Lucille Puckett - Charlotte Mayor

Candidate's Questionnaire Answers:

1. How will you ensure LGBTQ+ people are fairly represented on advisory boards and commissions? Do you support the creation of an LGBTQ+ Liaison on staff to better communicate and represent LGBTQ+ issues within the City Manager's office?
   To ensure fair representation of LGBTQ+ people on advisory boards and commissions, it's crucial to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the selection process. This can be achieved by actively seeking out qualified LGBTQ+ individuals for such roles and avoiding any discriminatory practices. Regarding the creation of an LGBTQ+ Liaison within the City Manager's office, it can be a positive step to better communicate and represent LGBTQ+ issues. Such a liaison could help ensure that LGBTQ+ concerns are understood, addressed, and integrated into decision-making processes within the city's governance structure.

2. What will you do (or have you done) to address the affordable housing crisis that plagues Charlotte? What plans do you have to ensure Charlotte develops sustainably for future generations?
   To address the affordable housing crisis:
   Implement affordable housing programs: Develop and support initiatives that provide affordable housing options for low-income individuals and families, such as subsidized housing, rent control, or affordable housing tax incentives. Public-private partnerships: Foster collaborations between the government, private sector, and non-profit organizations to create affordable housing projects and leverage available resources effectively.
   Zoning and land-use policies: Review and revise zoning regulations to encourage the development of affordable housing and remove barriers that may prevent its construction.
   Preservation of existing affordable housing: Preserve existing affordable housing units and prevent their conversion into higher-priced properties through various mechanisms like rent stabilization or rehabilitation programs.
   For sustainable development:Urban planning: Promote smart growth and urban planning that prioritizes mixed-use development, public transportation, and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure to reduce urban sprawl. Green building standards: Encourage the adoption of green building practices and certifications that promote energy efficiency, reduce waste, and utilize sustainable materials in construction. Renewable energy: Support the integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power into the city's energy mix to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Climate adaptation and resilience: Develop strategies to address the impacts of climate change, such as flooding and extreme weather events, to ensure the city's long-term sustainability. Community engagement: Involve residents and stakeholders in the planning process to ensure that development decisions align with the needs and values of the community. These are just some general ideas I would start with, an actual plans would require careful assessment, collaboration with various stakeholders, and adequate funding to be successfully implemented.

3. What actions do you support (or have you supported) to ensure people's jobs pay a wage sufficient enough to live and thrive in Charlotte? What next steps and investments do you support to strengthen the Corridors of Opportunity?
   To address the issue of wages, some potential actions include advocating for a higher minimum wage, implementing living wage ordinances, promoting workforce development and training programs, and supporting policies that encourage job growth and fair labor practices. To strengthen the Corridors of Opportunity, investments in infrastructure, affordable housing, public transportation, and community development initiatives can play a crucial role. Additionally, targeted investments in education, healthcare, and social services can help uplift disadvantaged communities and create more equitable opportunities. Remember that specific actions and investments depend on the decisions of all local governments, businesses, and community stakeholders. It will be essential for me to engage in dialogue and collaboration to develop effective strategies tailored to Charlotte's unique needs and challenges.

4. What specific actions do you support (or have you supported) to address the racial inequities and lack of economic mobility in Charlotte?
   Addressing racial inequities and lack of economic mobility in Charlotte requires a comprehensive approach that includes policy reforms, community engagement, and targeted investments in education, affordable housing, and job training programs. By fostering inclusivity, promoting diversity, and dismantling systemic barriers, the city can work towards creating a more equitable and prosperous future for ALL its residents.

5. What actions do you support (or have you supported) to create a transportation network that provides people with efficient, affordable, and timely options to get around the city? What steps do you believe are necessary to address the inefficiencies and safety issues with CATS?
   Creating an efficient and safe transportation network requires careful planning and execution. To address inefficiencies and safety issues with CATS, I would consider these following steps:
   1. **Comprehensive Assessment**: Conduct a thorough evaluation of the current transportation network, identifying bottlenecks, safety concerns, and areas of inefficiency.
   2. **Community Engagement**: Involve the public in the planning process to understand their needs, preferences, and pain points regarding the transportation system.
   3. **Data Collection and Analysis**: Gather relevant data on passenger flow, travel patterns, and accident records to inform decision-making and optimization strategies.
   4. **Investment and Funding**: Secure adequate funding and investment to implement necessary upgrades, expansions, and safety measures.
   5. **Multi-Modal Integration**: Integrate various transportation modes like buses, trains, bicycles, and ride-sharing services to provide a seamless and interconnected network.
   6. **Infrastructure Upgrades**: Improve infrastructure, including roadways, transit hubs, and pedestrian walkways, to enhance safety and accessibility.
   7. **Technology Implementation**: Utilize smart technologies, such as real-time tracking, automated fare collection, and predictive analytics, to optimize service efficiency and enhance safety.
   8. **Safety Measures**: Implement safety training programs for drivers and staff, enhance security in stations and vehicles, and address vulnerable points in the system.
   9. **Frequent Service and Timetables**: Increase the frequency of public transportation services during peak hours and ensure accurate and reliable timetables to minimize waiting times.
   10. **Affordability**: Review fare structures and consider subsidies or discounts for certain demographics to make public transportation more affordable and accessible.
   11. **Sustainability**: Promote the use of eco-friendly transportation options, such as electric buses and incentivize eco-conscious practices.
   12. **Continuous Monitoring and Feedback**: Regularly monitor the system's performance and gather feedback from passengers to identify areas for improvement.
   13. **Collaboration with Stakeholders**: Collaborate with local authorities, businesses, and other stakeholders to garner support and resources for the transportation network.
   By following these steps, we can work towards creating a transportation network that provides efficient, affordable, and safe options for people to get around the city.