By Press Times Staff
The two candidates now running for a one-year term in Wards 9-10 faced each other a year ago while seeking a full two-year term, but both ended up being outpolled by the eventual winner.
Scott Beyer, who was eliminated last February in a three-way primary, took his seat on the board in July when he was appointed to replace Jim Lemorande, who passed away in June.
The other candidate, Tim Meves, who lost in last April’s general election, had also sought the appointment last summer when the board selected Beyer to fill the seat until this April.
Meves and Beyer will run against each other on April 2 for the right to serve out the final year of the term.
The Press Times reached out to each candidate and gave them the same questions with a word limit of 100 for each answer.
Scott Beyer
Why should people vote for you?
My involvement in and commitment to the Howard community makes me the ideal candidate for trustee of Wards 9 and 10.
Since becoming a resident 18-plus years ago, I’ve always had an interest in making a difference in the community.
To demonstrate my commitment, I volunteered my time and engaged in a variety of village committees, including the Howard Community Development Authority, Small Biz Partnership Committee, Comprehensive Plan Ad-hoc Committee, Strategic Planning Sub-committee and Zoning Plan Committee as an alternate. However, my time with the Zoning Plan Committee was limited due to my appointment as trustee.
What’s the biggest issue facing Howard?
The biggest issue facing Howard is its ability to maintain and enhance its vibrancy.
For years, Howard has been an attractive community for individuals and families as it offers many amenities including diverse housing options, jobs, retail, recreation, backed by a strong school district.
As a result, Howard has become a desirable place to live.
Consequently, the demands placed on the infrastructure have become increasingly demanding. As a community, we must focus on those demands so Howard can continue to grow and be recognized as a safe and welcoming community.
What is the best way to spur development of the Village Center?
The development of the Village Center is already well underway; therefore, the focus needs to be on making it a common gathering area for residents and members of neighboring communities.
This can be done by proactively and selectively prospecting the right types of businesses that support this type of development along with planning, marketing and hosting events that bring people together as a community (e.g. annual Fourth of July celebration, farmers markets, outdoor concerts, recreational areas, etc.).
What changes, if any, need to be made to the village’s policy on special assessments?
Special assessments are a difficult matter. Therefore, as a trustee/citizen, I must force myself to view the matter through multiple lenses.
I want to make sure I consider the rights of the constituents while also considering the greater good of the community.
It’s hard not to empathize with those who are impacted as it results in a financial burden. However, we need to be consistent and fair.
With that being said, not all situations are cut and dry, which is why residents are allowed to voice their concerns and exceptions should be allowed on a case-by-case basis.
Tim Meves
Why should people vote for you?
I’m committed to maintaining the quality of life we enjoy in Howard.
I’ll push for well-maintained, safe neighborhoods.
Poorly maintained properties and crime bring down property values and don’t attract new residents or investment.
Regarding the village budget, I will support each that is responsible and sustainable, paying close attention to how our dollars are spent.
I will address your concerns, whether at the village, ward, or neighborhood level, no matter how large or small.
I’m a UWGB alumnus and served 20 years in the U.S. Navy Reserve.
I have work experience in management, purchasing and transportation operations.
What’s the biggest issue facing Howard?
Many would argue budgets in these times of ever-increasing costs and having to make the tough decisions on where to appropriate finite funds.
Budgets cannot be downplayed when addressing the service needs of the village. Infrastructure needs stand out as an immense and ongoing issue facing our community.
What is the best way to spur development of the Village Center?
Like all identified centers, having unique shopping, restaurant, entertainment and other retail establishments is critical to the overall success of a center.
The presence of which is key to spur development and realize long-term local and outside visitor support.
Prudent incentives to attract these businesses must be carefully considered.
Once in place, private marketing and promotional efforts will surface across a wide range of media outlets.
Certainly, the village website can post short blurbs and announcements as they become available.
What changes, if any, need to be made to the village’s policy on special assessments?
In my opinion, there must be a sound process in place as to when and how special assessments are imposed.
Fairness is key to special assessments.
Fairness to the impacted property owner, business owner and developer, as well as the village.
The process must be transparent and completely open.
I support payment plans where financially justifiable and the ability to appeal special assessment determinations.
As village trustee, I will review special assessments affecting you and your property.