Harvey Sweetland Lewis Answers Questions

Candidate for
Council Member; City of Forest Park

The questions were prepared by the League of Women Voters of Hamilton County and asked of all candidates for this office.

Read the answers from all candidates.

Questions & Answers

1. What are your views regarding the need for public transportation in your community to promote access to employment throughout the region?

Perhaps I may be more cognizant of this issue than any other candidate because of the fact that I do not own a vehicle and choose to run, cycle or use public transportation to travel within the greater Cincinnati area. I believe it is quintessential to have a strong transportation infrastructure in order to attract future businesses to our community, have a more efficient workforce, and a cleaner environment. The Metro bus line within Forest Park enables people to commute easily to and from downtown, however it is inadequate in many respects when traveling to neighboring communities.

2. Would you be in favor of county-wide campaign finance regulations that would provide for public matching funds, limit campaign contributions and provide for more disclosure? State your opinions on these ideas; whether you would support or oppose them.

I would support a county-wide campaign finance regulation that would provide for public matching funds, limit campaign contributions and provide for more disclosure. The legitimacy of campaigns is crucial to the foundation of our system of democracy. Campaign finance regulation would heighten the legitimacy of the election process and decrease voter apathy.

3. What are the benefits/detriments to land use planning prior to zoning decisions?

Although city officials need to allow for some flexibility in land use planning it is important that any land use planning prior to zoning decisions take into consideration all the consequences that could result from such decisions.