Continuing with our survey of Republican at-large candidates for Charlotte city council:
1. What is the greatest challenge facing Charlotte today?
Romero: Crime, Illegal Immigration, and Fiscal Accountability – Admitting that we have a problem is half the battle. As we continue to grow it is paramount that we spend as much time focusing on these issues as we have “transit and transportation”.
2. Which is your higher priority — Making Charlotte a great place to live or making Charlotte a great place to visit?
Romero: I grew up here when no one even knew where Charlotte was, or confused us with Charleston and Charlottesville, so I think tourism is a bonus today. My priority will be making this a safer and greater place to live for my family and other Charlotteans.
3. Do you support or oppose the repeal of half-cent transit tax for transit?
Romero: Although I’m not a huge proponent of taxes in general, I do support this transit tax because it spreads the burden of building Charlotte’s transportation future on to all those that visit, work and play in here, not just Charlotte property owners.
4. Identify at least one segment/department/fund of city government that might be a candidate for cost savings.
Romero: I believe in giving my personal time and resources to nonprofit’s, arts, and other philanthropic endeavors. However, I do not feel it is appropriate to spend taxpayer dollars in the same manner. I would look to limit that policy in the future.
5. Given the new change in state law allowing tax increment financing to be used to build schools and parks, do you support exploring interlocal agreements, which might be used to help build schools/parks in the city?
Romero: Yes, if we can share burden and risk with other communities that seems like smart planning.
Thanks to Mr. Romero. John Lassiter’s responses can be found here, Jerry Mudge’s here.
