Candidates discuss development, public image
Eight of the 10 candidates for Libby City Council responded to questions about their backgrounds, personalities and ideas for Libby’s future. This is the third in a series of articles with the candidates’ answers to those questions. Candidates D.C. Orr and Doug Roll did not respond to the questions.
What can and/or should the City Council do to promote economic development in Libby?
Joe Miller:
Because of our location, Libby faces unique challenges when it comes to economic development. We also have unique opportunities. Working in partnership with other organizations to promote recreational development and manufacturing in our area is vital. We must also continue to adapt as we face new challenges.
Gary Beach:
The council should work with local merchants and resources as well as invite outside entities to invest in Libby.
Arlen Magill:
Libby needs to get more involvement from the residents. People have some great ideas. I would form small groups to explore the needs of different businesses and make it a fun challenge that whichever group gets the best feedback can share it with everyone.
Joseph Johnston:
The City of Libby is currently working with the Lincoln County commissioners, the Kootenai River Development Council and others for continued economic development. Cooperative efforts from these parties must continue, keeping united and progressive.
Brian Zimmerman:
We need to promote this great little community of ours out on the Internet. Take a look at what other communities in the northwest have done that worked and use that to create our own opportunities for expansion. Also, we need to look at the possibility of giving tax breaks for new companies looking to set up shop, working not only with the city, but also working along with the county to benefit both.
Peggy Williams:
Local officials can help create an environment that supports the growth and expansion of local businesses. The city has limited ability to offer financial incentives to recruit business or industry.
Allen Olsen:
We need to clean up the corruption. Who or what corporation would want to read about Libby’s corruption and our mayor, and then want to come here?
Dejon Raines:
The City Council should do everything it can to make Libby attractive to business, developers and anyone interested in relocating to the Libby area. This doesn’t have to be big, expensive projects. Absolutely anything we can do to welcome new people to the community will help aid Libby in its economic development.
Should the City Council take action to address the public perception of Libby’s municipal government? Why or why not? If so, what action should be taken?
Joe Miller:
One of the primary roles of the City Council is to honor its rules and conduct its meetings in a fair and open manner. There is always room for improved communication with the public about the work that municipal government is doing. I see an opportunity to develop a variety of communication tools.
Gary Beach:
Libby needs to get out of the negative spotlight, parties on both sides have spoken and the current litigation will determine what actions should be taken. We need to focus on what is good for the community and work together rather than be divided.
Arlen Magill:
Libby leadership needs transparency. I like the idea of a public oversight committee. Also, it’s time for a forensic audit of the city’s finances.
Joseph Johnston:
The public’s perception of the mayor and City Council is at an all-time low. We’ve had four years of turmoil because of personality conflicts and various allegations of wrongdoing. If laws have been broken, then let the accusers provide proof so these issues can be dealt with in the courts. They mayor and council are the only ones who can change their images. If they are unable to work together for our community, then the citizens needs to solve the bickering and fighting in the voting booth.
Brian Zimmerman:
I believe the people of Libby will speak on this issue Nov. 3.
Peggy Williams:
City residents should be involved. People should attend City Council meetings and talk with City Council members. My perception of Libby’s municipal government is based on the work I put into my part of the operation. Great effort has been expended to paint a picture of the council as dysfunctional, I disagree with that picture.
Allen Olsen:
Of course the city should address it. We need to quit talking about a transparent government and show the people that we work for them. Every piece of paper in City Hall is a public document. No one should be denied, no one should have to pay for public paperwork. No one should have to file a Freedom of Information Act request. We work for the people of Libby.
Dejon Raines:
The City Council should always take reasonable steps to ensure that the community is informed and involved in the governing process. In addition, this election is the perfect opportunity for the citizens of Libby to take action on any concerns they may have regarding Libby’s municipal government. This can be accomplished by voting for the candidates they feel best represent them.