Donna Collins Lewis, 51, Democrat

Housing program manager, Louisiana Family Recovery Corps

District 6

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

I support the bond proposal. I do, however, believe that public safety and protection of property along with drainage improvements should be the priority should the bond proposal be approved by the voters.

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

I support the concept of new business, the building of our infrastructure and growth of the parish, which create employment opportunities. While we should strive to be intentionally inviting to tourists, our first responsibility is to the basics.

Do you think parish property taxes are too high?

Current property taxes are at a fair assessment. The homestead exemption provides great savings to residents. However, as the parish grows and ages there will be a need for renewals and increases as approved by the citizens to assure that local government runs effectively to meet the needs of citizens.

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

As with most parish government budgets there is always opportunity for more effective use of taxpayer dollars. It is a question of priorities and political will. My commitment would be to monitor the budget and recommend changes consistent with what I believe to be the priorities of citizens.

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

In and of itself the loop cannot be viewed as the panacea to traffic problems. It must be part of a comprehensive strategy to address traffic in the region. A collaboration of resources would be needed to make the project feasible. I am not opposed to a toll for maintenance.

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 believe there are proper drinking ordinances in place. The enhancement of the downtown district will generate increased resources for the parish. My concern is the perception of giving an unfair advantage to business owners’ downtown. If allowed throughout the parish, there would be an increased need for law enforcement.

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 not be opposed to additional council members who serve at-large. They could serve to provide a broader perspective. I believe each council member who focused not only on their district but on the parish could serve the same purpose.

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 the principle of community unity. I also support working to enhance and deal with the issues that would truly create One Baton Rouge. Public affirmation of our oneness has value, but it is not enough to truly create the change necessary. When people are embraced, change does occur.

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?

In 2007 the council addressed the issue on breed-specific ordinances. I agree with the sticker laws imposed and the increased penalties for owners. Should the issue be brought back before the council, I would look to support what is in the best interest of the citizens.

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

My top three priorities when elected will focus on improving citizens quality of life, community development, public transportation and safety. Working in partnership with local businesses, I will seek to create a positive business environment. If Baton Rouge is to be the next great city, public transportation must be addressed. The basic responsibility of government is to keep its citizens safe. I will work with the community and law enforcement on solutions that promote safety.