Jonathan Etringer, Council Ward 2

     Address: W. Seventh Street

     Why do you want to run for city council? To get more involved with my community, and to represent my fellow neighbors on decisions that will affect us and our children.

     What are some challenges/issues the city will face in the near future? Upkeep and repair of infrastructure, retaining and enticing new businesses.

     Monticello has a lot of good things going for it. What would you like to improve on or change? Filling empty storefronts and buildings.

     What goals do you have for Monticello as a city council member? Budget transparency and policy creation and enforcement.

     There is a shortage of decent, affordable housing in Monticello. This has an impact on attracting new residents, which increases the city’s tax base. What could be done to bring new people to town? Create an affordable housing committee that could organize all the available places for rent and assist in advertising openings and researching housing assistance programs/grants available for renters and property owners.

     Additional comments: The city council should be a representation of all types of residents of this town and should work to provide reasonable options for property owners. Policies need to be created and followed on a consistent basis and made readily available to citizens. The council could also work harder to involve its citizens and make the public aware of what is being evaluated/discussed, providing them ample opportunity to voice their opinion and participate.