Issue: Affordability
Q
One of the best ways to make Austin more affordable is to ensure we have a diverse set of industries which provide local, skilled talent the opportunity to compete for jobs that have a career ladder.The Austin City Council is considering adopting a revised economic incentive policy, expanding the previous one-size-fits-all policy. If the Austin Chamber of Commerce presents a company that meets the criteria for an incentive as set by City Council policy, will you vote to support incentivizing jobs for both small operators and large in our city?
Asked by Austin Ahead
Q
Given the increasing financial difficulties of small and iconic businesses from rising property taxes, to increase regulatory costs, do you believe the City Council should enact wide-sweeping human resources policies on local merchants and businesses, such as mandatory paid sick leave or predictive scheduling, on all businesses working in Austin? Please explain your position.
Asked by Austin Ahead
Q
In a recent poll, residents of Austin cited rising property taxes as a major issue they face, iconic business are having to close their doors citing rising property taxes. How would you slow or stop the increase in City property taxes, encourage other taxing entities to do the same, and balance the requests for more funding coming from the City Departments and the public?
Asked by Austin Ahead
Q
If elected to the City Council, what would be your priorities for the City of Austin budget process? If you were not able to identify additional revenues to fund your priorities, what are some current city expenses that you would be willing to support reducing in order to fund your budget priorities?
Asked by Austin Ahead
Q
The current land use code has allowed for East Austin to be treated differently than Central, West, and Southwest Austin. Development intensity and density that is allowed in East Austin is prohibited in other parts of town, partly causing displacement and gentrification. What are your general thoughts on displacement and gentrification? What do you think about this policy of the City? Would you propose changing it? Why?
Asked by Austin Ahead
Q
Council adopted the Strategic Housing Blueprint last year, calling for 135,000 new unts over 10 years. This gets us to break even in terms of need. What will you do to mitigate housing affordability? Would you support amending the City's approved Strategic Housing Blueprint to approve the construction of at least 15,000 housing units per year for 10 years, with at least 25% affordable housing for households at 80% Median Family Income (MFI) and below, including 200 Housing First Permanent Supportive Housing units per year; and 25% “missing middle”/workforce housing at 140% MFI.?
Asked by Austin Ahead