October 28, 2007 12:10 am
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Name: Robert Jozwiak
Age: 42
Party: Independent
Office sought: Mayor of Anderson
Occupation: Owner, Leak-Stopper Roofing
Education: B.S. public finance; B.S. public management, Indiana University, Bloomington School of Public and Environmental Affairs, minor in economics, Kelly School of Business (2 years); U.S. Army Reserve (6 years)
Family: Single
Why do you want this position?
I want to protect our city’s future. The Republican and Democratic parties are equally responsible for our current job loss, rising crime rate, unwanted illegal immigrant population and increasing property tax uncertainty. As mayor, I will force the city to live within budget. Using ordinances, I will stop local manufacturers from hiring illegal immigrants. I will stop building contractors from employing illegal immigrants. Hamilton County will have to find a place other than Anderson to house its cheap, illegal work force. My deportation plan will get illegal drugs out of our city faster, reduce crime and increase property values.
What is the role of government in nonprofit organizations?
It is important for city government to have a working relationship with nonprofit organizations that provide benefits to our city and enhance the quality of life. I will do everything within my power to assist these beneficial nonprofits.
How can city government aid in economic development?
The city can help businesses obtain direct state loans, issue local industrial development bonds, provide tax abatements, obtain tax credit rewards for job creation and capital investment, provide direct goods and services like management and technical assistance, build a relationship with Anderson and Purdue universities to provide customized worker training for existing and future employers and organize regional city leaders and surrounding states to pressure the federal government to overturn the trade treaties that have caused our predicament.
How far should cities go in offering tax abatement and other incentives to prospective businesses?
It is unconscionable that we would entertain agreements that are void of legal recourse if job creation conditions are not met. We had no choice but to agree to a conditionless deal with Affiliated Computer Services. It is outrageous that our property tax dollars are paying for the infrastructure at Nestlé and illegal immigrants are pouring the concrete and roofing the building. We deserve job creation and wage guarantees if our tax dollars are to be used as incentives.
What would you do to bring jobs to the city?
I will work tirelessly to sell business owners on the many great attributes our city offers. I understand the tools available to the city and how to use them to attract new corporations and will work to grow existing businesses. I will not be compliant nor submissive when dealing with federal lawmakers. I will organize surrounding city and state leaders, go to Washington, D.C., and demand fair trade laws. If you do not solve the problem, you cannot expect a solution.
What is the best way for the city to raise revenue?
Obtain unrestricted open-ended federal and state grants. The worst way is to raise property taxes.
What are your qualifications for the position?
Remember, it’s about qualifications, not party affiliations. It is an asset that I am an Independent candidate. I do not have an entourage of cronies and special interests surrounding and making decisions for me. I have not accepted donations from anyone. I live by the Golden Rule, the cornerstone of my Christian faith. My education pertains to the position of mayor. I have a realistic vision for Anderson. Anderson will be a desirable place to escape from big-city problems, no longer a place where the big city dumps its problems.
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