Auburn Ward 2 City Council: Ryan Hawes challenges incumbent Tim MacLeod

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Ryan hawes Submitted photo

Name: Ryan hawes

Age: 34

Occupation: Vice President of Retail Services at a Local Financial Institution

Political experience: Nothing

Why do you think you are the most qualified, or the best candidate for this seat?

I will be the best candidate for Ward 2 because I understand that small changes in local government can have a big impact on families and businesses in Auburn. As a city councilor, I will listen to new ideas and consider data and common sense before making any changes. I am business savvy, I am financially responsible and I will insist that we spend taxpayer dollars wisely to ensure a prosperous future for all the great people of Auburn.

Please name two issues that you feel are critical to Auburn’s future and how you would approach them.

Housing has been a point of attraction for people lately. Understanding that Auburn does not want to follow in the footsteps of neighboring towns, Auburn is uniquely positioned for growth in this area. We also need to take into consideration the configuration of our city and make sure that we are developing in a safe and efficient manner.

The development and growth of businesses has become evident in my conversations with the residents of Auburn. They become frustrated with the lack of business here in town. Auburn residents don’t like to travel to Augusta or Portland for their groceries. We have the space available for growth and we must take advantage of it. Make sure we grow Auburn’s economy and protect its environment.

Do you think the city should expand the possibilities for recreation and development around Lake Auburn? Why or why not?

Lake Auburn is a delicate balance between the essential and the expedient. The questions are how to bridge the gap, expanding the development of the waterfront and maintaining its beauty and water consumption? We can increase water filtration systems and designate areas for construction, asking developers to follow guidelines to make sure it stays clean, healthy and safe for everyone.

Tim MacLeod Russ Dillingham / Journal of the Sun

Name: Tim MacLeod

Age: 38

Occupation: Analyst 340B

Political experience: Ward 2 Councilor, member of the LA Transportation Committee, Great Falls TV, LA 911, and Edward Little High School Construction Committee

Why do you think you are the most qualified, or the best candidate for this seat?

I have served Ward 2 for the past two years and it has given me great appreciation for public service. I am pragmatic and ready to listen to all parties to try to find a way forward.

Please name two issues that you feel are critical to Auburn’s future and how you would approach them.

Problem 1: Using the money (American Rescue Plan Act). This money is a one-time bolus of funds. We have to think before we spend it. I would like the money to be spent to do the greatest good for as many Auburns as possible. We need to think about how we can use this money to do the most good for Auburn and its citizens.

Challenge 2: Growth, sustainability and innovation. Auburn must be at the forefront of technology and innovation. We need to look for ways to leverage technology and innovations to ensure the sustainability of our growth. We can work to grow from the inside out. We should be looking to build our electrical infrastructure to power future fleet vehicles.

Do you think the city should expand the possibilities for recreation and development around Lake Auburn? Why or why not?

I think there is a balance that we can seek. I would like to see low impact development standards applied to the entire watershed, including outside Auburn. I think there could be more recreational opportunities on and around the lake. The Lake Auburn study will help guide the level of recreation and development that there may be. We have Lake Grove Park, which we have always swam in and should swim in again. I don’t think swimming in Lake Auburn is the best use of this resource.


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