All candidates for elected office in New Haven were recently asked by the Fort Wayne News-Sentinel to provide a candidate profile answering several questions of importance to the community. The following are my responses. If you would like to compare you can find the responses provided by the current 5th District City Council Representative by clicking here.

Issue #1: Economic Growth: New Haven’s Fifth District is the gateway to New Haven from most of Fort Wayne, and is the first, and often times lasting, impression of New Haven. Opportunity abounds for the fifth district; we are at the crossroads of progress, both literally and figuratively, with the long anticipated Maplecrest Road extension. As a strong advocate for the 5th District I will work hard to promote economic growth in the district. There are great opportunities ahead for the district, but opportunities only materialize thru effective leadership and hard work. I will put my experience as a Realtor and Small Business Owner to work with City/County/Regional Economic development officials,Builders, Developers and Employers to capitalize on our new link to north Fort Wayne. The Adams Center/Maplecrest Road will connect Interstate 469 from North (Exit 29) to South (Exit 13). The potential is there for this to be a true Power Corridor creating exciting opportunities for the 5th District and all of New Haven.

Issue #2: Infrastructure: Much progress has been made over the past 12 years on New Haven’s infrastructure. Years of neglect and lack of planning prior to 2000 have caused a large financial burden on the citizens of New Haven. We must make sure that we never let the deficit of infrastructure grow. In the 1970s, there was a long-running commercial slogan: “You can pay me now or pay me later.” referring to paying a couple of bucks for an oil filter now compared to hundreds or thousands later. We must take care of the infrastructure as best we can when problems arise, this can be accomplished while using conservative financial stewardship. We cannot afford to say no while the problems are manageable, only waiting for a larger problem and bill. Communities either grow or die; we must choose to grow!

Issue #3: New Haven has a great story to tell, we are the American Small Midwest City. From our wonderfully revitalized Broadway corridor to our heritage as a transportation hub, New Haven is home to great people, great history and great companies! The fifth district needs a strong leader and advocate to advance the interests of both citizens and businesses. Working with other neighborhood leaders we will identify the problems and opportunities in the fifth district. We must make the most of opportunity!

Previous political experience: Elected Office: None. I have however served on Board of Directors of area neighborhood associations for 14 years.

Qualifications for this office: As a small business owner, dedicated community volunteer and neighborhood leader, I have had the opportunity to work with many different groups to effect change, and to make a difference. I have been an advocate for homeowners and home buyers. As a member of City Council, I will be an advocate for BOTH the citizens and businesses of the district.

Hope to accomplish if elected: My vision is for a New Haven that sees continued growth using sound financial stewardship. I hope to capitalize on the once-in-a-generation opportunity of the Maplecrest/Adams Center Road project. Creating investments by businesses, Builders, Developers and Residents. New Jobs, New City Revenue and Enhanced Pride in our community.

Most relevant issue to voters: As a Realtor/Community Volunteer and neighborhood leader, I feel that the current status of East Allen County Schools and education in general is the largest issue. The health of our schools is critical to our future, while City Council currently has no legal authority over the school board, we need to use our voice to make sure that New Haven has blue-chip schools for our students, today and tomorrow.

How to increase public's confidence in government: Provide common sense, well thought positions while asking for various viewpoints. Also to understand that sometimes changing your mind on an issue is a sign of strength, not a weakness. We can all lead better by being better

Paid for and Authorized by: The Committee to Elect Steve McMichael;Steven Kennedy Chair