Soldotna City Council: Regina Daniels

Annexation, development need further exploration

Occupation: Vice Pres./Davis Block & Concrete

Business and professional organizations and other interests: Associate Member of the Associated General Contractors; Member of the Soldotna Chamber; Member of the Kenai Peninsula Home Builders

Previous political experience: None

1. How will you keep Soldotna's small businesses economically viable as the city develops?

While the city continues to develop, we can work towards making the city more appealing to businesses and visitors so patrons will want to spend time and shop in Soldotna. We can also continue to work towards bringing a "draw" into the city, whether it be a convention center, retail outlet or sports complex.

2. What can be done to improve highway safety in Soldotna?

I do have concerns about the safety along the Sterling Highway, especially in the busy summer months. As we see Soldotna Creek Park develop, we'll see more of a demand for a crosswalk to access the park. That may mean a stop light at Birch and the Sterling Highway or something to that matter.

3. What are two critical issues facing Soldotna and how will you address them if elected to the city council?

Annexation and commercial development are two current issues that will need to be explored further. I support both of them as long as they are done in an orderly and needed basis.

4. In your opinion, are there any topics in the Envision Soldotna 2030 comprehensive plan that require further examination, or haven't been addressed?

I think the new comprehensive plan has brought together a great number of ideas that will help form Soldotna into a greater usable city. Some of the ideas I'd like to see in further discussions would be the development of a "downtown" city center or square and further evaluation for a connected trail system throughout the city.

5. Soldotna's population is becoming older. How will this affect the city of Soldotna and how will the council address these effects?

There will be a need for expansion of healthcare facilities as well as senior housing. The council should help promote development and work together with the industry and residents to help meet those needs.