Council candidates field questions on taxes, redevelopment, vision for Jefferson City

Last week, the News Tribune held a candidate forum, where six of the seven candidates for Jefferson City Council answered questions submitted by our readers.

The forum was a time-limited event, and we were unable to ask every question submitted by our readers. Here you will find the remaining reader-submitted questions and responses from the six council candidates who participated in the forum: unopposed incumbent 1st Ward Councilman Rick Prather; incumbent 2nd Ward Councilman J. Rick Mihalevich and challenger Bud Fisher; unopposed 3rd Ward candidate Erin Wiseman; incumbent 4th Ward Councilman Glen Costales and challenger David Durbin; and unopposed incumbent 5th Ward Councilman Larry Henry.

Editor's Note: Submitted questions may have been edited for clarity. Responses may have been edited for grammar.

Q. The Wellness Center is currently under construction, and there is now a plan to renovate and redevelop the Truman Hotel property. Given those projects, along with existing facilities in the area, do you believe the city still needs to pursue a conference or civic center?

Prather: "I think we should keep our minds open to ideas involving a conference center/civic center. Even when we had the Truman Hotel conference space, it was determined by sources outside the city of Jefferson that there was still a need for more conference space. That being said, we should proceed with caution and make sure whatever is proposed makes sense."

Mihalevich: "Yes. The voters approved a lodging tax that many believed would go toward the construction of a conference center. Unless I have evidence in change of public intent, need or feasibility, then I feel obligated to fulfill the vote of the public."

Fisher: "I think we as a city along with private developers need to pursue all viable development possibilities. Some projects may not actually reach final development stages, but I think we need to explore all worthwhile development opportunities."

Wiseman: "I am unsure of the Truman Hotel property specifics. The conference/civic center is still a contested issue that, per the last vote, the public generally has a mixed opinion. There are funds that have been specifically earmarked for the project, but there has to be a viable project in mind or a vote to reallocate funds. I am open to options."

Costales: "The city does not need to pursue either a conference or civic center. These type of operations are best left to the private market. If either one was a good business venture, it would have already have been accomplished. They have a track record of needing substantial subsidizing to break even. We need to concentrate our efforts on finding a way to better compensate our employees and maintaining and upgrading our current facilities, equipment and infrastructure."

Durbin: "The voters of Jefferson City passed the lodging tax to support the development of a conference center in the city. I believe that we should honor the citizens' vote and continue to pursue a conference center. The Convention and Visitors Bureau estimates that Jefferson City loses about $7 million annually in business from conferences that could be hosted here if our facilities included additional resources such as a convention center. While it is welcome that the Truman Hotel property has plans for redevelopment, those plans are still in an early stage, and work toward a convention center should not be stopped while the Truman Hotel property is developed."

Henry: "There is no doubt those two particular projects will ultimately be great for the city of Jefferson. That said, exploring and pursuing all options for growth and economic development for the city is one of my responsibilities as a city councilman. That does not mean there is not a need to pursue a conference center/civic center but more so is there a possible opportunity."

Q. What is your vision as to what you would like Jefferson City to look like by the end of your first term in office and possibly your second term in office?

Prather: "I'm going on my third term, and I see the city rebounding from a financial deficit, due mainly to the economy. I would like to see this continue to improve and get to a position to where companies want to move to and invest in our city. With the Lafayette interchange opening later this year, we will be having more and more traffic visiting the Missouri State Penitentiary site. We will need to improve the roads and other infrastructure surrounding this area - one of which is already planned and that is Capitol Avenue streetscape."

Mihalevich: "We live on the backs of previous councils. The work I do in cooperation with other council members will more likely be revealed years later. I do believe we have set forth in our financial planning and actions the groundwork for long-term improvements in city services with quality staff having the resources to provide excellent public services. At the conclusion of my term, I would like to see progress toward the following: improvements in Capitol Avenue houses and a turnaround of degrading neighborhoods within the city's core, especially selected neighborhoods surrounding Capital Region Medical Center; further the careful planning and development of MSP; development of a plan and make progress toward city's capital needs for equipment and buildings, such as fire stations, Jefferson City Memorial Airport and other facilities; intersection and safety improvements on Clark, Monroe and Dunklin streets; update sidewalks and roadways in highest areas of need."

Fisher: "I would like to think our city would be on balance ... in protecting our history while developing new ... improving infrastructure while preserving our resources ... attracting new business while listening to the needs of our present businesses ... balance."

Wiseman: "My vision is for the city to continue growing by making this an attractive place to work and live for young families and professionals as well as maintaining the interest and pride of our current citizens."

Costales: "Our infrastructure is not in good shape. Most streets need repair, and stormwater issues are abundant. Our top priorities should be to take care of the needs for the fire and police department and existing infrastructure. Fifty percent reduction in the number of abandoned buildings from where we currently stand."

Durbin: "I have said that I would like for the city leadership to engage in planning for the next 10 years or so in order to choose some goals and to prioritize those goals. Having said that, I would like to see progress toward a convention center and development of some areas that have been opened up for development such as Stadium Drive across from JCMG and the west side of Missouri 179 in the area of Mission Drive."

Henry: "My vision for Jefferson City is to continue to see it grow. What I mean by that is taking care of and preserving what we have while finding new ways and opportunities to expand. As technology grows, the city has to be able to keep up. This also plays a very important role in attracting businesses and families here."

Q. What methods (media or otherwise) would you propose the council use to promote Jefferson City?

Prather: "This function is usually handled by the CVB, but the city could add increased presence on the Internet."

Mihalevich: "The Convention and Visitors Bureau, which is funded in part by the lodging tax, has done a great deal of work to improve the image and desirability of Jefferson City as a destination city. I believe the use of all forms of media are important to provide full coverage of city attractions and events to potential audiences."

Fisher: "The best the council can do is to work hard in coordination with our staff ... businesses ... associations ... and our citizens to present and provide a dynamic city that is safe, business-friendly, with a sound financial base. We have resources such as the Chamber of Commerce, Convention and Visitors Bureau and others that are equipped to market the city. The council needs to provide the solid base for them to stand. And of course, any marketer will tell you the best form of advertising is word of mouth. Providing a friendly, clean, safe city with a fun atmosphere is the basis from which good things can rise ... and that people will talk about when they leave."

Wiseman: "Currently we are utilizing the CVB and Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce to promote the city for tourism purposes and employers."

Costales: "Promoting Jefferson City is the duty of the local Chamber of Commerce and the local Convention and Visitors Bureau. Missouri has a very good roadway system. Gas stations and rest stops along the highways all have free booklets regarding the hotels/motels and places of interest along the road. Jefferson City normally has only one or two hotels/motels listed."

Durbin: "Active use of current social media, Facebook, Twitter, etc., to promote our city generally as well as special events such as Salute to America. In addition, traditional advertising (we are doing some of this already) can promote the city to others in the state and across the country."

Henry: "As far as promoting the city of Jefferson, I think we have a good promotional tool being voted the most beautiful small town. Along with that, we have one of the best universities in the state here in our own backyard with Lincoln University. That should continue to be highlighted with great pride. Also promoting our parks, which are hidden gems to those who are not very familiar with them. Media plays an important factor, but the biggest way to promote the city of Jefferson is through us as a community. Nothing resonates more with visitors when members of the community speak highly of their city."

Q. Do you believe the $185,000 city contribution to the Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce is a good investment?

Prather: "My perspective is that the chamber has been doing a good job during the economic downturn, but there is always room for improvement. If someone can show that there are others with a better track record and the cost is not out of line, we should consider those options."

Mihalevich: "When I was first on the council, I had concerns regarding the direction and accountability of chamber economic development activities. During city budget issues, the contribution for economic development services was reduced from $200,000 to $185,000 in 2012. The chamber regrettably reduced senior staff and has made strong efforts to engage funding partners with months of meetings and planning to focus on activities and projects that best aligns with priorities of the county and city. Furthermore, the chamber has enhanced reporting to provide better accountability to funding partners. In recent years, the chamber has been instrumental in securing the Special Olympics Campus for Life, Continental Commercial Products and other activities that contribute to economic development. I feel our current contract for economic development activities with the chamber serves the city and community well."

Fisher: "The chamber provides a lot of good resources to our city and beyond. From information-gathering to seminars to assisting local businesses with issues they may be facing ... from maintaining a relationship with local area businesses to seeking and marketing to new business for city ... the chamber is vital! Can we as a city do more to attract new business and development? Yes. And we should look to additional viable means and methods to do so."

Wiseman: "I'm unsure of what contribution this concerns. I do believe there is a contract with the Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce regarding economic development. While I have not had the opportunity to review said contract, I was at the council meeting that they presented to the city what progress they made last year. Since I do not have previous years to compare it to, I am not sure I can make a fair comparison; however, I am pleased with the conferences Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce are attending and the attempts they have made to increase employment opportunities in Jefferson City."

Costales: "No. I believe it would (be) better to be incentive-based. That is pay a base amount ($50,000), then pay a bonus for every job brought to Jefferson City which results in a direct hire of a city resident being paid at least twice the minimum wage. Therefore, the city pays for results and not effort."

Durbin: "I think that cooperation between the city, county and the chamber for economic development purposes is essential. I also think there should be proper oversight of any significant investment of taxpayer dollars. I think the relationship has provided advantages to our city in the past, and am committed to working with the chamber and other members of the council and County Commission on economic development moving forward, while ensuring efficient uses of our tax dollars."

Henry: "I believe the $185,000 city contribution to the Jefferson City Area Chamber of Commerce is ultimately a good investment. Does the city always get the results it wants? Of course not, but I can say it is not without effort, and I have had my criticisms of the chamber as other council members have had. I think the chamber has definitely proven itself over the past year and half what it can do with bringing businesses here to the city."

Q. What approach would you use to work with other institutions regarding joint proposal or areas of common interest?

Prather: "We need to continue our relationship with the county on cooperative projects such as Frog Hollow, Lafayette, Jackson and Chestnut bridges, and the work currently being done on Stadium, Jefferson and Monroe, which also involved Capital Region Medical Center. Future cooperative projects have been planned for the upcoming half-cent sales tax renewal. Other partners include Lincoln, State Tech, state of Missouri and local businesses."

Mihalevich: "We need to provide the support to institutions in areas of infrastructure, tax incentives and ordinances when those approaches make sense from an economic and community point of view. In the case of business institutions, we have provided railroad and roadway improvements; for the Special Olympics Campus for Life project the city agreed to infrastructure connections, combining of funds to develop a join recreation facility with Lincoln University, and tax incentives to Capital Mall developers to protect the potential future loss of sales tax revenues."

Fisher: "I live in "old Jefferson City,' and like many other areas of the city our sidewalks are in much need of repair. They are actually dangerous in some areas. I have begun my own research as (to) how we can get some assistance in addressing this health and safety issue. I still have a lot more to do, but it appears that there could be grants available to help. Stay tuned!"

Wiseman: "Reach out and make a contact. Take someone to lunch to get to know them."

Costales: "It depends on the source of funding. If already funded by state tax collections, they need to approach the state for funding. If federally funded, approach the responsible federal agency. If it is a private institution, the first step is to assist the institution in seeking state or federal financial incentives. Missouri is in the top 10 of states that offer programs to help reduce tax, labor and other discrepancies. After that, local incentives can be offered."

Durbin: "Cooperation, indeed partnership, with entities such as the county and the school district is essential to the progress of our city and community. Periodic joint meetings or community forums at which both the governmental bodies as well as members of the public can share goals and ideas can help to formulate plans for joint efforts."

Henry: "As for the approach I would use in working with institutions for joint proposals and common interests, first I would need to know what those common interests are. Finding common ground is most important in any joint proposal."

Q. Regarding the "open meeting/sunshine law," what are the only times the City Council should go into executive session? How should the Freedom of Information Act be applied to the City Council? What limitations should exist?

Prather: "The main reasons the council goes into closed session revolve around personnel issues, contract negotiation and legal issues. I believe the Freedom of Information Act applies to the federal government, and we currently have limitations on when we go into closed session."

Mihalevich: "In contract negotiations where information released to the public could compromise successful closure of the contract and personnel issues that would invade the privacy of individuals."

Fisher: "I certainly believe in "open government' and believe that closed sessions should be employed sparingly. The Sunshine Law is designed to keep government open and honest; however, it also allows the council (with prior written notice of matters to be addressed) to go into closed session to protect the rights and ensure the confidentiality concerning personnel matters, property acquisitions and other matters as specifically set out by law. These laws should be observed and followed."

Wiseman: "The Revised Statutes of Missouri in Section 610 should govern the City Council and each of these questions."

Costales: "Discussion in regards to personnel, contract negotiations (on a limited basis) and real estate. We rely on the guidance of counsel. Everything we do and all associated records should be open to the public with the exception of personnel discussions involving specific individuals. Contract and real estate matters should be available as soon as the release of the information would not be detrimental to the city's negotiations."

Durbin: "Missouri's Sunshine Law relating to open meetings and records in state and local government is contained in Chapter 610, Revised Statutes of Missouri. (The Freedom of Information Act, Title 5 United States Code, Section 552, is a federal law providing for access to federal governmental records.) The City Council, or any Missouri governmental body, can only go into executive or closed session when permitted by Section 610.021, Revised Statutes of Missouri, for reasons such as discussing litigation, leasing or purchase of real estate, hiring or firing of personnel and other enumerated reasons in the statute."

Henry: "In regard to "open meeting/Sunshine Law,' I believe the current system works perfectly fine. There are issues such as personnel, real estate or litigation that should be discussed privately prior to being released publicly. Typically that is when a plan is discussed or put in place to potentially head off and future issues."

Q. Do you believe JeffTran/local transit currently does or possibly can have a positive impact on the Jefferson City economy. If so, in what ways?

Prather: "Yes, local transit could help the local economy if we can increase ridership. We have a Transit Advisory Committee that has and should continue to communicate these ideas to the City Council."

Mihalevich: "Yes. JeffTran has a positive impact on many businesses that have workers who depend on public transit. Conversely, workers without public transit would be limited in employment opportunities."

Fisher: "I think a good transit system is crucial to our city. As a kid growing up here, I rode the city buses all the time, even to school on many occasions. A good transit system can be a big consideration for potential employers when they are looking to move to our city. They want to be sure their good employees have a reliable means for getting to work each day."

Wiseman: "It does, because for some members of the community it is the only reliable transportation they have. It allows people to maintain employment, shop or simply see the community. JeffTran allows for the movement of people and subsequently commerce."

Costales: "JeffTran does have a positive financial impact. We receive federal and state dollars and grants to help operate the system, and it allows many residents the opportunity to shop, receive medical care, etc. Those businesses require employees and related supplies. The money spent of those employees and supplies provides a source of money to be spent elsewhere in the local economy."

Durbin: "Public transportation serves individuals who do not have personal transportation to get to work, to go shopping and to enjoy the attractions of our city. Similarly, public transportation serves employers so that employees can come to work on time and serves retailers when their customers are able to make purchases."

Henry: "There is no doubt JeffTran/local transit has a positive impact on the community. Quite frankly, without it there would be quite a few citizens left without transportation. Also I think another issue of importance that often gets overlooked is how much employees from local businesses use public transit. So there is a great impact."

Q. As a Jefferson City Council member, will you be one who both understands and remembers that there are people who need JeffTran/local transit, at best, as is, because without it they would be totally reliant on others for transportation at each hour of the day every day of the week?

Prather: "Yes, I do see the need for local transit and believe it should continue for those and other reasons."

Mihalevich: "I have a track record and public testimony that supports a position of understanding the issues of residents that depend on public transportation. I've supported advertising, enhancement of routes and other activities to increase ridership and reduce costs."

Fisher: "Yes, I will support a vital transit system for the good of all citizens, particularly those who rely on it for the bulk of their transportation needs including going to and from work."

Wiseman: "Yes."

Costales: "Yes, I understand that an effective, efficient local transportation system is crucial. I believe that we need to increase the fare a modest amount, as it has not been raised since 1997. This year fares are budgeted to generate $198,000, and we have budgeted $1,220,110 from the general fund to subsidize transit."

Durbin: "I understand that numerous citizens rely on public transportation because they do not have access to personal transportation - either due to affordability or physical limitations."

Henry: "I definitely understand its importance and will continue to work with community members in attempting to find ways to improve on what the city already has."

Q. As a Jefferson City Council person, what future do you see for local transit, and what would be your plans, if any, for its maintenance and/or improvement?

Prather: "Unfortunately transit has been on a decline for years. The cost keeps rising, and the income is stagnant. We have a great transit staff led by Mark Mehmert, and they are looking into ways to improve our service at the most efficient way possible."

Mihalevich: "I would support efforts to increase ridership and expand service to nights and weekends. However, the community has limits on supporting the subsidy provided to the transit division. Therefore, we should continue to look at ways to increase efficiency in routing and reduce costs. I would like to see alternatives for affordable evening and weekend public or private transportation services."

Fisher: "In moving forward with our transit system, we must listen to those who rely on it for their primary form of transportation. That would include routes, hours of service, fees charges and so on. Good communication with the riders and staff will be the key to maintaining a service that works best for everyone."

Wiseman: "I think there are opportunities to pair with local organizations or schools to increase revenue for maintenance, improvements and increase in routes. We should explore these options and others to increase ridership."

Costales: "The city will be offering a youth summer pas, and the transit director is pursuing grants which will enhance services by providing automatic vehicle locator functions, automatic passenger counts and voice annunciation capability to the buses. These were a recommendation of the Transit Advisory Committee. JeffTran staff will continue to explore other transit "pass' options."

Durbin: "Much of our public transportation program is based on federal support and guidelines. Having said that, we do need to regularly review routes and ridership to ensure that we are operating transportation in a way that meets the needs of the riders."

Henry: "When discussing a future for transit, it is never a cut-and-dry answer. I believe among council members transit is looked upon as one of the city's essential services. To make improvements, as a council we have to assess how that can be done with funding being scarce."

Q. Do you believe the tax burden on Jefferson City residents is too high, too low or reasonable?

Prather: "I feel that the services our citizens are currently getting for the tax burden are sufficient, and we should not increase taxes. We compare favorably to cities of similar size."

Mihalevich: "Reasonable, when compared to the services provided and compared to other cities."

Fisher: "Taxation of any kind is generally viewed as a burden. That said, I think we need to be especially mindful of the burden it imposes on the fixed-income elderly, the working poor and the middle class. However, taxes are necessary to keep our city safe and operating for the benefit of the whole. So maintaining a balance of on whom and how taxes are levied and in what circumstances is necessary for a fair taxation structure."

Wiseman: "There are different taxes for different items in Jefferson City. To say that the tax burden is too high, low or reasonable is difficult not only because I am not certain of the specifics of each tax, but also because so many of them are assessed in different ways."

Costales: "I believe the current tax burden is reasonable. With the largest employer not giving raises in quite some time, it would be very troubling to raise taxes."

Durbin: "I believe that the current tax burden is reasonable. Future growth and development will grow city revenues as new properties are built and come on the property tax rolls and new businesses generate additional sales."

Henry: "While no one cares for taxes for the most part, I believe the burden is reasonable for residents. The city's tax revenues show that. Without the current taxes the city has, many services and amenities citizens enjoy and need would suffer."

Q. Redevelopment of the old Missouri State Penitentiary site has come into the forefront again, with the state Office of Administration indicating a willingness to consider a long-term lease on a portion of the property, contingent upon the city building an access road through the property. What do you think of the possible redevelopment of the site, and would you support a long-term lease to allow the city to develop a portion of the property?

Prather: "Should the state of Missouri follow through with the long-term lease, I think the Missouri State Penitentiary site could offer many opportunities for development. We need to have the long-term lease before the road is built, or at least the agreements executed at the same time."

Mihalevich: "Yes, we hear a lot of talk about business attraction and other economic development strategies. MSP is a unique resource and therefore has great potential for economic development. I support carefully planned investments to develop the site in a manner that aligns with the MSP master plan. The planned MSP parkway would provide further opportunities for site development and economic development growth."

Fisher: "I am very excited about the opportunity and potential our new resolution with the state has provided the city of Jefferson! We are now in a position to utilize this beautiful and historic piece of property in the center of our city for so much good. Few cities have ever had an opportunity like this ... 140-plus acres of downtown prime real estate, historic in nature, future in function. We are like an artist when he looks at his blank canvas. What do we want to create for tomorrow and generations to come to use and enjoy? We are blessed to have these wonderful possibilities in our town."

Wiseman: "I think these are fantastic ideas and worth exploration; but ultimately we have to determine what makes sense for the city, and we have to communicate these reasons to the public."

Costales: "The property is owned by the state of Missouri. The city should not be providing the funding for something it does not own. Our financial focus should be on finding a way to better compensate our employees and maintaining and upgrading our current facilities, equipment and infrastructure. We should encourage the state to allow private businesses to enter a long-term lease - we should not compete with private businesses."

Durbin: "First of all, I applaud the mayor and council for taking leadership on this project because the redevelopment commission has been non-functioning for too long. Frankly, long-term occupancy of the property is the only way to go - whether by lease or outright sale - because private businesses cannot make business plans with the next year always a question mark. As with all projects, the details will be important. The construction of road access is crucial to development and the terms of building such access must be negotiated along with the terms of the use of the property."

Henry: "The possible redevelopment for the MSP site would be great for the city. I would be in favor of a long-term lease only if it makes sense."


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