City Council Candidate

The Worcester Phoenix
October 22 - 29, 1999

[Features]

Albert M Toney III

Questions	Answers
1. Last year, the city council rejected a comprehensive needle-exchange program that was to be based in clinics and tied to rehabilitation. Should this proposal be put forth again, would you support or oppose?	Support - I support the current model because it provides a range of programs set forth for rehabilitation and prevention. If this proposal saves one life then it is a success.
2. A minor league baseball league has been proposed for Worcester and a special task force is currently considering different sites within the city to construct a stadium. Would you support or oppose public financing for infrastructure improvements?	Support - The businesses that surround this stadium would end up paying for any infrastructure improvement over the long haul through new tax revenues.
3. In the past year, the internal-affairs process within the Worcester Police Department has been scrutinized both by the press and by certain members of the council. A number of city groups called for an independent civilian review board to be formed. Do you support or oppose such a board?	Oppose - I support increasing the powers of the Human Rights Commission. I am currently a Commissioner on the Human Rights Commission. See report that we just submitted to the city manager and city council.
4. The Worcester Youth Center provides services and programs for Worcester's most troubled youth. Currently, the city has only provided a small one-time grant to the center. Do you support or oppose increased city funding for the Youth Center?	Support - I support more funding to youth programs throughout the city.
5. This year, Mayor Raymond Mariano and Arts Worcester proposed the development of an Arts District on Main Street from Federal Square to Hammond Street. The project will likely require public money for infrastructure improvements and development costs. Do you support or oppose city funding for this project?	Support - I support this project and all infrastructure improvements which increase collaborations to foster working relationships and new ventures.
6. Do you support or oppose increased funding for park maintenance and for expanding the city's tree-maintenance program?	Support - The city should look to the state and federal government for more grants to help bring our parks back to past splendor.
7. Please rank (1 being the lowest, 5 being a high ranking) the city administration's efforts thus far to revitalize downtown. Please explain.	(7)2 - The city administration needs to move social service agencies such as DSS and Welfare agencies from downtown to industrial areas. Rehab these spaces and move small businesses in or convert space to MARKET RATE housing i.e., lofts, etc. a) encourage restaurants to provide outside seating on sidewalks, b) have stores display goods on sidewalks, c) encourage street musicians/arts throughout downtown, d) convert building to MARKET RATE housing.
*8. What is the one* thing that the city administration could do to improve downtown development?**	Build MARKET RATE housing
9. Do you support lower tax rates for business or for homeowners?	Homeowners and Business
10. Has the city administration done its best to curb spending?	No - We have very little or no cash reserve. Our bond ratings are dropping.
11. Which of the proposed routes for an airport access road do you support?	Undecided
12. What more can be done to encourage young entrepreneurs to succeed in Worcester?	Lower tax rates for businesses. Creative programs through colleges and local banks, development of an Entrepreneurs Center.
13. What is your idea of a fun night out in Worcester?	A night out at a fine restaurant with friends or family and dancing with friends. Also, seeing a play at the theater.
14. Name one of the city's cultural resources that has languished because of poor marketing or leadership.	Our theaters
15. Why should we vote for you?	I have demonstrated over the years my dedication, education, experience, and determination to improve the quality of life in Worcester with proven results. The Worcester community deserves energetic, creative, and forward thinking individuals to lead us into the new millennium. I would be honored to be part of that leadership.