1.) On Aug. 26, the city commission will consider a proposal to rehire city manager Al Childress. If elected on Aug. 20, what factors will you weigh most heavily when deciding how you vote?
2.) This election transforms the city commission, replacing 4 of 7 members. What else needs to change in city government and Key West in general? Be specific.
MONICA HASKELL
- It’s difficult to be put in this position, especially since the outgoing commission deferred decisions on other items, saying it would be unfair to incoming commission members to not have input. I would consider: a.) the voices of my constituents; b.) my professional interactions with Mr. Childress; c.) the performance reviews and feedback from staff.
- The City can do a better job of communicating, both internally among departments, and externally, between the City and its citizens. I would hope that increased, clear communication would lead to less confusion, misunderstanding and resentment, and improved efficiency and satisfaction.
BEN HENNINGTON
- The staff, in my opinion, will be the deciding factor. Al Childress’ position as city manager affects our city staff that handles all the projects and day-to-day operations of the city. I will take my time to talk to the department heads and as many staff members as I can between the time I am elected and the start of the meeting on Aug. 26.
- The biggest thing that needs to change is what I have been saying from the beginning of my campaign, and that is People Before Politics. This is the time for the people of Key West to elect me, Ben Hennington, who will listen and work with them, not just for them, to make a difference within this great community on Aug. 20.
