Candidate Q&A: Daun Sessoms Hester

What makes you the best candidate for City Council?

I helped develop and implement neighborhood plans with citizens of my ward. I identified where funding is required to strategically implement objectives such as: improving sidewalks, curbs, purchasing blighted and nuisance properties and demolishing them, designing after-school programs for middle schools; determining locations and designs of recreation centers, schools, libraries and aquatic centers. I advise citizens about departments that will help them . I respond quickly . I know the issues .

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

Enhancing and providing quality homeownership and rental opportunities for various income levels. A “housing policy” will help us benchmark and measure .

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

The most pressing issue will be intergenerational in nature. Expectations regarding quality of living will put greater and different demands on funding. Expectations of youth also will be different . We will not have the luxury of concentrating on one versus the other. Cities must look at intergenerational supports that both groups want. Employment for youth will be service or scientific and high-tech related. Libraries and wellness facilities are being designed with all age groups in mind. As we redevelop areas, like St. Paul’s Quadrant, we are preparing housing options for families, single professionals, empty-nesters and seniors.

What is the most pressing issue in the school division and how should the city solve it?

Because we have a diverse population with a variety of learning styles, we must create learning environments to meet the needs of all children. The misperception that fewer children require less money to educate is inaccurate. Federal and state mandates are expensive. We should provide small learning environments . Creating more K-8 schools is a beginning. School construction and maintenance is a pressing issue.

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

State and federal governments should raise money for transportation projects by imposing user fees and tolls.

Do you believe the city should continue to subsidize large downtown projects?

"Subsidize" is misleading. We have provided incentives not only to maintain and grow businesses but to provide income for city services . If the project provides income over many years we should continue to provide incentives. Incentives can be used across the city.