Herbert A. Pate, 63, Democrat

Retired educator

District 5

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

Need more information about the proposal before I can give thumbs up. It’s now up to the voters of the parish.

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

No. The needs of the citizens should be taken care of first.

Do you think parish property taxes are too high?

I believe in the citizens, and their voices and votes make that known.

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

I do not have enough information on the parish budget to make that kind of judgment, to say it is too bloated.

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

I think the loop project is something that is needed for the parish. Funding could come from toll and bond money.

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?

The present parish drinking ordinances are OK. We do not want to get carried away. Keep the city clean and family-oriented.

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

No at-large Metro Council members. I feel the constituents get better representation if council members are elected by geographic districts.

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?

More information is needed on One Baton Rouge before I can give my opinion.

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?

Looking at the pit-bull dog issues along with all other pets, security by the owner is the key to the solution. We must rely upon the community eyes. If they are unsecured, call the proper authority.

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

1. I am hoping to work on the drainage problem (stopped-up drainage, open ditches and canals)

2. Communicating with the constituents to take care of their concerns for their area.

3. Street repairs and youth programs.