TennesseeTicket

What are the city's infrastructure needs?

Berz: The sewer systems are in need of upgrades; so are area roads. The City Council is in the process of implementing a $5 million public works project (not new spending), mapping new sewers.

Rutherford: We've spent hundreds of millions on sewers (Moccasin Bend). District 6 wants sidewalks, extended from the McCallie tunnel to Chickamauga Creek. Shepherd area has no pedestrian access to its rec center. The district needs more bike paths. We also need to address stormwater runoff problems.

What do you value most about public service?

Rutherford: The opportunity to work with the people of District 6, as well as throughout the city.

Berz: The excitement of sitting down to deal in solutions instead of problems; the opportunity to stand up for women.

Where do you stand on library funding?

Ms. Berz used this question to discuss recent and future improvements in the Brainerd Mission and levee, while Ms. Rutherford promoted her concept of a civic center (not located at Eastgate) that would include facilities for adult education, after-school tutoring, and weekend movie nights. An updated library branch would be included in either of these developments.
Quotes: "I'm a library freak." (Berz) "I'm addicted to books." (Rutherford)

How should the city deal with upcoming revenue shortfalls? Will sales or property taxes have to be raised in order to make the budget?

Rutherford: The City Council cannot raise sales taxes; that would have to be by referendum. Non-essential services should be cut before property taxes are raised. Annexation is also an option in lieu of raising property tax rates.
Quote: "If I can't pay for something, I do without."

Berz: As chair of the budget committee, is looking for ways to prevent layoffs and tax increases. The council is "staying the course" for now, though if the economy worsens during the year, we may have to revisit. Don't be alarmed by the $1 million shortfall, as that much has already been cut. The council is engaged in strategic planning.
Quote: "We're not spending any money that we don't have."

What are your three main priorities?

Berz: Economic development, planned growth (considering VW and Alstom), and sustainability.

Rutherford: Jobs, no more taxes, safety/quality of life. Re-introduce speculative rezoning, redistribute police force to meet current needs.

What are your positions on the development of Brainerd Road, as well as crime along Brainerd Road?

Rutherford: Michael Mallen is proposing using Tax Incentive Financing (TIF) initiatives to attract business to the area. Regarding crime, the Deep Blue club has presented problems for neighboring businesses and residents. Have worked with a private group to patrol the area and hire an off-duty county deputy.
Quote: "The owners of [Deep Blue] are friends of my opponent's."

Berz: Have talked with the owners of Eastgate and Brainerd Village about the community center. In order to put in sidewalks, negotiations are necessary with landowners. On crime, cited the recent Ochs Center report that shows a few downtown neighborhoods are key contributors to criminal activity elsewhere, including District 6. Neighbors are taking charge of safety by watching out for each other.
Quote: "It's not petty (crime) when it happens to you. It's terrible."

Define transparency in government.

Berz: It means being clear on the source of decisions. Be positive and creative with solutions, instead of focusing on problems. Tell the public the truth; no back-room deals.
Quote: "There's been some untruth said up here tonight."

Rutherford: Candidates are required to disclose itemized contributions of over $100, as well as file a statement of interests with the state ethics board. The council is required to advertise issues that will be discussed. Sunshine laws prohibit decisions being made outside of public view. It's regrettable that many council decisions are made during afternoon committee meetings, instead of at council sessions when the public can attend.
Quote: [on the council's requirement to advertise its upcoming agenda] "I'm not sure what audience there is for it."

Why are you the most qualified to hold the office?

Rutherford: I really am District 6. I get the job done. I'm an employee of the public, known for knocking on doors.
Quote: "You can't erase fifteen years of experience with one year." [Ed. note: Ms. Rutherford was an elected member of the City Council for approximately ten of the past fifteen years.]

Berz: One represents a district, but is involved in making decisions with eight others. Collaboration is important, as the smallest percentage of votes has to do with a particular district. Worlds of experience have led to this one year in office, would like four more.
Quote: "Change has taken place; it's a new Chattanooga."

Closing remarks

Berz: My father used to quote to me a Hebrew saying that translates "when God gives you gifts, use them to repair the world." I was approached to run for this office. People shy away from running due to the "icky" process, and the things that go on.
Quote: "Marti has done a good job; it's just time for a change."

Rutherford: The difference between my opponent and me is that I'm like Teddy Roosevelt. I will charge San Juan Hill. My opponent likes to have committee meetings.
Quote: "People in District 6 think that I'm still their council member because I'm doing the job."
Bonus quote: [half-running toward podium, in a sing-song voice, ostensibly mocking Berz] "Hope is coming! Hope is coming! Hope is coming! I think we heard enough of that all Fall."

For more, see WRCB's coverage.