13.0°

Occupation: Businessman

Education: KCHS graduate, 1973

Professional positions, organizations and other interests: Zan Inc. (DBA) Arbys/Radio Shack, Vice President; Kenai Chamber of Commerce, Past President; Kenai Economic Development District, Past Board Member; Fraternal Order of the Eagles, Past State President; Elks Lodge Kenai, Member; Moose Lodge, Member.

Previously held politcal office: Chief of Staff, Kenai Peninsula Borough, 2005-2008; Borough Assembly, Kenai Peninsula Borough, 1993-2002; National Association of Counties, Board Member, 1999-2002.

1. The arrival of Wal-Mart next spring will bring an increase in sales tax revenue to Kenai as well as an increased demand for city services, especially fire protection. What should the city do with the added revenue?

I believe we should reduce the mill rate and continue to adequately maintain vital services that are currently being provided. In the event of a fire, the Kenai Fire Department currently has adequate fire equipment to respond to large buildings such as Wal Mart, Lowes, or Home Depot. Nearly 80% of calls to the Kenai Fire Department are not for fires but for emergency medical services. Our fire department is well trained for both fire and EMS calls. As our city continues to grow, I believe that more personnel will be needed to adequately respond to 911 calls.

2. Now that Home Depot, Lowe's and Wal-Mart are in Kenai, how much more large commercial development should the city seek?

The first thing that needs to happen is for Kenai to update its comprehensive plan. All citizens of Kenai should participate in this plan. Not only will this shape what kind of new commercial development will occur in the city and more importantly we should address all aspects of planning to shape how our city will look and function in the future.

3. What is the best method for handling the growth of the already over-crowded dipnet fishery on the Kenai River? Raise the parking and camping fees to reduce demand? Limit the number of boats launched per hour at the Kenai City Docks?

The City of Kenai has already taken adequate steps to address this state fishery and the problems that it has created. Ninety-three percent of the dipnet participants do not even reside in Kenai or the Kenai Peninsula Borough. This fishery takes a heavy toll on the resources of the city. Therefore, it is now time for the State of Alaska to step up and address several issues which include: enforcement activities, fish waste disposal, fish cleaning stations, and summer hires for enforcement and harvest compliance.

4. What types of burial facilities should be included in the city cemetery expansion? A columbarium for cremated remains? A mausoleum? More open land for in-ground graves?

Nearly seventy percent of all burials today are now done through cremation. Clearly this is something that should be addressed just based on the numbers alone. I support the addition of a columbarium facility at the cemetery to provide more options for a final resting place. I see no reason to support a mausoleum at this time.

5. What would you like Kenai's Old Town to look like in 20 years?

A lot of Kenai's history is located in Old Town Kenai and should be preserved for the future. I believe it is extremely important to preserve the rich Native Cultural Heritage of Old Town Kenai. Alaska Native culture in this area of Kenai dates back thousands of years. In addition, the oldest building on the Kenai Peninsula is located in Old Town. Preservation of this area is very important.