Government’s Function

What is your understanding of the role of government in society in general, and the role of local government, in specific?

Preserving Bus Service

At the June 12 CHENA meeting mayoral interviews, Paul Schreiber stated that he is in favor of preserving bus service. At the May elections at the Senior Center, KYR founder Laura Bien met Paul Schreiber leaving the center after voting. After a chat, she asked him to sign her petition to preserve bus service. He refused. If Paul Schreiber wants to preserve bus service, why did he refuse to sign a petition to preserve bus service?

Water Street’s Success

Ypsilanti set out to redevelop the Water Street parcel six years ago, after 30 years of dreaming. It’s going to be a wonderful new neighborhood and will help the Downtown and Depot Town business districts thrive. Money has been spent to acquire and clean up the land, and there’s a new developer who actually has the skills and the capacity to make it happen. The only thing that could prevent it from being a huge success would be to not build it, because we have to build it in order to pay off the debt incurred to get this far. If elected, what will you do to help Water Street succeed?

Downtown Development Authority (DDA)

How does a DDA work? Are you supportive of or opposed to the concept of a DDA, and why? (Ypsilanti is the only city in the state that has two, and if one goes away we will never get it back.)

EMU’s Tax Exemption (2)

Based upon a Public Act that was established during the infancy of the automobile, property belonging to Eastern Michigan University and used for educational purposes is exempt from taxes. Parking lots, resturants, stores, and parking structures located on University property are not used for educational purposes (they generate profits). What will you do to rectify this injustice to the people of Ypsilanti?

EMU’s Tax Exemption (1)

Based upon a Public Act that was established during the infancy of the automobile, property belonging to Eastern Michigan University and used for educational purposes is exempt from taxes. To date EMU boasts extended campuses in Livonia, Jackson, Traverse City, Flint, Detroit and Monroe. How does this benefit (Ypsilanti) the host community?

Fixing the System

As mayor, you will be additionally challenged by a charter that did not contain the checks and balances necessary to prevent the Water Street Debacle. A charter that will allow key emergency personnel to live out of state and a charter that puts DDA Development ahead of basic services. The system is broken and must be fixed if you are to succeed. What are your plans to fix the system? How will you create a checks and balances system that will prevent future Water Street Development disasters?

Ypsi / EMU Disconnect

Currently there is a disconnect between the city of Ypsilanti and Eastern Michigan University. What is your plan to help bridge this gap and develop a strong relationship with the university, especially with students?