Candidate Q&A

How do you plan to reach out to constituents about what their needs are?

Social media — providing all of the ways someone can contact the Trustee’s office. And by attending, on a regular basis, neighborhood meetings within the township.

What is the top issue your township is facing and how would you address it as a trustee?

It appears that housing and food insecurity are two issues facing the township. We will continue to develop relationships with other governmental agencies, and corporations to develop a plan “specific” for Wayne Township to alleviate these issues.

Should township government be consolidated, or should specific services be consolidated, to better manage resources and save taxpayer money?

There are, in my opinion, several options:

1. Privatize the administration of individual assistance (block grant to other agency)
2. Move the responsibilities of the trustee’s office regarding individual assistance to the state Family Social Services Administration (FSSA). Many of the current individuals receiving trustee benefits are also receiving some type of assistance from FSSA.
3. Consolidating some services of multiple townships into one is an option. However, I don’t see a significant savings.

Considering the expected declines in revenue because of property tax cuts, how would you manage your office’s budget?

After attending over 90% of the Township’s board meetings for the last four years I have seen/heard of the effects of a shrinking budget. Creating relationships with corporations and other business in the township could be one solution. With this in mind, establish a trust fund to supplement any shortfall of assistance to individuals.

How would you improve residents’ access to township assistance?

Currently, the township office is located on a major bus line, which is advantageous. The trustee’s office may explore the option to provide transportation assistance to those individuals who don’t have access to public transportation.
In addition, the trustee’s office may consider using an online application process.