2015 Special Election Voters Guide

&

The CurrenT

The CurrenT aPril 28, 2015 ■ special election Ward 4 seat d.C. CounCil

acqunetta anderson

leon t. andrews Jr.

VoTers Guide

renée Bowser Gwenellen CorleyBowman

■ Should you be elected to the D.C. Council, what are the three areas upon which you would concentrate the most?

Anderson: Affordable housing, education, economic development.

Andrews: Education, economic development, public safety.

Austin: Crime, senior citizens, homelessness.

Bowser: Community-centered economic development, affordable housing, schools.

Corley-Bowman: Job opportunities, public middle school, affordable housing.

Jones: Education, smart development, D.C. statehood.

Powell: Education, affordable housing, jobs and income equality.

Sloan: Housing affordability, education, local renewable energy industry.

Tengen: Education, affordable housing, constituent services.

Todd: Senior citizens, education reform, constituent services.

Toliver: Education, economic development, affordable housing.

contributors.

Sloan: No, just strengthen laws on transparency.

Tengen: No. Todd: No. Toliver: No, because of Supreme Court decisions, but there should be disclosure.

■ What changes, if any, should be made on rules for political contributions to ensure honesty among the District’s elected officials?

Anderson: Forbid District developers from contributing.

Andrews: Continued transparency, stronger enforcement and elimination of loopholes.

Austin: Ban contributions from government contractors.

Bowser: Ban contributions from those having or hoping to get District contracts within 18 months.

Corley-Bowman: Limit size to $1,000 per contributor.

Jones: Increase the donation limit to $1,000. Limit the paperwork. Have government financing for those who have raised a certain amount.

Powell: Expand and enforce pay-to-play legislation.

Sloan: Continue on recent path of assuring their transparency.

Tengen: The rules are adequate. The question is how well they will be audited.

Todd: The changes are right on par. I’d be willing to take another look after the next few election cycles.

Toliver: Ensure full disclosure of familial relationship between donors.

■ Should we have encouraged Walmart to locate here?

Anderson: Yes, returning citizens and others need jobs.

Andrews: No. Austin: Yes, to create jobs.

Bowser: No, as the District government pays Medicare and other benefits for people who work there and don’t live in D.C. Corley-Bowman: Not unless they agreed to the large retailer minimum wage law.

Jones: Yes, but not six stores.

Powell: No. Sloan: Yes. It’s provided lots of jobs.

Tengen: Yes. Todd: Yes. It’s a great thing providing access to quality goods.

Toliver: Yes, but only if the company provided more community benefits such as free parking and community rooms.

■ Should there be a ban on donations to campaigns from people or companies doing business with the D.C. government?

Anderson: Yes. Andrews: Only if there is a potential for a quid pro quo.

Austin: Yes. Bowser: Yes, and not from those hoping to do so within 18 months.

Corley-Bowman: Yes. Jones: Yes. Powell: No, but council members should not vote on matters affecting their

ron austin

Wednesday, april 8, 2015

■ Would you have voted for the Large Retailer Accountability Act, which would have raised the minimum wage for Walmart and other “big box” stores?

Anderson: Yes. Andrews: Yes. Austin: No. Minimum wages should be changed for the entire city.

Bowser: Yes. Corley-Bowman: Yes. Jones: Yes. Powell: Yes. Sloan: Yes, all large D.C. companies should provide robust living wages.

Tengen: Yes. Todd: No. Toliver: No. We should not have picked just on large retailers.

■ Considering the expected deficit of over $200 million, what spending areas, if any, would you like increased and which decreased in an upcoming budget?

Anderson: Increase affordable housing, renovating schools and educational resources. See no decreases.

Andrews: Increase education, infrastructure and enforcement of policies that allow aging in place. Unsure on decreases.

Austin: Increase on homelessness. Put soccer stadium on hold.

Bowser: Increase rent supplements, housing construction and the Housing Production Trust Fund. Look at cutting subsidies for developers, particularly for those not obeying District law.

Corley-Bowman: Increase spending on homeless, youth job placement and grants for affordable housing. Pay for it with increased corporate taxes.

Jones: I am unsure. I don’t think any areas should be cut back. Education

Judi Jones

edwin W. Powell

should be the priority, not sports arenas.

Powell: More spending in targeted areas of education, economic development. Decrease streetcar project.

Sloan: Increase homelessness spending. Decrease streetcars.

Tengen: Increase in housing because much of the deficit is due to homelessness; increase capital expenditures for modernizing schools. No decreases.

Todd: No increases. Look for savings across the government through greater efficiency.

Toliver: Increase for schools, elderly services and affordable housing. Decrease out-of-state education spending without taking away kids’ services. Re-examine soccer stadium economics and leasing and procurement practices.

■ Which taxes would you like increased and which taxes would you like decreased, given our current budget situation?

Anderson: Decrease property taxes for seniors, people with disabilities, veterans, and women who are single heads of households. Decrease developer tax breaks.

Andrews: Decrease residential property taxes. Increase business taxes.

Austin: Would not like to see increases.

Bowser: It was unwise to reduce the estate tax for the wealthy. Restore the old level. Make income taxes more progressive.

Corley-Bowman: Increase corporate profits taxes. Decrease bag tax.

Jones: I wouldn’t cut any taxes, but I wouldn’t plan to increase any either.

Powell: Decrease business taxes and middle personal income taxes. Increase taxes on cigarettes and alcohol, as well as sales taxes. Take estate tax back to $1 million threshold.

Sloan: Fewer speed cameras; increase cigarette taxes; increase taxes moderately for store-purchased alcohol; increase income taxes for the very wealthy.

Tengen: Have a possible sports tax for teams playing in District.

Todd: Lower business franchise tax; raise standard deductions to be consistent with federal levels; create a lower tax bracket of 6.5 percent for the middle class.

Toliver: We can balance budget without increasing taxes. Look at reducing fees.

■ Should the city increase taxes on those with incomes over $250,000? $500,000? $1 million?

Anderson: Yes. Andrews: Yes for over $500,000 Austin: Yes for over $250,000 Bowser: Increase for over $500,000 Corley-Bowman: Yes for over $500,000.

Jones: Unsure.

Powell: Yes for all three.

Sloan: Increases for each category on staggered basis.

Tengen: Yes for those making over $1 million.

douglass sloan

Bobvala tengen

Brandon todd

V1

dwayne M. toliver

About the Voters Guide about the Voters Guide The Washington Informer and the Current’s Voters Guide for the April 28 special Theappears Current’sinVoters Guide and for the 28 special electionThe appears election The Current TheApril Washington Informer. sectioninisThe also Current and The Washington Informer.

The section is also available online at available online at issuu.com/currentnewspapers and at www.washingtoninformer. issuu.com/currentnewspapers. com.

The Current’s staff interviewed candidates for the Ward 4 D.C. Council seat left The Current’s staff interviewed candidates for the vacant when Muriel Bowser became mayor. Glova Scott initially agreed to participate Ward 4 D.C. Council seat left vacant when Muriel but ended the interview after several questions, and she therefore is not included in Bowser became mayor. Glova Scott initially agreed to the section. Pedro Rubio Jr. appears on the ballot but has withdrawn from the race. participate but ended the interview after several questions, and she therefore is not The guide inappearing in The Washington Informeron also thehas Ward 8 council included the section.

Pedro Rubio Jr. appears theincludes ballot but withdrawn race fillrace. the seat left vacant by the death of Marion Barry. Candidate responded in fromtothe writing a list appearing of questions addressing WardInformer 8 issues.also Stuart Anderson and Juhaur Thetoguide in The Washington includes the Ward 8 Abraham have withdrawn from the race although their names will appear on the council race to fill the seat left vacant by the death of Marion Barry. ballot.

about the election

About the Special Election The polls willopen be open 7 a.m.

8 p.m.

Tuesday, Voters be able The polls will be fromfrom 7 a.m. to 8top.m.

Tuesday, AprilApril 28. 28.

Voters willwill be able to to use either paper ballots or touch-screen voting equipment at their polling place. use either paper ballots or touch-screen voting equipment at their polling place. You You may also request an absentee ballot by mail through April 21. Early voting may also request an absentee ballot by mail through April 21. Early voting begins begins April 13 at One Judiciary Square, 441 4th St. NW, and will continue daily April 13 at One Judiciary Square, 441 4th St. NW, and will continue daily from 8:30 from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. through April 25 except Thursday, April 16 (Emancipation a.m. to 7 p.m. through April 25 except Thursday, April 16 (Emancipation Day), and Day), and Sunday, April 19. Satellite early-voting locations — at Takoma Community Sunday, 19. Satellite locations — at Takoma Community Center, Center, April 300 Van Buren St.early-voting NW, and Malcolm X Elementary School, 1351 Alabama 300 Van Buren St. NW, and Malcolm X Elementary School, 1351 Alabama Ave. SE — Ave. SE — will be open April 18 through 25, except on Sunday. will be Aprilvisit 18 dcboee.org through 25,orexcept on Sunday. For details, visit dcboee.org or Foropen details, call 202-727-2525. call 202-727-2525.

Todd: No. We should first look for greater efficiency.

Toliver: Temporary increases, a year at a time for those making over $1 million.

■ Would doing so drive some affluent residents into the suburbs, resulting in lost revenue?

Anderson: I don’t think so.

Andrews: I don’t think so. They understand that to those whom much is given, much is expected.

Austin: I don’t think so.

Bowser: Studies elsewhere have shown it doesn’t.

Corley-Bowman: No. Jones: No. Powell: I don’t think so.

Sloan: I don’t think so.

Todd: Yes. Tengen: Some may leave, but most would stay.

Toliver: No. Our services and commuting costs would convince them to stay.

■ We have the lowest residential property tax in the area. If taxes have to be raised, should this category be increased rather than income taxes?

Anderson: It depends. I need to look at more data.

Andrews: No. Austin: It should be looked at.

Bowser: No, as elderly often don’t have income to pay if their homes have increased in value.

Corley-Bowman: No. Jones: No. Powell: Yes, that’s an option.

Sloan: No. Tengen: No. Todd: No. Toliver: No. ■ Are the city’s cash balances adequate,

too high or too low? Why? Anderson: They are inadequate.

Andrews: They could be higher.

Austin: They’re adequate.

Bowser: Uncertain.

Corley-Bowman: Too high.

Jones: Uncertain. I’m not sure what they are.

Powell: They are adequate.

Sloan: Just below adequate.

Tengen: Uncertain.

Todd: Adequate, but could use more.

Toliver: I would reduce them if it had no affect on our bond rating.

■ Under what conditions should the city be allowed to dip into its reserve funds?

Anderson: To maintain a diverse population, for affordable housing and for education. The mayor and D.C. Council should decide.

Andrews: In economic emergencies, as approved by the city administrator.

Austin: If spending pressures become a concern. It should be a joint decision between comptroller, mayor and council.

Bowser: We, like North Dakota, should have a municipal-owned bank and stop paying Wall Street expertise for financial advice. Dip if we cannot pay the payroll or provide essential services like police.

Corley-Bowman: When we might have to furlough teachers or emergency service providers or dip into pension fund.

Jones: If we cannot cover the deficit with the current income.

Powell: Only in dire economic emergencies such as a federal government shutdown, with mayor and council approval.

Sloan: A real emergency situation, as decided by mayor and council.

Tengen: Only in state of emergency issued by mayor.

Todd: If approved by council and mayor, Page V2V4 See Ward 4 Q&a/Page

The Washington Informer & The Current Newspapers General Election Voters Guide / APRIL 2015 / V-1

V4

Wednesday, april 8, 2015

Ward 4 seat d.C. CounCil

acqunetta anderson

The CurrenT

leon t. andrews Jr.

Ward 4 Q&a From Page V1 and recommended by chief financial officer.

Toliver: Only under emergency circumstances such as shut down of public safety with mayor, chief financial officer and council approval.

■ Would doing so increase our interest expenses and possibly make it more difficult to float bond issues?

Anderson: I need to study it more.

Andrews: Yes, absolutely.

Austin: I doubt it.

Bowser: Only if we continued to do it many times.

Corley-Bowman: I don’t think so with our vitality.

Jones: Definitely, yes.

Powell: It probably would.

Sloan: Yes. Tengen: Yes. Todd: Yes. Toliver: It would depend upon the amount.

■ Over 60 percent of District government employees live outside the District, so we don’t collect their income taxes. What if anything should be done about it?

Anderson: Require that they move into the city within a given period of time and offer them assistance to do so.

Andrews: I need to know more about our options.

Austin: There should be an answer, but I don’t know what it is.

Bowser: Build more affordable housing, especially for District employees.

Corley-Bowman: Give preference to District residents.

Jones: There should be a more restrictive residency policy for city employees. It might be illegal.

Powell: Request money from Congress for use of our streets. Not much can be done given the Home Rule Charter.

Sloan: Look at a sunset income tax break if they live here for a prolonged period.

Tengen: Increase affordable housing, giving preference to District employees.

Todd: Look at ways to employ more D.C. residents. We can’t legally mandate it.

Toliver: We could legally require more upper-level managers to be District employees.

■ Many relatively new luxury goods stores such as Tiffany & Co. are located in Tysons Corner and on Wisconsin Avenue just across the District line. Would you support giving developers tax incentives to bring them here, hoping to increase our real estate and retail sales tax revenue?

Anderson: Yes, if they hire District residents.

Andrews: No. Austin: No. Bowser: No. Corley-Brown: No, as owners of milliondollar condos will attract that business anyway.

Jones: No. I think they will eventually come. It’s unnecessary.

Powell: As long as they hire mostly

ron austin

renée Bowser Gwenellen CorleyBowman

District residents.

Sloan: Yes. They pay high wages if they hire a high percentage of D.C. residents.

Tengen: Yes, if jobs for D.C. residents were included.

Todd: Many are here or are coming. I’d not support a tax break just for a Tiffany’s.

Toliver: No. They’ll come here due to our booming economy.

■ What about anchor retailers — department stores that normally do not pay rent when they anchor suburban shopping centers?

Anderson: Yes, if they hire District residents.

Andrews: It depends on the package; it could revitalize an area.

Austin: No. Bowser: Possibly a minor break.

Corley-Bowman: No. Jones: For a certain amount of time, but not forever.

Powell: Yes, if they hire mostly District residents.

Sloan: Yes, if they a high percentage of D.C. residents.

Tengen: No, as we have a strong number now.

Todd: It would depend on the project.

Toliver: No. It’s a slippery slope.

■ Tech firms now receive tax rates comparable to Virginia’s. District residents investing in such local firms get lower capital gains taxes. Are there any other classifications of District business that should receive this benefit?

Anderson: Perhaps services based on education.

Andrews: Uncertain, but would consider proposals.

Austin: Perhaps health care to bring down its costs.

Bowser: Yes, for other firms based on science and green technology.

Corley-Bowman: For-profit education services such as Kaplan, and job-training services.

Jones: Possibly incubator businesses.

Powell: Small business start-ups for a short period of time.

Sloan: Possibly for film industry.

Tengen: Extend it to small businesses for the first two years they are here, as they are most apt to hire locally.

Todd: No. Toliver: Add research and development laboratories, investment houses and locally chartered banks.

■ What approaches, if any, should be taken to decrease the likelihood of lowerincome, long-term District residents being forced from their homes by increased real estate values and taxes? Or are the recent changes adequate?

Anderson: Lower-income citizens should be exempted from real estate taxes.

Andrews: Increase enforcement of rent control laws.

Austin: Uncertain.

Bowser: Budget for property tax exemption for lower-income seniors who’ve been in their homes over 20 years; strengthen rent control; have moratorium on destroying public housing.

Corley-Bowman: Educate residents to better manage their homeownership. Offer

Judi Jones

edwin W. Powell

grants and low-interest loans for home maintenance.

Jones: We need to take a look at that.

I’m uncertain.

Powell: We need more staff in the Office of the Tenant Advocate to ensure that tenants have due process and that landlords aren’t using hardship petitions to arbitrarily raise rents.

Sloan: Limit increases in real estate taxes for seniors earning under $100,000 to what they would pay at the time they purchased their house.

Tengen: The recent changes are probably adequate, but more study is needed.

Todd: The city should have more rent subsidies for low-income and senior citizens.

Toliver: Enforce existing inclusionary zoning laws and eliminate waivers and exceptions. Consider micro-housing for seniors, teachers, nurses and first responders with District financial assistance.

■ Our corporate profits taxes are considerably higher than Virginia’s but comparable with Maryland’s. Our corporate real estate taxes are far higher than either one.

Should there be an effort to reduce them to better compete?

Anderson: Yes. Andrews: Yes, but I’m happy the way it is now.

Austin: I think yes for corporate profits taxes.

Bowser: Only in return for hiring more D.C. residents or other trade-offs.

Corley-Bowman: Not with the upcoming deficit.

Jones: No. Powell: I think yes for job creation, if the sales tax is raised.

Sloan: We’re fine. No changes are needed.

Tengen: Not until we can tax people who work here but do not live here.

Todd: Yes, especially the franchise (profits) tax.

Toliver: No, due to the resurgence of the District. Businesses are coming here.

■ If yes, how would you make up for the lost revenue?

Anderson: First determine what revenue would be gained. The chief financial officer would have to give his opinion.

Austin: Don’t give other corporations tax exemptions. Get federal government and mega-churches to make payments in lieu of taxes on their land.

Powell: Raise the sales tax and taxes on alcohol and cigarettes.

Todd: Properly classify vacant properties, which have a higher tax rate.

■ Should the sales tax include services such as gym memberships?

Anderson: No. Andrews: No. Austin: No. Bowser: Yes. Corley-Bowman: No. Jones: No. Powell: No. Sloan: No. Tengen: Yes. Todd: No. It could deter people from healthy exercise.

Toliver: No.

douglass sloan

Bobvala tengen

■ What additional steps, if any, should be taken to help former prison inmates find jobs?

Anderson: Focus on training, based on their skills and available jobs. Get the Department of Employment Services to develop a program.

Andrews: Better training, education with credentials and mentoring programs.

Austin: Bring prisoners closer to the city so we can rehabilitate them.

Bowser: Use recreation centers for job training; provide food stamps and other benefits they cannot get from the federal government.

Corley-Bowman: Offer educational programs to help inmates be placed into viable jobs.

Jones: Get them the right to vote.

Powell: Ensure that “ban the box” legislation is adhered to and expand programs to help returning citizens find employment.

Sloan: Have city-sponsored mentorship programs to help them develop employable skills.

Tengen: We need a much stronger returning citizens program that will work to find employers willing to give them a second chance.

Todd: Office on Returning Citizen Affairs should work more closely with the Department of Employment Services to develop programs for long-term employment.

Toliver: Use underutilized school buildings for vocational training when they return. Provide post-release counseling, outreach services and job skills. Reward employers.

■ What steps should be taken to improve public education?

Anderson: Look at best practices in our best schools and implement them in the lower-performing schools.

Andrews: Stronger middle school options, partnerships with community organizations, better teacher training.

Austin: Make charter schools and D.C. Public Schools work closer together, including a unified boundary system.

Bowser: Ensure that all public schools have same level of curriculum as premier schools and similar physical plants.

Corley-Bowman: Wraparound services in all schools, educational support and increased salaries for teachers.

Jones: Continue building improvements. Bring back trade and business courses.

Powell: Expand early childhood education. Increase vocational education. Focus on graduation rates and test scores.

Sloan: Cooperative plan between the Public Charter School Board and D.C. Public Schools to have good neighborhood schools throughout city.

Tengen: Strengthen middle schools, help parents of students who hold jobs.

Todd: Attract and retain best school leadership, more parental engagement and work with community on appropriate curriculum.

Toliver: Convert campuses to neighborhood centers during evenings and weekends. Offer greater technology and other resources in schools.

■ Some say test score increases indicate

V-2 / APRIL 2015 / The Washington Informer & The Current Newspapers General Election Voters Guide

Brandon todd

dwayne M. toliver

that the present education system, while still having a long way to go, is making real progress and any new D.C. Council laws might interfere with the mayor’s ability to run the system. Do you agree?

Anderson: No. The council should be involved.

Andrews: No. Austin: No. Bowser: No. Corley-Bowman: No. Jones: It depends on the law. It might be an improvement.

Powell: No. Sloan: No. Tengen: No. New legislation will not affect our recent progress.

Todd: Yes. The council should work more collaboratively with the chancellor.

Toliver: No. ■ Many Crestwood and 16th Street Heights residents are upset that children from their neighborhoods will eventually be unable to go to Deal Middle and Wilson High schools, which are now significantly overcrowded. What should be done about it? [Editor’s note: Interviews took place before Mayor Bowser implemented the deputy mayor’s recommended changes to the boundary changes.]

Anderson: The mayor has taken steps to postpone the changes. We need a Ward 4 middle school like Deal. Give Coolidge High a “school within a school” as selective as School Without Walls.

Andrews: Allow those neighborhoods’ children to continue at Deal and Wilson and increase investments in middle and high school options in Ward 4.

Austin: That’s why I want integrated boundaries with charter schools.

Bowser: Have three- to five-year moratorium and upgrade Ward 4 schools on a fast track.

Corley-Bowman: Re-evaluate boundaries.

Jones: We’ll see what the new boundaries are.

Powell: Try to get a moratorium passed on changing the boundaries and focus efforts to improve Coolidge and Roosevelt.

Sloan: Focus on improving Roosevelt, where Ward 4 residents will have far more control than they would have at Wilson.

Tengen: Reopen MacFarland Middle School and open a new one catering to students in the northern part of Ward 4.

Improve Roosevelt.

Todd: I want to see the new deputy mayor’s school boundary proposals. Must work faster with better options.

Toliver: Keep them in the current DealWilson feeder pattern. Improve neighborhood schools.

■ Would the creation of a very demanding “high-tech” school within a school program similar to Silver Spring’s Montgomery Blair at either Roosevelt or Coolidge help solve the problem?

Anderson: Yes. Andrews: No, but it’s a part of a good solution.

Austin: Uncertain.

Bowser: It might.

Corley-Bowman: Yes, if managed correctly.

Jones: I think so.

Page V3V6 See Ward 4 Q&a/Page

V6

Wednesday, april 8, 2015

The CurrenT

Ward 4 Q&a From Page PageV2V4

Powell: Add funds for math and reading specialists, female athletic programs, special education services. Reduce central office administration.

Sloan: No decreases. Increase physical education.

Tengen: Add funding for after-school activities.

Todd: A new Ward 4 middle school, finish Roosevelt and Coolidge renovations. No reductions.

Toliver: Increase teacher salaries, technology in classroom. Unsure of reductions.

Corley-Bowman: No. Put it on the back burner.

Jones: No. Powell: No. It’s too expensive.

Sloan: No. Tengen: Yes. Pay for it through increased advertising revenue on the streetcars.

Todd: No. We haven’t seen a program that works.

Toliver: No, unless we have improved economic efficiencies under existing efforts.

Todd: Not at all.

Toliver: If arrested for violent crime, upon arrest. If convicted, all crimes.

the planning department.

Powell: Yes, the Kennedy Street corridor.

Sloan: If providing a dedicated bike lane takes away a lane of traffic, no. No specific locations come to mind.

Tengen: Yes, on Georgia Avenue and 16th Street.

Todd: Yes, consider Kennedy Street and Georgia Avenue.

Toliver: Yes, on Georgia, New Hampshire, Arkansas and Missouri avenues, and 5th and 16th streets.

■ How would you get better enforcement of laws on jaywalking, bicycle riders ignoring moving vehicle laws such as stop signs and red lights, drivers ignoring yields, and drivers on cellphones or “blocking the box”?

Anderson: Have cameras and photograph them. We should impose license requirements on bikes for better enforce■ Some say per-pupil spending in areas ment. where there is great poverty ought to be ■ Should D.C. allow residents to set up Andrews: Better police training and ■ Is the present level of enforcement for ■ The D.C. Planning Office has been higher than where most of the students self-taxing districts where residents agree use of technology such as cameras. quality-of-life offenses such as public uricome from well-educated families. Do you praised and criticized for favoring fewer to pay extra taxes to receive extra servicAustin: Insist police enforce the laws. nation and graffiti generally speaking parking places in many new apartment agree? es similar to Maryland municipalities and Bowser: Have police give more warnadequate, too heavy-handed or not tough buildings. Where do you stand?

Anderson: Yes. ings. Make everyone get training and have our business improvement districts? enough?

Anderson: New apartment buildings Andrews: It could be higher, if coupled Anderson: I need more data. It might public service ads.

Anderson: tough enough. should be required to offer parking spaces Wednesday, april 8, 2015 TheNot CurrenT with clear educationalV8 outcomes.

Corley-Bowman: Crack down on police affect neighborhoods that can’t afford it.

Andrews: Not tough enough. according to the old rules.

Austin: No. Andrews: No. and make sure they enforce the law.

Austin: Not tough enough.

Andrews: I’m not familiar with their Bowser: Yes. You can’t compare of $100 million.retaining I also want work leverage customer relationships We must tomer service surveys that would and thento the University of Undecided.

Austin: Jones: Work with policeHigh department Bowser: Too heavy-handed. logic, but would support thetocurWashington Latin with Roosevelt. It costs with developers who specialize in management software similar to give constituents the opportunity to Cincinnati, where he majored in Bowser: No. improve ticketing and have more patrols upgrade peoples’ lives. rent requirements. more to educate some students.

From Page V3 affordable housing to create opportechnical support to create a ‘trougrade our performance,” he added. political science. He interned for the Corley-Bowman: Yes. for violators. tough enough.

Austin:tunities I support parking inhousing new for more more affordable ble Corley-Bowman: ticket’ for any callNot to the council And he would hold frequent comDistrict’s Board of Elections during Corley-Bowman: Yes. Jones: Powell: Committee Jones: Not us tough enough. apartmentinbuildings. the District.” office to allow to better track munity meetings to “take a proac- on the the Judiciary summers while he was in col-Yes, if there is community Program, the Affordable Dwelling Jones: Yes. Tengen noted particular opportuefficiently we are adequate. meeting our tive approach to find out what’s was also employed in sumUnits program agreement. should encourage police tolege. issueHemore Generally Many residents have cars.

The howPowell: Powell: Yes, to fund school and and com-Inclusionary Bowser:nities Ward 4 with private-sector constituents’ needs,” he said. adequate. going on intickets. the community.” mer programs at the Department Zoning.

Powell: of No. There are too many have Sloan: Generally speaking, Office of Planningin thankfully modified its munity wraparound services. projects in the works and upcoming Tengen said he would also use He cites his private-sector expeHousing and Community “I also would want to create and have-not favor block-the-box and red the Department Tengen: Adequate.

Sloan: Yes. geographical information system riences — as aSloan: baristaI at Starbucks Development, of areas now. more collaboration betweenproposals. the var- redevelopment of the Walter Reed No. cameras.

Tell police pull over and Todd: Adequate. hard toofenforce Corley-Bowman: There should be adeArmy Medical Center campus. maps to see if there isIt’s a pattern and later atlight a Verizon call center — toParks and Recreation andSloan: the Public Tengen: Yes. ious housing administrations in the problems takingdon’t care of con-who the as offeringcite lessons on how andTengen: he has Yes. District,” he said. “I would want bicycle ridersto who don’tService follow Commission, laws. aswith we often know quatetoparking.To improve constituent services graffiti, Todd: Yes. Ward criticize 4, Tengen would stituent complaints. improve constituent services. workedpolice for the AlcoholicTodd: Beverage ensure that the Housing Production Yes. Tengen: Strategically position is.

Jones: Iinwould them formake that. bet- offender Toliver: No. We should lift up all stuuse of technology. “I want to ...

“I also would implement cusgraduated from Wilson Regulation Administration.

Trust Fund receives annual funding Toliver: Yes, but not to offer police serand make it a priority with the Toliver: No, it’s hard to quantify. We Tengenofficers Powell:ter I oppose it as there is not dents. Money does not affect student pervices. need better enforcement across the board. chief of police. enough parking in the District. formance. It is often hunger and home the minimum wageparkto that rate starting in energy program, including a D.C. governTodd: Make sure police are mindful Sloan: There should be adequate abuse.

2017, “offsetting the higher costs with lower menttraining. auto fleetMake that runs fuels ■ Should there be bus-only lanes during and have appropriate sureon non-fossil ■ Should the District turn over citizenship ing in new developments.

From Page V3 From Page V3 business taxes,” and with a graduated scale “to lessen costs and to reduce our carbon rush hour on 16th Street? they enforce them. information to the U.S. immigration Tengen: It’s a good strategy.

People ■ What line items, if any, should be available to businesses with gross receipts footprint.” He also urges investments in solar, Anderson: Probably yes.

Toliver: Step upwind police and alternatives. authorities when suspects are arrested attracted to them interested in public reduced, struck fromendorsing or addedatomagnet the high school under $1 million. andpresence other renewable program with are ing in “master teachers” to train other teachAndrews: No. monitoring at locations there are the feasibility andcould booked transportation.

Funding for these programs comefor alleged Hewhere wants to examine of that emphasis — maybe at Roosevelt or ers. criminal activity, school budget? tax, taxes building a biofuels energy plant in the District Coolidge similar to Montgomery in tothrough Sloan believes be “stricter Austin: No. It’s not wide enough. theyonare convicted, just when there con- shouldproblems.

Todd:Blair’s We have figure increases how to getin the saleswhen Anderson: Bring back arts — programs. tobacco products and alcohol,victed and moderate through a public-private partnership.

“A pri- Yes, if it would make a subSilver Spring. accountability onall? parents whose children are Bowser: of a violent crime, or not at people out of cars and into public transImprove girls athletic programs. in the income tax — though he says regularly truant or tardy. ... We should dedivate entity is doing it in Georgia,” he said, On affordable housing, Powell says the difference.

■ Should the District provide morea plant dedi-would stantial arrested and booked portation and biking.increases Andrews: Add mentoring, increase the city should lower the marginalAnderson: tax rate forWhen adding that such create jobs city should partner with private entities to cate resources to talk with parents about the Corley-Bowman: No. cated bike lanes?and If yes, where...inanWard regardless of the crime.

Toliver: One sizethose doesearning not fit all. $60,000 to $150,000. “provide opportunity to teach develop importance of their children attending school after-school programming and“transition” teacher centers for homeless Jones: No, but if they run more regularAndrews: convicted a violent Parking training determinations Finally, should he depend onthe city should believes give Whenand renewable technology to local students.” with “mandatory being onoftime [and] offer 4? wraparound training at middle andpeople, high school levels. vocational firms that pay cre-consider it. for the able-bodied ... with the capaci- preference on local projects tocrime. services and extended child care toAnderson: try to Yes, atAlong Walterthose Reedlines, andthe oncity could themental neighborhood. ly, wealso could No reductions. union-scale wages and benefits. “We should ate charging/filling stations for carsPowell: runningYes, where there are at least ty to participate.” remedy the issues.”

Kennedy, Upshur and upper 14th streets.

Austin: When arrested.

Austin: Strike cellphones; end credit fund the Department of Employment Services on biodiesel, natural gas or electricity — The Office of the Tenant Advocate should To enhance those services, he wants Look at entire Bowser: crime or serious Should the counciltopass legislation two lanes for regular traffic in the rushcards for meals. Add hire job training and monitor contractstoto ensure jobs paid forOnly violent which could help generate revenue. more staff members, he■says, so the schools, libraries and recreation centers “to ward.

Andrews: Yes, onAGeorgia and Missouri Sloan offenses, if they are illegal. encourage faster streetcar development? hourgraduated direction. by the District go overwhelmingly to local native Washingtonian, agency can monitor rent control and keep a offer extended child care for parents who health items. residents,” he added. from St. John’s College High School and No. lid on and landlords seeking hardship to you follow conventional schedules.” avenues.

Corley-Bowman:don’t When convicted of a work If yes,waivers how would pay for it?

Sloan: Bowser: Add librarians counselors, Powell with four children, and majoredNo. “increase rents arbitrarily.” Powell also backs He also believes government mentorship Austin:proNo. from American University, where heTengen: violent crime.

Anderson: We should scrapis itmarried until we foreign languages. Uncertain on reduchis wife is a commander with the U.S. Public in public relations and political science. putting extra funds toward increasing homegrams can help “get parents and responsible Bowser: Yes, along Kennedy Street.

Jones: When arrested and booked for are absolutely sure what we are doing.

Todd: It’s something we have to tions.

Health Service. He majored in psychology at Married with a son at Shepherd ownership and believes low-income seniors adults more involved in children’s education.”

Don’t remove PossiblySloan Kansas felony.

Andrews: No. Rutgers University, holds foura master’s explore.

Corley-Bowman: Add emergency sup-tax breaks and Elementary, has represented Lamondshould get property assistance Sloan favors longer recesses, noting that parking. andmandates New Hampshire avenues. it could create Toliver: degrees and has a doctorate fromPowell: George Not at all, Riggs for eight years on the advisory neigh-If the Department of withteacher utilitiesgraduate and transportation. Austin: No. “theasAmerican Heart Association plies, maintenance and Mason in educational At commission Takoma expandthat children should get at least 60Corley-Bowman: minutes of borhood Yes, on Georgia that includes discriminatory process.

Bowser: No. I favor better bus rapid psychology.

Transportation study supports it, I would studies. No reductions. In terms of jobs, Powell supports Howard, in the Department of Violent crime. and Brightwood Park. Previously, he served ing business tax incentives for thosewhich firms studies physical activity a day.”

Avenue.

Sloan: transit, show tohebeworks preferaconsider a pilot program during the school Jones: Uncertain.hiring I don’tD.C. know the Community and Family Medicine and the for six years on the commission covering the residents at livable wages of at The candidate wants to see the District Jones: Yes, it would have toandgoShepherd through Parkyear.

Tengen: crime. ble. increasing school budget by lineleast item.$13 per hour. And he backs Department of Pediatrics and Child Health.Violentgoing Brightwood communities. forward with an ambitious renewable Powell: Yes, along with other intensive academic reforms.

Sloan: Yes. Tengen: Yes. It would attract some students now drawn to Wilson.

Todd: Not familiar with the program.

Toliver: It would be helpful.

tenGen

PoWell

todd From Page V3

sloan

toliVer Perhaps the greatest right that we Perhaps theUnited greatestStates right that we all have as citizens all have United citizens isas the rightStates to vote!

best principals and teachers.”

He would also focus on ensuring that schools “have appropriate course offerings and after-school programs.” He said languages, vocational programs, science, technology, engineering and math are particularly important.

Todd also notes that “at every step, parental engagement is key.” He wants to develop a model to foster involvement in schools in lower-income areas “where parental engagement is just not there. We must spend more per pupil in poverty areas ... to offer similar programs in all our schools.”

Todd would work to ensure that Roosevelt and Coolidge high schools and the to-bereopened MacFarland Middle School are “fully modernized.” He also thinks Ward 4 needs two middle schools, and he would engage the community about possibly creating a second one at Coolidge.

Todd also cited the need to attract and retain school leaders.

Todd pointed to his track record — seven years of delivering “on-time, quality and

responsive constituent services for Ward 4 residents.”

As a council member, he said, “I will ensure the government is delivering for all 20 neighborhoods, staying focused on practical ways to make government work better for residents, such as ensuring the Department of Transportation has plans for street and alley paving, tree planting and trimming, and timely street light repair.”

He wants the Department of Public Works to consider creating a snow removal team separate from the trash removal staff so collections aren’t delayed by inclement weather.

“That could have budget concerns, but [it would mean] more responsive city services,” he said. “We must also ensure we make proper investments to keep our public utilities operating.”

A native Washingtonian, Todd graduated from Eastern High School and then went to Bowie State University, where he majored in communications and public relations. He has a Master of Business Administration degree from Trinity Washington University.

A former board member of the D.C. Branch of NAACP, Todd was also a board member of the Greater Washington Urban League’s young-professionals organization.

From Page V3

could communicate online with teachers, sign up for events and put in service requests.”

He wants to see local seniors involved in student activities such as gardening, art classes, and reading and math programs.

Toliver’s efforts for Ward 4 would include encouraging the D.C. government to locate agencies there, and hiring his own staff and interns from within the ward’s boundaries.

Those employees would help residents with permit applications, and he would work to make online filing easier.

In terms of economic development, the candidate plans to hold monthly meetings with business owners “to determine how the District is performing in business development efforts, whether regulations are being followed and whether there is fair and open competition.”

“My experience on the Walter Reed Local Redevelopment Authority and my legal practice make me uniquely qualified to review and be a part of the development process,” he said.

is the right to vote!

On housing, Toliver wants to “put Ward 4 residents first for affordable housing opportunities,” and he said he would push the council to “develop and promote micro-housing opportunities for seniors, first responders, teachers and nurses.” He would fund that effort largely or entirely through the Housing Production Trust Fund.

Toliver said he’s concerned about the sale of city properties.

“I will fight giveaways of District land ... at less than market value. I would look at long-term ground leases of District property rather than conveying it to third parties,” he said. “I will oppose exceptions to inclusionary zoning requirements and exercise greater oversight of the development process and contracts for District-owned property.”

A native Washingtonian, Toliver attended Catholic schools before enrolling at LaSalle University, where he majored in business administration. He has a law degree from Catholic University.

He is the former president of Ward 4 Democrats and the Shepherd Park Citizens Association. He also has served as pro bono general counsel for the Higher Achievement Program and 100 Black Men of Greater Washington, DC.

Being an informed voter is important and we urge you to take the time to Being an informed voter candidates is important take and we you to take the time to review the review the positions onurge the myriad of issues that can help to improve our region both the local andthat the can federal As a our region positions candidates take on the at myriad of issues help level. to improve long-standing corporate citizen metropolitan Washington both at the local and the federal level. of Asthe a long-standing corporate citizenarea, of the we hope you will indeed and then exercise your right metropolitan Washington area,become we hopeinformed you will indeed become informed to vote in the upcoming elections.

and then exercise your right to vote in the upcoming elections.

Giant is commited to continuing our long-standing

Giant is commited to continuing our long-standing tradition of being an involved corporate citizen of this tradition of being an involved corporate citizen of this community. Please join us in becoming involved too! community. Please join us in becoming involved too!

See the polls!

See you you at the at polls!

The Washington Informer & The Current Newspapers General Election Voters Guide / APRIL 2015 / V-3

Sa mp le O n WARD FOUR

V-4 / APRIL 2015 / The Washington Informer & The Current Newspapers General Election Voters Guide

WARD 8 SEAT D.C. COUNCIL

Sandra Seegars

Question 1: Should you be elected to the D.C. Council, name three areas upon which you would concentrate the most?

“S.S.” Sandra Seegars My main concentration would be jobs, homelessness and public safety. Thereby, I want to be on the following committees: Committee on Business, Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, Committee on Health and Human Services, Committee on the Judiciary, and Public Safety, and Committee on Transportation and the Environment. My experience will aid me in performing excellently on these committees.

Keita Vanterpool Improve education, training and job opportunities by providing access to better educational programs, recreational and social outlets for youth, young adults and seniors.

Restore communities and family values through job creation and accountability, promoting a sense of ownership thereby (improving safety)… reducing crime.

Reduce health care disparities by improving access and options to health and wellness solutions.

Marion Christopher Barry Strengthen the enforcement of Minority Business Contract and Small/Local Business provisions to ensure more economic growth and job opportunities; enhance the quality and quantity of Affordable Housing stock in the Ward to service the homeless and couch dwellers while preserving the economically diverse homeowner population, ensure there are more quality mental health services for DC Residents.

LaRuby May Increasing public safety through community policing, job creation and youth development programming; economic growth projects to better address job creation, affordable housing

Keita Vanterpool

Marion Christopher Barry

LaRuby May

and available commercial development so we can collectively achieve economic success and eliminate barriers that keep our seniors from accessing important government and nutritional services, quality healthcare, safe housing and reliable transportation.

Eugene Kinlow My priorities in office will focus on economic development and creating jobs, affordable housing, and increasing public safety.

Sheila Bunn I would concentrate the most on are job creation, affordable housing and improving our educational system.

Trayon “WardEight” White My three areas of concentration will be education, jobs/careers and public safety for all residents.

Leonard Watson, Sr. I will focus on meaningful job training opportunities for ward eight residents, the displacement of long-term community residents, and I intend to provide better financial opportunities for all residents living in our ward.

Greta Fuller Jobs, quality of life for our people, and full funding for quality schools in Ward 8.

When we provide gainful employment for our people, we provide them with the means to have good lives.

Anthony Muhummad I would concentrate the most on education of residents (including adult training for job seekers), reducing homelessness, cleaning up the neighborhoods and keeping them clean and last but not least making sure Ward 8 is a safe place to live, work and play.

Natalie Williams I will make education among my top priorities. I will focus on getting Ward 8 back to work. I will also place immediate focus on affordable housing.

Eugene Kinlow

Sheila Bunn

Question 2: What differentiates you from other candidates?

“S.S.” Sandra Seegars I am honest, a problem solver and hard worker. I moved from Ward 6 to Ward 8 in 1969 and have always worked in the community, not just when there is an election. I have always stood with the residents, not just when it is convenient for me. I am the only candidate with experience in all 3 branches of the government, executive, legislative and judicial. I lead by example. The residents can depend on me in good times and bad. I know the issues that we are faced with and have a platform to address them. I have been at the same address since 1969, graduated from Ballou Sr. High School, which reflects stability. I am a true fighter for the rights of our residents/citizens.

Keita Vanterpool I am a Doctor and come from a policy and regulatory background. I take a holistic approach in my view of solving many problems understanding that there is a primary cause and the solution to many ills begin with just that… seeking the root.

Marion Christopher Barry I am different because I have a proven track record of ending crime through onthe-job skills training and employment: when people pick up tools, they put down weapons. I named my company after my mother Effi to honor her and help residents like me get back on their feet. My Ward 8-based company, Efficiency Contractors, has employed over 200 Ward 8 and District residents, many of whom are returning residents, homeless, or single mothers.

I know what works and does not work in this ward, and I will take a realistic approach to empower our community. Though other candidates have had some limited connection to my father, I am the only person

Trayon White

Leonard Watson, Sr.

Greta Fuller

running who has a personal obligation to continue his legacy. We have the same heart and compassion for Ward 8 and that is what truly separates me from the others. DC Politics is our family’s business. Sadly, now that my father has transitioned, I accept the responsibility to look out for our community, and fight to move us all forward.

LaRuby May I am the best candidate to represent my community of Ward 8 on the DC Council because I am uniquely qualified to lead the residents of Ward 8 to a new era of shared prosperity. I am distinguished from the rest of the field because I have been blessed to have delivered jobs, affordable housing, family services, high quality early childhood and adult education, and improved government services for residents of Ward 8. I have the breadth and depth of experience working on the most critical issues facing Ward 8. As a lawyer, I have experience in the policy-making process by drafting legislation for DC Council and changing laws at DC Housing Authority. In addition, I have development and construction experience, I can read a pro-forma, understand lowincome housing tax credits, new market tax credits, bond financing and other mechanisms that will be necessary for Ward 8 to reach its full development potential while ensuring that the interest of our residents guide the path.

Eugene Kinlow I have a strong record on behalf of this Ward and in this community. I was raised here, and went to the public schools here, raised my own family here - this is my community. I fought against a private prison and trash transfer station at a time when we didn’t have a grocery store. On the board of UDC I fought to create a community college in the City and bring a part of that here to Ward

Anthony Muhummad

Natalie Williams

8 to provide workforce development training for our young people and adults.

I have been an advocate and community organizer for over three decades on a variety of causes that benefit residents East of the River, and this work has afforded me the opportunity to build relationships across business, civic, and political leaders that will benefit my work on behalf of Ward 8. Additionally, we have raised over $75,000 that allowing us the resources necessary to run a targeted, efficient, and sophisticated campaign aimed at sparking conversations with Ward residents about the issues important to them.

Sheila Bunn I’m a Home Grown, native Washingtonian, born in Ward 8, raised in Ward 8! I’ve been a Ward 8 community leader and government official for over 19 years. First, as Chief of Staff to Congresswoman Norton where I helped to lead in the creation of meaningful legislation like the DC TAG program for our residents. Then, as Deputy Chief of Staff to Mayor Gray where I helped to manage the District Government’s $10.6 billion budget and supervised over 32,000 employees.

As a result, I have a keen sense for attacking complex problems with innovative solutions. None of the other candidates have that kind of experience.

Trayon “WardEight” White It will be very easy for the voters of Ward Eight to differentiate me from my opponents. For example, no one running in this special election has served as an elected official on the scale that I have. Twice I have been elected to positions where I have represented the entire Ward, winning one of the two elections with a majority of the votes.

I have not only a superior command and knowledge of issues, but also the skill

WARD 8 Q&A on Page V 6

The Washington Informer & The Current Newspapers General Election Voters Guide / APRIL 2015 / V-5

WARD 8 SEAT D.C. COUNCIL

Sandra Seegars

WARD 8 Q&A

continued from Page V5 set and passion required to effectively represent the people in the community.

In addition, I am young, experienced and will offer Ward Eight a new brand of leadership.

Leonard Watson, Sr. I have more experience than all the other candidates in the areas of legislative matters after having been a legislative staffer to our late councilmember Marion Barry, the director of constituent services for former councilmember Sandy Allen and as a former advisory neighborhood commissioner for 8B01, I signed support letters, to build the International House of Pancakes (IHOP) on Alabama Avenue, Southeast, Covenant House Washington on Mississippi Avenue and the New Football facility on Stanton Elementary School playground located on 25th and Alabama Avenue. I have been active in the Ward Eight Democrats Organization for the past twenty plus years.

Greta Fuller I am proven civic volunteer with a record of serving Ward 8. I have been an ANC Commissioner. I worked with my neighbors to fight negative development dumping In Ward 8. I am NOT a politician. I am a Neighbor. I am an underdog candidate, as opposed to a lapdog candidate. I will be independent of the Mayor. I will represent the people of Ward 8.

Anthony Muhummad I have 24 years as an elected advisory neighborhood commissioner. One, I might add, that is not marred in controversy. I never abandoned my position as commissioner. I have voted in every election since I was eligible to vote. I have never been arrested, have a court case pending, embezzled funds from the government, nor am I under investigation.

My candidacy is not aligned with any current or past mayors who are backed by

Keita Vanterpool

Marion Christopher Barry

LaRuby May

developers and big business to gentrify Ward 8. I am not paying residents to vote at straw polls or on Election Day. While most candidates talk about what they “will do” I have a documented record of successes, for decades. Recently, I negotiated a community benefits agreement between the tenants of and the developers Alabama Avenue and Congress Heights Metro Station project. It has provisions for the tenants to return to the apartment complex at the same rental rate prior to the new development.

Natalie Williams I come to this race not riding the coattail of anyone, but with a unique blend of experiences of my own.

As a former journalist, I have travelled all across the United States seeing first-hand the daily lives of people. In conjunction with that, for more than 10 years, I have worked with the National Black Caucus of State Legislators, an organization comprised of more than 700 Black elected officials. The combination of these two experiences have allowed me to see and experience Ward 8s all across this country, and to learn first-hand the difference it makes when leadership puts people ahead of special interests.

My work to improve the quality of life of Ward 8 residents is well documented -- Former Top Aide to the Honorable Marion Barry; President of the Ward Eight Democrats, Inc., Chair of Advisory Neighborhood Commission 8A; and former Vice President of United Medical Center where I worked to keep a hospital in Ward 8 that addresses the healthcare needs of our community.

Question 3: Do you have a plan to protect homeowners from the worst effects of gentrification, particularly high property taxes? If so, what is it?

“S.S.” Sandra Seegars My plan to assist

Eugene Kinlow

Sheila Bunn

homeowners against high property taxes is a tax break for those who have been in their homes for over 15 years; low interest rate loans that can be paid over a set period of time; grants; exemptions/limits to seniors and first time home owners; and, public assistance.

Keita Vanterpool We do not have to re-invent the wheel, but make sure we have oversight and programs where monies were allocated to are accountable. In 2002, former CM David Catania launched the HomeStart Initiative that sought to provide, examine and strengthen the affordable housing issue in DC to which the Housing Act of 2002 was birthed. CM Bonds Senior property tax exemption law tax exemption bill was signed into law to protect seniors from displacement.

Review of the current laws is a start to make sure they are being enforced. A review and oversight of agencies is prudent to be sure they are adhering to the law already on the books Marion Christopher Barry To prevent the displacement of long-time residents, I will fight to strengthen tax benefits for retired and low to mid-income residents.

I will also work to create other financial incentives for long-term residents such as home improvement support vouchers. Lastly, I will advocate for more small and mid-scale development that actively commits to keep the existing community together so current residents may benefit from revitalization efforts.

LaRuby May I believe in smart tax incentives and benefits that will benefit ward 8 residents. I will look at the budget to find opportunities for the government to provide resources for ward 8 residents in their efforts to become and maintain homeownership.

Eugene Kinlow I am the only candidate who has both unveiled

Trayon White

Leonard Watson, Sr.

Greta Fuller

an economic plan for the Ward and is sparking a conversation about the effect of economic development. A key part of my campaign has been to discuss the need for Ward 8 to join the rest of the city’s economic resurgence and benefit from economic development. But, unlike the rest of the city we want economic opportunity without displacing longtime residents of Ward 8. Just as programs are in place to help our senior homeowners stay in their homes, we need similar programs for senior and longtime renters. We should also work with the community to guarantee there are supports in place to help renters participate in purchasing of buildings so that they are able to stay in their communities and not be pushed out by outside developers.

Sheila Bunn One idea I’d look at is freezing the property tax assessments for longtime homeowners in gentrifying neighborhoods.

The concern is that rising house prices will also raise property assessments, forcing low-income residents to move to escape the greater tax burden and thereby accelerating the pace of gentrification. Many of our senior citizens have been longtime residents of the city who stuck with the District during tough times. Oftentimes, many seniors fall behind on their property taxes due to limited income. In an effort to keep the District affordable for longtime low- and moderate-income seniors, I would work with the Council to pass legislation that would exempt longstanding residents, age 65 years or older, from paying real property taxes on their primary residence.

Trayon “WardEight” White Yes, I do have a plan that will protect homeowners from the worst effects of gentrification, including high property taxes. For example, I support the Housing Production Trust Fund and raising additional

V-6 / APRIL 2015 / The Washington Informer & The Current Newspapers General Election Voters Guide

Anthony Muhummad

Natalie Williams

revenue. However, DC had a $417 million dollar surplus in the last fiscal year. It is not that we lack the money or resources. Rather, it is about prioritizing and better managing what we have. We also have to put more money into housing to ensure decent and affordable living quarters for all.

Leonard Watson, Sr. I will slow down mass gentrification in our ward by increasing homeownership opportunities and continuing to support a cap on real property taxes throughout our city.

Greta Fuller We need to hold down property tax increases.

We need to reform the Tax Lien system that has been used by non-DC companies to buy and flip homes of people who have fallen on hard times.

Anthony Muhummad If so, what is it? One plan is to get elected to stop candidates who are backed by several large developers from railroading huge projects with high-income housing units (like those Columbia Heights) that are driving real estate prices far above what current Ward 8 residents can afford.

If elected, I also plan to introduce and negotiate to get passed legislation to protect and exempt seniors from paying real estate taxes. Of course, this will need to be closely monitored to ensure it is not misused.

I also believe there should be a better formula than the one currently used for tax assessment. Homeowners who bought property years ago at low prices are now forced to pay taxes on their property in a growing market where properties are selling much higher than the original purchase.

Many Ward 8 homeowners are working class poor and cannot afford exorbitant tax rates.

Natalie Williams My goal is to make sure that homeowners here in

WARD 8 Q&A on Page V 7

WARD 8 SEAT D.C. COUNCIL

Sandra Seegars

WARD 8 Q&A

continued from Page V 6 Ward 8 are not affected by the inevitable gentrification of our Ward. Mayor Bowser has laid out a very ambitious agenda, one that is sure to result in seeking higher taxes from residents. I will fight to protect Ward 8 residents from any tax hikes, and make sure that the rise in taxes affects only those who have incomes that can support such increases.

Question 4: Do you have any short-term solutions to assist job seekers but who lack job skills?

“S.S.” Sandra Seegars My plan for job seekers who lack skills is to give 10% of my salary to those who do not have money to attend training. “First Pay Day Loan” for new employees who need money for transportation.

Hold a roundtable with unemployed residents to ascertain any potential they may have.

Meet with DOES to secure as many jobs as possible for Ward 8 residents. Hold a roundtable with the organizations that offer training to review their job placement rates and get as many residents as possible in for training. Ensure that the budget for training is ample for Ward 8. Always notify the residents about jobs and training programs through email/website.

Encourage the unemployed too seek employment every day. Offer to contact the employer on their behalf to aid them in securing a position.

Keita Vanterpool Meet people where they are and provide the necessary tools to allow them to succeed. The backgrounds of many in Ward 8 are wide and varied; from those who cannot read and write to those who are highly skilled in other technical areas.

Working with their strengths provides hope. I’ve had the opportunity to meet with a great group of men who were former addicts and they teach from within their circle. All who bring different

Keita Vanterpool

Marion Christopher Barry

LaRuby May

Eugene Kinlow

Sheila Bunn

talents to the table and they cross train! People want an opportunity and for some that just means showing up for on the job training.

and Office Administration Transportation. The program also provides training to improve the literacy skills of District residents.

Marion Christopher Barry Nothing beats on-the-job training. Though there are many skills programs in DC, job placement and retention remains a major problem.

That is why I support apprenticeship programs similar to those used by trade unions. When employers invest in the development of their workforce, there is more incentive to retaining employees. The goal is does not skills alone, but economic empowerment.

Trayon “WardEight” White Yes, I have short-term solutions that will assist job seekers in my community to become employed.

Truthfully, I think there is something everyone can do, particularly the City Council, to address the issue of income inequality and assist those looking to increase their workplace skill set. For example, I will support an increase in paid apprenticeship and internship programs being offered by organizations based in the Ward. I will also, as Councilmember, create an incubator that will house an employment database for unskilled job seekers. In addition, I will work closely with prospective employers to make certain that our residents are given priority consideration for not only paid apprenticeship and training opportunities, but also long-term employment.

LaRuby May We must provide Ward 8 residents who are looking for employment but lack the skills necessary opportunities to be paid while being trained with the skills for permanent and long term employment.

Eugene Kinlow I do support the Mayor’s expansion of the summer jobs program so that more individuals can benefit from this program. Additionally, we need to partner with local businesses, government, and non-profit organizations to provide paid internships that provide training and connect job seekers with employers.

Sheila Bunn One of the best ways we can assist job seekers who lack job skills is to get them into programs like those offered at UDC’s Community College. The Workforce Development & Lifelong Learning program is free to District residents and seeks to reduce unemployment and underemployment in the District by providing residents with job skills and training that lead to employment. The program focuses on five areas of work that are most in demand: Construction and Property Management, Healthcare (Direct Care and Healthcare Administration), Hospitality and Tourism, Information Technology

Leonard Watson, Sr. I attend to establish more job opportunities through partnerships with workforce development organizations within our ward to make more residents marketable. I will provide more vocational opportunities through the community college network.

Greta Fuller Vocational education and STEM education. I’m an engineer. I understand the value of STEM education.

We need more vocational education: plumbing, HVAC, electrical training. Training needs to be available for ages 16 to 60. I’ll hold the Community College accountable for making such programs accessible.

Anthony Muhummad One of the short-term solutions is to bring to task those training programs that have been funded without results. If we require more of the programs to help with job searches and placement, maybe we will

Trayon White

Leonard Watson, Sr.

Greta Fuller

have more employment. The training companies must provide training for 21st Century jobs.

Natalie Williams We have a responsibility to provide job training for individuals who want to work and/or those seeking to enter a new field of work. As Council member, I will identify the jobs that are coming specifically to Ward 8, both short and long term, and will fight for funding of job training programs that prepare Ward 8 residents for the job opportunities ahead. One immediate solution is to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of organizations that are already receiving grant money and who have demonstrated levels of success in their training programs. For these organizations/businesses, we must provide them with additional support that advances their training program to address real jobs in Ward 8. As Council member, I will also demand that developers building in our Ward, specifically the St. Elizabeth project, provide job training for 4000 jobs already identified in the pipeline.

Question 5: What are your plans for providing services to returning citizens?

“S.S.” Sandra Seegars My plan for inmates is to introduce legislation to have an agreement with the facility where they are incarcerated, to offer them a trade, depending on the amount of time they have to serve; or, college courses that can lead to a degree. Once they return, I will demand that the executive enforce the “Ban the Box, law, which reduces discrimination; give an incentive, perhaps in a tax break for businesses that hire returning citizens; continue the free health care and food stamps until they are employed, but they must be actively seeking employment. Have the Office of Grants and Partnerships give them the class in an effort to start their own business; and give them the same opportunity to use the 10% of my salary

Anthony Muhummad

Natalie Williams

to assist them.

Keita Vanterpool There are many programs in place. The bigger question is how is the system preparing returning citizens prior being released? We must first look at what is being done and preparation prior citizens being released back into society. We can look to programs like that in Pennsylvania (C.O.R.E.), which is a 6-month community reintegration recovery program for persons with mental health and substance abuse as they prepare for a new start and re-entry into society. We must address this issue in a holistic manner to achieve the best outcome and it is a win-win for all stakeholders.

Marion Christopher Barry We must invest in reentry even before residents come home. That is why I will support reentry orientation in prison. I also support effective community-based organizations designed by formerly incarcerated individuals. Finally, I will work to end discrimination of our ex-offenders, particularly in housing and hiring practices.

LaRuby May There are many issues facing our returning citizens that must be addressed.

My plans to address these issues include directing more resources to Office of Returning Citizens and DOES Project Empowerment; working aggressively to make sure that DC LEAP program is providing opportunities for returning citizens and working with Department of Corrections, Congressman Eleanor Holmes Norton and Bureau of Prisons regarding the training and education opportunities provided to our residents while they are incarcerated.

Eugene Kinlow We need to make investments in this population before they return to our communities to make sure they have

WARD 8 Q&A on Page V 6

The Washington Informer & The Current Newspapers General Election Voters Guide / APRIL 2015 / V-7

WARD 8 SEAT D.C. COUNCIL

Sandra Seegars

WARD 8 Q&A

continued from Page V 7 the tools for success and supports in place upon arriving. It’s not enough to welcome these citizens back to our community.

We need to make sure that when they get back they can integrate quickly back into our community.

Sheila Bunn If elected, I would increase the funding to the Office of Returning Citizen Affairs so that it can expand its vital resources to our returning citizens like employment, education and training assistance. Additionally, I plan on linking our returning citizens with our various labor union partners like the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers & Trainmen who have a good track record of training and employing returning citizens.

Trayon “WardEight” White Society continues to fall short in providing the required services for returning citizens to become reacclimated into mainstream society. As Councilmember, I will request that more funds are appropriated for the Office of Returning Citizens. I also want to create specific job paths for them as well, so they may re-enter the workforce.

Right now that office has one of the lowest budgets of all government agencies. I will lobby my fellow Council members to increase the budget line for the Office of Returning Citizens to ensure that all participants have a fighting chance to become productive citizens.

Leonard Watson, Sr. Returning citizens must be provided real job training, continued counseling, access to mental health programs and housing so that they can survive and become productive citizens upon reentry. Also, I would introduce some long overdue legislation expunging their criminal records if they have been productive citizens, and free of criminal conduct for the past ten, fifteen, or twenty

Keita Vanterpool

Marion Christopher Barry

LaRuby May

years. This way, they will continue to be productive citizens without the fear of being penalized by long standing discriminatory barriers associated with past criminal behavior.

Greta Fuller I will work with the ExOffender community.

Anthony Muhammad I have volunteered in prison ministry for 30 years. This direct and continuous contact with inmates prior to exiting the prison system has enabled me to know exactly what services are needed prior to release to provide a smooth transition. Returning citizens need identification, birth certificates and social security cards “before” returning to the community.

They will need transportation (Smart Trip) cards loaded with funds to get to their probation officer, job training center, healthcare provider, food stamp center, and place of work. We must continue and extend our transitioning programs to those inmates who are scheduled to return within a year. These services must and shall include female inmates. More services should be provided to female inmates, especially those with children. Hold hearings for families to testify about the negative impact of having of having DC inmates more than 500 miles in prison.

Natalie Williams Returning citizens is a key population that I support wholeheartedly. In fact, I am proud to say that I have welcomed a record number of returning citizens on my campaign through our “Reentry to Work Detail Program” which welcomes citizens who have expressed an interest in reengaging with the community.

As Council member, I will continue this program, and seek to develop a comprehensive database that lists the names of job seekers and their specific skills in an effort to better connect them with jobs. Additionally, I will work with both Federal and District agencies to ensure that our returning citizens are well

Eugene Kinlow

Sheila Bunn

informed about programs and services already in place to support them.

Question 6: What is your most radical or outthe-box idea that you’ll implement when you take office?

“S.S.” Sandra Seegars There is no time for radical out-of-the-box ideas.

My implementations will be solid, beneficial and productive.

Keita Vanterpool Being available and accessible is important to me. I will respect and take my constituents concerns seriously. Review what is in process regarding policy, acts and legislation and how it may improve, change and or what to eliminate. Obtain input from my constituents by forming several task forces for Ward 8 to be my ears and eyes. Create database for communication and transparency.

Marion Christopher Barry I will seek to create an advocacy organization for TANF recipients that would give a voice to their needs as well as provide daily programs for counseling, nutritional services, and job orientation.

LaRuby May Ideas do not have to be radical or outside of the box to be effective. I believe that ideas must be well thought, properly implemented and accurately evaluated in order to maximize effectiveness.

Nonetheless I have an idea to address youth violence in the community that will be a collaborative project with Houses of Worship, Businesses and DC Government. This project will launch this summer.

Eugene Kinlow I propose creating a public land redevelopment agency focused specifically on Ward 8 that is tasked with identifying key areas where local, institutional, federal and private landowners hold property and facilitate economic development at such sites. This development

Trayon White

Leonard Watson, Sr.

Greta Fuller

will bring jobs, amenities, and investment to help make Ward 8 stronger than it has been. A land redevelopment agency would ensure a fair and transparent process for communities to reclaim and rebuild their OWN neighborhoods. The agency would be protected from political shifts, add stability by creating a long-term vision for the Ward, and be made up of a diverse group of stakeholders from the community.

Sheila Bunn I have long been a proponent of moving UMC from its current location to the East Campus of St. Elizabeth.

The current UMC location is older, is not accessible

by Metro and there are no surrounding organizations or businesses that help bolster partnerships. Building a new hospital would make more economic sense than renovating an older hospital like UMC. The current UMC facility sits on prime real estate and moving UMC would allow for the development of that real estate. That development could bring the commercial and retail amenities that Ward 8 residents have longed for. Moving UMC to St. Elizabeths would create a more efficient and new hospital environment where we could recruit patients, recruit doctors, and build an inviting facility that meets the needs of the community.

The ultimate goal is to partner the hospital with a larger private owner or operator so that tax-paying residents will no longer have to bear the costs of daily operations of the hospital.

Trayon “WardEight” White My most radical or out-thebox idea to date is to create a “Better Businesses” list for Ward Eight. The list will show businesses that hire Ward Eight residents and how many they hire. Businesses on this list will receive a stamp of approval from my Council office and a decal to place in its establishment.

My campaign safety platform also includes plans to introduce programs that will hire returning citizens

V-8 / APRIL 2015 / The Washington Informer & The Current Newspapers General Election Voters Guide

Anthony Muhummad

Natalie Williams

to assist with policing their very own communities.

In addition, I will also work to ensure that everyone attending schools receiving public funds not only graduate, and on time -but with a clearly defined career path with the necessary academic and vocational skills required to be successful. Finally I will meet with the Chancellor and Fortune 500 companies to explore the feasibility of establishing a program whereby students can turn in weapons in exchange for academic credit and college scholarship assistance.

Leonard Watson, Sr. My most radical out-ofthe-box ideas would be to remove the school system from mayoral control and placed back into the control of the Chancellor or Superintendent of Education. My next outof-the-box idea would be to place the District of Columbia Housing Authority under the authority of the Mayor of the District of Columbia.

Greta Fuller Wi-Fi in Ward 8 parks, Metro stations, schools, libraries and recreations centers. I have a tech background. We can do this quickly. I will do it.

Anthony Muhammad One radical idea is to require DPW, DDOT and MPD to monitor illegal dumping and keep our streets, sidewalks clean and safe. We need laws on the books to be enforced. Issue citations to establishments and businesses (liquor stores and carry-outs) that do not prohibit loitering, littering, drinking and smoking pot laws in public in front of their establishments. Prohibit the sale of drug paraphernalia for crack users.

Natalie Williams Moratorium on liquor stores throughout our community.

Question 7: What are your plans to address homelessness?

WARD 8 Q&A on Page V 9

WARD 8 SEAT D.C. COUNCIL

Sandra Seegars

WARD 8 Q&A

continued from Page V 8 “S.S.” Sandra Seegars As Council member, propose a budget for more Single Room Occupancy (SRO) and propose that So Others Might Eat (S.O.M.E.) operate them. From the funding from HUD for homelessness, demand that the mayor renovate and open the vacant properties under the city’s purview to be used by the homeless persons, expeditiously. Do not close DC General Shelter, instead, put money there to offer the resident training on how to be good housekeepers, training on parenting skills, teach them to have pride in themselves and how to be self-sufficient.

Keita Vanterpool Houses and apartment complexes that are boarded up, owned by DC and not being utilized; hire qualified DC and Ward 8 residents/ contractors, returning citizens, veterans and those that are able to tear down and rebuild and restore vacant properties.

Marion Christopher Barry I will rigorously push initiatives to support new and existing shelters, permanent supportive housing, and community organizations that address homelessness and food insecurity. I support aggressive measures to educate and train residents and increase our affordable housing stock. I support an 8.85 percednt income tax for residents making 90 percent AMI+ (Above Median Income). With more high-income people moving into the city, we will be able to sustain a more robust tax revenue stream that will supplement the programs for our low-income residents.

LaRuby May My plan to address homelessness in Ward 8 will take a comprehensive look at both prevention and intervention services for residents. My plan will address the role of substance abuse and mental health issues as contributing

Keita Vanterpool

Marion Christopher Barry

LaRuby May

Eugene Kinlow

Sheila Bunn

factors. I will introduce an amendment to the proposed budget that will direct maintenance and permanent supportive housing for the men who are served at 801 East Men’s Shelter, I appreciate the budget priority on addressing the needs of families but this is an immediate need in Ward 8. Additionally my plan will address the unacceptable number of young people who are aging in foster care and moving directly to homeless status without employment and housing transition support services.

seniors citizens.

Eugene Kinlow In addition to better management over our homeless housing we need to locate these projects near metro stations and other mass transit systems rather than concentrating our population on the edges of the District. Finally, we must do more to prevent homelessness altogether in DC by providing additional resources to at risk individuals much earlier in their challenging period.

Leonard Watson, Sr. I would implement plans to show that there is a direct correlation between poverty and lack of education. I would then put resources in these particular areas to combat this chronic problem.

Sheila Bunn I think we all agree DC General is not the place for families to reside. But, we cannot close DC General until the city develops a comprehensive plan for building smaller family housing across the city in every ward to house our families currently at DC General. In the meantime, we need to decrease the time that it takes to get homeless families from shelters into permanent supportive housing. We need to improve and streamline case management services at DC General and the Virginia Williams Family Resources Center. DC’s rapid rehousing program has been effective in moving people into housing but it needs to be strengthened by hiring more staff. I would push to expand it by changing program eligibility rules to better serve specific groups of residents with special needs like persons with disabilities, formerly homeless, low-income

and

returning

Trayon “WardEight” White DC has an inventory of apartments and properties throughout the district that are vacant, and or underused. My plan to address homelessness includes establishing a commission that will develop an inventory of available properties for potential housing. In addition, I will also explore the feasibility of offering tax incentives to landlords who offer housing to homeless residents.

Greta Fuller Wrap around services.

Mental health assistance, job training.

Child homelessness has to be ended by providing affordable housing to families.

Anthony Muhammad Close down the homeless shelter at DC General. Since the 1970s, homelessness in the District has become a huge part of our budget. Our city has become a haven for those who are in need of food and shelter, like no other city in this region. Why? Because we “encourage” a dependency of government sponsored programs that provide temporary and long term housing that do not require clients to become “independent.”

We should monitor closely those housing programs that are charged with the responsibility to force clients to become independent. We should begin to cut funding for these programs if they fail to produce results. We should stop being controlled by homeless advocates, some of which claim to be homeless for more than 20 years. We should put a cap on the number of homeless the District can

Trayon White

Leonard Watson, Sr.

Greta Fuller

serve at any given time to force housing programs to fulfill their mandates and allow others to participate in progressive, well monitored and productive programs that lead to independency.

Natalie Williams I support Mayor Bowser’s ambitious goal to reduce chronic homelessness by 2025 in the District of Columbia. I will also work to provide funding for safe havens throughout the Ward to ensure that the growing population of homeless teens and veterans have a place to stay.

Question 8: What are your plans to increase affordable housing in Ward 8?

“S.S.” Sandra Seegars I will be a watch dog over funding from the District’s Housing Production Trust Fund (HPTF) to ensure that the mayor and fellow Council members won’t divert funds as it has been in recent years to other housing programs, thereto, leaving the Housing Production Trust Fund with fewer resources to meet its purpose.

Keita Vanterpool Utilize models like that of Connecticut/New York making deals that work with developers to provide various levels of mixed housing splits 60/40, etc. In order to level the playing field, better work opportunities must be available and addressed so people can afford to live in Ward 8. Everyone must pitch in to help make it better for others and themselves.

Marion Christopher Barry I would propose increasing funding for programs that give rental assistance to the homeless and increase the budget for the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) and funding for the Housing Production Trust Fund.

Along with increasing the budget, comes the hiring of staff that can properly and effectively address the needs of the community. There

Anthony Muhummad

Natalie Williams

is a tremendous amount of unused government owned land that can be set aside for housing programs instead of leaving them vacant. There are plenty of small business and minorityowned local companies that can compete for these opportunities along with establishing incentives to hire local.

LaRuby May I will support the Mayor’s proposed budget that has allocated $100 million dollars to the Housing Production Trust Fund. I will work aggressively to make sure the enforcement of the Inclusionary Zoning program for both rental and homeownership units. I will also work with financial institutions and DC government to transfer foreclosed and tax lien properties into the HPAP portfolio for affordable opportunities for Ward 8 residents.

Eugene Kinlow I will work to improve on the Affordable Housing Production Trust Fund and increase its funding level to $150 million per year. I will also create workforce housing for low wage earners, teachers, first responders, and nurses situated right at our subway stops so that it is convenient to public transportation. I will increase oversight over existing affordable housing laws so that developers can’t ignore the affordable housing needs of our community.

Sheila Bunn I support the annual funding of the Housing Production Trust Fund (HPTF) by $100 million at the minimum to create and preserve our affordable housing stock.

Additionally, we need to find a predictable and dedicated stream of funding for the HPTF. It is also critically important that we have a fully funded Local Rent Supplement Program (LRSP) to support very low-income renters. The

WARD 8 Q&A on Page V 10

The Washington Informer & The Current Newspapers General Election Voters Guide / APRIL 2015 / V-9

WARD 8 SEAT D.C. COUNCIL

Sandra Seegars

WARD 8 Q&A

continued from Page V 9 LRSP subsidy can make an enormous difference in housing stability for lowincome families. I would also explore changing program eligibility rules to better serve specific groups of residents with special needs such as persons with disabilities, formerly homeless, low-income seniors and returning citizens who may face special housing challenges.

Inclusionary Zoning is another method that we can use to create affordable housing. If elected, I plan to push for the requirement that some of the units built be reserved for our extremely poor residents, those making 0-30% of AMI. Trayon “WardEight” White My first plan as Councilmember will be to introduce legislation that will remove DC from the affordable housing equations of MD and VA. Such inclusion causes affordable housing to exceed DC incomes. However its removal will immediately result in a decrease in the cost of housing for residents and what is considered affordable housing.

Second I will lobby the Mayor and my Council colleagues to get rid of the name affordable housing.

Why? Because for the everyday people, affordable housing is becoming less affordable. Third, I would support affordable housing requirements for public land, but only on the condition that developers adhere to the required 30 percent lowincome set-aside provision.

Leonard Watson, Sr. Affordable housing in our ward can be increased by seizing blighted and abandon houses throughout our ward from slumlords that are negligent in paying their property taxes.

Additionally, our mayor can stop giving away public land to private developers.

Most importantly, when the mayor takeover the District of Columbia Housing Authority she can remove

Keita Vanterpool

Marion Christopher Barry

LaRuby May

the boards off 500 vacant units of public housing, complete the renovation of the Highland Dwellings community and develop the Parkway Overlook community located on Robinson Place, Southeast.

If these three things can be realized, homelessness can be reduced in our ward overnight Anthony Muhammad According to US Census data and DC Economic development, Ward 8 has more affordable housing than any other ward in the District. While studios to two bedrooms are ranging from $2,000 to $3,500 in many northwest neighborhoods experiencing massive gentrification, in Ward 8 there are two bedrooms being rented for $900.

Ward 8 does not have a problem with affordable housing. We have a problem with residents who do not respect our neighborhoods, trash and vandalize it.

Some people believe that affordable means free. I do not subscribe to government dependency.

Natalie Williams As Council member, I will work to have the Annual Medium Income (AMI) adjusted to calculate only the income of District residents.

By doing so, this will provide Ward 8 residents with a better playing field and access to an affordable housing market that is based upon the average of our incomes, and not those of our neighboring counties. I will enforce the Inclusionary Zoning Amendment Act of 2006, which sets aside affordable units in inclusionary zones for low-income families. I will also support the Mayor’s budget that includes $100million dollars for the Housing Production Trust Fund to better protect affordable housing in Ward 8. I will fight to ensure that Ward 8 is allocated its fair amount since we have the highest number of unemployment rates coupled with the highest need for low-income housing.

Question 9: What are your incentives to bring jobs

Eugene Kinlow

Sheila Bunn

into the Ward 8?

“S.S.” Sandra Seegars Many jobs are here. I will propose to change the First Source Agreement that currently gives the contractors the right not to hire from within the Ward; and, have HUD enforce the violation of HUD Section 3. ...program requires that recipients of certain HUD financial assistance, to the greatest extent possible, provide job training, employment, and contract opportunities for low- or very-low income residents in connection with projects and activities in their neighborhoods.

Keita Vanterpool It’s not doubt that better jobs boosts the economy, provides a sense of ownership, increases morale and decreases crime. Tax breaks to business owners that hire living wage/good paying jobs to Ward 8 residents. A win-win!

Marion Christopher Barry We need to provide tax credits for new and established businesses to establish and maintain headquarters in Ward 8. It is clear that we need more resources here, but we need longtime businesses. To encourage more companies like the new Busboys and Poets, we should give further financial incentives when the employ a significant percentage of Ward 8 residents in their business.

LaRuby May As a community there are endless incentives to bringing jobs here to Ward 8. One of my strengths is building and sustaining partnerships that create job opportunities for Ward 8 residents. If elected, I will use those skill sets to help build partnerships between public, non-profit, and private industries to create jobs that lead into careers for Ward 8 residents.

Eugene Kinlow A key part of my vision for the Ward is to create a mixed-use transit oriented development economic

Trayon White

Leonard Watson, Sr.

Greta Fuller

model that will build out our subway stops and add retail and restaurants.

Additionally, new projects in Ward 8 should guarantee that businesses and contractors hire a certain percentage of their employees from within the Ward. We need to find better ways of helping individuals throughout the Ward find economic opportunities.

One such way is by encouraging community entrepreneurship East of the River. We need to do a better job of providing mentorship, guidance, tax incentives for new businesses, and financing to individuals interested in pursuing business opportunities.

Sheila Bunn I support real job training and access to education for all that will lead to living wage jobs. A way in which I would do this is by partnering with various labor unions, which have a good track record of training and employing residents, to recruit Ward 8 residents into their apprenticeship programs. After training, these apprentices move into union jobs with employerpaid benefits like health insurance and retirement security. I would market the ward to businesses that will not only suit the ward and succeed, but those that can bring sustainable careers to Ward 8 residents, especially in areas where we know there will be future job growth. I would also work with DSLBD and DHCD to continue funding small businesses in the ward with Great Street and Main Street grants that will help those businesses to remain competitive and expand. Another means to incentivize job creation is offering tax abatements and incentives and to current Ward 8 businesses that hire Ward 8 residents.

Trayon “WardEight” White I will work with the Mayor and Council to provide tax incentives to DCbased companies that invest in our community by both training and hiring Ward Eight residents. In

V-10 / APRIL 2015 / The Washington Informer & The Current Newspapers General Election Voters Guide

Anthony Muhummad

Natalie Williams

the past, I’ve partnered with companies, such as Progressive Partners, Microsoft and Marriot, and was able to assist residents secure employment at the Marriott’s Marquis, National Baseball Stadium, as well as Transition Healthcare.

If elected, I intend to work with my Council colleagues to develop and implement additional incentives that will make business owners want to bring career opportunities east of the river, so that all residents of the city can share in the economic turnaround, and not just a chosen few.

Leonard Watson, Sr. Additional tax credits or other incentives for businesses that hire high school and college students and provide at least $13, per hour; tax credits for employers that offer further educational for their workers; more effective employment programs with increased stipends for participants (e.g. more aggressive on-the-job training, job placement, etc.) and more employment opportunities that result in a real living wage.

Greta Fuller Training.

Anthony Muhammad If elected, I will continue to follow the initiatives set forth by the former councilmember to demand that businesses first hire Ward 8 residents for jobs in this ward. Require six-month audits for the duration of the development projects and businesses in Ward 8.

Natalie Williams Washington DC is the nation’s capital, and just a few miles from Ward 8 stands the center of law and justice. I believe that access to decent paying jobs is first a human right.

Jobs throughout communities such as Ward 8 help to raise the hope, dignity, and prosperity of all people. Ward 8 is among the most beautiful quadrants in the District of Columbia, specifically because of the many scenic hills that provide a panoramic

WARD 8 Q&A on Page V 12

Sa mp le O n WARD EIGHT

The Washington Informer & The Current Newspapers General Election Voters Guide / APRIL 2015 / V-11

WARD 8 SEAT D.C. COUNCIL

Sandra Seegars

WARD 8 Q&A

continued from Page V11 an important role to play in maintaining our collective security. I will push to bring about true community policing, which is only effective when officers walk their beat and develop relationships with engaged residents who take an active role in their community. I will ensure that our community policing efforts, in concert with city agencies and local nonprofits, provide comprehensive support and meaningful alternatives to crime.

Trayon “WardEight” White In order to curtail violence in Ward Eight, I would propose more after school and vocational training programs. Such programs will keep kids involved with activities that will enhance their character.

The programs will also instill in them a sense of pride in their neighbors as well as ownership in the community in which they reside. I will also work to encourage more recruiting of local residents to become police officers who will receive the community training for them to do their jobs well. In addition, I will ask the Council to establish a community policing board to hold officers accountable for their actions. Lastly I would encourage more Neighborhood Watch and Orange Hat Programs across the Ward.

Leonard Watson, Sr. I would provide more recreational activities throughout our ward. I would also provide more wraparound programs to engage our youth.

Additionally, I would introduce legislation to implement a police cadet program in our high schools.

This way, our youth can gain a marketable skill while learning to appreciate what our men and women in uniform does in our community on a daily basis.

Greta Fuller I’ll press MPD for more patrols. Also I will press

Keita Vanterpool

Marion Christopher Barry

LaRuby May

for more undercover work.

People tend not to commit crimes In front of uniformed cops.

Anthony Muhammad According to the MPD Seventh District, in the last five years, there have been more than 100 murders in Ward 8. There have also been hundreds of home and auto break-ins. In my opinion, an idle mind creates chaos. These heinous Black on Black crimes have been committed, primarily, by perpetrators known to the victims. The main causes for crimes are poverty, greed, hatred, jealousy and disrespect. In gentrified neighborhoods in the District, to curtail crime more surveillance cameras are strategically installed throughout the wards. Ward 8 should have the same services.

This enabled police to solve many heinous crimes without human eyewitnesses. Finding a suitable place to erect a communications tower will also help law enforcement capture suspects. More foot patrols at peak times when most crimes occur. Ward 8 should also have increased (wattage) lighting on the streets and alleys.

Natalie Williams We have to meet young people where they are. It’s not enough for us to hide behind closed doors discussing matters that are affecting those committing crimes and not involve them in the conversation and solution. Throughout this campaign, I have heard from numerous groups of young boys and young girls and their expressed disappointment around the lack of opportunities, be it jobs, training, or quality education.

As Council member, I commit to working with local organizations and leaders from each neighborhood to address those issues that are at the root of the crime.

I will also work to strengthen relationships with the 7th District Police Department so that we begin to work towards a partnership in preventing crime on all levels.

Question 12: How would

Eugene Kinlow

you reduce Ward 8?

Sheila Bunn

truancy

Trayon White

in

“S.S.” Sandra Seegars Have the schools contact the parents on the first day a child is absent. Have the police pick up a child if they are seen out of school during school hours, without their parents. They can be taken home or to school.

Keita Vanterpool Bring back programs such as Title I, in which parents partnered with the schools to assist and mentored students and as a result excelled in school. Find the cause of why students are truant. Address the source by speaking to students and bring back programs that WORK to save our children and provide a sense of hope.

After school programs and wrap around services in recreation centers that spark the interest of our youth.

Keeping them engaged, informed and part of society.

Marion Christopher Barry I believe that our young people need more resources and incentives to stay in school particularly in Ward 8. We need to bring back attendance based in-school programs like shop, field trips, internship programs, and extracurricular activities that will keep children engaged in school. I also believe that the truancy issues also stem from issues at home. It is very important that we establish and fund wrap around services for the entire family.

Parenting components, financial literacy, GED prep, workforce readiness, etc. would be a major step in the right direction.

LaRuby May The best way to reduce truancy in Ward 8 is by creating better environments for students to learn in our schools. We have to ensure our schools are places where every kid can grow. To achieve that we have to properly fund our schools and support diverse programming that fits every student’s interests.

Eugene Kinlow

Leonard Watson, Sr.

Greta Fuller

Every organization and entity in the ward should find a way to engage our young men & women and direct and support them in positive activities. By improving our neighborhoods schools and emphasizing a curriculum more focused on skill development we can make the benefits of schooling more tangible for our kids.

Additionally, by increasing parental involvement and working with parents to provide adequate wrap around services we will ensure they take a more hands on approach to their children’s education and help get them on the path to success.

Sheila Bunn Truancy leads to criminal mischief and it also fosters the thinking in youth that they can disregard their responsibilities without consequence.

If left unchecked, these adolescent indiscretions can ultimately manifest into chronic negative behavior in adults. I support DC’s new anti-truancy campaign, and will support funding other measures that keep kids in school.

Trayon “WardEight” White I will work to strengthen existing efforts to reduce truancy by creating multiple partnerships between related agencies: schools, juvenile courts and law enforcement. I will also encourage greater family involvement, particularly with parents, the real experts in the lives of their children. Moreover, I will encourage my fellow Council members to work with the Chancellor to implement a comprehensive review of other issues impacting truancy, including but not limited, to transportation, mental health, family settings and school environments.

Leonard Watson, Sr. Truancy can be reduced by holding parents and school officials accountable when our children are not attending schools, without legitimate approved reasons.

Greta Fuller

V-12 / APRIL 2015 / The Washington Informer & The Current Newspapers General Election Voters Guide

Anthony Muhummad

Natalie Williams

We need to encourage kids to stay in school.

Anthony Muhammad Unlike the time when I served as a truant officer, truancy has become very difficult to monitor on the streets with public charter schools that have different schedules than our public school system.

Enforcement of District laws that make the parent or guardian responsible must be followed. A parent or guardian must be required to submit and update contact information for school records that will be used by attendance counselors for absent students. CPS should be notified if the student continues to be in violation. Notification should be given to the parent or guardian that city services will be frozen or cut if the student does not return to school. Other District agencies involving families should take action.

Natalie Williams Again, we must meet students where they are! We must begin to make sure that our schools are equipped with not only a diverse academic curriculum, but also classes/programs that address the empowerment of young people, increases exposure to different cultures, and also provides vocational training opportunities for students who are not college bound. Additionally, we must hold the schools accountable for accurately identifying students that have a repeat history of skipping school. I commit to working with our school board representative to develop an initiative that designed to improve attendance outcomes for those students.