Iowa City Distric A: Pauline Taylor

Recently there has been a lot of information in the news about the Iowa Board of Regents (BOR) decision to select Mr. Herrald as the new President of the University of Iowa.

Members of the student body, faculty, and staff have voiced their concerns over this decision. They believe that the regents did not use a very open or transparent process in their selection, or even take into consideration the input that was given to them regarding all the candidates.

In the past year, the Iowa City Council has also made some decisions that many of the citizens of Iowa City have not agreed with. They, like the members of the university community also believe that their voices were not heard.

A number of these decisions dealt with development issues.

I do believe that growth and development are good, and that it is vital to any community. However, that growth needs to be sensible and responsible.

It should be development that is mindful of the demographics of the area, green space, and the historical nature of the area.

Developers should be encouraged to use alternative energy sources in their plans.

They should also address the increasing need for affordable housing in the area.

I would sincerely consider requests for TIF (Tax Increment Funding) that offered affordable housing and alternative energy sources.

Decisions made for the approval of any TIF should be fair and transparent.

Recent reports indicate that there is racial disparity in our city. This is not the picture of the inclusive welcoming community that I have always felt Iowa City to be.

As a council member, I would strive to foster a positive relationship with all members of our community.

Nurses have always been listed as the most trusted members of our society. As a nurse, and a council member, I would hope that the citizens could trust me to make decisions that would be in the best interests of all people in the community, not just a select few.

It's sad that the citizens of our community have had low turnouts for city elections. The people who are on the council do have an impact on your life in this community, and whether it continues to be the vibrant community we love.

Every vote does count! I would encourage you to make yourselves heard. There just is no excuse not to vote in this election.

' Pauline Taylor is a District A candidate for Iowa City Council. More information: Pauline Taylor, PO Box 1084 Iowa City 52244; Facebook: Taylor for Council