League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
Los Angeles County, CA April 11, 2006 Election
	Michael J. "Mike" Emling Answers Questions Candidate for City Attorney; City of Long Beach

Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

Questions & Answers

1. How can the City of Long Beach best secure an acceptable standard of public safety?

In the long run, we need to make better people. Support better education and youth organizations. Support job training. Support businesses that provide jobs. In the short run, support a well trained and professional police force with adequate personnel.

2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of having a city primary election in April of the even-numbered years? Do you favor continuing the practice?

There are two questions there. One is, whether it makes sense to have the primary. The other is, does it make sense to do it every two years.

First off, I think the primary concept is fine. That way, you have a run-off right away in June if you need one.

I am not so sure about doing it every two years instead of every four years. There is some advantage to staggering council terms in that it the practice provides continuity. There is no danger of having all new people at one time. However, I really wonder whether coupling the mayoral election with the odd numbered districts does not tend to disenfranchise the even numbered districts. Even numbered districts have less incentive to get out and vote for mayor because they are not electing a council person. Also, they have less incentive to get out and vote for council because they do not have the excitement of a mayoral race. I would like to see someone do the math on that.

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Responses to questions asked of each candidate are reproduced as submitted to the League. 

Read the answers from all candidates (who have responded).

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Created from information supplied by the candidate: March 13, 2006 14:27
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