The following is City Council At-Large candidate Mary C. Rakestraw's complete response to our survey. Click here for the list of questions.
Mary C. Rakestraw
• Date of birth: Dec. 2, 1947
• Professional background: Residential real estate broker, Prudential Carolinas Realty
• Previous political experience: Guilford County Commission, eight years; numerous county, state and national committees
• Highest level of education: certificate in French, University of Brussels
1. I think the city is moving in the right direction and would not recommend any changes right now. (19)
2. New roads. Improving and maintaining infrastructure is essential for attracting businesses and being user friendly. Bus system needs more routes for increased ridership, different size busses to be more efficient, and bus shelters. As bike riders continue to increase so should connecting lanes. Light rail would be an asset, but at what cost? (54)
3. Try to match jobs with our assets. We need to capitalize on our colleges, universities and technical schools. Support businesses large and small through mentoring and public relations, and help them compete in a global economy. Work with the furniture market. Offer a sound infrastructure, water supply, public safety and well planned airport development. (55)
4. I do not support cash incentives but do support infrastructure. (11)
5. Learn more about our businesses large and small. Ask them what they need. Some suggestions would be mentoring programs if needed, increased public relations and promotions. Help businesses compete in a global economy using established connections. Most importantly, buy locally. (41)
6. I would first see how this would affect the businesses involved. (12)
7. The question to ask is, Do we have the infrastructure in place? (13)
8. Preplanning is essential. HOT may be a good concept for regionalism. However, what part will Greensboro play and pay? What is the environmental impact? Who will pay for water? Where will the water come from? What about the roads and public safety? How is this plan being received by area residents? (56)
9. The key word here is “allegations.” If rules, regulations and policies are in place at the police department everyone should be held to the same standards. I believe in and support fair and equal treatment. (36)
10. No. It’s only right that Chief Bellamy should have time to work in the Department. He should have a chance to improve the department and help restore respect, trust and confidence between the department and the community. (38)
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