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March 11, 2004
Local Politics
Looks like we may have a credible candidate for mayor, Doug Kuntz.
A 1964 graduate of Stephen F. Austin University and charter member of the University of Arkansas College of Engineering Genesis Incubator Advisory Board, Kuntz also served active duty and reserve duty in the Marine Corps from 1960 to 1966, when he received an honorable discharge. Kuntz worked for IBM for 36 years, and was in charge of IBM territories in three states, including management of a $90 million business.
He attracts my interest because he appears to be pro-business, unlike our present mayor.
Kuntz finished the speech with four promises, including being a good steward of city money. "And (I) will not use our city funds as a ‘ personal piggy bank,’ Kuntz said." Fayetteville businesses and others we might attract who contribute so much to our tax base will be encouraged not discouraged. As long as they follow our ordinances, they will be innocent until proven guilty — not the other way around. "
The most telling sign that Fayetteville is no longer attractive to new businesses is the location chosen for the new Krispy Kreme. Bentonville. They're also apparently going to also get the state's third freestanding Starbucks. (The other two are in Little Rock) Why are those businesses locating in B-ville instead of here? Because that's where all the growth is....and potential customers. Why is the growth moved there? Because B-ville city government has been working hard to attract business while our mayor has been wasting our tax dollars on 'feel-good' projects instead of improving the infrastructure.
"We have huge traffic problems that worsen every week," Kuntz said. "The current administration has spent a large surplus they inherited, raised taxes, fees and rates and wants to do so again. (City) expenses far exceeded our revenue in 2003... I believe I can do better."
You sure as hell couldn't do much worse.
Posted by Rita at March 11, 2004 08:14 AM
Comments
Sounds like a great guy. Now, if we can get over that name thingy.......
Posted by: Bill at March 11, 2004 07:55 PM
Our current mayor's name is Coody, so his isn't that much worse. Though Mike & I have had fun making up great campaign slogans for the both of them.
Posted by: Rita at March 11, 2004 08:01 PM