Alison Gibbs Cascio, 29, Republican

Outreach director for the Center for Planning Excellence

District 11

alisoncascio.com

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

I support the Metro Council’s decision to send the proposal to voters. It includes much-needed projects and some very ambitious projects that could help to generate significant revenue for the city-parish. I am pleased that the decision is now in the hands of the voters.

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

Government should first provide for existing residents and businesses. We must keep in mind that new business and attractions can bring in outside dollars, which help generate revenues for parishwide improvements.

Do you think parish property taxes are too high?

My biggest concern is whether the public is satisfied with the level of service they are receiving in relation to the taxes that they are paying.

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

During the annual budget hearings, I will closely examine the parish budget to make sure our government is as efficient as possible. I am interested in taking measures to cut costs, such as making city-parish buildings more energy-efficient and exploring ways to reduce parish vehicle fuel consumption.

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

I support a toll loop to accommodate future population growth, but I feel that proper land-use planning is imperative to the success of the project. Development surrounding the loop’s exits and entrances must be low impact and should not result in further sprawl and encroachment into rural areas.

Do you think the parish drinking ordinances are too loose or too restrictive? Should there be a special entertainment district established downtown with extended bar hours, an open container law or sidewalk-patio drinking? Should it extend to bars throughout the rest of the parish?

I support the existing laws and would support looser restrictions within a contained, secure entertainment district downtown.

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

I would support a measure to create at-large Metro Council seats. This would help the council focus on what is best for the city-parish as a whole.

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?

While I don’t necessarily believe the council should spend a significant amount of time on non-binding resolutions, I do believe that as council members, we should lead by example by treating everyone fairly and with respect. Baton Rouge should be a place where people from all backgrounds feel welcome.

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?

A dog’s behavior is the owner’s responsibility. We must hold bad pet owners accountable, rather than single out certain breeds.

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

1. To increase safety and security in our city.

2. To promote smart growth, which includes walkable neighborhoods, transportation options, sustainable drainage solutions and convenient access to parks and green space.

3. To protect our property values and investments by working with citizens and business owners to implement overlay districts and other beautification efforts.