[ HONOLULU CITY COUNCIL ]
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Waianae-Ewa Beach
Mike Gabbard
Age: 54 Job: Small- business man Past: Founder, Alliance for Traditional Marriage; educator
What makes you qualified to be a City Council member?
I don't like saying I'm more qualified than anyone else. All I know is that we need honest leaders who have the aloha and the courage to stand up for the values and concerns of the people -- leaders willing to put community interest above self interest.
Do you support the city's Bus Rapid Transit project? Explain your support or objections.
It's worth trying. It will allow people to park their cars and relax for the half-hour bus ride into town. It should work if we can get people riding the buses and if dedicating a lane doesn't make the traffic problem worse. If it doesn't work, we'll find another solution.
If the city budget has a shortfall, would you favor raising taxes, cutting programs or a combination? Explain what taxes or programs would be affected.
People are taxed enough. We should cut costs by learning how to do more with less. Public servants need to be instilled with a sense of ohana taking pride in and enjoying their service to the larger family, our community. With this attitude, we'll achieve more with fewer resources.
Pam Witty-Oakland
Age: 43 Job: City Council chairman's aide Past: Owner, accounting firm; Ewa/Kapolei Vision Team
What makes you qualified to be a City Council member?
Through my experience as a Council aide, accountant, business owner and resident of Leeward Oahu, I have gained a working knowledge of regional issues, legislative process and the community's leaders -- which will greatly benefit Council District I. ...
Do you support the city's Bus Rapid Transit project? Explain your support or objections.
I support the need for a transit project to link Honolulu's two urban centers. However, a marketing effort must be implemented to ensure its success. Residents need to understand the personal benefits of using the system and not just support "others" using the system.
If the city budget has a shortfall, would you favor raising taxes, cutting programs or a combination? Explain what taxes or programs would be affected.
To address a budget shortfall, I would favor elimination of programs that duplicate state functions. City funds should be used to serve the general welfare, health and safety of our communities, and to encourage participation in government -- as mandated in the city charter.
