HPNA April Meeting
Co Presidents Gary Penn and Bruce Nadig presided over a full house almost as packed with visitors as with members.
Austin Community College Trustee and Avenue A denizen Dr. John Worley addressed the gathering regarding two items appearing in the upcoming May 3rd election. ACC turned away over 4,000 students last year, and with declining revenues both at home and from the Legislature the college is increasingly unable to meet the needs of its over 70,000 full and part time students.
John reminded neighbors that former ACC students and staff pump an estimated $626 million a year back into the Austin economy, an equivalent of over 16,000 jobs. John went on to ask for support in passing the two tax items on the May 3rd ballot. Voters will be given two chances to swell the shrinking coffers of this taxing district. One proposition is geared toward personnel and operating cost, the second toward bricks and mortar. John asked for support on both.
Austinites will also choose a Mayor and two City Councilpersons on May 3rd. Hopefuls for the Council seat Place Five crowded the room to pitch their talents. Neighbors expressed surprise at both the number of candidates and the unusual amount of experience and charisma possessed by each. By and large all the candidates were well versed on the challenges confronting the City and did not display significant ideological differences. Each did seem to have a favorite issue or approach that they intend to pursue once in office.
Steve Swanson spoke about his extensive business and civic problem solving experience. Steve believes that breaking down barriers to communication is a key to solving the City's problems. steve@srs-texas.com
Carl Tepper was there on his second visit to HPNA. His campaign manager Jessica has also attended HPNA meetings. Carl referenced his experience on the Urban Transportation Commission and on the consumer advisory board of Capital Metro as examples of his history of public service in Austin. Key to his platform is a plan to assist small business owners. www.carltepper.com
Scott Marks is an attorney concerned about the lack of affordable housing in Austin. He shared with neighbors his concerns about how and where this City allocates resources for low-cost living space. scottm@mciver.com
Brewster McCraken told those present he believes that
being active in politics can make a difference. Brewster laid out
his plans help create a Health Care District in the area and
outlined his support for the Waller Creek Tunnel Project and for
clean energy incentives. Brewster is an attorney and a former Hyde
Park resident.
www.brewstermccracken.com
Jason Pate is a realtor concerned about the cost of
living in the City. He is a proponent of tax incentives for small
business and expressed his specific concerns about the City's debt
and deficit spending.
Jason@jasonpate.com
Margot Clark is an Austin native with a history of
public service. She shared with neighbors her concern that the
City needs more commitment to the preservation of the environment,
and that City planners need to take a longer vision in protecting
the quality of life here. Margot too is supporting the creation of
a Health District.
info@margotclarke.com
