Candidates need to take the time to answer the questionnaire because it offers them a direct opportunity to communicate their priorities, plans, and values to the community. The questionnaire gives candidates a platform to clearly state their positions on important local issues. This transparency helps voters make informed decisions and allows the community to hold candidates accountable for their promises. Candidate forums are only a marginal way to find out where a candidate stands on the issues.
Many residents may not be familiar with the candidates or their views. By answering these questions, candidates help voters understand where they stand on issues affecting the town, from infrastructure to housing to public safety.
By addressing these topics, candidates can demonstrate their knowledge and propose specific solutions that resonate with the needs of the town.
A candidate’s responses provide insight into their leadership style, decision-making process, and long-term vision for the community. Thoughtful and well-articulated answers can set a positive tone for how they would govern if elected.
In essence, responding to the questionnaire is a vital part of fostering an informed and engaged electorate while promoting a transparent and accountable local government. If a candidate does not respond, that tells you all you need to know about them.
Send completed questionnaires to: capecharlesmirror@gmail.com.
As a note, in addition to the questionnaire, the Mirror is also available for a more informal sit-down interview.
Bio
- Where do you live, in the Historic District, Bay Creek, or Other (No addresses please)
- Are you retired or still in the workforce?
- If still working, what is your occupation?
Cape Charles Town Election Candidate Questionnaire
1. Community Growth and Development
– What is your vision for the future growth and development of Cape Charles?
– How do you plan to balance development while maintaining the town’s historic character and small-town charm?
– What measures will you take to ensure affordable housing for residents, especially as real estate prices rise?
2. Infrastructure and Public Services
– What are your priorities for improving the town’s infrastructure, such as roads, public facilities, and utilities?
– How would you address the town’s parking issues, particularly in residential areas and near short-term rental properties?
– What plans do you have to improve public transportation or accessibility for elderly and disabled residents?
3. Economic Development and Tourism
-What is your stance on the new Beach Master Plan?
– What steps will you take to encourage local businesses and entrepreneurship while managing the impacts of tourism on the community?
– How do you plan to promote sustainable tourism that benefits the town without overburdening local resources?
– In what ways can the town improve support for small businesses and local artisans?
4. Environmental Concerns
– How will you address environmental issues such as coastal erosion, flooding, etc.?
– What specific actions will you take to improve the town’s green spaces and protect local wildlife?
– Do you support initiatives to reduce the town’s carbon footprint? If so, how would you implement them?
5. Public Safety
– How do you plan to improve public safety, particularly in areas of growing concern like traffic or emergency preparedness?
– What is your stance on enhancing police presence or community policing initiatives to ensure the safety of all residents? Is it too much, too little, or just right?
– How would you address concerns about animal control, especially in relation to abandoned or abused pets, in town or the county?
6. Affordable Housing and Short-term Rentals
– How would you address the issue of short-term rentals and their impact on housing availability, community cohesion, and parking problems?
– What policies would you support to encourage affordable housing development for local residents?
– How do you plan to balance the rights of property owners with the needs of long-term residents?
7. Town Governance and Transparency
– What steps will you take to improve transparency and communication between town officials and the community?
-What is your opinion of the Historic District Review Process? Are the guidelines appropriate, or are they too rigid and inflexible? Why?
– How do you plan to involve more citizens in the decision-making process, particularly younger residents and underrepresented groups?
– What is your strategy for handling budget constraints while maintaining essential services?
8. Education and Youth Programs
– What is your stance on improving local schools, and how would you work with education officials to enhance student outcomes?
– How would you expand youth programs, recreational opportunities, and after-school activities for local children and teens?
-Do you support the town building a basketball court?
9. Civic Engagement
– How will you encourage more civic participation and volunteerism among town residents?
– Do you support the creation of more town events or festivals to foster community spirit? If so, what ideas do you have to promote this?
10. Long-term Vision
– What is your long-term vision for our town, and how do you plan to achieve that vision while keeping the community’s values at the forefront?
– What will you do to ensure that the town’s growth is inclusive and benefits all residents, including marginalized communities?
11. Please provide any final comments not covered by the questionnaire.
12. What is your position on golf carts and public safety?
13. How do you feel about developers and backroom deals?