Scott Simmons for Mayor?

Recently, I stopped by the "Simmons for Mayor" headquarters to ask the candidate a few questions regarding his views on certain aspects of the city and politics. With the election just about a week away, Mr. Simmons was in and out of meetings, but still took time to greet me. His campaign coordinator/manager, a lady by the name of Suzelle Josey, took time to answer the questions below.

(Please note that I did not have a tape recorder with me, so most of the answers are paraphrased...And, Mrs. Josey, if you read this and something is incorrect, please email me at jcvox@yahoo.com to let me know...Thanks.)

1. How do you feel about the county's decision to raise sales tax to 10%?
Our tax money is being mismanaged and the sales tax increase should have been voted on by the people.

2. What would you do to convince them to lower it?
Once the city's finances improve through managing tax money efficiently, it will put pressure on the county to lower the sales tax.

3. Are you for or against an occupational tax?
Against it. Mayor Bright has said that he wants to raise property taxes, but if that fails, the occupational tax would be back on the table. We believe the money is there and neither needs to happen.

4. The Montgomery Advertiser said that former mayor Emory Folmar endorses you. Do you see that as positive, negative, or neutral?
There were and are many people who do not like Emory Folmar, but when he was mayor, one thing he did do was keep the city financially in the black. He was good with finances, and he endorsed Simmons because he believes Simmons will handle the city's finances well. That is where the similarity ends.

5. In this struggling economy, what could/would you do to create jobs?
Tourism. Montgomery is rich in history. The average tourist spends about $100 daily. That money would be spent in local restaurants and shops. More tourism = more $$$ = more businesses = more jobs.

6. What was your view on Amendment One (The Riley Tax plan)?
Amendment One did not have enough Accountability.

7. How will the rejection of Amendment One affect the city?
It won't.

8. How do you feel about the new stadium?
We have paid too much for not enough.

9. Could there be a better way to spend that money?
Education.

10. Do you support Chief Justice Roy Moore's stand on the 10 Commandments?
Mr. Simmons is a Christian and supports the 10 Commandments.

(The answer to number 10 does not state nor imply whether or not Simmons agrees with Moore's defiance of Judge Thompson's order....and the reason for question number 4 is because I can't stand Emory Folmar. Under the 22-year reign of Folmar, political corruption was at an all-time high and the Montgomery Police Department could do no wrong -- no matter how many people were beaten.)

Be sure to check out www.SimmonsForMayor.com for more information.

Here is some interesting information that is printed in his brochure:

*During the last four years, Montgomery's budget has risen by over $40 Million dollars.
*During the last four years, Montgomery's debt has increased by over 300 percent.
*During the last four years, Montgomery's citizens have had taxes and fees increased 5 times.
*The current administration has gone on record in favor of additional tax increases.
*During the last four years, crime has increased by 14%.
*Between 2000 and 2002, Montgomery's population DECREASED by over 4600 people.

October 14 - Get out and vote.