[ HONOLULU CITY COUNCIL ]
6
Makiki-Kalihi Valley
John A. Steelquist
Age: 62 Job: Business professor Past: Chairman, Makiki Neighborhood Board
What makes you qualified to be a City Council member?
Experience, integrity and aloha. I have the right kind of experience. I am a trained and experienced leader. I understand modern business practice such an employee empowerment and quality improvement. I believe in leadership, partnership and stewardship. ...
Do you support the city's Bus Rapid Transit project? Explain your support or objections.
The proposed Bus Rapid Transit is incomplete. The system from Kapolei to Middle Street with some modification is generally satisfactory. The section from Middle Street to Waikiki and the University of Hawaii is incomplete because it doesn't provide circulation or mauka-makai access. ...
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.
Neither. More efficient and smarter government could solve the modest shortfall. If unforeseen major disaster causes a massive shortfall, then in a crisis partnership our citizens and government would suggest both program reduction and tax increases. I don't believe in this disaster scenario. ...
Rod Tam
Age: 49 Job: State senator Past: Businessman; former state representative
What makes you qualified to be a City Council member?
Strong desire to service my constituents in resolving their city problems and obtaining community needs. My family is rooted in the 6th City Council District through four generations. I have the knowledge and experience in the city's organizational structure and process in servicing my fellow neighbors.
Do you support the city's Bus Rapid Transit project? Explain your support or objections.
The public is split on the support of BRT. The city administration and City Council need to have open, fair and formal public hearings.
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 am not in favor of raising taxes. The funding of city government services should be fundamentally based on: 1) mandated laws of federal, state and city, 2) public safety and health requirements and needs, 3) requirements of federal, state and city rules and regulations, and 4) essential city public services.
