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DAVIDSON Managing growth and a tight budget confront eight candidates running for the five seats on the Davidson board of commissioners.
The town's population grew 44 percent between 2000 and 2008, to more than 10,000 people, but some candidates say Davidson needs to attract more businesses. The town's fiscal 2010 budget, reflecting the economic downturn, scaled back maintenance expenses and capital purchases.
Three commissioners are seeking re-election, while two will step down. Mayor John Woods is unopposed.
Commissioner candidates addressed Davidson's most pressing problems:
Drew Crawford, 30, owner of Wooden Stone gallery, supports more retail and restaurants downtown and greater residential density near future transit lines. "This will allow us to rebalance our tax base and keep services high" without raising taxes for residents.
Tim Dreffer, 42, founder of myLogistics Inc., said growth is pressuring development and services. "How can we ease the pressure but still provide needed services, environmental sustainability, affordable housing and infrastructure needs without raising taxes?"
Nick Gibietis, 35, an Apple account executive, said Davidson needs to improve its transportation connectivity with other towns. It should also recruit commercial businesses to diversify a heavily residential tax base while "preserving what makes Davidson unique."
Incumbent Brian Jenest, 52, managing partner of ColeJenest & Stone, would encourage nonresidential development that is "compatible with our town's mission and values so as to provide needed tax revenues to allow the town to provide the services we all enjoy."
Mickey Pettus, 57, a vice president at VHA Inc., said competing for revenue sources will become more important in managing growth. "We cannot leave the vision, we must stay on mission, and we must risk it with minimal investment."
Incumbent Laurie Venzon, 46, a retired banker, called fiscal responsibility, good police and fire protection and road maintenance critical. "We need to continue to encourage economic development" while supporting local businesses.
Connie Wessner, 46, a Community School of Davidson curriculum coordinator, suggested a new balance of residential and commercial properties. She envisions "creating a climate for entrepreneurs who can build on the town's intellectual and creative capital."
Incumbent Margo Williams, 60, a freelance writer, said "an expanded commercial tax base and new jobs from new corporate citizens would protect everyone who lives here" by reducing reliance on residential taxpayers to support services.
