Developers should not be able to meet with elected officials in secret to advocate for their projects before a vote. If elected, I will make my meetings with financial stakeholders in projects public knowledge, with a high level overview of what was discussed, so opponents have an opportunity to review and provide their side of the story. I am not doing anyone a favor; having this information is your right as a citizen. As your representative I work for you.
Category: Transparency
Fix the 2045 Land Use Map
Prioritize enforcement of the map, require amendments to have their own meetings. Fix the density definitions so high density actually means high density. Put future school target areas on the map. Take dual striping seriously, converting to single stripe. Fix density. Add a park in far western Apex.
Evolve Apex’s Government Structure
Apex has outgrown our current government structure, which is more appropriate for a small village. Change the town council to six members, four of which run in districts and two run at large. Change the mayor to be a “voting” mayor with more executive authority. Change the name of the Town Council to Board of Alderman, to better mark the distinction and get people to notice.
Land Use Map Amendments Must Be Considered Independently
Currently, rezonings which require a land use map amendment are “bundled” together in a single hearing and a single vote. In effect, this precludes an important context free discussion about the best land use from taking place. Instead, requiring separate hearings, separate votes. No rezonings unless it first conforms to the land use map. Land use map amendments can be put forward very early in the process, potentially saving the developer time and money in the event it is turned down.
Fix Neighborhood Meetings
Update the notification process to be more appropriate for 2019, including outreach by email and town social media assets. Increase the notification time to 14 days, and the required distance to 500 feet. Requiring signage to be put up around any impacted neighborhoods.