(39th in a series of posts on candidates for election)
Grace Crampsie Smith is a candidate for the one 2yr seat on City Council, running against Will Carpenter.
The candidates were asked a specific question, could respond to the answers of the other candidates, participated in several group questions, and made a closing comment.
Crampsie Smith’s question: on the TIF (5 mins.)
“What is the TIF? And why is it important for Bethlehem residents to be informed about it this election cycle?”
- Any time we have additional revenues within the City, we have to look first and foremost at the existing budget.
- We have to be sure we meet the rising costs associated with the majority of our budget, personnel.
- Additional funds we need to look at what our needs are.
- Infrastructure hasn’t kept up with the development.
- Lot of work needs to be done specifically on the roads.
- Significant increase in the number of homeless families . . . we need to work on housing that is affordable and suitable.
Colon followed up explaining the history of the TIF (min. 2). Van Wirt pointed to large amounts of TIF money going to developers, showing need for better oversight, and appreciating an ordinance formulated by Reynolds (min. 3:25).
Crampsie Smith’s closing comment (1.5 mins.)
- raised in a family committed to the importance of giving back to the community
- advocate for people from all walks of life
- wants to be advocate for citizens from all parts of Bethlehem
- blessed to live here and hopes family will continue great legacy that is Bethlehem
Look for more on Crampsie Smith as she responds to other candidate presentations and participates in group answers on such topics as their unique qualities, transparency, neighborhoods.
