1. Has the borough struck the proper balance between sales tax and property tax? Are changes to the tax structure needed?
Brandii Holmdahl: The borough is in a good place right now. It is hard to say “we have achieved balance” for any more than a short moment in time. A balanced tax structure is not a concrete foundation, achieved and finished. It must be constantly examined to make sure it is meeting user needs and flexible enough to change with the ebb and flow of demands. It is necessary to always be mindful of the tax structure. As changes are made, those changes must be monitored for efficacy. If the changes do not work, it is the job of elected officials to try alternative solutions.
2. What role should the assembly play in addressing health care issues?
Holmdahl: The assembly has, at minimum, a responsibility to be aware of what health care options are available and at what cost. The Health Care task force is a good start.
3. With the state’s fiscal crisis in mind, what are your funding priorities for the borough?
Holmdahl: Borough priorities should be to allocate resources to the programs that have a direct impact on the lives of citizens, and areas that represent key economic drivers for communities. The focus must be on maintaining the assets and infrastructure that we currently own; and, as we are able, invest in new projects and ideas that will lead to increases in safety, quality of life and employment opportunities.
4. What approach should the borough take to regulating marijuana?
Holmdahl: The Borough should be cautious in regulating marijuana. No decisions should be made until the state has finished setting out legal parameters. Only after those laws have been established can we determine if further steps are necessary.
