Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Media Interview by WWJ-950 News Radio


To hear the audio interview click on this link http://www.wwj.com/ Upon entering their website click on "News" (located on the toolbar) scroll down and click on "Politics". On the main page, scroll down and click on the Detroit City Council Candidate box, locate Gwen Gonzalez's photo, click on photo, then click on mic. Sit back and enjoy this refreshing and empowering interview.
WWJ News Radio Questionnaire:

What do you see as the top three most critical issues facing the City of Detroit? Why? How would you address these issues?

Answer: The most critical issues facing the City of Detroit are crime, our school district, unemployment, and our housing market: dilapidated and foreclosed homes.

Although you asked for three critical issues, I gave you four because these systems of operations are major components to what drives our economy. Addressing these issues is not an easy task. It takes a team that consists of not only city officials but businesses, residents, and community groups to come together and resolve these issues. Nonetheless, as a member of the City Council, I would address the crime issue by approving more policing in the neighborhoods, and reopening police mini stations in the communities. I would utilize our military police to effectively assist in policing our neighborhoods and local events, and I would talk with our legislators about revisiting our current firearms safety program to better educate individuals about how to effectively store firearms and other weapons securely so that they are not accessible to children (Act 321, April 1, 1994). To ensure that residents are aware of sex offenders in their neighborhoods, semi-annually, I would distribute out a listing of registered sex offenders to each and every resident, because not everyone has access to a computer, and sometimes people need to be reminded that evil is lurking about.

In addressing our school district, as a graduate of the Detroit Public Schools (DPS), I feel as though I have a responsibility to the schools that laid an educational foundation for me, so that others will have the opportunity to receive the same quality education as I did. I feel as though I have a responsibility to DPS, to establish a collaboration that will build a bridge of support so that students, parents, and our communities can thrive. I feel as though I have a responsibility to DPS, to ensure readiness programs are implemented, and that our students are prepared for college and the workforce. I feel as though I have a responsibility to DPS to provide them with the necessary resources available so that they are able to introduce our students to technological and ecological advances - increasing academic standards of learning beyond the twenty-first century. Lastly, I feel it is my responsibility as City Council to ensure grant and scholarship opportunities are offered to all students.

Sadly, unemployment has reached an historical high and has spun out of control. Individuals have resulted to advancing their education by returning or attending, for the very first time, higher learning education, however upon program completion and/or graduation there is still no jobs. Research has proven that colleges and universities have seen an increase in enrollment within the past few years since massive layoff and downsizing. Nonetheless, these individuals that have elected to advance their education in order to find employment are still unemployed. Therefore, in addressing the unemployment crisis, as a member of City County I will empower individuals to become self employed and help them find the necessary resources to finance their business. In addition, I will assist existing businesses with incentives that will help them compete globally. As a result, they are able to once again employ. With people working there are lesser crimes (safer neighborhood), a lesser chance of dilapidated homes and foreclosures (people have the financial resources to buy, restore, and upkeep), and stability (working individuals have a sense of purpose, worth, and pride). If we can get people back to work, we have not only stimulated our economy, but we have given an individual the desire to pursue life goals and have saved a family from destruction. It is my number one mission as a member of City Council to work closely with businesses to expand its market into the City of Detroit and to encourage its shareholders to employ Detroit residents. In addition, I will help establish new business ventures so that our city can thrive again.

Should the City of Detroit control Detroit Public Schools? How would you improve the district and increase enrollment?

Answer: The City of Detroit should partner with Detroit Public Schools (DPS). Our school district is a part of our city. We are one. Detroit can not reach its full potential and be competitive with other cities unless our school district improves.

Educational excellence should be our “motto” within our school district. This can be achieved by city and state government, businesses, and community groups partnering with DPS. There is a great cry from our children that is clearly demonstrating that they need attention and a full schedule.

To increase enrollment, if we balance academics, athletics, and/or extra curriculum activity programs that sparks this generation’s attention we can then increase enrollment. This generation enjoys hands on learning that involves computerized technology, creative concept models, and designing. They are a breed that enjoys utilizing technology. We need to revise our current academic structure but still meet State and Federal regulatory requirements, just at a different format. There is also a great need to incorporate after school and summer programs to ensure our youth have a safe haven and an extension to learning while their parents are at work trying to provide a better living for their children. I believe it takes a village to raise a child. It is time that individuals, businesses, and community groups focus on community outreach and redevelopment for the betterment of the City of Detroit, by first reaching out to our children.

How would you eliminate the city’s multi-million dollar budget deficit? Would you support raising taxes in order to generate revenue?

Answer: In order to eliminate the city’s deficit, there may be a need to sell some of its assets and cut back on some of its departments and luxury items that most of our city officials are benefiting from. I do not see a need to raise taxes in order to decrease or eliminate the deficit or generate revenue. Poor financial management is the result of debt. A comprehensive audit needs to take place to determine areas that are not effective and areas that are draining the budget. From there, a financial analysis will determine what should be done to eliminate the deficit. For the record, I will not approve raising taxes.

What can Detroit do to attract more high-tech jobs and businesses?

Answer: It is very important that local government supports the initiative of business growth through tax incentives, property tax abatements, low-interest loans, and catered programs to support this endeavor accordingly, and that surrounding colleges and universities join in, in designing manufacturing, industrial, and information technology programs so that we have a workforce that is prepared for the high-tech jobs. Tax incentives, property tax abatements, and low-interest loan programs are what attract manufacturing and industrial high-tech corporations to make the decision to relocate and/or expand into other markets. The support of local government is what sets the tone in bring high-tech businesses to their region and for the surrounding business climate. This relationship benefits the housing market, schools, and the mere physical appearance of the community. Detroit needs to bite the bullet and make long-term investment decisions that will ultimately restore and get the economy moving again.

What is your strategy for abandoned buildings and vacant land?

Answer: Vacant land and abandoned structures impose both economic and social costs on cities and the neighborhoods in which they are located. On the economic side, such properties lower neighboring property values and tax revenues even as they create pressure to raise taxes to maintain service levels. Likewise, vacant land and abandoned structures impose significant social costs on communities as images of blight, targets for vandalism and criminal activity, and an unsafe and unhealthy environment. My strategy for abandoned buildings that are owned by the city is to contact deconstruction companies; there are many that will provide demolition at a low cost in return for salvaging and obtaining floorboards, bricks, windows, copper pipes, glass blocks, etc… for reconstruction. In regards to vacant land, vacant land is cheaper and can be sold for redevelopment. Tax incentives given to developers can be arranged for the framework of new home developments, strip malls, restaurants, etc. Again Detroit needs to make long-term investment decisions, instead of wasteful spending on property that is not currently yielding a return.

What is the one regional issue you would like to tackle? How would you start?

Answer: I would like to propose a street car transit/rail system that will encompass our major cities. This is an effort to preserve our planet. There are varies environmental issues that are causing the deterioration of our planet but the most that are apparent to the public is air pollution. Within urban areas, cars are the single largest source of air pollution that create 13% of worldwide carbon dioxide emissions, 28% of chlorofluorocarbon, and between 30-40% of nitrogen oxides, the primary chemical responsible for acid rain, according to the Marland Energy Magazine (1993). The E.P.A reports that automobile air conditioners are the single largest source of ozone depleting chemical. It has also been reported that air pollution accelerates the deterioration of a city’s infrastructure and buildings, especially those of historic value (“The Ecological Effects of Roads”, Reed Noss, Wild Earth Magazine). For this reason, it is imperative that Detroit focus on supporting efforts to alternative energy solutions.

Rebuilding our city is an economic issue. By improving our efficiency, we improve our competitiveness, create the next generation of good-paying jobs and strengthen our economy.

Rebuilding our city is an environmental issue. Making greener choices will bring us cleaner air and drinking water, reduce sprawl and congestion, and cut greenhouse gases, to the benefit of our citizens and our planet. The start to this initiative is with our legislative branch.

How can you as a City Council member make a positive change in the national image of Detroit?

Answer: Just as trust has to be earned, integrity and leadership has to be demonstrated. Professionalism has to be displayed and love is an action word. Image is an iconic mental representation. In order to regain Detroit’s image, as a member of the City Council, I must represent the City with integrity, professionalism, sincerity, honesty with transparency, and intelligently. I must render an image to my city, state, and nation that the foolishness and selfishness stops here. I must demonstrate loyalty to the citizens of Detroit and ensure them that I will not sell out under pressure nor conduct illegal acts, which will comprise my integrity and the respect of my families, and the disgrace to my city, state, and nation.

Positive change, as it relates to image, begins with the character of its representatives.

What vital issue is nobody talking about that you feel needs to be addressed?

Answer: Our regional transit system (see question 6), automobile and homeowners insurance rates, and the city going green.

I was elated when the recycling program was implemented. Now we just need to educate the citizen’s of Detroit about the importance of the program through television and radio advertising. Through observation, the lack of support only demonstrates a lack of understanding about preserving our earth. It is vitally important that we support green programs and use eco-friendly products so that we preserve our natural resources and avoid natural disasters. As a result, the planet earth can harvest as it was designed to do.

Although we are the largest city in Michigan and granted, Detroit has the highest crime rate, insurance companies should not determine an individual’s rate according to the city’s ailments. Rates should be measured based on the individual’s performance. Resident’s responsiveness to higher insurance rates, compared to those in the suburbs, has caused individuals to migrate to other cities, thus decreasing the city’s population, resulting in loss of revenue.

Monday, July 13, 2009

Citizen's Questionnaire from Publius.org

Why are you running for Detroit City Council?

Answer: As a parent, I have a responsibility to my children to fight for safe and clean neighborhoods, quality schools, and recreational facilities. It is my responsibility to ensure that my children have access to clean air, purified drinking water, and low rate, but quality insurance that is not based on locale.

As a homeowner, I have a responsibility to ensure my investment dollars yield a higher return.

As a tax payer, I have a responsibility to ensure me and my family receives quality city services.

As a Public Servant, a Humanitarian, and an elected Precinct Delegate I have a responsibility to my community to ensure that I fight for quality programs and that I stand for what is right, by speaking boldly for what is needed to keep this city growing and competitive with other markets.

As an employee that works in the City of Detroit, I have a responsibility that my employment taxes goes into specific programs accordingly and that my employer is given an opportunity to expand globally so that I remain employed, and my employer is able to continue to employ.

As a graduate of the Detroit Public Schools (DPS), I have a responsibility to the schools that laid an educational foundation for me, so that others will have the opportunity to receive the same quality education as I did. I have a responsibility to DPS, to establish a collaboration that will build a bridge of support so that students, parents, and our communities can thrive. I have a responsibility to DPS, to ensure readiness programs are implemented, our students are prepared for college and the workforce, and that they are introduced to technological and ecological advances - increasing standards of learning beyond the twenty-first century. Lastly, it is my responsibility to ensure grant and scholarship opportunities are offered to all students.

As a union member of AFT Local 2000, I have a responsibility to my union brothers and sisters to ensure that I uphold the standard of solidarity – liberty, equality, and justice for all.

As a former business owner, I have a responsibility to my former colleagues, to ensure that they receive the necessary resources, discounts, and tax incentives so that their businesses can continue to help support and stimulate the economy, and that they are able to compete on a global scale.

For these reasons and many more, I have made the decision to run for Detroit City Council.

What are your top 3 priorities for Detroit?

Answer: My top 3 priorities for revitalizing the City of Detroit are:

1. To bring jobs back to Detroit. With people working there are lesser crimes (safer neighborhood), a lesser chance of dilapidated homes and foreclosures (people have the financial resources to buy, restore, and upkeep), and stability (working individuals have a sense of purpose, worth, and pride). If we can get people back to work, we have not only stimulated our economy, but we have given an individual the desire to pursue life goals and have saved a family from destruction. It is my number one mission as a member of City Council to work closely with businesses to expand its market into the City of Detroit and to encourage its shareholders to employ Detroit residents.


2. Partner with Detroit Public Schools. This is an effort to pursue educational excellence within our school district. There is also a great need to incorporate free after school and summer programs to ensure our youth have a safe haven and an extension to learning while their parents are at work trying to provide a better living for their children. I believe it takes a village to raise a child. It is time that individuals, businesses, and community groups focus on community outreach and redevelopment for the betterment of the City of Detroit, by first reaching out to our children. Our school district is a part of our city. Detroit can not reach its full potential and be competitive with other cities unless our school district improves.

3. Create and establish district centers in specific districts. This is a District Wide Community Initiative Program. The center will provide neighborhood resources from reporting crime and informing residents of registered sex offenders in the neighborhood, loitering and illegal dumping - to assisting residents with home improvement projects, snow removal assistance, and lawn services. As well as, assisting senior citizens as needed. The center will not only provide services to its district residents, it will also work closely with businesses and community groups to help improve the appearance of homes and property lines within the neighborhoods, and will be a local outreach to its communities that will answer the needs of the people at a closer distance, then that of downtown Detroit. As a result we have desirable, safer neighborhoods, community cohesiveness, and a city that people can be proud of.

What have been your 2 greatest contributions to the public good?

Answer: I have made many contributions that has been for the public good, however the two (2) that I find that is most dear to my heart is my volunteerism at the Detroit Radio Information Services (DRIS) where I report the news to the blind and print impaired and my teaching job, which allows me to assist individuals in accomplishing their educational and career goals. Additionally, teaching allows me to be a part of helping individuals give back to society while becoming an asset to an employer, to their family, and to their community.

What is the unique characteristic that makes you stand out among the 167 candidates running for City Council

Answer: I am an advocate for giving back into my community. You will find me volunteering my time, talents, and gifts reporting local, regional, and national news to the blind and print impaired at the Detroit Radio Information Services, a sub-carrier of WDET 101.9 FM Radio, teaching computer and business etiquette courses to young women, ages 18-25 at a local women’s transitional facility, and coaching youths, ages 4-12 in the areas of academics, athletics and leadership at a local recreational center. In addition, educating and empowering Precinct 11, District 5 communities in neighborhood safety, homeownership developmental resource awareness, and neighborhood beautification.

I am a people person. As a public servant, I do not believe in sitting behind a desk to accomplish community task. The people of Detroit need their officials out in the community meeting with residents to hear and resolve their concerns. Officials need to be talking with businesses on how they can effectively meet their needs so that businesses sales revenues can increase and as a result they can employ or increase salaries. Officials need to be researching programs that have been effective in other cities and/or states and incorporate those programs to increase revenue for our city.

I am a visionary leader. I take initiative and respond to assign task with authority, influence, motivation, responsibility, and accountability. I handle complex issues using managerial concepts and models that will effectively accomplish organizational goals while satisfying the needs and desires of my clients. I see beyond what measures should be taken to increase profit share and implement core values - incorporating innovative actions to empower relationships for the betterment of the organization. I am able to see opportunities and convert them into benefits. I think strategically and analytical for solutions that transcends into increase performance and quality assurance.

These and many more characteristics and attributes I have that causes me to be unique and stand apart from any other individual or candidate, thus that is what makes me the best candidate for a seat on Detroit’s City Council.

What is your current occupation?

Answer: Professor of Education (Career Programs) – Wayne County Community College District

What is your educational background: (Where, when, what degrees held)?

Answer: Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Development from Spring Arbor University - Alumni Class of 2004; Master’s Degree in Marketing and Project Management from Columbia Southern University.

Do you have any felony convictions?

Answer: Absolutely not.

Sunday, March 15, 2009

What Do I Believe In?


Some of you have sent me emails asking - What do I believe in?


I believe that the residence of Detroit, as well as me and my children deserves a better quality of life. With clean streets, safer neighborhoods and the same quality businesses that are located outside the City. Products, such as gas prices - for example, are lower in certain areas of Michigan due to business insurance rates are higher in Detroit, therefore, businesses charge Detroiters more for certain products. And since I mentioned insurance rates, Detroiters should not have to pay for higher homeowners and automotive insurance based on crime, dilapidated homes or based on the amount of insurance claims filed within Detroit. My homeowner’s insurance rate increased by 10% based on the amount of claims that were submitted. However, I never filed a claim in the entire 16 years that I have owned my home, yet my insurance rate increases every year. That alone bothers me. Insurance rates should be based on an individual’s criteria - the integrity that I have brought to the City and my loyalty to my insurance company meant nothing.

Our children deserve a better quality of life. We all know how our school system is being operated, so I’m not going to discuss our failing schools, but what about the after school programs that have been eliminated. I should not have to result to taking my children to the suburbs for quality after school or Summer programs, when I live in the biggest City in Michigan with the best historical landmarks and buildings that are not being used, not to mention highly talented, educated people that have the skills to offer our children special skills, such as gymnastics, instrumental music and kids sports.

I can go on to say, why is it that when a Detroiter calls 911 or 311 it takes the police, who we pay the highest taxes for their salary, up to 2 hours or never to respond. Detroit has the slowest response time in the entire state.

And so you asked, what do I believe in? I believe since we live in the biggest City in Michigan, Detroit should be the leader in quality businesses, quality schools, quality public safety, quality transit systems, quality neighborhoods (dilapidated homes that cannot be restored should be demolished) - Detroit should be called Capital Hill and it should represent that of a leading City, posed and draped in integrity. Detroit should not be looked down on, but it should be a hot spot that is admired by the entire country. Great talent has come out of Detroit and great talent will continue to come out of Detroit. Detroit is and will always be the City that birth’s great and talented people!

God Bless you! And I pray that I have your vote!

You have my permission to past this on to your friends and family.

Gwen Gonzalez
Candidate for Detroit City Council

Vote for me August 4, 2009

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Cobo Convention Center


Currently, we are fighting for a better legislative bill on behalf of the Cobo Convention Center. Cobo Hall is a major jewel within the City of Detroit that brings in millions of dollars to Detroit, surrounding businesses and communities. Currently, the integrity to its business philosophies are being challenged. There is no question that the Cobo Convention Center needs major renovations to improve the quality that it should bring to vendors, sponsors, and investors. And perhaps, the facility should be managed by an appointed legislative regional authority. However, the cost over the years that Detroit residence has invested its tax dollars to maintain the facility should not go unwarranted nor should it be ignored. Every investor wants a return on its monetary value. Granted, there is possible lost that may incur, nonetheless a 300% return on any investment is always the golden rule.

Should Detroit had accepted the 20 million and walked away or is representatives doing the right thing by fighting for a better deal?

I Want to Hear From You, Detroit!!
Please note: A Better Deal for Cobo Hall Rally is being organized by "Yes We Can" on Saturday, March 14, 2009 at 12pm. This rally will take place at Triumph Church, Eastern Campus. The address is 2760 E. Grand Blvd. Detroit, 48211. Please plan on attending and make your presence known. There will be elected officials present to share with the community how we can fight for what is right! I'll see you there..

Gwen Gonzalez
Candidate for Detroit City Council
Primary Election Slated for August 4, 2009

Sunday, March 1, 2009

The Need for a New Detroit

Greetings!

As Detroit battles through the economic crisis, continued downsizing, outsourcing and job losses - this could not be a more critical time to reach out and find people that will speak out in the best interest for Detroit residence.

I know the importance of creating a business-friendly environment that encourages new investment and job formation, and have the experience to make it happen. It is my goal to support small businesses and give them the resources necessary to give back into the community by; once again, creating a hiring pool for Detroit residence and ensuring the surrounding neighborhoods are clean and safe.

My number one task when elected is job creation, small business incentives and capital gains cuts, which will include business tax cuts for small businesses is what I will fight for, so that small businesses will be able to reform to create jobs and raise worker wages. As a result, people are working, neighborhoods are reshaping and home purchases will be back on the rise.

Detroit has to become strong again, and the only way is through the strengthening of our economy.

Please join me!

Vote for Gwen Gonzalez on August 4, 2009.

Paid for by the Committee to Elect Gwen Gonzalez

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Special Primary Mayoral Election

Hello Friends

On Tuesday, February 24, 2009, a special primary election will take place for the purpose of nominating two candidates for Mayor of Detroit, that will go on to the General Election slated for May 5, 2009. Detroit, this is your primary. Just as we came out strong during the Presidental election, lets comment to the same dedication for a new Detroit. We must remember that when we vote, we take with us the hope of better days for our seniors, our children and our City. Let us ensure that we place in office, the right person that will lead our City into better days. You must search within your heart and do your own research in studying the candidates that have been placed before you.

The candidates for Mayor is as follows:

Dave Bing
Donald R. Bradley
Stanley Michael Christmas
Ken Cockrel Jr.
Frances D. Culver
Warren Cleage Evans
Freman Hendrix
Joseph W. Holt
Nicholas Hood III
Sharon McPhil
Duane Montgomery
Brenda K. Sanders
Jerroll Sanders
D. Etta Wilcoxon
Coleman A. Young

Included in this special election are 6 Bonding Proposals:

Proposal N - City of Detroit Neighborhood Redevelopment and Economic Development Programs Bonding Proposal

Proposal S - City of Detroit Public Safety Improvements Bonding Proposal

Proposal L - City of Detroit Public Lighting Service Bonding Proposal

Proposal M - City of Detroit Municipal Facilities Bonding Proposal

Proposal C - City of Detroit Museums, Libraries, and Recreation and Other Cultural Facilities Bonding Proposal

Proposal T - City of Detroit Transportation Facilities Bonding Proposal

Remember, vote because it is not only our right, but it is the right thing to do!

If you are not certain where to vote or need additional information regarding the Special Primary Election, or need further information on what the proposal entails, please contact the Registration Division of the Department of Elections at (313)876-0190. Polls open at 7:30 a.m and close at 8:00 p.m.

Best Wishes!
Gwen Gonzalez - Precinct Delegate for District 5
Candidate for Detroit City Council

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

The First Detroit Mayoral Debate

Detroit had its first Mayoral Debate on Tuesday, December 2, 2008 on WADL Channel 38. Three of fourteen candidates discussed issues from public safety to the massive deficit and took hard blows from their opponents as each expressed their views as to who would be the best leader for the job.

The 90-minute session featured businessman and former basketball pro, Dave Bing; former Detroit City Council President and current Interim Mayor, Ken Cockrel Jr., and former deputy mayor - under the former Mayor Dennis Archer, Freman Hendrix.

Although two of the three candidates have held political positions in public office, I am still concerned with just how much business experience the two can contribute to such a large enterprise as the City of Detroit. For example, take Dave Bing, 64 - he is the owner of a very successful manufacturing company - The Bing Group, which employs over 500 employees. His intellect in building such a large conglomerate has proven that he has the business expertise to get our city out of such a financial strain by building partnerships with other businesses in order to bring jobs back to the City. He can also use our established resources; such as, our access to exporting and importing products globally - to implement free trade marketing, which will increase revenue for the City of Detroit. Dave Bing can also utilize his business expertise in attracting entertainment venues - giving citizens a reason to retain their residence; as well as, give those that left - a reason to return back to the City of Detroit.

Now, this is just a few of many issues that needs to be considered in order to revitalize our City, not to mention; public safety, education and the deficit. I don't want to speak too far in advance because we still have eleven other mayoral candidates to preview before making our final selection at the primary - slated for February 25, 2009.

WADL Channel 38 will broadcast three more debates in randomly selected groups of four beginning Jan. 6, Jan. 27 and Feb 17, 2009. Please tune in and listen to all 14 candidates before making your final selection at the polls of whom you will select to be your next Mayor for the City of Detroit.

We would love to hear from you; your feedback is very important.

My Regards,
Gwen Gonzalez
Proposed Candidate
for Detroit City Council