “stimulus funds”, but I am willing to balance the budget to help prevent using “stimulus funds”.
4 -- What do you see in the future for Austin transportation and land development?
To make the toll roads free to the public, to work over the next 30 years to finish putting an upper deck and a lower deck on I-35 from one end of the city limits to the other end of the city limits, and to pass a city ordinance that bans development over aquifer recharge zone property.
5 -- What distinguishes you from your opponent(s)? Why should Austinites vote for you?
I am a regular citizen who sees what needs to happen with our city and I am not blinded by money, power and special interests.
Lee Leffingwell
(512) 289-7460
austinleadership.com
 1 -- What are the biggest issues in Austin that no one seems to be talking about? What issues would you concentrate on if elected?
One of the big issues that I’ve been talking about regularly but have not heard any other mayoral candidate talk about is maintaining our community’s safety net. Especially when times are tough, it’s more important than ever that we continue to deliver reliable public safety services in every part of the city, and that we maintain funding for vital social services. I can’t overstate the importance of this, in my view. As the national economic crisis continues, Austinites are losing their jobs, their health insurance, and in some cases their homes. What we can’t afford to let them lose is their dignity, their health, or their safety. Austin is a caring, compassionate city; now is exactly the time to reaffirm our commitment to those core values. As mayor, I’ll oppose any budget cut that would negatively impact the delivery of public safety services or social services.
2 -- Who are the major supporters and top donors to your campaign? What private and public organizations have endorsed you or helped with your campaign?
I’m very proud to have the endorsement of more than 1,500 Austin community leaders from every part of our city, including people like Sheriff Greg Hamilton, County Commissioner Sarah Eckhardt, State Representatives Eddie Rodriguez and Donna Howard, former Austin mayors Roy Butler, Frank Cooksey, and Gus Garcia, and many others. Most of my endorsers are also financial supporters. I’m also proud and honored to have been endorsed by 20 of the 22 Austin organizations that have given their support in the mayor’s race, as of this writing. This includes the Austin Sierra Club, the Austin Firefighters Association, the Austin Lesbian / Gay Political Caucus, the Austin Central Labor Council, and every Democratic club in Austin. A complete list of individuals and groups supporting my campaign can be found online at AustinLeadership.com/People.
3 -- Big banks and governments are facing a debt crisis, and the U.S. Congress and Obama administration have responded by creating more debt through federal “bailout” and “stimulus” programs. Do you think it is wise or necessary for city, county, and state governments to depend on federal “stimulus funds” to pay today’s bills and to finance local projects? Do you think City of Austin officials are willing to balance the budget without needing to petition for federal “stimulus funds”?
As long as federal stimulus money is available to Austin, I believe we would be unwise not to make every effort to secure as much as possible to finance much-needed local projects. My personal priorities for spending federal stimulus money locally would be for transportation infrastructure – particularly mass transit – and for large-scale energy efficiency projects. However, we obviously should not rely on the prospect of stimulus money to pay for basic community needs or to balance our city budget, which we are required by our City Charter to do every year. Instead, in tough times, the City needs to cut back on spending – just like most Austin families are being forced to do – and concentrate on delivering reliable, affordable basic services and infrastructure.
4 -- What do you see in the future for Austin transportation and land development?
I hope and trust that the future of transportation in Austin will involve making significant new investments in roads, mass transit, bike lanes, and sidewalks, and my platform includes a proposal to hold a transit election by 2010 to help fund those kinds of investments. I also believe we should pursue tactical solutions to our traffic problems, including HOV lanes, telecommuting and carpooling, improved signalization wherever possible, and better traffic incident management. While I’m not categorically opposed to using tolls to fund expanded road capacity where we need it but can’t afford it, I was very strongly opposed to the CAMPO toll plan that proposed to toll roads already paid for with gas tax funds. In broad terms, I believe our land development policies must continue to favor dense, mixed use, development in urban areas, promote affordability, address gentrification, preserve traditional neighborhoods and open space, and protect our environment.
5 -- What distinguishes you from your opponent(s)? Why should Austinites vote for you?
I’m running for mayor because I believe that after a lifetime in Austin, I know the direction we need to go next, and I know I can help lead us there. We need strong, steady leadership at City Hall to help us get through the tough times ahead and get back on track to a better future. Austin’s next mayor should be focused on the fundamentals: saving and creating jobs, especially by helping small local businesses; taking on our traffic crisis; delivering reliable public safety and social services; fighting for clean air, clean water, and clean energy; making City Hall more accountable; and delivering effective, efficient basic city services and infrastructure. I’m not in this race to use the mayor’s office as a stepping stone to something else, and I’m not in it to satisfy my ego. I’m in it to make a positive difference for the people of Austin.
Brewster McCracken
(512) 919-4485
brewstermccracken.com
 1 -- What are the biggest issues in Austin that no one seems to be talking about? What issues would you concentrate on if elected?
The economy and in particular what’s happening with the loss of our semiconductor industry jobs. It’s a topic that has not generated nearly enough discussion I believe. Moving forward on a strategy for creating new economic opportunity, 21st century economy sectors of biotech, clean energy, and digital media, the creative economy. Those sectors build on the foundations of the semiconductor industry and that is our best strategy for repurposing our semiconductor assets, and protecting current Austinites’ jobs. I have not heard anyone else talking about this issue.
2 -- Who are the major supporters and top donors to your campaign? What private and public organizations have endorsed you or helped with your campaign?
We have upwards of a thousand supporters. We post every one of them on the web site. The maximum contribution is $350 per person, so of the several hundred contributors who have given me money, a fair number of those are $50 contributors, $25 contributors, and a fair number are also $350 contributors. It’s kind of hard to say off the top of my head who is in each category. I’ve received a joint endorsement with Lee Leffingwell from the Austin Lesbian Gay Political Caucus, and a lot of the unions have all endorsed Lee. I don’t think I received any endorsements yet, other than the ALGPC, from any organizations.
3 – Big banks and governments are facing a debt crisis, and the U.S. Congress and Obama administration have responded by creating more debt through federal “bailout” and “stimulus” programs. Do you think it is wise or necessary for city, county, and state governments to depend on federal “stimulus funds” to pay today’s bills and to finance local projects? Do you think City of Austin officials are willing to balance the budget without needing to petition for federal “stimulus funds”?
I believe that particularly when it comes to financing capital investments at this time, the stimulus funds are very helpful, and also that these cities should aggressively pursue stimulus funding. We, as Austin taxpayers, will be paying for this stimulus; it’s only fair that we share in the investments that are made around the country. I do not believe, however, that the City of Austin will need stimulus funds for our operating budget. The dynamic in much of the country is that cities actually receive operating funds from the state government. That is not the case in Texas. As a result of that situation in most states, states have discontinued their funding to the cities because state revenues have come in less. So the cities have no control over the situation in a lot of places of the country, over even their operating budgets. I’ll say that when it comes to school districts in Texas, they do receive direct state support. I believe it is highly appropriate for school districts to seek stimulus funding in particular for operating budgets because state revenue shortfalls have caused a loss in funding to schools, and there’s a direct impact on children getting an education.
4 -- What do you see in the future for Austin transportation and land development?
I believe in a vision of a multi-modal transportation system that includes roads, sidewalks, light rail, commuter rail, a great urban bicycling system. You look at the great American cities, and you look at world-class transportation systems, and they are systems that have all of those components to them. Austin should be aspiring for a vision of building a world-class transportation system. That includes roads, rail, bicycle facilities, and great pedestrian facilities. The rail systems enable dense, mixed-use development, particularly at rail stops. That provides a particularly significant benefit for people to be able to save money, both in their housing and their transportation, if we link affordable housing with rail stops. I made the amendment to our TOD ordinance [transit-oriented development] that required that 25% of all housing at rail stops be affordable, because I believe very strongly that these transit systems work best when they help those who need the help the most.
5 -- What distinguishes you from your opponent(s)? Why should Austinites vote for you?
On the most important issue, the most important challenge facing our city, we have all laid out very different agendas, and that important issue is how we deal with the economic challenges facing our city. My main opponent, Lee Leffingwell, has in his own words said, it’s time to “hunker down.” I believe we actually need to be moving forward now to establish leadership in clean energy, and the creative economy sectors of film, and digital media, music, and in biotech, and healthcare. Other cities and regions are working now to develop establish leadership in those economic sectors, and we actually pursue the course of “hunkering down,” we will end up weaker at the end of this recession than we were going into it because the opportunities in clean energy and the creative economy sectors, and biotech will have passed us by. So I think that hunkering down is a mistake, and what distinguishes me is I am leading efforts right now, particularly in clean energy, with the Pecan Street Project, and with our efforts to establish an regional economic partnership in solar energy with San Antonio, that will make the Austin region a catalyst for the new economy, as opposed to a region that gets passed by.
Carole Keeton Strayhorn
(512) 981-8683
caroleforaustin.com
(No response to CITIZINE questionnaire)
Place 1
Perla Cavazos
(512) 772-3732
voteperla.com
 1 -- What are the biggest issues in Austin that no one seems to be talking about? What issues would you concentrate on if elected?
It’s obvious that the biggest issue we are facing right now is the economy. If elected, the top three things I want to accomplish are 1) providing immediate steps to address the impact of the economic downturn for Austin families 2) dedicate my leadership to addressing affordability issues in Austin, such as following though on the proposals outlined in the Children and Families Task Force and 3) commit to creating a long-range comprehensive plan to position Austin to lead Texas’ economic comeback. More specifics regarding my priorities can be found on my website, www.VotePerla.com.
2 -- Who are the major supporters and top donors to your campaign? What private and public organizations have endorsed you or helped with your campaign?
I am proud that my campaign reflects the diversity of Austin. My campaign is being funded by average citizens who are contributing in relatively small amounts. I have received donations from over 400 supporters and the average contribution to my campaign is $120.
My community of supporters includes many average Austinites as well as many Austin leaders who believe in my candidacy. I have garnered the endorsements 32 leading Austin organizations including the city’s employee group and the Austin Firefighters. In addition, I have earned the endorsements of many leaders in Austin including Hon. Gus Garcia, Teresa and Joe Long, Hon. Bruce Todd and Elizabeth Christian, Janis and Joe Pinelli, Hon. Nelda Wells Spears, Hon. Eddie Rodriguez and Hon. Ann Kitchen. For a full list of my endorsements, please visit my website, www.VotePerla.com .
3 – Big banks and governments are facing a debt crisis, and the U.S. Congress and Obama administration have responded by creating more debt through federal “bailout” and “stimulus” programs. Do you think it is wise or necessary for city, county, and state governments to depend on federal “stimulus funds” to pay today’s bills and to finance local projects? Do you think City of Austin officials are willing to balance the budget without needing to petition for federal “stimulus funds”?
No, it is not wise for our city government to depend on federal stimulus dollars to balance our budget. However, it is also unwise to not take advantage of opportunities to diversify our revenue streams. By committing to a long-range, comprehensive plan that addresses the revenue side of our budget, we can ensure the City is doing everything we can to protect our community members in a fiscally responsible way.
4 -- What do you see in the future for Austin transportation and land development?
This is a complex issue that can best reflect the vision of Austinites through the public’s participation in a long-range, comprehensive planning process. For almost thirty years, the City of Austin has made decisions about transportation and land development without the benefit of a larger vision - a long-range comprehensive plan to truly guide our city’s future direction and growth. Without such a plan, City leadership has been reactive to the “latest” issue without looking at the big picture. One of my motivations to run for City Council is to push for the development of a new long-range plan under which appropriate decisions about transportation, land development, and other important issues can be made.
With that plan, I would expect Austinites to support multi-modal transportation options (sidewalks, bike paths, buses, trains and improve road infrastructure) to address our congestion and traffic issues as well as steering development in the desired development zone (away from our environmentally-sensitive areas).
5 -- What distinguishes you from your opponent(s)? Why should Austinites vote for you?
I have known my opponent from our time serving together on the Austin Planning Commission and agree with many Austinites on the campaign trail who say “you’re both great candidates”.
But like many communities throughout the country, our City is not immune to the economic downturn. Many of our major employers like Dell and Spansion are struggling and employees are being laid off.
What Austin needs now is a leader who understands the troubles faced by families who are at risk during this downturn – and a leader who has the skills to help us emerge from this economic downturn better than when we started. I believe that I have these skills. My background at the State Legislature uniquely positions me to help our City diversify our revenue streams and to develop programs in which we invest in the small businesses that are the backbone of our economy. My history of involvement across our community uniquely positions me to serve as a uniting force in our community, bringing diverse groups of people to the table as we envision and plan for a better Austin. I believe that my vision, my leadership skills, and my background place me in a unique position to be the strong leader that our city needs during these difficult times.
Chris Riley
(512) 850-9607
chrisforaustin.com
 1 -- What are the biggest issues in Austin that no one seems to be talking about? What issues would you concentrate on if elected?
One huge issue that hasn’t gotten enough attention is the surging public interest in shifting our food supply to local sources. Community efforts on farmer’s markets, urban farms, community gardens, and composting are starting to get real traction; but there is much more to be done to shift the foundation of our food supply back to local sunshine, rather than imported fossil fuels.
Another very serious issue that doesn’t get enough attention is suicide. Austin has the highest suicide rate of any major metropolitan area in Texas ; more than twice as many Austinites die from suicide as from homicide. Some valuable work has been done to get a better understanding of the problem and improve access to mental health care; but the problem still persists, and continues to devastate Austin families.
In addition to these issues, I would concentrate on a number of issues that we’re all going to have to focus on in the next few years: the economy and the environment, transportation, core city services, and maintaining our city’s character.
2 -- Who are the major supporters and top donors to your campaign? What private and public organizations have endorsed you or helped with your campaign?
My campaign website lists over 750 public supporters from all walks of life, many of whom have given the maximum contribution of $350/person. I grew up in Austin , and have served the community for many years, so the list reflects a lifelong accumulation of friends and acquaintances. They include lawyers, architects, tech workers, teachers, police officers, health care professionals, musicians, artists, and family members; they also include bicyclists, bus riders, environmentalists, and others interested in transit, walkable communities, and a strong economy.
I have been endorsed by a similarly broad range of groups: Austin Sierra Club, Austin Lesbian-Gay Political Caucus, Austin Police Association, Austin-Travis County EMS Employee Association, West Austin Democrats, Capital City Young Democrats, Circle C Democrats, North by Northwest Democrats, Capital Area Asian-American Democrats, Stonewall Democrats, and Texas Environmental Democrats.
3 – Big banks and governments are facing a debt crisis, and the U.S. Congress and Obama administration have responded by creating more debt through federal “bailout” and “stimulus” programs. Do you think it is wise or necessary for city, county, and state governments to depend on federal “stimulus funds” to pay today’s bills and to finance local projects? Do you think City of Austin officials are willing to balance the budget without needing to petition for federal “stimulus funds”?
City, county, and state governments all need to live within their means. We should not depend on stimulus funding to pay our regular operations & maintenance bills, nor should it be necessary for capital projects that have already been funded and approved in bond elections. To the extent that federal funding is available for strategic, long-term investments in needs such as transportation and clean energy, I do support accessing that funding to supplement our local efforts. But we need to be ready to balance the budget without those funds.
4 -- What do you see in the future for Austin transportation and land development?
For Austin transportation, I see a future in which Austinites have many more options, including the option of greatly reducing our reliance on single-occupant vehicles. We need a serious, multi-modal transportation network that includes a functional rail network, convenient bus service, and greatly improved conditions for bicycles and pedestrians.
For land development, I envision further growth along our core transit corridors, where significant numbers of homes and businesses can be added -- and served with both transit and utilities -- without sacrificing the character of our established residential neighborhoods. I hope that we will continue to protect our aquifer, and that the development we see in the coming years will be far more pedestrian-friendly than the growth we have seen since World War II.
5 -- What distinguishes you from your opponent(s)? Why should Austinites vote for you?
I was born and raised in Austin , and have been in involved in a broad range of issues in the community for many years. My commitment to our city, and to achieving results on the issues we’re facing now, is reflected in my record of service. I started a neighborhood association that is now thriving; I chaired both the Planning Commission and the Downtown Commission; I helped start Austin CarShare and the Alliance for Public Transit to provide Austinites with more transportation options; I served as President of the Austin History Center Association, and created the website at www.oldaustin.org to help preserve our city’s character.
Our city is facing serious issues, and we need serious leadership to take them on. I’m ready to bring my experience to the Council and work even harder to help our city meet the challenges we’re facing. I know that with a renewed commitment to public involvement and practical, common-sense decision-making, we can move Austin forward, together.
Place 2
Mike Martinez
(512) 974-2264
martinezforaustin.com
 1 -- What are the biggest issues in Austin that no one seems to be talking about? What issues would you concentrate on if elected?
The biggest issue for Austin is the current economic situation, and is the topic of conversation all over Austin and the country. This will be my highest priority if reelected to the City Council. Rewriting our land development code so that it can be easily understood and interpreted by staff and citizens alike is an example of a critical issue that is often overlooked. Achieving this could create huge efficiencies with regard to the current burdens on staff’s time and multiple departments, and could reduce the need for legal teams that currently have to weigh in on some of the most basic questions regarding our LDC. However, we simply cannot work on other issues without a thriving local economy.
2 -- Who are the major supporters and top donors to your campaign? What private and public organizations have endorsed you or helped with your campaign?
All of my campaign contributions are open to the public and available online at the City of Austin web site (www.cityofaustin.org), located under the City Clerk link. I am proud to have been endorsed by the Austin Firefighters Association, Austin Police Association, Austin / Travis County EMS Employees Association, Austin Central Labor Council, Austin Gay & Lesbian Political Caucus, Stonewall Democrats of Austin, South Austin Democrats, Black Austin Democrats, Capital Area Asian American Democrats, Capital City Young Democrats, Texas Environmental Democrats of Austin, Capital Area Progressive Democrats, West Austin Democrats, Sierra Club, Circle C Area Democrats, North by Northwest Democrats , The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA), Austin Tejano Democrats, Austin Board of REALTORS®, and Small Business Group.
3 – Big banks and governments are facing a debt crisis, and the U.S. Congress and Obama administration have responded by creating more debt through federal “bailout” and “stimulus” programs. Do you think it is wise or necessary for city, county, and state governments to depend on federal “stimulus funds” to pay today’s bills and to finance local projects? Do you think City of Austin officials are willing to balance the budget without needing to petition for federal “stimulus funds”?
No stimulus money is or will be used to balance our budget shortfall in the General Fund. The entire world is in an economic crisis, and I believe the current administration’s policy regarding the economic stimulus package is their approach to ensure that Americans survive the downturn and can retain their homes, jobs, and livelihoods. Austin will continue to seek stimulus dollars for projects that can assist our local economy and provide facilities and services that benefit our community. Ultimately, the City is responsible for balancing the City budget and improving efficiencies to ensure that we are spending every tax payer dollar wisely.
4 -- What do you see in the future for Austin transportation and land development?
With a potential for a 2010 Transportation Bond election coupled with the current funds available from the 2006 bond election and the modest increase in the transportation user fee, I believe there are going to be true options available for Austin to improve our road maintenance and consider further expansion of our public transportation system. Land development will slow over the next few years, but Austin will continue to see growth. Through our comprehensive planning process, citizens will have the opportunity to provide much needed input to determine the future growth of Austin.
5 -- What distinguishes you from your opponent(s)? Why should Austinites vote for you?
I believe my record as your council member and past experience in leadership roles demonstrates my ability reach the goals that we, as a community, have laid out. My commitment to accountability, transparency and responsibility will remain the top three values in my second term as your council member, and I will continue to rely on these values to guide my decisions should you choose to support me.
Joe Quintero
512-293-5022
joequintero.com
 1 -- What are the biggest issues in Austin that no one seems to be talking about? What issues would you concentrate on if elected?
The gentrification of East Austin through “Smart Growth,” a land use policy that allows new development to co-exist with existing development without increase in property values. And to impose “homestead exemption” tax relief.
2 -- Who are the major supporters and top donors to your campaign? What private and public organizations have endorsed you or helped with your campaign?
Grassroots people from East Austin, Texas Mexican-American Democrats, and La Prensa Hispanic newspaper.
3 – Big banks and governments are facing a debt crisis, and the U.S. Congress and Obama administration have responded by creating more debt through federal “bailout” and “stimulus” programs. Do you think it is wise or necessary for city, county, and state governments to depend on federal “stimulus funds” to pay today’s bills and to finance local projects? Do you think City of Austin officials are willing to balance the budget without needing to petition for federal “stimulus funds”?
If the federal stimulus funds will increase job opportunities immediately, I feel it is wise, if not prudent, that we take advantage of the stimulus dollars. We pay federal taxes TOO!
4 -- What do you see in the future for Austin transportation and land development?
I sense more urban development within the inner city that will deliver density along the rail lines. I see an increase in light rail expansion to the Airport.
5 -- What distinguishes you from your opponent(s)? Why should Austinites vote for you?
I'm an Austin native and I have been involved with my neighborhood association, Greater East Austin, in advocating for homestead exemptions, the environment, the closure of The Holly Power Plant, along with single-member districts. I'm a grassroots candidate from East Austin Normal 0 and very well known within the Hispanic community. I will not sell out!
Place 5
Bill Spelman
(512) 471-8953
billspelman.org
 1 -- What are the biggest issues in Austin that no one seems to be talking about? What issues would you concentrate on if elected?
I’m deeply concerned about the state of public participation in Austin’s city government. There’s no problem with quantity – we have a tremendous amount of participation. But it’s often negative in tone, because people realize it comes too late to influence public decisions. I’d like to see significant improvement in how the city reaches out to residents and engages their knowledge and hard work. Public participation sits at the crux of many of our major political battles. We must provide timely, complete information and engage the public early in the process to encourage the trading of ideas needed to solve the challenges we face.
Dealing with the effects of our weakening economy and its serious impact on the people of our community will be my first priority. For me, a strong economy begins at home. That means protecting the small, local businesses that create most new jobs, and respecting taxpayers by ensuring our limited tax money is being spent on services that benefit all of us, not just a few.
2 -- Who are the major supporters and top donors to your campaign? What private and public organizations have endorsed you or helped with your campaign?
My list of over 750 supporters, available on www.billspelman.org blog, spans a wide variety of interests and viewpoints. It includes leaders from the business, neighborhood, and environmental communities.
I am honored to have received the support of every community organization endorsing in this race. As of March 19 this includes: The American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, Austin Central Labor Council, Austin Firefighters Association, Austin Lesbian/Gay Political Caucus, Austin Police Association, Austin Tejano Democrats, Austin/Travis County EMS Employees Association, Black Austin Democrats, Building Owners and Managers Association of Austin, Capital Area Asian American Democrats, Capitol Area Progressive Democrats, Capital City Young Democrats, Circle C Democrats, Mexican American Democrats of Austin, North by Northwest Democrats, Sierra Club, South Austin Democrats, Stonewall Democrats, Texas Environmental Democrats, West Austin Democrats
3 – Big banks and governments are facing a debt crisis, and the U.S. Congress and Obama administration have responded by creating more debt through federal “bailout” and “stimulus” programs. Do you think it is wise or necessary for city, county, and state governments to depend on federal “stimulus funds” to pay today’s bills and to finance local projects? Do you think City of Austin officials are willing to balance the budget without needing to petition for federal “stimulus funds”?
Since the Texas State Constitution requires the City of Austin to balance its budget each year, city officials weigh delivery of needed service provision with limiting tax burdens. I do not believe that we should raise taxes during the recession to balance our city budget; rather, we can and should do a better job of measuring the city’s service delivery, maximizing our performance, and living within our means.
Much of funds made available by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act are to be used to begin construction of new capital projects. This will increase local employment opportunities, and allow the City to rebuild failing roads, improve our water/wastewater system, and fund public safety improvements. We should take advantage of the opportunity.
4 -- What do you see in the future for Austin transportation and land development?
The proposed development of the new comprehensive plan, the first in 30 years, will provide a critically important missing piece to our land and transportation planning. To be successful we need to build a process that actively solicits community input and feedback, and ensure that a wide variety of voices and opinions are considered while crafting the plan that will guide Austin’s future. We must also respect the important past decisions that have guided us and refer to them throughout the planning process.
5 -- What distinguishes you from your opponent(s)? Why should Austinites vote for you?
I am unopposed for Place 5. I believe that I have the knowledge and experience the City needs during this difficult economic period. For two decades I have taught courses in applied mathematics and statistics, urban policy and management, and criminal justice, and I continue to do nationally recognized research on police operations, prison policy, and urban economic development. I’ve led City task forces and I served on the City Council from 1997 to 2000, so I’m ready to get to work today. I am honored to have supporters from across the community, including business leaders and developers as well as neighborhood leaders and environmentalists. I believe this is because I have a reputation for understanding the legitimacy of many viewpoints and listening to all sides before drawing conclusions.
Place 6
Sheryl Cole
(512) 542-9744
keepsherylcole.com
 1 -- What are the biggest issues in Austin that no one seems to be talking about? What issues would you concentrate on if elected?
Nobody seems to be talking about the traffic congestion on I-35 in our central city and managed lanes or other strategies for MoPac in a real solution oriented way and I hope to take that on during my next term. We spend a lot of time discussing energy issues and everyone recognizes that conservation is the best way to manage our natural resources and save money, but we don't talk about how to encourage resource management with our minority communities and I am working on an ititiative that will develop an action plan to show progress in meeting these goals. Finally, I know that we don't have enough money to maintain our city parks and I want to develop real public-private partnerships for the operations and maintenance for some of our facilities including Waller Creek.
2 -- Who are the major supporters and top donors to your campaign? What private and public organizations have endorsed you or helped with your campaign?
My major supporters and top donors come from all parts of the city and show my ability to bring a diversesity of people to the table including Terrell Blodgett, Gary Valdez, Kathy Tovo, Bertha Means, Diana Zuniga, and Tim League to name just a few. So far I have been endorsed by a wide variety of community interests including BOMA, the Austin Chapter of the Sierra Club, the Austin Police Association PAC, and the combined vote of the Travis County Democratic Clubs including Circle C Democrats, Black Austin Democrats, South Austin Democrats and the Capital City Progressive Democrats.
3 – Big banks and governments are facing a debt crisis, and the U.S. Congress and Obama administration have responded by creating more debt through federal “bailout” and “stimulus” programs. Do you think it is wise or necessary for city, county, and state governments to depend on federal “stimulus funds” to pay today’s bills and to finance local projects? Do you think City of Austin officials are willing to balance the budget without needing to petition for federal “stimulus funds”?
The City of Austin is fiscally sound and I am concerned if we were to spend federal stimulus money for today's bills or to rely too heavily on stimulus money to finance local projects. We are mandated by the State of Texas to balance our general fund without the federal stimulus money so we must make the tough decisions that maintain service, but remain fiscally solvent.
4 -- What do you see in the future for Austin transportation and land development?
The community has a real opportunity when we take on the comprehensive planning to decide what our future land use and transportation solutions will look like in the future. I believe as our population doubles every twenty years that we will look towards urban rail and tranist, more multi-modal facilities, density in our urban core and more transit-oriented development, but I will work with the community in creating a vision of our future that we can all support.
5 -- What distinguishes you from your opponent(s)? Why should Austinites vote for you?
I believe that the main thing that distinguishes me from my opponent is balance and sound judgement. Austin is a community with a diversity of interests and there are a lot of people who want to be heard. Without elected officials who can create compromise and make balanced and thoughtful decisions, we won't move forward. I believe Austinites should vote for me if they want leadership that tries to take all views into account when making a decision, but has the courage to stand up for what is best for the entire city.
Sam Osemene
(512) 554-7897
osemenesam.com
 1-- What are the biggest issues in Austin that no one seems to be talking about? What issues would you concentrate on if elected?
One of the biggest issues in Austin is that we are losing our freedom incrementally . The City Council has been deliberate in its effort to take away our freedom. The Police Chief recently proposed drawing our blood on suspicion of DUI. We started with the red light cameras and
now the blood draw. We need to wake up and stop this madness. The only way we can stop these irresponsible policies is to run for public office. I fear for my city that in the next ten years, the City Council we make Austin the dictatorial capital of Texas. When elected to the City Council, I will support growth that can pay for itself instead of the corporate welfare system we have now, Transparency, accountability and oversight of government activities, no toll roads on roads our tax dollars have paid for, cut taxes because this is one of the ways to promote economic growth, reform the City Ordinances that are impediments to economic growth and protecting our freedom.
2 -- Who are the major supporters and top donors to your campaign? What private and public organizations have endorsed you or helped with your campaign?
One of my biggest supporters is Gordon Walton and his family and many of you that work every day to win this election. I thank you for your support and efforts to preserve our freedom. I have the support of many organizations — Mexican American Democrats, Small Business Group, Travis County Republican Liberty Caucus, and others.
3 – Big banks and governments are facing a debt crisis, and the U.S. Congress and Obama administration have responded by creating more debt through federal “bailout” and “stimulus” programs. Do you think it is wise or necessary for city, county, and state governments to depend on federal “stimulus funds” to pay today’s bills and to finance local projects? Do you think City of Austin officials are willing to balance the budget without needing to petition for federal “stimulus funds”?
No. We must live according to our means. We must not be asking our children to sacrifice for us. We must be sacrificing for our children just like our Founding Fathers did for us. The City Council is not balancing the budget the way it supposed to do. The idea of borrowing from different Departments to come up with a number is irresponsible. We need to end wasteful spending like the $250 Million dollars for solar energy in East Austin for 25 years for 5,000 residents. The $1.3 billion dollars no bid contract to a company in Nacogdoches for another energy exploration.
4 -- What do you see in the future for Austin transportation and land development?
We need a comprehensive plan in order to sustain the population. Land development has to be based on cost benefit analysis. We have to look at how it benefits the community and the local economy.
5 -- What distinguishes you from your opponent(s)? Why should Austinites vote for you?
Are you better off today than three years ago? If the answer is no, I need your support. We need a new direction and new vision for the city. We must not surrender our freedom at the local level. We must stand up and defend our freedom. My opponent's records are there for you to review. She may run away from her record but her record will never run away from her.
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Vote consciously,
Colette Michalec