Last night I stopped into the candidates debate at Rev. Gregory Edwards' Resurrection Church. Those interested in knowing who all the candidates are, and what they said, will have to look elsewhere. The debate was hosted by the Allentown Coalition for Economic Dignity. Although I declined to sign their petition for inclusionary zoning, the reception desk made me feel welcome.
The theme of the night was the needs of Allentown's growing diversity, and on that note, Ray O'Connell was astute enough to stress his attempts to make the city hall staff resemble the population.
The debate was very well attended. Anybody of political consequence was there, including Congresswoman Susan Wild. Rev. Edwards, as moderator, had several questions centered on the economic inequity of the NIZ. I couldn't help to think that just the day before, J.B. Reilly addressed the Chamber Of Commerce, where the NIZ was praised. Although the two events were only a few blocks away from each other, their points of view are miles apart.
photo courtesy of John Mortensen
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ReplyDeleteMike, What did you think of the questions the candidates were asked?
ReplyDeleteas i implied in the post, i think that they reflected the concerns of the "minority" community, and those of less income. you will be happy to know that there was numerous references to the need to beef up the rental inspection program
ReplyDeleteAlthough one may assume they reflect the views of the minority it might be more correct to to say they reflect the views of the far left, identity politics of the modern Democratic Party. I know Tim Ramos, I am assuming based on this that, as a minority he does does not share those views. Interesting that this was the only scheduled debate.
ReplyDeleteEconomic Dignity = Get a job, show up on time, work on other possibilities from there.
ReplyDeleteScott: Here we go again, "The Far Left" - are you forgetting that "The Far Right" , Republicans mostly are benefiting from the financial windfall of the downtown tax incentive situation. Would be nice to see those tax breaks help the less fortunate and maybe even lower real estate taxes for the rest of the citizens of Allentown. But, good luck on that Far Left hope!
ReplyDeleteBartee, whatever you may think about the trump tax cut it has nothing to do with the sad state of affairs of our city. That is the complete responsibly of one party and it's voters. Trump has nothing to do with it.
ReplyDeleteBy the way, the less fortunate pay no federal income tax.
ReplyDelete