The Ward 8 residents should expect good and reliable city services. They should expect their streets to be free of potholes, timely snow and leaf removal, trash pickup and other traditional services from City Hall. As Councilman I will prioritize the provision of quality city services. The city budget is $541.5 million dollars which is funded primarily by taxes paid by citizens living in and outside the city. Nearly 60% of the budget is spent on public safety, and it is reasonable for community residents to expect police to show up when called, and remain visible in their neighborhoods.

Not every city service is meeting the expectations of the public. Those that don’t will be pushed to improve. If elected I will ask to be a member of City Council committees that oversee the important city services of economic and community development, public safety, health and others. Legislative committees provide oversight opportunities to discuss and challenge those responsible for the city services that significantly impact the quality of life of Ward 8 residents.  I will have a Ward office to allow residents to talk with me and report concerns with city services, or share other needs.  I have always believed in being accessible to the people I work for. Citizens should expect from their elected officials a committed hardworking approach to their work.

In Ward 8, the parks are special and must remain in good condition. They must also be safe for citizens to enjoy.  I will work towards the development of the African American cultural garden that would properly honor the historic achievements of African Americans in Cleveland and around the nation.  We have waited long enough. Recreation for our youth and after school programs are essential to provide opportunities for them to avoid trouble and to socialize with each other. A neighborhood beautification program can employ our youth in the summer, and other job opportunities can come with partnerships with local businesses and organizations. We should also be able to use neighborhood school buildings for community meetings and events that youth and adults can enjoy.
 
Throughout Ward 8 many service requests are made each day --from the need for better street lighting, the removal of abandoned cars, the nuisance of a barking dog, or the danger of an open dilapidated house on a child’s route to school. It is how well these request are responded to that will determine the kind of outlook citizens have of their community, and if they should remain in that neighborhood or move from the city.  A city can only claim success when it serves its citizens, and works with them to improve their lives.