Editor's note: Banks responses are on the blog only as it was too late to get into the paper.
Please tell us a little bit about yourself
Family – Single
Educational background: University and College educated
Employment background: Former Director – Washington Family Resource Ctr.
Volunteer background: Over 20 years of volunteer service to the community
Hobbies: Biking, hiking, outdoor stuff such as snowshoeing, and walking on Lake Superior in the winter.
Your address and contact information: PO Box 7265, 55807
The Hillside and the Lincoln Park neighborhoods are some of the most ethnically diverse areas in the city of Duluth. How do you see this ethnic diversity as an asset to Duluth?
The ethnic diversity you speak of is remarkable in that it affords all Duluthians the opportunity to learn about each other and thus break down barriers in a lasting and meaningful way. Difference is good and it is a good reality for our community.
Some people blame the increase in neighborhood problems, such as crime, on immigrants from Chicago, Milwaukee and Minneapolis.
Do you think it's true? No, that is simply not true.
Let’s put this horrible rumor to rest and start dwelling on positive aspects of our community. We need to focus on things that build us up not the things that tear us down. When we put a value on diversity and inclusion – then and only then will the negative stereotypes be resolved.
If so, what do we do about it?
If not, why not? Statistically that is virtually impossible.
It is estimated that 15 percent of Duluthians are living below the poverty line, including 15.4% of those under age 18 and 9.5% of those age 65. What are some of your ideas to bring Duluthians out of poverty?
Creative, effective approaches to job development
Promote and sustain an increase in person of color and glbt owned businesses
Stop squelching the dreams of small businesses in our community
Create a marketing strategy that will increase business ownership for the twenty and thirty something demographic.
The city has a mandatory recycling laws yet walking by many people’s homes it is obvious that they do not recycle. Is recycling important? Why do we have a law on the books if it isn’t going to be enforced?
Most certainly, Recycling is important for all of us to be a part of. The city of Duluth recycles quite effectively, now we as citizens should take their lead and do the same. It is in all of our best interests.
Over-flowing garbage cans are a problem in lower East Hillside. Many of the homes where this is a problem are rental units. What kinds of ideas do you have to prompt landlords to encourage their tenants to take better care of their property?
Landlords must be held to a higher standard just as the tenants are to be held to a higher standard. The city could in fact impose a nuisance fine to insure that garbage is being disposed of properly.
In the last census, Duluth had a dearth of people age 24 to 35? What can be done to attract and keep this population in Duluth?
We as a community must refocus our efforts on retaining our younger demographic. As older worker retire there will be a need to replace that workforce. If we do not address this concern now we risk setting ourselves up for failure economically.
This city has yet to settle the retiree’s health care budget. What type of action would you take?
Bottom line, we must do the business of the people and do it now. Both sides are obligated to give a little in order to get this matter resolved. We cannot continue to play games with the people’s tax money. That is just unacceptable. Egos must be checked at the door.
Is paying for health care a problem that needs to be addressed on the city, state or national level?
Universal health care for all is the socially acceptable and correct way to go. Our nationally elected officials have simply not done their job to take care of our best interests.
What makes you unique as a candidate for city office?
Open minded with strong listening skills
Different, refreshing approach to city government
Intelligence with integrity
Has a reputation for working with all people
Strong background in diversity and inclusion
Understands what it means to operate an efficient government for the people
Strong background in community building
Independent thinker
Nationally trained and certified in Undoing Racism as trainer, educator and organizer
