[ HONOLULU CITY COUNCIL ]
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Hawaii Kai-Waikiki
Charles Kong Djou
Age: 32 Job: State representative Past: General counsel, KD Construction
What makes you qualified to be a City Council member?
As a legislator, I am proud of my record challenging the status quo and making government accountable to taxpayers. I fought to make government more efficient at all levels. I will bring my enthusiasm for change and my philosophy of government reform to restore a sense of integrity to our Council.
Do you support the city's Bus Rapid Transit project? Explain your support or objections.
I do not support the portion of the BRT project that closes traffic lanes. Dedicating existing traffic lanes exclusively to city buses will not solve traffic congestion. I support other aspects of the BRT, however, that enhances the existing bus system and brings it into compliance with federal law.
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.
I oppose raising taxes. Any tax increase will damage our already fragile economy. We need to reduce government spending by decreasing the debt load, eliminating wasteful corruption and increasing the use of privatization.
Robert Fishman
Age: 55 Job: Senior business development professional Past: Former city managing director
What makes you qualified to be a City Council member?
I have hands-on success in business, government and the military. My experiences as a 28-year resident of the district. My wife and I raised our family here. My concern for the future of our city needs mature and informed experience.
Do you support the city's Bus Rapid Transit project? Explain your support or objections.
I support the Bus Rapid Transit initiative. It represents a cost-effective addition to Oahu's already superb transportation system. Mobility is an economic pillar and adds to economic revitalization. The BRT was developed through a process of intense collaboration with communities and does need new taxes.
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.
I expect the city budget will have a large shortfall. It is time to summon the courage to look at what taxpayers are buying, to see if they are still willing to buy it. I have called for a total city analysis based on the U.S. Army model.
