Candidates Take Part in Last Forum Before Election Day

Ward 3 Candidates Jennifer Salmon and James Perry and Ward 1 Candidate Dan Liedtke shared their views on dispatch, city improvements, PACE, red light cameras and more during the Gulfport Democratic Club "Meet the Candidates Forum." Ward 1 Candidate David Hastings was unable to attend due to a "medical emergency," according to a Gulfport Democratic Club President Stuart Fraser.

Below are a few questions answered during the forum.

Questions & Answers

If money were not object, what one thing would you do to improve Gulfport?

James Perry suggested working on more advertising and creating a venue or sign at the city's entrance to tell people "what's going on down by the beaches. I think we need something out there that points out that there's businesses."

"There's not enough advertising to promote the Waterfront District," Perry said.

Dan Liedtke first threw out an idea he admitted was not realistic, "Live tax free." Liedtke then suggested improving the city's infrastructure including the streets, sidewalks and sewer system. "If money were not object. . . I can go on and on."

Jennifer Salmon said the city needs a pool. "It could be right outside the Rec Center. All of our children would learn to swim. . . . it would attract people."

"That's my dream. I k now we can't afford it right now, maybe it's something, we'll see," Salmon said.

What is your position on the implementation of PACE?

Dan Liedtke supports PACE and wants the city to continue to research options. Liedtke suggested looking into allowing a shorter loan span, citing that the current program's plan aims for a 20-year payback.

Jennifer Salmon reminded guests that the City Council approved creating a tax district and that they are moving forward. "We will find the right contractor," Salmon said.

James Perry thinks the PACE program is a good idea. "I think there's many people that can use it and I think it'll be a great asset to the people of Gulfport."

Do you support making the Gulfport Police force a chartered department?

James Perry said, "I'm for it. I will look into it."

Dan Liedtke shared that he thinks if the Gulfport Police Department was a chartered department, the citizens could have voted and decided whether or not to outsource the department's dispatch services. "I think going forward, I would definetely support making the Gulfport Police Department a chartered department."

Jennifer Salmon replied, "In our charter, it currently says that we must have a Police Department and we must have access to dispatch services. We already have that. . . . Also by State Statute, we have to have water, provide sewer and sanidation." Salmon added that the city contracts water and sewer with St. Petersburg and that they city contracts dispatch services with the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office. "I think we made the smartest decision, we're getting a bettter level of service. We're getting at least 2 people for each call. The police officer is safer."

"I'm very proud of that vote and decision," Salmon added.

Do you support red light cameras?

Dan Liedtke, "Red light cameras do provide safety for a while but you reach a point where your returns on that type of technology diminish." Liedtke says people were told the cameras in Gulfport were going to bring in $400,000 and they're not.

Liedtke says his biggest issue is with the agreement and company. He cited that the City of Houston wanted to shut off their cameras and the company that ran the cameras, American Traffic Solutions, sued the city. He added that Gulfport contracts with the same company, ATS.

James Perry said he understands that the cameras are a "safety issue," but he believes those who run red lights will do so with or without the cameras. Perry is against the cameras and thinks they are harassing drivers.

Jennifer Salmon voted in favor of the red light cameras and said she did so because of safety not revenues. Salmon said that the Chief presented data to the council and reported a 25% decrease in crashes compared to the same time period as the previous year. Salmon added that according to the Chief, there was a 50% decrease in crashes with injuries.

"To me, that's worth it. Half as many crashes with injuries is worth it," Salmon said.

Would you support a domestic partner registry in Gulfport like the one recently adopted in Orange County, FL?

James Perry replied, "Yes. I have to look into it."

Dan Liedtke said he thinks the city should look at a domestic partner registry. "If a loved one is in the hospital and they say you can't go to see them, that's horrible. A domestic partner registery is a good idea. I would definitely support it."

Jennifer Salmon said she definitely wants the city to look into a domestic partner registery. Salmon said residents have spoke with her about the rights of partners. She said they need to have the same types of rights any other relationship has.

Elections:

The citywide vote for Ward 1 and Ward 3 City Council Members is on Tuesday, March 13, 2012. For more information check out the Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections Office and City of Gulfport website.

Learn More:

Although David Hastings did not participate in Thursday night's forum, you can learn about his views and the other three candidates on several stories on Gulfport Patch in our section.

Contact Information:

• David Hastings has a campaign website www.davidhastings4gulfportcitycouncil.com
• Dan Liedtke has a campaign website at www.gulfportspirit.com
• Jennifer Salmon has a campaign website at www.electjennnifersalmon.com
• James Perry does not have a campaign website but can be reached at (727) 384-1807 or via email at jperry4council@aol.com.