The following is mayoral candidate Yvonne Johnson's complete response to our survey. Click here for the list of questions.
Yvonne Johnson
• Date of birth: Oct. 26, 1942
• Professional background: Executive director, One Step Further, 24 years
• Previous political experience: Greensboro councilwoman, 14 years
• Highest level of education: master of science, education-guidance, NC A&T University
• Website: yvonnnejohnsonformayor.com
1. The council’s adoption of the US Conference of Mayor’s Climate Protection Agreement will help reduce greenhouse gases. Greensboro has been proactive in the areas of improving air quality. We were one of the first North Carolina communities to introduce bio-diesel fuel and hybrid cars. We were one of the first to adopt the early action compact. We need to continue to retrofit heating, air and electrical systems. (68)
2. a) Increased bus service. (We have made good progress and could improve and expand with a great deal of public support.) b) Bicycle facilities. (Already put in bike paths, could fairly easily expand the number) c. New roads (partner with developers when possible.) d. Light rail. (Very expensive, but would be beneficial, need to explore how and when this could be done and how to fund it.)
3. The report when released did not take into consideration the impact of Federal Express and HondaJet. We are in a great location with excellent highways and an airport. We need to recruit in the areas of biotechnology and to support the research park (that is predicted to generate 30 new businesses in its first year). As well as help our existing small and mid-size businesses grow and prosper. We need to continue to recruit good businesses that are environmentally friendly. (81)
4. I support the use of economic incentives. The factors I consider are: a) the amount of money the company will invest in our community; b) the number of jobs it will provide; c) hourly wages / salaries (must be livable wages); and d) in some cases, location of business or plant. (52)
5. Provide a business friendly climate, which would include a one/two step, user-friendly mechanism to help businesses perform basic functions. To include on cable access names of small businesses and a brief description of their services. (36)
6. Yes. There are so many single parents raising families and if they’re making minimum wage, and if anything happens out of the ordinary like a repair, they’re behind the eight ball. Everybody deserves to make a livable wage that affords them the ability to take care of health issues of repair issues. And if they’re not making one it’s very difficult to do it. (65)
7. I support development on the fringe. I want Greensboro to grow in a way that contributes to the quality of life. (22)
8. Yes. I believe that regionalism is beneficial to us and to this geographical area. (15)
9. I am awaiting the final report from the Attorney General. Racial discrimination anywhere is counterproductive to a healthy, viable community. We need to continue our efforts to build back trust in our police department. A number of positive changes have and are taking place. (45)
10. I have learned that human rights commissions are effective in handling a broad range of challenges. Our city has 87 different ethnic groups. A human rights commission could handle complaints against police and many other types of discrimination in many different areas. (43)
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