League of Women Voters of the Cincinnati Area Education Fund
Hamilton County, OH November 8, 2011 Election
	Donna M. Laake Answers Questions Candidate for President of Council; City of Norwood

The questions were prepared by the League of Women Voters of the Cincinnati Area and asked of all candidates for this office.
Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

Questions & Answers

1. What are your qualifications for office?

I currently serve as Ward 3 representative on City Council, chair of Committee of Whole and Clerk Pro Tem. I was on Council in the 1980's during some of the bleakest financial times in our history. I also served as health commissioner for over 13 years. I know how the system functions.

2. What services do you believe should be considered basic and essential for the City?

Safety services such as Police, Fire, and Public Works are obviously essential. But I also believe that what makes our community special and somewhat unique are those departments that deliver "quality of life" services such as the Health Department, Recreation Department, and Community/Senior Center. All are "essential" to Norwood citizens.

3. How would you balance the City Budget?

During budget discussions in 2011, I proposed that all employees (AND elected officials) consider a 5% pay reduction in order to help balance our budget and spare anyone from being laid off. New development would add additional payroll taxes and permit fees. As union contracts expire, I feel confident that negotiations can also yield cost-savings to the city budget.

4. What actions will you take to support clean air?

City government has no legislative authority over clean air regulations. However, as the former health commissioner, I worked closely with county governmental organizations to support clean air. In fact, air monitoring equipment is located on the roof of the health department facility.

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Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

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Created from information supplied by the candidate: October 1, 2011 16:56
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