League of Women Voters of California
Stanislaus County, CA November 4, 2003 Election
	Bob Dunbar Answers Questions Candidate for Council Member; City of Modesto; Chair #1

Read the answers from all candidates.

Questions & Answers

1. In times of tight budgets, what can the City of Modesto do to reduce expenses?

The city needs to continue to search out and find additional State and Federal sources of assistance in the form of grants, etc. CDF bonds need to be explored as a means of financing long term infrastructure needs. Cutailment of duplicated services provided by the county, state, and federal govt. need to be explored. Setting sound budget decisions and then sticking to them must take place.

2. What specific steps should the City take to assure that there will be an adequate inventory of affordable housing?

Supply and demand is the greatest determiner of affordable housing. We already have in place many means for those who have difficulty finding affordable housing. We need to market those programs more aggressively. Some developer incentives need to be broadened in terms of density considerations to influence developers to build more affordable housing. Once a property is zoned multiple family or high density single family, it should be kept that way without speacial interest pressure causing a change in zoning.

3. In light of recent events, should there be changes in the credit card policy? If so, what? Be specific.

I will not have the city issue me a credit card. I can think of few reasons why any city employee needs a permanent credit card issued to them. I would support a reimbursement policy. With reimbursement, each item is scrutinized prior to repayment.