Jacque Guinan

1. I made the decision to run because I feel people want to know their best interests are being represented by elected officials. I have found the recent budget explosion and rising taxes alarming and above everything else I would like to see a fiscally responsible government in place that will appreciate the value of tourists while prioritizing the local citizen and business community ahead of the lure of tourists.

2. I bring a diverse business and financial background. I invented a graphics cooling system that launched a very successful corporation. Previous experience within two companies with one being the assistant to the president and the other an upper level financial position.

3. The sewer system. I’m concerned that Sandpoint has 20 discharge violations this year, according to a recent ICL report. Downtown parking. I have spoken with many who said they don’t shop downtown because parking is difficult. I would like to look into various solutions for this. Finally, I feel Sandpoint citizens and businesses have been getting lost in the pursuit of the big money of attracting the wealthy and luring in tourists.

4. These 3 issues are very important to me and my goal is to work as a team with other council members to explore all options to get these things resolved. I would like to see a more aggressive approach to resolve the sewer issue. For parking, an option may be a multi-level parking structure. As for tourism, we need to structure our spending, with the residents and local businesses being top priority.

5. The plans look beautiful and many of the changes would bring things that the community would enjoy. My first question is, “How will this be paid for?” To my knowledge, there have been no cost estimates given to the public for these projects, and no plan to fund those costs. We need to be sure we have our priorities in order. First take care of vital infrastructure and proper city maintenance needs and then move onto these other projects as funds allow.

6. I understand there are concerns regarding the loss of Federal funding with the airport and I would really like to research every angle of this issue and work with other council members to come up with a resolution that is fair to all involved.

7. This is a volatile topic and I think keeping our waterways and community safe is vitally important. It is important that we look at all aspects of concern and safety and make the best decision for the community as a whole.

8. I would want to leave, above all else, a legacy of financial responsibility and showing a genuine care and respect for each person in the community, regardless of our differences.

9. City Council is more than just voting — it is researching problems and working together as a team to come up with the best solutions for the community that we represent. I look forward to the opportunity to be part of that team.

10. I look forward to working with others on the City Council to do all we can to thoughtfully and responsibly serve the best interests of the Sandpoint community.

11. I do not foresee harsh criticism. I will always do my best to listen and talk things through when people have concerns. I have a solid reputation of being fair and balanced.

12. That I care about people. I care about their concerns, their fears, their businesses, their well-being, and the community as a whole. I want to see a united Santdpoint, where we are a safe and thriving community.

13. Who are you in this for? My answer, the people and businesses of Sandpoint.