DECISION 2023: We need to retain, attract businesses to the downtown

Editor's note: The Rochester Voice asked candidates for mayor and City Council to respond to a series of questions. Below is the submission from David Walker, who is running for a Ward 4 Seat A council seat. Don't forget to vote on Nov. 7.

Name: David Walker

Question 1. What moves could be made to make Rochester government more transparent?

Release Non-Public minutes in a timely manner. Televise all Committee meetings.

Question 2. Do you believe the unassigned fund balance is an appropriate place from which to draw funds for capital improvement projects and reserve accounts?

Unassigned Fund Balance is for emergencies, but if they are used they should only be used on Capital items. Reserve accounts are for specific major projects, but I'm not a fan of them, because they commit the City to those projects long term.

Question 3. Would you ever consider expending a portion of the unassigned fund balance to significantly reduce residents' tax burden?

Fund Balance should never be used on operating budget. That would be inappropriate, because of future budgetary issues it would cause. To reduce the tax rate you could use them on capital projects.

Questions 4. What do you think needs to happen to reduce the number of homeless persons living in Rochester?

Shelters should only be placed in appropriate places in the city and services offered to get them on their feet again (addiction program or mental health services etc.).

Question 5. What is the number one problem when focusing on the continued re-emergence of the city's downtown?

Retaining and attracting businesses and offering amenities that will make downtown a destination again. Along with lighting and police foot patrols for public safety.

Question 6. Explain your position on affordable (workforce) housing, including to what degree should government be subsidizing the builders' cost of construction.

Rochester has a lot of housing approved on the books at market rates. City Government by State Law is limited in the ways it can attract new development. One tool is 79E used in the downtown to assist in the rehabilitation of older buildings,

Question 7. Why do you think you're best for the job? (If running opposed, you may comment on what you bring to the table or choose not to answer.)

I bring years of experience in Municipal Government to the table being a former Mayor, City Councilor and current Planning Board member.