League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Los Angeles County, CA March 5, 2013 Election
	Cary Brazeman Answers Questions Candidate for Controller; City of Los Angeles

The questions were prepared by the League of Women Voters of Los Angeles and asked of all candidates for this office.
Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

Questions & Answers

1. What is the single most important issue facing the Controller’s Office today, and how would you deal with it?

The city faces over $1 billion (yes, billion) in looming liabilities in the next five years. The structural deficit threatens to imperil delivery of core city services, many of which already are provided at low levels. Some say bankruptcy remains a real threat. As Controller, I'll be a voice for responsible, constructive action to address the budget deficit while preserving and protecting core city services (public safety, streets, sidewalks, parks, libraries).

2. The Controller serves an important audit function. What departments or programs would you prioritize for auditing?

First and foremost would be performance audits of core city services. I was a prominent voice in shining light on the improper reporting of Fire Dept. emergency response times, which have not been examined seriously by the Controller in 10 years. I'll monitor public safety performance by publishing "Real-Time Report Cards," including reports on the accessibility of parks to L.A. residents, in addition to financial audits.

3. What management strategies would you implement to avoid payroll system problems in the future?

I don't want my name signed on any improper checks! So you can be sure internal controls, including for payroll, will continue to be a high priority for my department.

4. Do you support the ballot measure to increase the sales tax in the city?

Strongly oppose.

The sales tax increase is regressive and would hit hardest the people who can least afford it. It also would make L.A. one of the most expensive cities in the region to live and do business. Thus, more residents and businesses would be at risk of leaving L.A.

Absent a comprehensive plan to fix city finances and ensure consistent service delivery, there should be no broad-based tax increases in the city.

I'm proud to have signed the ballot argument against the sales tax increase along with other Democrats, Republicans and Independent voters.

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Responses to questions asked of each candidate are reproduced as submitted to the League. 

Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

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Created from information supplied by the candidate: January 6, 2013 21:38
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