Q&A: Reuben Snipper, Ward 5 Incumbent

Throughout this week and next, we'll be running Q&A's with candidates in the Takoma Park City Council election. Any of the candidates that responded to our questions will be posted.

Ward 5 incumbent Reuben Snipper sat down with Patch to answer questions before the Nov. 8 election.

1. Where would you cut the budget? Can the city progress with programs or does it need to simply maintain its current services because of budget issues?

According to the latest figures I’ve seen, the City will not have to cut the budget next year. I think we can re-orient some programs to focus on higher priority items, like making some changes in the Recreation Department as outlined in the new Recreation Mission statement.

2. Name three things you would propose as a council member to improve livability in Takoma Park.

Refocus the Recreation Department, enhance traffic calming measures, and complete the Flower Ave Green Street project.

3. With the County Council adopting the CR Zone what would you like to see happen to the Takoma Langley Crossroads? Where is the balance between development and livability?

We will work for constructive changes to the zoning issue and sector plans for the Crossroads to make sure developers balance livability and profits so that everyone benefits.

4. How do you see the Takoma Junction developing? How would you quell the traffic issue?

We are waiting for the Task Force to finish its report on the Junction. They have worked extremely hard to develop workable options for addressing these issues. I fully expect the Council will go forward with the main recommendations of the Task Force.

5. With tax duplication being such a big issue with residents, how would you make city services worth the extra money residents currently pay? If the county is providing a better service do you think the city should drop that service?

Residents want high quality services and have consistently supported them, even if they cost more than what the County provides. They appreciate the quality, control, and accountability that more locally provided services have. The County provides a number of services to Takoma Park residents already and as long as they remain high quality, we should continue using the County. Of course, if the County provided a better service than the City, we should drop that service.

6. What issue is most important to you? Just speak your mind on this one and let the readers know why it is important for you to be sitting at the dais after the November election.

Takoma Park is full of active, engaged residents who work both personally and professionally on progressive causes. What makes us unique is tapping into that energy and knowledge to make the City better. I fully intend to foster that and work together to make Takoma Park even better. We can even have some fun doing it.