NC Senate

The NC Senate seat is in a hotly contested battle between Democratic Incumbent Julia Boseman and Republican challenger Michael Lee. I have blogged about Senator Boseman, so my opinions on her senatorial record are easily viewed below. Again, I will use the League of Women Voters questionnaire answers form the bulk of this blog. I will organize by question and make my own comments below the two candidates statement on the issues.

Question #1: What is your position on drilling off the shore of NC for oil and why?

Boseman:

Overnight, offshore drilling has become a hotly contested issue. Congress appears to be willing to include some offshore drilling in a compromise national energy plan. As a Senator that represents over 330 square miles of the North Carolina Coastline, I am concerned that a shift in our national energy policy towards offshore drilling could place a great burden on our region's environmental and economic resources. However, I understand the need to find a way to lower gas prices for our families. As your Senator, I voted for legislation that capped the North Carolina gas tax, and legislation that provides energy assistance for low-income residents. I've also supported tax credits for alternative energies that will give North Carolinians more fuel choices in the future and recruit new industry to the state. I have made it a priority to focus on reducing our dependence on foreign oil by encouraging efficiency and alternative energies. We enacted landmark clean energy efficiency standards to reduce the burden on foreign oil, help cut pollution, and lower greenhouse gases. We created the bio-fuels Energy Independence Act that provides consumers who buy hybrid cars and energy-efficient home appliances tax credits for their purchases. This measure also gives consumers relief from rising gas prices by bringing alternative fuels to North Carolina through tax credits for manufacturers to produce biodiesel.

Lee:

In response to fast rising energy prices and an increasing dependence on foreign oil, North Carolina should strongly consider allowing offshore drilling for natural resources. However, we must regulate this industry so as to protect our coastal communities and beaches. The harvesting technology has developed in such a manner so as to assure protection of our vast and valuable environmental habitats and resources located here on the coast of North Carolina. In addition, if we choose to explore these resources, a portion of the royalty revenues (projected by some to be $23 billion over the next 40 years) from such offshore drilling must be set aside in a trust fund for perpetual beach re-nourishment, dredging and water quality monitoring by the UNCW Marine Sciences Department. State and Federal funds for beach re-nourishment and dredging are dwindling with each year that passes. Offshore drilling royalties may prove to be our best answer for preserving the valuable resources in our area, while contributing to a decline in oil prices and the United State dependence on foreign oil.

My opinion is that off-shore drilling is a very risky thing for our tourist dependent area with very little payoff. We will see NO return for a minimum of 10 years and there is no guarantee that oil companies will find anything that they want to tap anyways.

Question #2: While the State spends approximately 60% of its budget on education, the system is not meeting the expectations of state citizens. What do you think can be done to address this situation?

Boseman:

The problems that face our education system are comprehensive and require comprehensive solutions. This session, we raised teacher's salaries, lowered class sizes and funded drop-out prevention programs. I would like to see our recent efforts to put more emphasis on technology and vocational training programs to continue so our workforce can compete in a global world. Pre-kindergarten education has been identified as a crucial period for educational development and more should be done to support these programs. This year we expanded More at Four pre-kindergarten education by $170 million to serve 35,000 additional at risk children.

Lee:

First, let's look at just some of the ways our State is failing our children by reviewing certain key statistics: Approximately 1/3 of our public school students in North Carolina do not graduate from school on time (this statistic is even more dismal when looking at economically disadvantaged students); almost 1/3 of our elementary and middle school students are performing below grade level expectations in basic subjects such as math and reading; less than ½ of our schools in North Carolina are meeting Adequate Yearly Progress ("AYP") standards for No Child Left Behind (74% of schools nationally are meeting AYP); and the list of failures goes on from there. We need to completely reform our public education system in North Carolina. While there are many issues we must address, some immediate measures that we need to take are: (i) find ways to foster better communication between principals, teachers and parents, (ii) institute a new system for compensating our teachers so that good teachers are paid more, (iii) develop a system to utilize teachers with a wealth of experience but who need to move outside of the classroom for whatever reason, (iv) explore options to give parents more choice in the education of their children (whether through charter schools or other innovative programs), (v) make a commitment to the development of vocational and technical programs, (vi) work with the business community to develop true school to career pathways, (vii) raise expectations and direct resources to assist students, teachers and principals to excel, and (viii) make teachers, principals and schools accountable for the success of their students and not merely how well they test. We, as a State, need to give our children, teachers, and principals the tools to succeed in this ever changing education environment. In order to do this, we need to bring together educational professionals to create an educational system that will be able to prepare our children to meet 21st century challenges. The Governor and General Assembly must know that our children, our State, and generations to come depend on our success in this reform.

I think most agree on what the problems are in this area. My biggest problem has nothing to do with the state, but the Federally mandated No Child Left Behind (or as many of my friends and I call it, All Children Left Behind). However, when we add more tax cuts, more loopholes that allow corporations to wiggle out of paying their fair share, then our children are the first to feel the sting at school.

Question #3: What should be the role of the state in developing fast (clean and efficient) rail transportation to and from the Eastern part of the state and in the development of localized fast rail systems in the larger cities?

Boseman:

Public transportation and rail must factor into our nation's future energy plan and transportation infrastructure. The state should encourage the development of green industries while our nation moves away from foreign oil.

Lee:

Our cargo rail transportation has been utilized by industry for many, many years and other than regulatory oversight as is currently provided, the State should not be involved. However, passenger rail service will likely not be accomplished without significant involvement by the State since the current transportation habits of North Carolinians do not support it from a free market perspective. While light rail needs to be explored, my primary focus when elected to the North Carolina Senate will be rehabilitating our current transportation system and infrastructure.

I'm not really sure anyone truly understands this question, including me. I agree with both candidates, but I'm not sure they are answering the same question.

Question #4: What so you see as the major problem in the efficient working of the General Assembly?

Boseman:

Citizen involvement and the attention of the public is vital to making the General Assembly work efficiently towards the needs of its people. There have been great advances in transparency in making nearly all of the General Assembly's information available through the Internet. New methods of making the entire legislative process more transparent and available to everyday citizens should be pursued.

Lee:

Integrity and honesty have eroded over the years as to some of those who serve in our North Carolina Senate. Unfortunately, one party control of our North Carolina Senate for over 100 years has led to repeated violations of our public trust, a focus on re-election versus service to our community, and the complete breakdown of a fair democratic process. I think Senator Smith summed it up in his book, "A Little Extra Effort", in a concise way so I will quote the same:

"Many of my key bills + The Taxpayer Protection Act, Defense of Marriage Act and Protection of Private Property Act + were sent straight to the Ways and Means Committee, which never meets. My amendments were voted down in committee or on the floor. I had the power to speak during session, but the majority voted based on their floor leader's signals. My dream of contributing to the public space was unfulfilled. The Democrats totally dominated the Senate. Their rules allowed them to block any amendment or bill we wanted to bring up."

(Also Senator Smith:) "In 2005, my Republican colleague, Neal Hunt, introduced legislation to require the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance in school classrooms. His bell was left on the cutting room floor. An almost identical bill was later introduced by a Democratic senator from a swing district in Wilmington. Neal's idea became her bill. Her bill became law, and the law became a campaign ad that helped ensure her reelection."

Since the publication of Senator Smith's book, matters have gotten worse in the North Carolina Senate. Senator Smith at least had the power to speak during the legislative session on bills up for a vote. In the last legislative session, the Democratic leadership did not allow any debate on the budget and drastically limited debate on other bills. This problem is not about Democrats or Republicans. It is about one party in control of our State Government and doing everything within its power to retain that control. This is the greatest challenge our State faces as we attempt to move forward with true reforms in education, transportation, the tax and spend policy of our government and many other very important initiatives.

I can understand Mr. Lee's point here, but more partisanship isn't going to help. There are definitely some members who have been in our state congress for far too long, but isn't that really up to their constituents to decide. I know that RC Soles has been in congress for 40 years, but his opponent is so wrong on the issues that Soles should be allowed to continue his reign. More transparency and more involvement would pressure those already in our legislature to do the right things.

Question #5: Please list your top three legislative priorities.

Boseman:

1. Continuing our efforts to improve our education system so that we can better compete in the world economy.
2. Focusing on the specific needs and opportunities of New Hanover County such as funding for the Oyster Hatchery at UNCW, the ports, and other local industries.
3. Protecting the middle and lower classes against rising health care costs, energy prices, and a stalled economy.

Lee:

Education reform to allow our children to thrive and compete in an ever changing economy.

Economic growth of our State (including (i) measures directed at retaining existing industry and attracting new ones, (ii) addressing the need for accessible and affordable health care, and (iii) reforming the tax and spend policy of our State Government).

Transportation reform so that our roads and bridges are safe for North

Well, that's not very helpful. Those are the same answers. Oh well, the info is here, make up your own mind.

NC House; District 18

This is my district, so I will pay special note to this one. The NC House seat was held by the controversial Representative Wright, when he had to resign over scandal, Sandra Spaulding Hughes was appointed to take over his post. She is being challenged by George R Swart. As before, I am taking from the League of Women Voters questionnaire and reorganizing by question as opposed to by person. This time I will comment after posting Hughes', and Swart's statement.

Question #1: What is your position on drilling off the shore of NC for oil and why?

Hughes:

I would not rule off shore drilling out as a means to reduce our dependence on foreign oil. We must be particularly careful because historically the east coast of North Carolina has experienced numerous destructive hurricanes. The potential damage that a hurricane could cause to off shore drilling operations may negatively impact the environment and coastal economy. We must carefully evaluate the real economic benefits against possible environmental impact. Oil companies should be encouraged to fully utilize land already designated for drilling while seeking energy alternatives.

The reason I caution restraint in off shore drilling is that our coastal environment is "the golden egg" that fuels our economy. One major oil spill could ruin our coastal economy for years to come. We must not rush to judgment, but rather study and understand the pros and cons of off shore drilling. We could then make intelligent decisions on this issue.

Swart:

I favor the United States utilizing all of its domestic energy. This includes drilling off the coast of NC for oil and natural gas as long as there is reasonable oversight of the process and the rigs are at least fifty miles offshore. I also believe that the US should develop all other energy sources such as wind, solar, hydrogen cells, etc.
My reasons for this are twofold:

1. The US must provide immediate relief to the American people (who are suffering a serious financial strain in many aspects of their lives) from the VERY high price of crude oil. High gasoline prices affect all businesses, food price and other segments of the economy. It is also the largest transfer of wealth in history.

2. The high cost of energy also affects the ability of the US in the area of national defense. If there were any significant interruption in the flow of foreign oil, the US would not be able to provide domestic crude to fill the gap. Serious interruption has a high probability of occurring due to the instability in many countries from which the US imports crude oil; for example in the conflict between Georgia and Russia.

My Opinion is that off shore drilling would NOT provide immediate benefit to our country. It will take years to survey, explore, build and start pumping oil. Our time and money is better spent implementing new technologies that we already have as well as developing new technologies. The chance of a spill and the impending environmental and economic devastation it would cause to our local area is too scary to even consider for NC.

Question #2: While the State spends approximately 60% of its budget on education, the system is not meeting the expectations of state citizens. How would you address this situation?

Hughes:

I would put greater emphasis on early education and preventive programs such as Head Start, Smart Start, and More at Four. This will positively impact the drop-out and suspension rates. I would provide more support for teachers including mentoring, better training, and increased performance based salaries. More emphasis should be placed in teacher development and vocational training programs. A long-term comprehensive plan for improving our educational system should be developed through broad collaborative initiatives with all segments of the community.

Swart:

There are several areas where the State can provide for a better educational system that meets citizen expectation:
1. The cap should be lifted on charter schools,
2. The money provided by the federal, state and local governments for education of a child should follow that child the school where the parent or guardian decides to place their child,
3. Tenure should be eliminated so the system may terminate teachers that are not meeting established goals,
4. There should be merit pay for teachers and administrators that are meeting or exceeding expectations.

I really can't argue with Hughes statement I would like to state that performance/merit based pay for teachers is a great idea, but needs to take into account that some teachers take on the poorly performing students and shouldn't be penalized for doing so (in fact, they should be encouraged). I do not like vouchers, as it sounds like Swart is talking about in his second point. I do however agree, with the idea that parents should be able to move their children within the public school system if needed. I believe in tenure, but certainly understand the arguments against it, maybe it needs to be more difficult to attain.

Question #3: What should be the role of the state in developing fast (clean and efficient) rail transportation to and from the eastern part of the state and in development of localized fast rail system in the larger cities?

Hughes:

It is important to develop rail and other means of public transportation throughout the state as a means to reduce our dependence on oil and impact on the environment. A rail connection with the eastern part of the state should be a high priority in addressing future transportation needs. However, we must concurrently maintain our present highway system and continue appropriate improvements. Our larger cities should definitely consider developing rail and other public transportation initiatives as a means to address traffic, pollution, and infrastructure issues.

Swart:

1. First, this question begs the question: Will the citizens of the eastern part of NC utilize such a system? I think not, look at the current use of public transportation in this area. A better use of taxpayer dollars would be to provide alternative energy sources to NC citizens such as those I have spoken of above.
2. I do support the provision of subway systems in highly populated areas such as the triad area and Charlotte.

This is a really difficult subject. I believe that improving our infrastructure for alternative fuel usage is necessary as well as making current public transportation better. However, one of the biggest complaints most people have about public transportation is that it is not very cost-effective (meaning the cost is somewhat similar to what driving a vehicle is) and the amount of time it takes to navigate the system to get where you are needed takes a large chunk of time. If a high-speed rail system could address these problems then I would support such an idea.

Question #4: What do you see as the major problem(s) (my addition) in the efficient working of the General Assembly?

Hughes:

The General Assembly works efficiently. More time and staff could be allocated for research and study.

Swart:

There are so many problems in the General Assembly that I do not know where to begin. However, here are a few:

1. The current short session should be remembered for what they didn't do than what they did. For example: they did not address the mental health needs of people, they did not resolve the needs of state infrastructure in the area of highways and bridges, they did not address the overwhelming desire of the people for a change in "forced" annexation laws etc.;
2. The General Assembly has become an "oligarchy" with the leadership of the House and Senate completely dominating the rest of the representation. This is done by controlling bill introduction, floor debates, and amendments to bills on the floor;
3. The general Assembly is required to produce balances budgets. I do not consider a budget balanced when money is removed from the highway trust fund and placed in the general fund of when the legislature votes to issue nearly a billion in new debt;
4. And the list goes on.

As I've been learning quite a bit with NCFOM I'll try to see if I have this information right. It is not the short session's intent to get new bills passed through. While it is arguable that it means that things do not run efficiently, our state congress do have jobs that they have to keep up. Most "work" is done during the long session and most research is done before and after the short session with bills that have already made their way through being voted on during the short session. So it is disingenuous to look only at the short session and say that it is not effective.

Question #5: Please list your top three legislative priorities.

Hughes:

1. Economic development and creation of good-paying jobs. Our citizens are suffering and need immediate and long term relief from job lose compounded by higher food and gasoline costs.

2. Affordable health care and tax relief for senior citizens. Relief is needed for senior citizens and others on fixed incomes as property values continue to escalate.

3. Intelligent growth together with effective handling of water, sewer, drainage and environmental issues. . The natural beauty of our area will continue to attract development. We must be diligent in balancing growth with protecting the environment and impact on existing neighborhoods.

4. Quality education and safe neighborhoods.

Swart:

1. The state legislature MUST establish a permanent change in ethics for that body where there is an open, honest and ethical state government. This requires a serious culture change in the legislature.

2. Uncontrolled spending must be ended. There is not a revenue problem in NC; there is a spending problem. Budgets should be zero based and indexed to inflation and population growth.

3. High taxes, such as income, fees, corporate and gasoline, must be reduced. Appropriate reduction in the corporate tax rate would eliminate the need for incentives to corporations to locate in NC.

Frequently we hear about how government spends too much, however, when pressed most politicians can't find anywhere to cut, only new places that need funding. This makes me skeptical at best when it comes up repeatedly in political discourse. By reducing taxes on corporations we are allowing them to get away without paying their fair share. Since most corporations end up paying as little (percentage wise) as individuals after they take every deduction that loop holes allow them, I'm not too sure that reducing taxes on them does anything but hurt the services that government provides. Instead if the Federal government (as well as the state, but since deductions are mostly taken on your federal tax return it's more a federal problem) would close loop holes that allow corporations to effectively lower their own tax rate to, at times, lower than individual tax rates, this problem would correct itself.

County Commissioners

We currently have 5 candidates for CountyCommissioner; Brian Berger (L), Jason Thompson (R), Bill Kopp (R-Incumbent), Ted Davis, Jr. (R-Incumbent), and Jonathan Barfield (D). Again, I'm taking the answers from The League of Women Voters questionnare and I've reorganized to go to the question that most influences you and read all answers. I'll comment at the bottom, this one will probably be longer than previous.

Question #1: How do you think the public can be better involved in decisions such as Titan which have such potential effects on the environment?

Berger:

The decision to provide $4.2 million in incentives to Titan Americas LLC illustrates misplaced priorities and total disregard for the environment and citizen input in vital decisions affecting our community. The preponderance of evidence suggests that Titan's plans involve major implications for the region's environment, transportation and emergency services infrastructure, as well as risks for the area's most important economic drivers (tourism, retirement, real estate) exceeding the purported economic benefits. Studies show that operations like Titan has planned typically reduce economic growth in the long run.

All of these implications should have been carefully vetted during the past couple years, but never once did the incumbents ask these questions. Decision-making should engage the diverse range of experts we are fortunate to have in New Hanover County, and unfortunately these experts too often are turned down for appointments to "citizen advisory boards" in favor of Realtors and developers, exclusively.

While the misplaced priorities and short-sightedness of those we elect is partly to blame for lack of citizen input, the "economic development" process itself is flawed, outdated, and secretive and until it changes, there will continue to be similar environmentally hazardous projects proposed and the same reactionary responses required.

I'm the only candidate who would bring environmental and economic development processes, perpetually stuck in a 1959 mentality, into the 21st Century. My vision of "economic development" for the Cape Fear region is based on attracting businesses and individuals with an eye toward long-term, sustainable growth, and protecting the environment and quality of life for residents is an inherent part of this model.

Thampson:

The elected officials of NHC must do a better job of communicating their expectations from the various organizations they fund with public dollars. This is a prime example of a simple directive, "find companies to bring jobs to our community", but this directive should have been, "find companies to bring jobs to our community that will reflect our culture and preserve our unique living environment". I will strive to bring that type of leadership and clarity to the NHC Commissioners. While we must grow and diversify our tax base we cannot continue to do so at the expense of our environment. Quality beaches, coastal waters, and public open space will continue to be one of the strongest economic engines in our local economy.

Kopp:

When companies are deciding whether to locate in New Hanover County, they usually contact Wilmington Industrial Development (WID). WID is often told that the company wishes for its interest in New Hanover County to remain confidential. The company may be looking at other cities or states and it may not want its competitors or employees to know that it is expanding, relocating or closing a site. A company may want to review a potential site for suitability to its needs, such as training for employees, acreage, taxes. New Hanover County needs to be able to compete with other potential sites by offering incentives that are allowed by North Carolina law. The County does not want competitors to know what incentives are being offered until the deal is consummated. The public is allowed to comment before such action is taken. While the question posed asks about public involvement in companies such as Titan, New Hanover County has also competed for the film industry and companies such as Corning and G.E. When New Hanover County approves an incentive agreement, it is often only the first step in a company being able to locate in New Hanover County. For example, the G.E. expansion has to receive approval from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Titan must obtain all required environmental permits from the Federal and State government. The public can comment and participate in the permitting process. Finally, it should be pointed out that companies, like Titan and G.E., can as of right under the County zoning ordinance, locate in B-2 area. Thus, a company can, if it receives all the necessary permits, operate in a permitted zone without prior commissioner approval.

Davis -- Unanswered

Barfield:

By having forums such as the one last night sponsored by the LWV and CONA. The four panelist provided great insight into the Titan issue, but still left many questions unanswered. It would be great to have these forums with the Titan representatives, the current County Commissioners, as well as representatives from the area environmental agencies present to answer our questions and concerns. Issues such as this need public input at the beginning of the project, when it was known that Titan was considering this location.

Question #2: How do you propose to meet the growing demands on the county's infrastructure? (water, sewer, transportation)

Berger:

New Hanover County is not the first to experience rapid growth and the stresses brought on by population growth. In fact, other communities have faced these issues long before growth hit Southeastern N.C., and from those experiences a library of workable solutions, failed experiments and "best practices" has emerged. New Hanover County staff are well-versed in these "best practices" and they are retained for their expertise, we would be wise to engage County staff in formulating plans and policy.

Cumulative stress from haphazard property rezonings has taken a toll on infrastructure capacity, resulting in more congested roads, major sewer spills, polluted waterways, and other burdens on citizen's quality of life. The lack of common sense planning has also contributed to increased taxation without improvement in services in both the city and county. Let the planners plan!

The first step toward improvements is committing to infrastructure investments based on visionary, deliberate planning for growth.

Thompson:

Fully support the newly created Cape Fear Public Utility Authority while providing oversight, input, and accountability to their Board of Directors. I will continue to monitor and set in place guiding principles that will ensure quality service delivery while maintaining affordable rates. I will move the County to be proactive with their future land use plans and to act regionally through coordination with the City of Wilmington, and the three beach towns.

Kopp:

As a result of the Special Order of Consent (SOC) between the State of North Carolina and the City of Wilmington, long ignored maintenance of the sewer system has begun. Effective July 1, 2008 the Cape Fear Public Utility Authority (CFPUA) has sole responsibility for operation of the New Hanover County (NHC) and City of Wilmington sewer systems which is to be managed and operated as a enterprise operation (users paying for service) with statutory authority to borrow funds for infrastructure improvements. Before the merger, the City of Wilmington had begun expansion of the Sweeney Water Treatment Plant surface water operation, and New Hanover County had under contract a new ground water treatment plant with fourteen (14) new wells in Castle Hayne and PeeDee aquifers. It is my opinion that with the merger of these two potable water sources, our county is positioned to take care of the needs of our citizens going forward. As President of the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC), I am personally in a position to represent New Hanover County at the table when important decisions are going to be made regarding transportation issues in NC. The 21st Century Advisory Commission has been meeting for the past twelve months developing new strategies as it relates to the financial, as well as operational, functions of the NC Department of Transportation (NCDOT). Significant changes are going to be made and counties are going to be required, in my opinion, to participate in the funding of the secondary roads within each county. Counties have not been required to fund roads in NC since the 1930's.

Davis -- Unanswered

Barfield:

We need to be more proactive towards growth, such as anticipating the need before it arises by utilizing the local real estate community to see where the next growth hot spots will likely be in the next 2-3 years and then start planning ahead of time to provide water,sewer and roads. We need to work closely with the State DOT to fast track the Hwy 17 connection to the I-140 into Brunswick County and also the Sky Bridge connecting Independence with Hwy 133. This would help alleviate some of the congestion coming into or out of New Hanover County at peak travel times.

Question #3: What would be your position on funding a Board of Elections endeavor to purchase more touch screen voting machines?

Berger:

With all the unresolved issues related to touch screen voting machines, such as tally result discrepancies, lack of a voter-verifiable audit trail, and other flaws, it would be irresponsible to support spending substantial funds on any system that fails to meet the highest standards for accuracy, dependability, and usability. Its irresponsible to endorse major expenditures on a system that might require replacement or expensive upgrading in the near future because of deficiencies that effectively disenfranchise some voters. I'm partial to the use of voter-marked paper ballots read by optical scanners as the primary voting mechanism, with touch screen systems available for ADA compliance as mandated by the law and demographic-induced demands. Until the issues can be resolved, mandating massive expenditures of taxpayer funds to acquire flawed machines would be difficult for me to support.

Thompson:

In favor because we must continue to update and add to our voting system. The easier and faster we make the voting process the greater the number of citizens that will participate.

Kopp:

Over the past two years, NHC has spent $763,000 on new voting machines. The type of machines put into service were recommended by the NHC Board of Elections. Should the BOE request monies to purchase additional machines during the next budget cycle, I will give it serious consideration based on demonstrated needs established by said department.

Davis -- Unanswered

Barfield:

For the techno savvy I think the touch screens would speed up the process and I would be in favor of purchasing more.

Question #4: Mandatory trash collection including recycling was rejected by the commissioners a few years ago. What do you thinkwe should do about the problem now?

Berger:

I applaud individuals who care enough to recycle, particularly those folks in the unincorporated areas who do so at some inconvenience. Yet, it's not entirely clear how much mandatory curbside pick-up would affect people's recycling habits, and adopting an involuntary fee assessed to property owners raises concerns. I support efforts to take a fresh look at the issues and costs now, since both the consumer attitudes and the economics of recycling have changed a good deal in just the past few years. In tasking a select group of citizens to lead this exploration into trash/recycling options and costs, appointments reflecting a diversity of viewpoints are vital. Typically in New Hanover County, only special interests with a pre-determined agenda are appointed to "citizen advisory" bodies. I would welcome the findings of an independent task group looking at both public and private options, creative approaches to enhancing recycling rates, taking advantage of competition and current market dynamics, but need convincing that taxpayers will not be forced to endure additional fees for a service that is not desired.

Thompson:

It was a mistake to reject this in the past and I would move the County to institute mandatory trash pickup and recycling. Recycling is one proven measure that the county can take to decrease the amount of waste that goes to our landfill. This will save airspace and extend the life of our landfill. Solid waste will be one of the biggest problems NHC faces over the next ten years as we reach an end to our landfills capacity and we must address the issue now because in 10 years it will be too late

Kopp:

I recently introduced a resolution before the Board of Commissioners which was unanimously approved to appoint a five member citizens Advisory Board to address the entire environmental management operation in NHC. This committee is to evaluate and make recommendations on improvements the County should make as it relates to recycling, WASTEC and the landfill. Everything should, and will be, on the table for discussion including curbside collection in the unincorporated area of the County.

Davis -- Unanswered

Barfield:

I believe in recycling, and while many county residents do not mind taking their recyclables to the stations set up throughout the county I feel that with mandatory recycling we would have a much greater response and alleviate the burden on our landfill and assist our residents in going green. We are stewards of this environment and we are entrusted to take care of it. I would be in favor of the County having mandatory recycling.

Question #5: Please list your top three priorities if you should be elected or reelected to this office.

Berger:

First, real job creation is a top priority, and a fundamental component of job creation is limiting taxation. New Hanover County was one of the few counties in the entire state of North Carolina to raise taxes this year. I will fight for lower taxes and oppose wasteful spending. Low taxation, protecting the environment, excellence in education and infrastructure planning are the keys to sustainable, long-term job creation. Let's reduce the taxes and fees government squeezes out of small businesses so they can hire new employees and increase pay for current employees. Keeping taxes down has other benefits as well, such as making housing and rents more affordable, especially for working class and fixed income citizens.

In order to keep taxes down, hard decisions have to be made about government spending. My priorities are infrastructure, fighting crime, and other basic services like education and emergency services. Therefore, my second priority would focus tax dollars and staff resources on these vital needs and cut down on the wasteful spending and misplaced priorities that have consumed our local government in recent years. If the same energy were put into fighting crime and reducing congestion that the other candidates have devoted to "developer services," we as a community would be better off.

My third priority is broader, but perhaps the most important role facing me as an elected official: promoting a long-term vision for the Cape Fear region based on priorities that are nearly non-existent in Wilmington and New Hanover County government at the moment. Embodied in these priorities is the integrity to stand up to special interests, to promote accountability in government, protect the environment, and fight for reform in areas like forced annexation, law enforcement and social services reform. It won't be easy, but working together, we can change New Hanover County and...influence change in Raleigh and Washington D.C.

Thompson:

Keep a low tax rate for property owners. Coordinated regional policy toward crime reduction and police services. Long range land use planning that encompasses more than just zoning classifications and includes the transportation grid in all growth patterns. Proactive leadership to move NHC toward a more sound and responsible environmental policy with regards to growth and development. I want to be a bridge between the county and the city in a way we have never experienced in this community, my unique city experience will allow me to mend fences and promote a regional approach to government that has been lacking here for decades.

Kopp:

Transportation (see answer to question #2). Water and sewer infrastructure for unincorporated areas of NHC. The three critical areas area Marquee Hills, Wrightsboro and Castle Hayne. Brown water reuse for irrigation purposes as well as a major emphasis on developing other green initiatives to save energy.

Davis -- Unanswered

Barfield:

My top three priorities would be 1) To work with the State legislature and local School board to find ways to increase our local teachers supplements so that we can attract and retain quality teachers here 2) Address the need for more Workforce\Affordable Housing. There are many County and City employees that work here in New Hanover County but live in Brunswick,Pender or Onslow county and commute here to work because they cannot find affordable housing. 3) Work closely with the State DOT to fast track the Hwy 17 connection to the I-140 into Brunswick County and also the Sky Bridge connecting Independence with Hwy 133. This would help alleviate some of the congestion coming into or out of New Hanover County at peak travel times.

Many of the things that have occurred over the past few years (Titan, repeated sewer spills, etc.) leads me to vote against the current incumbents that are running for office, in addition one of the incumbents Ted Davis, Jr., left the survey unanswered of which I find disrespectful of the LWV who is well known as a political debate mediator nationwide.

I found Berger's answered interesting, but I HIGHLY disagree with him on question 4 and am surprised that he talked about the environment as being a main concern, yet does not come out in support for mandatory recycling, other than these I align with his ideas.

With Thompson, I find I am surprised that align with most of his views as well. I have not looked at his record with the city, so I am enticed into looking further at him as a potential vote. I DO disagree with him over touch screen voting. With paper ballots you can get many people voting at once, as long as they have a pencil and a hard surface they can vote, and there is a paper trail to follow. Touch screens are too easily tampered with, and unless they give voters a paper trail then I see no reason to resort to this method. This is hugely controversial nationwide, and I've always been glad we hadn't gone to a computerized voting method.

My opinion on Kopp is pretty low at this point. He is an incumbent who voted for Titan to get economic benefits for moving to our area. His answer to question 1 was a cop out. While he is correct that any corporation can move into the area with appropriate zoning and do their business, he is neglecting to mention that these companies are HEAVILY catered to by MANY communities (obviously as our commissioners did with Titan) to offer them benefits for moving to their area. Without that economic package that we are handing over to Titan so that they can come to our community with LOW-tech jobs that will ruin our environment, they likely would have looked elsewhere. Comparing Titan to GE, who brings a host of high-tech jobs to the area as well as other benefits like partnering with CFCC to create a Nuclear Technician program as well as large swaths of green space on their campus, is insulting to all the GE emplyees and their families.

Barfield is a realtor and I believe that one of the biggest criticisms of County Commissioners is that most are in the pocket book of real estate developers; however, he does seem to align with me on many of the issues. Again, I disagree with using touch screen voting without a paper trail, I think that involving those in the community that have access to information about our growth is good, so long as they don't hold too much sway over the decision making process. The people should.

This race is interesting and there are no clear stand outs to me. I have a good idea, though, of who I will vote for. This is an important race since these people will have a direct impact into our lives.

Board of Education Candidates

Since the recent meeting for the proposed school redistricting maps has been in the news a lot lately, I'm going to start here in discussing our local political environment. The League of Women Voters of the Lower Cape Fear has sent out a questionnaire to local candidates and I'm going to use those answers here.

We currently have six people running for the Board of Education, Elizabeth Redenbaugh (R-Incumbent), Jeanette S. Nichols (R-Incumbent), David G. Martin (R), Dorothy De Sheilds (D-Incumbent), Pat Chappel (D), and Jan Brewington (D). I'm going to quote these six directly from the LWV website to allow you to make up your own mind. I will also give my two cents at the end. I am going to reorganize by question instead of by person to make it a little easier to find the question that most relates to you and see EXACTLY what ALL of the candidates stated.

Question #1: The school administration has already indicated that redistricting will have to take place during your term in office if elected. When it comes to redistricting what are your priorities and what input do you think the public should have?

Redenbaugh:

My top priority is to create and support environments which foster high academic achievement and prepare our children to be contributing members of a global society. In my opinion, the current elementary school attendance zones, as well as the proposed redistricting maps presented at the July 7, 2008 Board of Education meeting, do not support such environments and, sadly, the evidence buttresses this conclusion. This summer it was announced that 27 out of 38 New Hanover County Schools failed to meet federal testing expectations. Residential segregation and the neighborhood school criteria adopted by the current Board of Education for purposes of redistricting elementary school attendance zones have helped to create and maintain schools that are isolated not simply by race, but also by socioeconomic status. For example, in New Hanover County we have an elementary school where, of the student population, 80% are African American and 87% are eligible for free or reduced-priced lunches (a stand-in for poverty). On the other end of the spectrum is an elementary school where 0% of the students are African American and only 4% are eligible for free or reduced-priced lunches. The effects of such isolation cannot be adequately addressed by school finance reform, as students in schools with high concentrations of poverty need more than increased funding to improve achievement. Research supports the argument that significantly increasing expenditures will not necessarily increase the educational achievement of poor, minority students.

As a member of the Board of Education, I would move that the Board make economic integration a main element in the district's strategy. Since 2000, school officials in Wake County have used income as a key factor in assigning students to schools, with the goal of limiting the proportion of low-income students in any school to no more than 40%. The overwhelming majority of the 120,000 children in that district go either to a local school or a school of their choice. Slightly more than 85 percent of students attend a school within five miles of home and another 12 percent or so voluntarily attend magnet or year-round schools. The result of Wake County's seemingly innovative strategy: 91% of its students are performing at or above grade level. In addition to the Wake County example, numerous studies support economic integration. For example, one study revealed that low-income students who attended more-affluent schools scored 20 points higher than low-income students attending high-poverty schools, a difference equivalent to almost two years worth of education.

Opponents of my plan will argue that economic integration will lead to increased bussing. Admittedly, this is a legitimate concern given the soaring price of a gallon of gas. However, the economic impact of my plan on the overall school budget will be far less than the "hazard duty pay" our county will have to pay teachers who work in our high poverty schools. Moreover, if we fail the poor, minority members of our student population, we will all pay the price. Each class of high school dropouts costs the US economy more than $8 billion in incarceration expenses and lost wages per year. America loses more than $26 billion in federal and state income taxes each year due to high school dropouts.

The public should have a great deal of input into the direction our schools are heading. Throughout my volunteer and professional careers, I have learned that stakeholder input and buy-in is absolutely essential for organizational success. Unfortunately, the majority of the current Board does not agree with this viewpoint. At the September 11, 2007 meeting of the Board of Education, Board member Nick Rhodes made a motion that the Board have meetings with the community three times per year. This motion was seconded by my opponent Dorothy DeShields. Unfortunately, the remaining five members of the Board voted no and the motion failed. As a member of the Board, I would support and welcome public input in the redistricting process. Without an open and transparent process in which community input is valued, I do not believe New Hanover County Schools will achieve public support for whatever redistricting plan it adopts.

Nichols:

I believe that YOUNG children should be assigned to a school as close to their home as possible. During the years I have served on the Board of Education, I have listened to and read the many requests of parents from all neighborhoods who share the same priority. Many parents say it most difficult to become involved if they have no transportation or feel no connection to the distant school. Public forums, school board meetings - as well as direct contact with Board members + provide an opportunity for parental input. The escalating cost of transportation and congestion of traffic make it difficult for me to support assigning children to a school in order to achieve socio-economics diversity. The Redistricting Committee has adjusted the number of children who would be moved from the estimated 10,000 -- which included middle school students -- to only elementary children, which is now 3,892.
However, I support the School Assignment Plan that provides for parents to apply for another school if space is available.

Martin -- Unanswered

De Sheilds:

My priorities for redistricting are as follows: a. that we move as few students as possible; and b. that we allow for diverse student bodies without students having to travel extremely long distances.

I think the public should have a chance to voice their concerns about the plans and that the board should take those concerns into consideration when making final decisions.

Chappell:

Since re-districting is such a challenging and emotional issue for parents, students, community, and school personnel, it is imperative that the process take place in an open and fair manner. School officials must understand that people feel better about change when they have had the opportunity to share their thoughts and feelings. Priorities and perceptions can be extremely different from person to person or from group to group. No one plan will completely satisfy the needs of everyone. Factors that should be considered when developing a plan should include:

• Least intrusive and most efficient scenario
• Effective Programs that are currently being offered and planned (magnet schools, open choice, open enrollment, etc)
• Efficient bussing
• Budget impacts
• Closeness to school
• New housing developments being planned
• Socio-economic factors No one of these factors should be considered in isolation of the others.

What input do you think the public should have in re-districting? Communication between school officials and parents is priceless during this process and should take place from the very beginning. The Re-districting Committee should be made up of parents, community leaders, county commissioners, teachers, and school officials. Currently, it is comprised only of Central Office Administrators. Input from parents, community members, and school personnel can be received via public hearings in alternating locations, making the process convenient to everyone. There should also be less formal conversations with school officials via "coffee hours", letters, emails, and public comments during Board Meetings. Individual and county-wide PTA/PTO groups, School Improvement Teams, and Advisory Councils should participate in the process.

Brewington:

My priorities for redistricting are the same priorities I have for the schools in general. Each classroom teacher should be equipped to bring each child from their own starting point up to the next level. In order for the teacher to accomplish this, no teacher or school should have a disproportionate number of at risk children. This is taxing on a classroom. Therefore, diversity in ability is important in the classroom. A mix of children who can learn from each other is ideal. I would rely on the administration staff to come up with a model of ideal educational mix for the schools, and then redistrict accordingly, keeping children as close to home as possible. Public input would be important because a certain understanding is often lost in numbers alone, but the school board needs to make decisions on what is best for educational purposes.

Question #2: Teachers in New Hanover County often remark that lack of discipline in the schools and non-attendance by students are their greatest problems. What policies could the School Board adopt that would help address this problem?

Redenbaugh:

I believe the Board of Education can begin to address these problems not by adopting additional policies, but by creating a system-wide (and community-wide) "culture of achievement." Such a culture would naturally lead to better behavior on the part of our students and would discourage non-attendance. How do we create such a culture in our community? I believe the answer lies in strategic planning, accountability, focus on our mission, communication of the system's strengths and weaknesses, stakeholder input (families, students, faculty, and community), full support for school administrators and teachers to enforce their school's code of conduct, proactive as opposed to reactive strategies, and an open dialogue. Although the foregoing may sound like the stuff of which dreams are made, it is actually supported by several studies, including one conducted by Harvard University.

As a Board member, I would also support the adoption of a school uniform policy to address the lack of discipline. Multiple credible studies credit school uniform policies with helping bring about a sharp drop in crime in schools, including reduced numbers of drug cases, sex offenses, violence and theft. A dress code would help prevent gang members from wearing gang colors and insignia at school and help school officials recognize intruders who come to the school.

In North Carolina, the legal dropout age is 16. I am in full support of raising the age to 18, which I feel would also help discourage non-attendance.

Nichols:

I don't think there is a need to adopt additional policies since there are 27 pages of policies and procedures relative to student discipline. What is needed is the enforcement of the policies and support for the teachers from the administration and parents. However, the new standards set forth in the Code of Ethics for Athletics and Student Representatives should dramatically improve discipline and attendance.
In accordance with state law, a policy is in place that outlines requirements for student attendance. Enforcing the policy is difficult when parents do not assume the responsibility of ensuring their child is in school and on time. If the state would resend it rule and allow students who have exceptional grades and attendance be exempt from end-of-course/grade tests, attendance would improve. Also, if participation/seat-time were factored into grades, attendance should improve. However, the most important approach is to help our students feel a part of the school and provide the necessary support for them and their family.

Martin -- Unanswered

De Sheilds:

It is my belief that State laws and County policies on discipline are adequate. However, individual schools can strengthen their rules and administration of those rules. Most importantly strengthening parental involvement in each school would help tremendously.

The School Board certainly needs to rethink the idea of developing an attendance policy. If the children are not in school the school cannot teach them!

Chappell:

Teachers are correct when they say that discipline and attendance are two of the biggest challenges that public schools have faced for many years. I hear this consistently from the teachers with whom I work. The more you research this issue, the more "programs" you will find claiming to improve student behavior. There are several common themes that I have observed in schools with little or no discipline issues. Those include:

• Parental involvement is number one in achieving positive student behavior.
• Make sure all new teachers are trained in appropriate Behavior Management techniques with support from mentors and administrators
• Unified classroom rules and procedures followed by all teachers with consequences followed consistently
• High expectations from the entire school staff for appropriate student behavior
• Making the school inviting, safe, and supportive
• Engaging classroom instruction that keeps students interested
• Constant monitoring and support from the principal, Central Office Staff, and School Board

It will be my responsibility to make certain that the school system provides adequate training in classroom management for all new teachers, and that they follow through with appropriate support. As a School Board member, it will be my responsibility to maintain expectations that all teachers, staff, and administrators serve as role models for their students. This includes how they dress, how they present themselves to students, how they communicate with each other and the community, and the consistency to which they follow the rules that have been set forth for students. It should be the responsibility of the school board to set the minimum requirements for a district school dress code for students and staff.

Another responsibility I will take seriously as a school board member will be to continue to support the use of School Resource Officers, School Nurses, Guidance Counselors, and Social Workers. I will support individual schools who wish to institute the wearing of school uniforms. Attendance: Students who are unsuccessful are generally the ones who have poor attendance. I have read and researched district level and school level attendance policies that have been used across the state and nation. There is no magical policy for solving this problem. The number one impact on school attendance, outside of parental involvement, is the climate and culture of the school. Students often cite that their poor attendance is a result of not feeling safe at school. Individual School Improvement Teams need to address how their school should deal with the issue. Programs such as Early College, Dual Enrollment Programs, Career / Vocational training, and a wide-variety of extra-curricular activities provide students options and often help promote better attendance, thus higher achievement. Other programs that I would support as a School Board member include Extended Day (Night Programs) and increased use of technology such as Nova Net for students who miss excessive days due to illness and family issues. One of the primary duties of school Social Workers should be to monitor attendance patterns of students and work directly with the parents to address the issue. All school personnel should make good attendance a priority. Regular phone calls to parents do make a difference...................

Brewington:

Attendance policies in New Hanover County High Schools need to be uniformly enforced. They also need to be updated. Lack of discipline needs to start with an expectation in the early grades that all children will come to school prepared to learn. This is an attitude that must be pervasive in our community, not just in schools. I propose a task force of school officials, ministers, nonprofit leaders, law enforcement and parents who work together towards making goals for the children of our county and taking collective responsibility to realize these goals.

Question #3: Because of the lack of parental support in some of the county's schools those schools that do have the parental support are able to purchase more equipment, more supplies etc, for their students. What can the Board of Education do to correct the inequity?

Redenbaugh:

The answer lies in economic integration. Please see my response to question #1.

Nichols:

As a member of the Finance Committee for six years, I have worked to ensure the Board of Education provides additional funds for high-need schools. Hundreds of thousands of dollars have been appropriated to those schools to improve technology, provide the necessary supplies/equipment, reduce class size, and provide additional staff and training. If re-elected, I will continue to work to support the underserved children.

Martin -- Unanswered

De Sheilds:

In many instances we provide the opportunity for low-wealth schools to get extra funds to purchase needed items. We should do more.

Chappell:

PTA's / PTO's often provide additional money to schools earned through fund-raising events such as Fall Festivals, etc. These funds can be used as determined by the School Improvement Team to provide equipment, supplies, etc. Unfortunately, parental involvement often is aligned with the socio-economic level of the school attendance area. Title I Federal Funding is provided to "low-wealth" schools (based on free and reduced lunches) to help "even the playing field." New Hanover County receives $5.2 million in Title I funding. This money is distributed to Title I Schools and should be used for purchasing materials, supplies, and equipment for use by the students and teachers. School Board members must closely monitor the distribution of these funds to ensure that it is allocated fairly and specifically used for student needs. There are numerous local, state, and federal grants available that provide financial assistance to low-wealth schools. As a School Board Member I will work diligently to assist our school system to finding these types of grants.

Brewington:

When parents decide to get together and provide extras for their schools, it is not the Board of Education's job to attempt to keep up. The Board's job is to make sure that necessities are taken care of and that each school has clean, safe facilities, up to date technology, nutritious food, and plentiful learning materials. In some cases, parent groups have been compelled to provide necessities, and this is wrong. When schools have a more socially diverse mix of families, one school won't have a disproportionate amount of "extras".

Question #4: What are your top three priorities for New Hanover County Board of Education if you are elected?

Redenbaugh:

1. Diversity among the student population.

2. Strategic Planning that values stakeholder input and includes accountability.

3. Meeting the educational needs of EVERY student, regardless of race, IQ, socioeconomic status, etc., and challenging them to do their very best.

Nichols:

1. High student expectation and achievement at all schools.

2. Effective and efficient use of public resources aligned to system priorities, i.e., closing the gap, dropout prevention, safe and orderly environment, highly qualified skilled workforce and school construction/maintenance.

3. Strong customer satisfaction through family, community and business support.

Martin -- Unanswered

De Sheilds:

My top three priorities for the New Hanover County Board of Education are to:

a. Increase Student Achievement

b. Increase Teacher Pay & Improve their Working Conditions

c. Encourage Strong Parental and Community Involvement

Chappell:

• A SAFE learning environment equipped with UP-DATED TECHNOLOGY in ALL of our schools, so we can better educate our students to meet the challenges they will face in the 21st century work-force.
• Provide clear CHOICE OPTIONS, including well-planned and funded Magnet Schools, Year-Round options, a Technical/Vocational School, more on-line options, and more programs for gifted students.
• Provide OPEN, HONEST COMMUNICATION with parents and the community, encouraging dialogue and input on important issues such as re-districting, school choice, federal and state testing issues. One of the first things I plan to request will be that the school board add one additional board meeting per month (held at alternating attendance area schools) with the primary purpose of encouraging parental/community dialogue.

Brewington:

Providing middle and high schoolers with alternatives that will encourage them to pursue the path that will lead to their own best education: schools within- a school, vocational learning, and same gender education (for a middle school) are alternatives I would like to see.

Tracking children's progress individually, rather than as a school or classroom.
Children move, are redistricted, and fall between the cracks because they are not individually measured.

Those were the questions, and the answers do tend to sound similar. The biggest differences between the candidates have to do with whether they agree on busing children or neighborhood schools, although they all left room for compromise on this issue. I also must say that to not answer an LWV questionnaire, with their long held reputation as a mediator of MANY political debates, shows apathy at best. Ms. Redenbaugh mentioned that she motioned to have three meetings every year and the only other board member that voted with her was Ms. De Sheilds, which lends those two candidates a lot of my respect.

Politicians on Titan

Sorry for not having been here awhile. I received an email this afternoon from Stop Titan pointing to a recent Star News article about where local politicians fall when it comes to Titan. I wanted to post some of that information here so that those that are interested in this can see who they agree with on the matter.

In the race for NC Senate District 9:

Incumbent Senator Julia Boseman says Titan is "an environmental disaster" and has vowed to introduce legislation to kill it in the General Assembly.

Her opponent, attorney Michael Lee, is still doing his homework.

In the race for House District 18:

Incumbent Sandra Spaulding Hughes has "huge environmental concerns with the plant."

George Swart says: "There's no place...in New Hanover County that thing would fit."

In the race for three New Hanover County Commissioner seats:

Incumbent Ted Davis says he's leaving it up to the regulatory agencies.

Incumbent Bill Kopp says the county commissioners have no power to stop it.

Jonathan Barfield is adamant : "No way, no how, No Titan!"

Brian Berger has been opposed to the plant from the start of his campaign and has vowed to rescind the $4.2 million incentive package.

Jason Thompson doesn't have a problem with the industry, but he doesn't think it needs to be here.

U.S. Representative Mike McIntyre is currently AWOL on the Titan issue, as are our gubernatorial and U.S. Senate candidates.

This is an important issue and should weigh on our minds when we are at the polls in November. With things heating up in this political season I'm going to start focusing on those running for office locally and posting here more. This is a start and I still have some more blogging I want to do on the impact Titan would have here.