Nancy E. English - UH City Council UTE 12-31-15 Candidate
Nancy E. English
NANCY E. ENGLISH
4107 Washington Blvd. University Hts. OH 44118 Age: 59
E-mail: NancyEnglish4UH@yahoo.com
Facebook: Nancy E, English
BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION:
Education: Attended Kent State University, Business Administration
Occupation: Retired – Clerk of Council, City of University Heights
Qualifications: 30 years in local government; Professionally trained in local government procedures, Kent State University: *Ohio Municipal Clerks Career Development Program, designated Certified Municipal Clerk *Ohio Municipal Clerks Master Municipal Clerk Academy, designated Master Municipal Clerk
Community: Actively involved in city related activities.
QUESTIONS and RESPONSES:
1. Issues/opportunities: The proposed consolidation of fire services (1merger) is the number one issue facing University Heights (see comments under #3). The second issue is the update to the Codified Ordinances (see comments under #4). The third issue is the poor condition of city streets. To address this issue I propose to work to establish a 5-Year Streets Improvement Program. I will work with the council and administration to appropriate funds to resurface/repair streets as set forth on the priority streets list. Recently, funds have become available through the county for road repairs. This is definitely something the city should look into.
2. Revenue: The discontinuation of estate taxes and reductions in local government funds have been devastating for all municipalities. The decrease in funding has a direct impact on University Heights because these funds have traditionally been used to supplement the general fund which covers salaries, recreational services, and operating expenditures. The city should explore new opportunities for grant funds through public/private collaboration. The city will have to look at innovative ways to reduce spending such as sharing services (not merger) and joint purchasing with other municipalities on a larger scale.
3. Mergers: The safety of the community is my main concern. I am not in favor of a merger that will give control of University Heights’ fire personnel to another city. Since this proposal is ongoing, I will educate myself on the issue and make an informed decision which is beneficial for the city, the residents and business owners of the city. Regarding any similar mergers, discussions on the subject may arise as dialogue on regionalism, consolidation and collaboration are emerging issues. But, I believe the police, fire and service departments should remain under the control of the City of University Heights.
4. Plan for future: The City of University Heights is on the right path in terms of future economic and business development. The city is in the process of updating the Codified Ordinances. This is important because it will eliminate the need to grant numerous variances on planning and zoning projects, making it easier for potential businesses to locate in our community. It would allow all potential businesses to be considered equally under the same regulations. The city is also seeking grant funds from the Local Government Innovation Fund for a feasibility study for joint economic development. Such efforts should continue in the future.
5. School bond issue: Although I have always supported school levies, I am undecided. On one hand, the children need safe facilities with sufficient accommodations to meet the needs of both the students and teachers. Conversely, I have an issue with the amount and length of the proposed levy. The homeowners of University Heights are already paying the second highest tax rate in the state of Ohio. Also, University Heights derives the majority of its revenue from city income taxes, which will be affected by the closing of Wiley Middle School. I will have to gather more facts prior to making a final decision.
6. Why run?: I have a wealth of knowledge to offer. I spent 30 years employed in local government. Twenty of those years in University Heights as Clerk of Council, secretary to city boards and commissions, and 18 years as the Mayor’s assistant. I know the history of the city and have extensive knowledge of the legislative process. After retiring, I still have a desire to serve. The next logical step would be to serve as a councilperson. I will be an advocate for the residents, listening to their hopes and concerns for our city and take them into consideration when making decisions.