Candidate Q&A: Suzy Kelly

What makes you the best candidate for City Council?

As a 30-year small business owner, I understand the budget, the needs of employees, and how to provide superior customer service. In addition, as a resident and a business owner, I understand the impact of taxes on the both the personal and corporate levels.

What should be the city's top priority now, and how can it be achieved?

Growing the local economy in order to provide for the transportation and infrastructure demands, high quality schools, continuity of city services, competitive benefit packages for city employees, should be the council’s top priority. Enriching the city’s business base to achieve this end will be a priority when elected. I will work closely with the City Manager and the Economic Development Department to achieve this priority.

What do you think will be the city's most pressing issue in 10 years, and how can the city prepare for it?

One of the most pressing issues facing this city and our region is our transportation needs, which directly impacts our economy. Investing in these projects will bring in revenue to our city and our region by providing opportunities for commerce, tourism, and the port.

How do you respond to complaints that city leaders put developers’ interests ahead of residents’ needs?

This complaint indicates that there is a disconnect between the citizens and the city leadership on land-use policy issues. There should be a clear understanding of future development of zoned property in Chesapeake. It is extremely important that city leadership provides a comprehensive vision of city development to both residents and developers. This vision should always take into consideration the needs of residents and the long-range needs of the city.

Cite one vote by a majority of City Council that you disagreed with in the past year and why.

The Transportation Authority was not the solution to our transportation funding needs. This controversial decision created another layer of government with taxing authority that was simply not the right solution.

Should the city and state raise more money to pay for transportation projects? If yes, how?

Funding our transporta-tion projects is an invest-ment in our city and state’s future. This funding requires a dedicated source outside of the state’s general fund. I would support funding initiatives that have the least impact on those on a fixed income, and one that has a sunset clause so that funding expires when the transportation projects have been completed.