Meet the Candidates
IRONWOOD, MI - Saturday, October 08, 2011 - Only three of the seven candidates for Ironwood's City Commission election in November participated in this year's Candidate Forum. Candidates Eva Smith-Furgason, Brandon Tauer, and Monie Shackleford handed their responses in before the October 09, 2011 midnight deadline. Candidate George Goerig refused to participate, and Candidates Joe Cayer, Jr., Rick Semo (Incumbent), and Kim Corcoran (Incumbent) didn't submit their answers.
The Candidate's responses are posted verbatim exactly the way they were submitted, and are posted based on the order they were received. The questions were posed by readers of the Superior Chronicle "Let's Talk" Facebook Discussion Board.
EDITOR'S NOTE: Kim Corcoran's response to our forum was received on Tuesday, October 11, 2011, and has been added to the questions below.
THE CANDIDATES:
EVA SMITH-FURGASON
My name is Eva Smith-Furgason, I am married and have a son who is attending Luther L. Wright. I was born in Czestochowa, Poland and immigrated to the United States with my parents in 1982. We settled in Chicago and I spent my formative years there. I graduated from Lane Technical High School.
Shortly before my graduation my father suffered major injuries in a hang gliding accident and that, coupled with medical bills made it difficult for me to go continue my education. I have been working ever since.
As far as my employment history - one of the things about not having a higher education is that you better be versatile if you want to remain working - I have held quite a few jobs and each one has given me a slightly different perspective. I have worked in a bank as a teller and a cashier. I have been a waitress, a desk clerk in a hotel, a reservation agent, a concierge and a hotel front desk manager. I have worked as a weight loss counselor, a deck hand on a historical replica ship, a Medical Family Practice office manager and an Office Manager for a window treatment store. In between those jobs I also managed to work as a floral designer and had a catering job as a prep cook. Let's see - have I forgotten anything? Oh, yes - for the past 9 years I have worked at Northwind Natural Foods Co-op and am currently the manager/buyer. I first visited Ironwood in the year 2000 and fell in love. I bought a house in 2001, and have lived here ever since. My main motivation for moving to Ironwood was the housing prices - I longed for a home of my own and wanted to stop paying rent - I also love the area - the hiking, the clean fresh air, the waterfalls, the history, the people, the lake - all of it.
My favorite pastime is reading, and a close second is cooking - I fancy myself an amateur chef. I also love to knit, crochet and make all sorts of crafts. I have two dogs, a rabbit, and four cats. My husband and I also have two companion goats named Jacob and Eli as well as a hen. My husband operates Crockett's Chainsaw Critters in Wakefield.
The Chronicle asked to tell readers something about myself I consider important - well, there is one thing I'd want everyone to know - you'll never have to guess where I stand on an issue. I don't like political doublespeak, and will do my best to answer questions plainly and honestly.
BRANDON TAUER
My name is Brandon Tauer and I am running for the office of Ironwood City Commissioner. I am 29 years old and have lived in Ironwood for all of that time. I am unmarried and have no children.
I graduated from the Ironwood Area Schools in the year 2000, from Gogebic Community College in 2002 with an associate's degree in Criminal Justice, and from Northern Michigan University's Police Academy in November of 2002.
For the last nine years I have been employed as a police officer in Gogebic County. I worked nearly two years for the Ironwood Public Safety Department and have been a deputy with the Sheriff's Office since. I also work part time for the Marenisco Township Police Department during the winter months doing snowmobile enforcement.
I enjoy golfing, hiking, mountain biking, four wheeling, and riding snowmobiles in the winter.
I have supported the Big Brothers Big Sisters during their fund raising campaigns and the Shop with a Cop program benefiting local children and their families during the holidays.
MONIE SHACKLEFORD
My name is Monie Shackleford. My husband, Ian Shackleford, and I moved from Bemidji, Minnesota to Ironwood ten years ago this fall after he was hired by the Ottawa National Forest. We have two children: Henry (6) and Linnaea (3). I was born in Oshkosh, Wisconsin and was raised in Oshkosh, Montfort and Black River Falls, Wisconsin. I graduated from Black River Falls High School in 1988. I have a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Zoology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a Master's of Science Degree in Biological Sciences from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
My current job is caring for my young children at home. I have taught biology courses as an adjunct instructor for Gogebic Community College and for the University of Phoenix on-line. I have worked (as an employee or contractor) as a biological sciences technician or botanist for the Coleman Engineering in Ironwood, Lumberjack RC & D in Rhinelander, the U.S. Forest Service.
I like reading and writing fiction. I enjoy biking, hiking, camping and cross-country skiing. I find the history of Ironwood fascinating.
I have been the President of the Friends of the Miners Memorial Heritage Park for one year and the Activities Chair for one year. As a volunteer in this non-profit organization I have organized the first public hike by our organization into the old mining areas of Ironwood. I have helped organize two clean-ups in Miners Memorial Heritage Park in which volunteers removed trucks full of trash including hundreds of tires. I have worked on making and designing a hiking trail plan in the Park. I have also organized work bees to develop hiking trails on trails to improve walking conditions. I worked in the planning committee that presented the boundaries and long-term plans of the MMHP to the Parks and Recreation Committee and to the City Commission in 2010 that lead to the resolution that created the Miners Memorial Heritage Park. I write monthly updates on the progress of MMHP to our e-mail list.
KIM CORCORAN (Incumbent)
[Ms. Corcoran's response to our forum was received on October 11, 2011.]
My name is Kim S. Corcoran and I was born in Wakefield, Michigan, and for the last 19 years I have lived in Ironwood with my husband Neil and our 2 yellow labs.
My educational background includes graduating from Wakefield High School and the pursuit of a variety of courses at GCC. Eventually, I went into the education field and received a Bachelor's degree (1995) from Northland College, Ashland Wisconsin and a Master's degree (1998) from the College of St. Scholastica, Duluth, Minnesota.
Presently, I am employed as a School Principal for the Michigan Department of Corrections. I have been employed with the MDOC for about 16 years. Prior to my current job I have also worked at a variety of jobs within the area including teaching at GCC and working in the service and tourism industries.
I believe that I have a range of qualities that make me a deserving candidate for a commission position. First, I have a variety of personal interests that make me a rounded candidate. I enjoy hunting, fishing, ATVing, golfing, downhill skiing, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, softball, volleyball, hiking, and biking. Secondly, I have been through extensive training programs that have taught me how to be objective, firm, fair, thorough, creative, and a better leader. Lastly, I possess a strong work ethic and I am willing to put my best foot forward when fulfilling my duties as a Commissioner.
GEORGE GOERIG
[Mr. Goerig declined to participate in this forum.]
In an emailed statement to the Chronicle he wrote, "I am not a big fan of Face Book and will not be participating in any Blogs. Jim as you are well aware of, Ironwood has many challenges to overcome now and in the future. With a declining population and aid from the state diminishing, funding for city services and projects is a top priority. There is a lot of positive momentum going in Ironwood at the present time. The Down town blue print is making head way. The highway is scheduled to be redone in the near future along with 50 local roads. If I'm elected to the city commission I will do my best at keeping the momentum going."
Mr. Goerig has previously served as the Chairman of the Pat O'Donnell Civic Center Board and of the Downtown Ironwood Development Authority. He is 50 years old; married; and has two school-aged children. He is a business owner (DLG Services, Ironwood) and a United States Air Force veteran. He was raised in Houston, Texas and has been a resident of Ironwood for 9 years.
He was an unsuccessful candidate for the City Commission in 2009 and he participated in our 2009 Candidate Forum.
JOE CAYER, JR.
[Mr. Cayer did not respond to our request to participate in this forum.]
Cayer is an Ironwood native. He was elected to the Ironwood City Commission in 2003 and served for two years. He was defeated in his re-election bid in 2005.
RICK SEMO (Incumbent)
[Mr. Semo did not respond to our request to participate in this forum.]
In 2009, Rick Semo ran for the City Commission; participated in our 2009 Candidate Forum; and was elected to the Ironwood City Commission, as the second-highest vote-getter. Since November of that year he has served as Ironwood's Mayor Pro-Tem.
In the 2009 Forum, Semo said, "I attended local schools, and graduated from LL Wright in 1966. I attended GCC and then the University of Michigan. I have 2 children, Luke and Molly. They are just finishing their college years. Luke just graduated from the University of Michigan, and Molly will graduate from Northern Michigan this spring. I have been married 27 years to my wife Kristen. She is a well-known kindergarten teacher at Sleight School in Ironwood. I have worked at Highline Corporation in Hurley for the last 15 years. I am a Supervisor there, and am also the IT Manager, keeping their computers working. I also am designing their website."
"I was born and raised here. I left to attend college, and then lived in Chicago for about 2 years. That was enough city living for me, and I came back to Ironwood. I like to fish, hunt, and ski. I love living here. It saddens me to see the decline in our town, though, and I would like to do what I can to help things improve."
THE QUESTIONS:
1. Why are you running for the Ironwood City Commission?
EVA SMITH-FURGASON: When I heard that only three people had turned in papers and not many more had even taken papers out, I was concerned that we would have a three member commission who would then appoint the remaining two members - I believe voters should have choices and be represented by people they vote in - and I made the decision to run.
BRANDON TAUER: I have been following the activities of the city with interest for some time now. I have seen some positive progress made in regards to vastly needed infrastructure improvements and I would like to see that continue. The city is currently working on a bond issue to attack most of our dilapidated roads and I wish to see that through as well. With that said I also believe the city has spent increasingly scarce funds on some projects that were not necessary, namely the downtown parking lots and a false wall for the pocket park. A lot of money was spent on those two unnecessary projects that could have been put to better use elsewhere downtown. $30,000 was spent developing a Blueprint plan for downtown improvements and the city doesn't seem to want to follow it. Unfortunately what's done is done, it doesn't pay to beat a dead horse, and all we can do is move forward with a little more fiscal accountability hopefully.
MONIE SHACKLEFORD: I am running for the Ironwood City Commission because I believe that I can make a difference in helping Ironwood improve. Ironwood has great potential given the beautiful geography of the area, the proximity of Lake Superior, the quality of the snow for winter sports, and the fascinating history of this area. I believe that I have the positive vision to help to make Ironwood takes some positive progress towards attracting more people to stop in the city to dine, shop and stay the night as well as consider making Ironwood home.
KIM CORCORAN: I am running for the position of City Commission because I enjoy living in the City of Ironwood and want to be involved in realizing our City's full potential.
2. What are you going to do to promote more employment in Ironwood?
EVA SMITH-FURGASON: Plainly speaking - it's my view that it's not the role of the government to create jobs. Job creation is the role of the public sector - the only things the government can do is make things easier for a business, be more welcoming and try to attract employers with information, incentives and assistance. The challenge is that right now every town in America (and the world) is trying to do the same thing. We have some great advantages - which I believe we should play up - we live in a safe, friendly community with beautiful surroundings, clean air, and affordable housing. We have to be accommodating and helpful without giving everything away - if you give too many incentives in tax breaks, PILOTs, etc. you end up gaining very little in terms of benefits to the area. The burden of paying for everything else in that case falls on the people who can least afford it, and the business packs up after the giveaways end. We need to work together with the surrounding communities - this would be a focus for me. We also need to look at the planning that has been done thus far - there are plans in place for the Downtown, there are also plans for Gogebic County - are we doing all we can to follow those ideas? The Rebecca Ryan workshops have outlined a way to attract and retain people and businesses - we need implement some of those ideas.
BRANDON TAUER: Ironwood is fortunate in that we have a full time community development director already employed and hopefully advertising Ironwood to the best of his ability. I'm sure he is doing whatever he can to attract businesses to our city. As commissioner I would support his efforts in any way I could.
MONIE SHACKLEFORD: Small business owners and entrepreneurs need to have community support to succeed and to take the step to begin a new business. I would investigate ways that the city can assist in promoting small businesses especially ways to help promote small businesses that are just starting out.
Beyond basic support, I would like work to promote our city in the region as a place to start a business. With the flexibility that online work provides, our community has the potential to attract a diversity of businesses. In Bloomberg Business Weekly an article entitled "Re-writing the Location Rulebook" by Stacy Perman (7-12-2005) describes how entrepreneurs have been starting new businesses in smaller cities in locations that can offer a "mix of beautiful settings, affordable housing, and attractive lifestyles."
Another new trend is "rural outsourcing." Instead of moving businesses out of the country, there is a recent push to save costs by moving to smaller towns. I would research if our community can take advantage of this trend. We have geographical advantages in this area such as the great winter sports, the beautiful landscape with waterfalls, lakes and rivers, along with the proximity to Lake Superior. In addition we have the most affordable housing probably in the country.
The recent push for local mining has the potential to improve the employment situation for a number of years. Ironwood City commissioners will not impact the mining companies' decision to mine or not to mine. The mines will or will not come depending on if they can profit. If mines do come to our area, we need to encourage the mining companies to have a preference to hire locally and assist in training local people. As they profit from natural resources that they take, they must have a commitment to giving back to the surrounding community.
KIM CORCORAN: To promote employment in our area I think it is important to support our Community Development staff in bringing businesses into our area and growing the business currently in our area. Recently, our governor has taken steps to try to make Michigan more attractive to businesses and I believe we, the City, need to take proactive measures to promote ourselves and sell ourselves to businesses, entapenuers, and people of all backgrounds that may be interested in our area and thrive in our area. Also, in the last several years we have not filled over 45% of the city's vacancies. I believe we need to continue to look at ways to do more with less, but we should work at tweaking job descriptions and hire a few full time staff as we are obligated to provide basic quality services and maintenance to the citizens of our city.
3. What will be your top five priorities as a Commissioner if you're elected?
EVA SMITH-FURGASON: These are not in order - and there are more than five, but here are 5 off the top of my head:
1. Promote Ironwood as a safe, friendly community and a great place live and do business.
2. Work with City Staff to get up to speed on all issues facing the city, as well as all procedural aspects of the job.
3. Ensure better communication between all city boards, committees, city commission, staff and the community at large - perhaps with periodic joint meetings - this would eliminate some of the time lag between projects.
4. Ensure the website for the city is updated, attractive, informative and is being kept up - as well as create a stronger web presence through social networking.
5. Make good decisions on behalf of the people I'll be representing - so that Ironwood will be a place where growth can happen.
BRANDON TAUER: To see that the majority of the city's residents have a voice on the council, to support the creation of jobs for our citizens, to ensure the city remains financially sound, to maintain as many city services as we have left, and to see that our city employees are treated fairly and with respect.
MONIE SHACKLEFORD: 1. Work to improve roads and infrastructure: My top priority is to support efforts to find grants and funding to improve the streets, sewer and water, and other infrastructure improvements. I will make sure there is a long term plan for their maintenance and upkeep.
2. Improve the downtown district. I will support efforts to find funding for improvements specifically for the downtown area. Support grants to remove condemned buildings and fund façade grants to help businesses improve the downtown. Work to attract new businesses to the downtown to fill empty building. Work to improve tourist flow into the downtown.
3. Support efforts for the city to actively improve the quality of homes in Ironwood. I support obtaining grants to help homeowners fund home improvements. Also I support the city actively working to demolish buildings that are beyond repair. When homes in severe disrepair are in a public auction, the city needs to find ways to prevent the homes from being passed to new owners with no assurance that the homes will be fixed up.
4. Actively promote our area for industry, businesses, tourists, retirees, people looking for recreational housing, as well as people for a new area to settle down in. We need to reverse the trend of population decline.
5. Improve the recreational and pedestrian opportunities in the city: Making Ironwood a destination in itself will make it more attractive for people moving to the area or passing through. I support making the streets and walkways more pedestrian and biker friendly. I support the "Complete Streets" concept as well as "Safe Routes to School." Students need safe routes to get to school throughout the year. Students should not be forced to walk on busy streets in the winter. There needs to be a sidewalk along Cloverland Drive when the street is re-done. People staying at hotels should not be forced to drive to go to a restaurant down the block. I support efforts to create biking, walking, cross-country skiing, and snow-shoe trails within the city of Ironwood and connecting other cities. Such trails can be created through grant funding, donations, and strong citizen support. Motorized recreational vehicles have a number of interconnecting trails that pass through Ironwood on Snowmoblie Trail 2.
KIM CORCORAN: It will be crucial to insure that the city maintain fiscal responsibility and transparency. I also think it is important to follow through and see current projects to a timely fruition. Seeking new projects and associated funding is always a must, especially when it comes to our roads and infrastructures. And of course, jobs in our area are key to keeping population numbers up so it will be imperative to have a strong marketing strategy to get businesses and people to our area. We will also need to secure revenue sharing and increase efficiency so we will need to initiate a work strategy with neighboring cities to explore how best we could implement service sharing.
4. What are the responsibilities of a City Commissioner? How many Commission meetings have you attended prior to your deciding to run? What is your vision for Ironwood in the near future (5 - 10 years) and what will you do to realize that vision?
EVA SMITH-FURGASON: This answer has the potential of being a novella - so I'll try to be brief. I have attended a total of two City Commission meetings and two or three Workshop meetings. All of these were connected to some issue, which was important enough for me to go and have my say or listen to what others were saying. The responsibilities of a City Commissioner as I see them are to be informed, show up at meetings, vote impartially and without bias representing the best outcome for the people of Ironwood. I'm sure there are others - but if you consider the above - that would likely cover the rest. My vision is a vibrant community that is experiencing moderate but steady growth while sustaining local merchants, serving it's citizens and attracting new businesses and residents.
BRANDON TAUER: The responsibility of a commissioner is to ensure that the wishes of the majority of the city's residents are followed. It's impossible to please everyone but if we're able to use a little common sense and compromise most issues can be resolved amicably. I have not attended any recent city commission meetings. My information comes from the people that have attended the meetings, the Chronicle, Ironwood Info, and the Daily Globe. I foresee positive changes ahead for the city within the next 5-10 years with the opening of the mine in Wakefield. An additional 250+ jobs will be a nice boon for the local economy. It's not going to return us to prosperity overnight, of course, but it might spur some interest in the area from other companies. This is where our community development director comes into play.
MONIE SHACKLEFORD: Five city commissioners make up the city commission. The city commission functions as the legislative branch of the city government. The basic responsibility of each city commissioner is to attend the bi-monthly meetings of the city commission and give their opinions of the topics on the agenda through discussion and voting. The city commission has the power to hire the city manager who is in charge of the administrative affairs of the city. During city commission meetings, the city commission sets the direction of the city government through its adoption of charters, amendments, ordinances and resolutions in the process of establishing city policy.
Prior to deciding to run I did not attend a regular City Commission meeting. I have gone to two since I decided to run for office. I have been to special meetings of the City Commission that were focused on a particular topic. I have attended Parks and Recreation meetings and Planning Commission meetings.
If we can improve the infrastructure, roads, and make the community more inviting, I believe our area can become a unique tourism destination. See responses to question 3 and 13 for more detail.
KIM CORCORAN: I have been a city commissioner for two years now and would like to continue this responsibility because I enjoy living in Ironwood and I think our area has a lot to offer. Responsibilities of a commissioner are outlined in the City Charter, but the duties essentially boil down to working with and guiding administrative staff, organizations, and citizens in a desired direction to efficiently and effectively serve the needs of the population as an aggregate.
5. What abilities do you bring to the Commission that help you stand out from the others?
EVA SMITH-FURGASON: I will bring versatility and tenacity.
BRANDON TAUER: I have been dealing with the public and all of the issues that go along with that as a police officer for over nine years. I try to use common sense and compromise in solving people's problems as much as possible. It works most of the time and I would use those same problem solving skills as commissioner. I give people straight answers to questions and don't have much patience for the "run-around."
MONIE SHACKLEFORD: I have a positive outlook. I believe in Ironwood and its people. I am honest and believe in treating other people respectfully no matter how much their opinions differ from my own. I believe in working with the other commissioners as well as with the city to find ways to improve this city. Although my Master's degree in biology does not directly relate to city development, my education taught me how to research topics thoroughly to find important and relevant information. My education taught me to look critically at problems and look for creative solutions. I use logic and facts to make decisions. My experience teaching helps me to organize my ideas before speaking to make clear focused statements.
KIM CORCORAN: I now have two years of experience with the city commission, but I also have over 15 years of experience working in State government and I have some understanding of the bureaucracy and red tape that often hinders and slows the speed with which we can accomplish our desired goals and objectives. Working with the State has also taught me how to address a variety of difficult situations.
6. Why should I vote for you?
EVA SMITH-FURGASON: Because I will thoughtfully consider all options before making a decision and will make sure that decisions I make while serving as a commissioner will have the best interest of the people of Ironwood in mind.
BRANDON TAUER: Vote for me if you want somebody on the commission that isn't afraid to give a direct answer to a question or problem. If I don't know something I'll tell you that and find the answer. If I, or the commission, don't have a solution to the issue at hand we'll work together and figure it out. I don't like procrastination.
MONIE SHACKLEFORD: You should vote for me if you trust me and agree generally to the responses of these questions. You should vote for me if you can see that I am running not for my desire to have power or need to have things my way, but because I want to truly improve Ironwood. You should vote for me if you understand that I want Ironwood to be a city my children can be proud to call their hometown.
KIM CORCORAN: I believe I am disserving of votes because I do not have a hidden agenda or interest group that will drive my decisions. I will try to be objective with my decisions and consider the needs and desires of our population while keeping in mind fiscal responsibility and efficiency.
7. What changes, if any, would you propose, if elected, to insure that the City exercises responsible financial practices?
EVA SMITH-FURGASON: There are currently more and more demands from the State to make financial decisions transparent - and there is a real threat of the State stepping in with EFM's - Emergency Financial Managers - to take over an elected City government if they see fit - therefore it is imperative that the City's financial dealings are above board in all respects. I have on a couple of occasions requested the City Budget and it is my opinion that given the slim and shrinking resources the City has they are doing a very good job. That said - I am a thrifty person and there are items the cost of which I would scrutinize and more than likely vote against if I felt the cost outweighed the need or the benefit.
BRANDON TAUER: From what I know right now the city is in sound shape financially. So I wouldn't propose any changes. That may change with upcoming cuts from the state of Michigan, and we may have some lean times ahead, but I'm confident we can keep the city solvent. We're going to have to keep a close eye on the budget going forward and make sure we're not spending money we don't have on unnecessary projects.
MONIE SHACKLEFORD: The city must balance its annual budget. If there are changes in that budget during the year, the budget must be amended and changed. I do not know of financial practices that have gone outside the budget. I do not know of needed changes in how the budget is created.
KIM CORCORAN: To receive a portion of our revenue sharing our governor has recommended that cities become transparent with their fiscal operations and develop a dashboard to allow citizens to view economic progress. As a commissioner, I will do my best to ensure our City maintains our dashboard transparency. I would also like to see more details on spending; knowing details about spending necessities and spending options will make for better decision making in the end.
8. How would you choose the City Clerk, City Attorney, and City media?
EVA SMITH-FURGASON: According to the rules outlined in the City Charter.
BRANDON TAUER: I'm not sure how the City Clerk is chosen right now. Karen Gullan has been clerk for as long as I can remember. I don't see a need to change that right now as she seems to be doing a fine job. The City Attorney could be placed out on bids once every two years to coincide with the commission elections. To ensure the city is getting the best bang for its dollar. I believe past practice has had official notices from the city placed in paper print form, so that means the Daily Globe would continue to serve in that capacity. A lot of our older residents don't use the Internet and would not see notices using online formats. Any person or organization can request copies of public notices be sent to them under the open meeting law.
MONIE SHACKLEFORD: The city commission votes on approving of the City Clerk, City Attorney and City Media (radio and newspaper) depending on the recommendations of the City Manager. Given that the City Manager works on a regular basis with these individuals, I would tend to follow the recommendations of the City Manager. The Ironwood Globe is the only printed paper in Ironwood and so it is the only newspaper source able to print public notices as is required by the City. Other new sources should receive updates by e-mail as well on any news releases by the city. The city should make news releases available on its website.
KIM CORCORAN: The City Charter allows the commission, with a vote, to appoint the City Clerk and the City Attorney and is often done through the recommendation of the City Manager. The best person for each of these positions is someone who is fiscally responsible and one who is dedicated to the functions of the City. The City is currently working on creating and maintaining its own new website. It will be an ever changing site that will be inviting and keep people informed. Along with its own site it is imperative for the City to keep all other media sources informed about what is happening in our city. I do not believe it will be necessary to delegate one venue as 'City Media'.
9. What's your position on reviewing the City Charter? The Michigan Municipal League recommends it be done every ten years. It was last done in 1994. Before that it was done in 1948.
EVA SMITH-FURGASON: Sounds like the Charter needs to be reviewed!
BRANDON TAUER: In a perfect world everything the Municipal League recommends would be done. Unfortunately they don't supply funding to implement their recommendations. A review of the Charter would be great. I don't know if it's likely to happen but I would not be opposed to it.
MONIE SHACKLEFORD: The City Charter should be reviewed as often as is recommended. On a regular basis the City Manager should keep a detailed record of any unclear or erroneous statements within the City Charter as they are found during City Commission meetings. This record would make the process of reviewing and updating the Charter relatively efficiently and allow problems in the Charter to be remembered even if there are changes in the City Manager and the City Commission.
KIM CORCORAN: The City Charter should be an ever changing document that ensures economic and efficient administration of City affairs. I believe the Charter has been glanced at recently but the need for changes was not evident nor acted upon. I believe the Charter should be looked at (and documented) sometime during each new commission to ensure that the procedures are valid and up to date.
10. Have you ever held public office (either elected or appointed)? If so, please list your accomplishments and explain how your previous political experience will help to make you a dynamic City Commissioner. Whether or not you have previous experience in government, please describe any life experiences that have prepared you for a seat on the City Commission.
EVA SMITH-FURGASON: Yes. I am currently serving a second term on the DIDA (Downtown Ironwood Development Authority) As far as accomplishments - the DIDA is a collective of people therefore I can't take credit for "accomplishments." We have a great team of dedicated people and we would be about 20 steps back if it wasn't for the hard work of city employees like Jane, Merritt, Scott and many others. The only advantage to having "political" experience is that I'm more used to the molasses like quality of the way government works and have developed patience and the ability to plow forward even it's it sometimes takes far longer than I'd like.
BRANDON TAUER: I have never held or run for any other public office. As I stated earlier over nine years as a police officer has given me a lot of experience in dealing with the public. I try to solve problems everyday at work using common sense and compromise. That's something I would like to see more of in city government.
MONIE SHACKLEFORD: I have not held a public office. My work as the President of the Friends of Miners Memorial Heritage Park has given me experience working with City Officials including Scott Erickson and Merritt Bussiere. This position has given me experience working with a group of people with diverse backgrounds, organizing events, and planning projects. My experience as a community college instructor has given me experience presenting information to groups. My educational background taught me how to thoroughly research topics to find new and creative manners of solving problems. With my science background, I believe in looking at all options and base my decisions on facts.
KIM CORCORAN: I have been on the City Commission for the last two years and to assess personal political accomplishments is difficult because all decisions are done as a vote and each commission member views accomplishments differently. During my time on the commission I have come to better know the players and better understand the rules of the political game both of which have helped me become a better commissioner. I have also taken advantage of various training and seminars to increase my knowledge and widen my networking resources. Life experiences that have helped me grow include philanthropy and volunteer work in a variety of areas.
11. Why do you want to be a City Commissioner for the City of Ironwood?
EVA SMITH-FURGASON: To represent the best interests of the people of Ironwood and hopefully contribute to making Ironwood an even better place to live.
BRANDON TAUER: I would like to help Ironwood move positively into the future. There are a lot of challenges to overcome in the coming months and years. I don't want to see my hometown fail and I believe I can help the new commission move forward.
MONIE SHACKLEFORD: I want to be a City Commissioner because I am dedicated to improving Ironwood. This is a beautiful region with a rich and fascinating history. Ironwood has the potential to become a thriving unique community that can be a destination in itself. I want to help Ironwood realize its full potential.
KIM CORCORAN: See question #1.
12. What has been or will be your greatest challenge as a Commissioner?
EVA SMITH-FURGASON: I think my biggest challenge will be dividing my time between family, job and my responsibilities to the City.
BRANDON TAUER: I believe our greatest challenge will be maintaining the services our city enjoys with the reduction in state funding that is inevitably coming. I am opposed to adding any new millages for anything right now. We need to live within our means and as one of the highest taxed cities in the Upper Peninsula we owe it to all of the tax payers to be as fiscally responsible as possible.
MONIE SHACKLEFORD: I cannot predict the greatest challenge I will face as a City Commissioner. I would expect that finding the funding needed for improvements and balancing the annual budget will be difficult.
KIM CORCORAN: I believe the greatest challenge lies with the future of our finances. A few things to consider come from changes our Governor has imposed that will affect how we receive funding and how much funding will be available for us to use. To maximize on the funds will involve how we meet established guidelines our Governor has put in place. We will need to examine how we compensate our staff who are already doing more with less and how we compensate future hires, all of which needs to be in place in less than a year. Personal property tax issues are also wavering and have the capacity of have a profound effect on our budget dollars. We have so many needs and wants along with so many unexpected items to prepare for that our budget will always be a challenge and under strain.
13. What are Ironwood's top five strengths and what are its top five weaknesses? What should be done to promote our strengths and correct our weaknesses?
EVA SMITH-FURGASON: Strengths 1. Affordable homes 2. Beautiful surroundings 3. Low crime, safe community 4. Friendly people 5. Rich area history
Weaknesses 1. Declining population 2. Aging infrastructure 3. Dropping revenues 4. High unemployment 5. Analysis Paralysis
There are so many ways to promote this city - and the great strengths it has - the problem is the same as always - it takes money - and manpower. The internet makes it easy - the Go-In Forward and FeLiveLife groups have done a tremendous job in promoting the area - as have local and regional events - there is much more to be done. Putting forth a dynamic City Website and having a strong web presence certainly help.
Our strengths are tied in to the weaknesses - by promoting the strengths we'd be able to fix some of the weaknesses. For example - if we promote all our strengths - we correct the weakness of declining population and dropping revenues - having more people move to the area, start businesses and contribute to the community.
The one weakness that's the hardest to correct in some respects is Analysis Paralysis - since serving on the DIDA I noticed that we tend to committee things to death in City dealings - mulling over each and every aspect of any given thing, sometimes for months and pretty much guaranteeing that if it does happen it'll take years to get it done. That process needs to be hastened if we are to move forward.
BRANDON TAUER: Ironwood's strengths include it's relatively low crime rate, our children, good schools, an available work force, and ample recreational activities for all people. Ironwood's weaknesses include a lack of work for the work force, poor roads, a declining tax base, crumbling infrastructure, and an aging population. Fortunately a lot of the weaknesses in the infrastructure are being fixed. New water, sewer, and roadways are huge in promoting a city as a nice place to live, work, and play. It shows prospective businesses a town that is progressive and might entice them to locate here. If businesses come in your tax base goes up, people go to work, our kids that we've exported over the years may come home for decent jobs, and city services are maintained. It all comes full circle. Hopefully we're at the beginning of the road to recovery.
MONIE SHACKLEFORD: Strengths: 1. Proximity to incredible outdoor recreational opportunities which constantly draws tourists to our region. Promote: Make the city more attractive to people passing through town so that they dine, shop, and stay. 2. Gogebic Community College brings in young people, educated faculty, and keeps a portion of college bound students in the area. (Even though it is not technically in Ironwood, the city benefits from its presence.) Promote: Support any sensible plans for expansion of programs or degrees. 3. Ironwood is one of the larger cities in the U.P. giving it an advantage as a regional center for industry, retail shops, education, and tourism. Promote: We need to work hard to draw people and businesses in so that our population does not continue to decline. 4. Beautiful historic buildings such as the Depot, the Ironwood Theatre, the Memorial Building, and the Carnegie Library give Ironwood a unique charm. Promote: Draw tourists and businesses into the downtown area to enhance the downtown. Make sure to secure funding to make improvements on the entrances into downtown as well as the Depot Park. 5. A community of people who strive to improve Ironwood for future generations. Promote: Support one another with respect and work together to find ways to make the city better.
Weaknesses: 1. Houses in disrepair and abandoned homes. 2. House lots that are very small for a small town. 3. Roads in disrepair: More roads than most communities of a similar size. 4. Unattractive roadway through town and poor entryways to downtown. 5. Not enough industry or tourists that stop to maintain the current population level.
See my response to number 3 for how the weaknesses can be improved.
KIM CORCORAN: A city's strengths and weaknesses are always changing and Ironwood's present weaknesses, I believe, can be summarized in the Census Report. We are losing people, jobs, and money. To improve our situation it will be important to let businesses, entrepreneurs, and the populations know what we have to offer. A knowledge based work force can work anywhere and we want them to be here. We need to promote our area. We have a viable workforce, college, natural beauty, and four seasons of recreation. We need to keep improving upon ourselves. We need to keep and attain the young. We need to make ourselves a place people want to be, a place where they can live where they play.
14. What City policies do you favor, which ones do you oppose, and what new policies would you initiate, if elected?
EVA SMITH-FURGASON: This could take a long time. Where would I even start? I favor the city local buying policy - but I believe it should be strengthened and re-written to account for the impact local purchasing has on the overall economic health of the community - and sometimes that means not going with the lowest bid. I oppose the city ordinance banning chickens - so I would definitely try to initiate a progressive, well thought out policy on backyard poultry. I would definitely make it a policy to update the city website and keep it current - it's hard to be an informed citizen if the website has outdated information. I believe meetings should be more open and the elected officials should respond directly to questions from constituents - while this is not a city policy issue - it seems to be an ingrained habit and it's definitely something that could use improvement.
The current blight policy seems blurry on the overall focus - while tall grass in the neighbors yard may be annoying - a falling down building is an actual safety hazard. The late fee on the sewer/water bill is a hefty 10% - while I'm sure it's a good source of revenue for the city - generally speaking - when someone can't pay the water bill on time - it probably means that they are financially strapped - why make it harder on them with a whopping 10% late fee? I would try to change that policy to make it easier on folks on a fixed or limited income. I'm sure there are more policies I could bring up - but this is getting quite long - I'd be happy to answer specific question about where I stand on specific issues.
BRANDON TAUER: I don't know of any city policies I would either favor or oppose right now. If elected I would like to initiate a buy local policy favoring local businesses whenever possible.
MONIE SHACKLEFORD: I generally support the existing City policies. I favor policies that work towards improving blight problems in the city. I support policies to pick up trash and decrease the problem of dumping trash in the city. The recycling bins in town are good. Having clean-up days that people can get rid of trash for free is important. With the amount of littering in the community having a community "Make a Difference Day" to pick up litter is important; however, the community should be more involved in this. Since dumping trash within the compost is a constant problem, I would support having more restrictions on when the gates are open.
The city needs to be more pedestrian friendly. I would support policies to make sure that certain sidewalks along busy streets are kept clear of snow. All sidewalks in the main downtown district should be clear of snow. Sidewalks in front of empty shops must be kept clear of snow. Children walking to and from school along busy streets near the schools such as Ayer, Lake, Douglas or Lowell Street should not be forced to walk in the road. A plan to keep at least portions of sidewalks along these streets clear of snow must be created.
I am concerned with having almost all the City streets open to ATVs. If people drive responsibly, follow the rules, and if there are not excessive complaints about the policy; I will not work to change this policy.
I favor the development of Miners Memorial Heritage Park and other non-motorized trails in the city and connecting our city to other cities. I support the SISU ski race.
KIM CORCORAN: Currently, I do not favor or oppose any particular policies and do not have plans to initiate a particular new policy if elected. Policies are often event driven and will be addressed as the need presents itself.
15. How will you make Ironwood better?
EVA SMITH-FURGASON: I'd love to say that I could make Ironwood better - but remember - I would only be one vote on the City Commission. I can't with any certainty say I will make Ironwood better - but I can tell you I'll try. "Progress not perfection" is my motto and the one promise I can make to the voters of Ironwood is that I will do my personal best. And one last thing - I went the whole interview without mentioning potholes. I am well aware of their existence and effect on vehicles, pocketbooks, mood and stress. They are definitely a priority - and I think about them every time my teeth rattle as I drive to work. The city is doing it's best to fix them, but we have to do better. I won't promise anyone better roads - as doing so would be pandering to the citizens of this community - but I can tell you - it won't be far from my mind if I am elected to serve on the City Commission.
BRANDON TAUER: I will continue to support improving our infrastructure as funding allows. I pledge support for any new businesses that may wish to locate here. No new taxes. Other than that see the previous 14 answers I guess.
MONIE SHACKLEFORD: See my answer to numbers 3 and 13 for a detailed answer. I generally feel that the past Commission has done a great deal to make Ironwood better, and would hope to continue their work.
KIM CORCORAN: The above questions/answers summarize my thoughts about Ironwood. I do not have a specific game plan to make Ironwood 'better'. I am just an objective person who is trying to be forward thinking and trying to be actively involved in my community. I believe we need to be cohesive and work together as a community to achieve goals and put Gogebic County on the map as a place where people want to be.
The Chronicle would like to thank our three participants and we would like to wish all of the candidates the best of luck in the upcoming City Commission Election.
