Rebecca Pero, Democrat

Real estate exec for Pero & Associates Realty LLC

District 3

Do you support or oppose the $989 million bond proposal, as voters will consider it in November?

I support the bond issue. My understanding is that it would include $596 million to improve drainage, traffic signals, bridges and prison, police, firefighter and governmental building facilities, along with a $248 million riverfront Audubon Alive tourist attraction and $145 million to expand the River Center and its parking garages. This is a huge step in the right direction for Baton Rouge.

Should city government focus on bringing new businesses and attractions for tourists more than building infrastructure and services?

Yes, and again this is the reason that I think the bond issue will be great for Baton Rouge

Do you think parish property taxes are too high?

No, it’s the times we live it.

Do you think the parish budget is too bloated? If so, what are your plans to solve the problem?

My plans is to get in and roll up my sleeves to come together with the other members and plan a strategy and take a stand on the necessary issues of the budget.

What are your thoughts on the loop project? How do you suggest paying for it?

Despite the price tag, the proposed $4 billion expressway that would loop vehicles around the Baton Rouge area would be great and would speed up the Capital City’s often-infamous slow traffic.

Do you think the parish drinking ordinances are too loose or too restrictive? No should there be a special entertainment district established downtown with extended bar hours, an open container law or sidewalk-patio drinking? Yes, I think that it would be an encouraging step for the growth of downtown Baton Rouge. Should it extend to bars throughout the rest of the parish?

No

Should Baton Rouge have at least a few Metro Council members who serve at-large rather than a geographic district? Why or why not?

Being a newcomer I’m not sure if I can answer this question right now.

The “One Baton Rouge” resolution fell short one vote last year. Is it up to Metro Council members to vote on such diversity issues? Where do you stand?

I support Baton Rouge’s commitment to diversity and equal opportunity for all the citizens of the city and parish of East Baton Rouge, and will display the same on the Metro Council seat.

Children across the nation are getting mauled almost monthly by pit-bull dogs. As a Metro Council member, how would you vote on breed-specific ordinances?

No, I would not vote on breed-specific ordinance.

Name your top three goals if elected to the Metro Council.

1. The have a valued relationship with my constituents and customers.

2. Encourage safety and growth to the communities through businesses and individual efforts.

3. Get involved with the decisions and help implement whatever changes will enhance living in Baton Rouge.