More welcoming to everyone'
 

Vail Town Council candidate questionnaire - Kevin Foley<
 

Daily Staff Report
October 24, 2005



1. Why are you running for Vail Town Council?

I am a candidate for town council for two reasons. The first reason is that I believe the workers in town are not being represented as witnessed by the skate park not being set up this year and 2 a.m. requests buses - late buses should be regular scheduled runs. The second reason is the Gore Creek Development Agreement, which was negotiated in executive sessions - this should have been done in open meetings with the public's input.



2. What are the biggest issues facing Vail right now?

• Highway noise.

• Finding employees for all the new projects.

• Letting people know we're open



3. What are Vail's greatest strengths and weaknesses?

Strengths - People who live and work here, I-70, natural environment, bus system.

Weaknesses - I-70, bus system, lack of activities besides bars for nightlife.



4. What is your position on the proposed conference center? Why?

I need to be convinced that the conference center will pay for itself and will not be a financial drain on taxpayers. At the moment I'm not convinced but I'm encouraged that this issue will push up voter numbers.



5. The planning commission unanimously endorsed a plan for redevelopment of the Crossroads complex in Vail Village earlier this year. Do you support that plan, and, if not, what specific changes would have to be made to this plan to make it acceptable?

I have not seen the development particulars on Crossroads; I have only read the newspaper reports and talked with one of Mr. Knobel's planners. I'm surprised the town didn't take the opportunity to complete their streetscape master plan by letting the developer push his project to the east and eliminate the road there (keep it open to pedestrians, bikes, emergency, etc.).



6. Redevelopment is under way in Vail Village and Lionshead, and major redevelopment is planned in West Vail and West Lionshead. How would you seek to influence this development?

The town should be doing everything possible to help businesses with extra signage and hosts/flaggers to let people know where to go and who's open. All redevelopment should be done in an equitable manner - the rules should be the same for everyone.



7. This year's community survey shows residents said parking is the top issue facing the town. How would you deal with this issue?

Carpooling should be encouraged and park-and-ride options on the weekends might help. If the conference center passes at least two decks should be added to the Lionshead structure.



8. Does Vail need to be more welcoming to middle-class families? If yes, how?

We could be a little more welcoming to everyone.



9. Ask and answer your own question that will help voters decide how to vote.

Why vote for me and not one of the other candidates?

My agenda is simple: Keep Vail a fun place for locals and guests. I have been blessed to make many friends and acquaintances in Vail; please ask your neighbors about their preferences for council. I will not be buying radio or newspaper ads; I will not be littering town with lawn signs. Please take the time to read the profiles, watch the forums and do your homework for this important election. Please vote on Nov. 8.



Vail, Colorado