Q: Describe the system you would like to see the county implement for the collection and disposal of solid waste.
A: Solid waste collection is handled through a contract with Waste Management Inc. Disposal should be managed in as environmentally-safe a facility as possible. Disposal techniques should include all viable options to landfilling which should be carefully evaluated. Residuals will need to be landfilled.
Q: In what areas would you like county government to work more closely with the municipalities, particularly the city of Gainesville?
A: I would like for Alachua County and the city of Gainesville to continue to work closely together to evaluate ways for providing high quality, cost effective services to citizens. This coordination should be pursued equally with all municipalities.
Q: What specifically would you do to encourage the health of both the economy and the environment of Alachua County?
A: Systemically review regulation and ordinances to assess the impact on the business environment. The county recently hired an ombudsman to monitor and assist individuals through the regulatory process. This can be most helpful since there is a considerable maze of requirements at the local, state and federal level.
Alachua County has already enacted very progressive environmental legislation which ultimately benefits economic development as well as the rest of the citizens. Government must maintain the balance between providing a welcoming climate for business and job creation while protecting the natural assets which cause us all to want to live here.
Q: What would you do to improve recreational opportunities in Alachua County?
A: Recreational opportunities are our first line of prevention against juvenile crime as well as a tremendous boost to the general quality of life. I support taking the results of the Recreational Task Force and having a referendum for appropriate funding countywide for facilities and programs.
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