Financial Responsibility

It’s simple. We must live within our means; if we can’t afford it, we shouldn’t do it. This principle does not mean, however, that we should not invest in infrastructure. If spending a dollar today saves two tomorrow, I’m all for it.

We have lost millions of dollars in revenue due to low interest rates, State cuts, the University’s purchase of the Pfizer facility, and massive local property devaluations.  As a result, the City must reduce services.  We must make these choices in a way that is fiscally wise and sustains the City’s long term assets, but which nevertheless preserves the unique character of our home.

If you want a City Council representative who will think long term and focus relentlessly on the long-term bottom line, then Vote Taylor on Tuesday August 3.

Development

Ann Arbor needs to balance progress and preservation. I support downtown density and economic development, but believe that that progress must be consistent with Ann Arbor’s character. Ann Arbor’s greatness lies in its balance — its mix of commerce and community; its charm and vitality. That’s why I’m in favor of reasonable downtown height limits that respect surrounding neighborhoods.

Our development process too often ill serves citizens and developers alike. I support early citizen participation and quicker approval of quality proposals.

Finally, we need to encourage developers and the owners of existing buildings to adopt green practices — it’s good for the environment and it’s good for business.

If you want to preserve Ann Arbor’s character but also recognize that Ann Arbor cannot thrive without economic development, then vote Taylor on Tuesday August 3.

Environment & Parks

I applaud Recycle Ann Arbor, but we must do more. I supported our investment in expanded, single-stream recycling.  This exciting program will come on line in the Summer of 2010.

Ann Arbor is blessed with over 2000 acres of parks, which are vital to our quality of life. That central role, however, depends upon proper maintenance. The basics matter — mow the grass, repair and improve sports facilities, 24-hour graffiti removal. I will work to ensure that our parks receive the care they deserve.

I support the Greenbelt Program and am proud of Ann Arbor’s ongoing commitment to fight sprawl and promote infill development. The soft real estate market provides us an exciting opportunity to aggressively leverage regional cooperation and federal grant programs to purchase development rights to strategic properties. It is fiscally responsible to act now; we should do so.

If you treasure parks and believe that Ann Arbor should lead in the sensible preservation of the environment, then vote Taylor on Tuesday August 3.

Neighborhoods

I believe that everyone in Ann Arbor should have a safe, clean neighborhood. That’s why I support and will work towards ensuring that Ann Arbor’s Police and Community Standards Officers are responsive and efficient.

As your representative on City Council I will actively listen to your concerns to learn what issues are important to you and your neighborhood. I provide regular and accurate information about issues that confront us all.

Finally, I promise to represent the whole Third Ward. Too many citizens feel as if the City just doesn’t care about their communities; I do. I will work to ensure that all voices are heard and that no neighborhood is ignored.

If you want a Councilmember who is dedicated to the vitality of your neighborhood and committed to active, two-way communication, then vote Taylor on Tuesday August 3.

Human Services and Affordable Housing

The sad truth is that Ann Arbor has become the government of last resort for so many. With the Bush administration’s failure of leadership and the State government’s financial turmoil, the necessity to care for the needy falls upon us. Unfortunately, although Ann Arbor’s commitment to these populations is deep, we cannot spend what we do not have.

I believe that Ann Arbor is and must remain a leader in its dedication and commitment to provide efficient services to, and encourage the availability of affordable housing for, persons in need. Because financial responsibility necessitates limited spending, we must take an integrated, regional approach to leverage resources and expertise to assist the disadvantaged. In addition to partnering with other governmental units, we must coordinate with the private sector and dedicated nonprofits in order to extend a hand up. Caring for people in need is a public good that betters us all.

If you want Ann Arbor to provide smart and efficient human services, then vote Taylor on Tuesday August 3.

Want more?

If you are concerned about an issue that I haven’t addressed here, please write or call; I am eager to listen.