Identify your top three (3) issues that you wish to address during your tenure in office and rank them in order of priority.
Forward Focus - Reform existing land use and zoning regulations to address housing affordability
Financial Responsibility - Develop the City’s first publicly driven capital replacement plan.
Community Engagement - Engage residents in the design and construction of public projects (infrastructure, redevelopment, and art).
What do you believe is the role of the City Council in our community?
To listen to the will of the people, ensuring that every voice is heard and represented, equally, in City Hall. The City Council should be an advocate for the community and City Staff; ensuring a balanced approach to addressing community needs and resolving constituent complaints. As a member of the City Council, I will collaborate with department heads, other municipalities and state officials to address local needs (funding, public assistance, social services, emergency management, etc.).
What experiences and qualities do you think makes you the best candidate for this position?
I have spent the last 20 years in local government administration as an urban, planning professional and parks and recreation advocate. My experience includes developing and managing multi million dollar municipal budgets, complex project management, developing and implementing land-use and zoning, related policies, advocating for parks and open space, and community engagement. In addition to my municipal experience, I am a commercial real estate broker, and small business owner. I believes in a strong but limited form of government, founded on principles of fiscal responsibility, economic innovation, and transparency to ensure Carmel remains a vibrant, prosperous and safe community for future generations. If elected, my priorities will include investing in infrastructure and public safety, ensuring government accountability, increasing financial transparency and improving public engagement in local planning processes.
How will you work with OneZone Chamber to ensure a thriving business community?
I believe OneZone Chamber is an excellent vehicle to garner public input and engage with community members and business owners on local and regional issues, economic development opportunities, and public investments. Civic engagement is critical to the success of any community; to ensure accountability and transparency, address neighborhood issues, build community consensus, and promote better planning. I am committed to improving public engagement through town hall style meetings, attending neighborhood meetings, regular newsletters, and open lines of communication with local residents.
How can voters connect with you? (email, social media, etc.)
Campaign Facebook Page: @Blake for Carmel City Council