Kim Robin Watts, 41, Republican

Mom, fitness instructor, personal trainer

District 12

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

I support portions of the proposal that deal with improving police and fire services and drainage improvements, but like most voters, I’m still studying specific provisions of the bond issue and am concerned about a 30-year tax on our citizens. Ultimately voters will decide the bond issue, and I will respect their decision.

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

New businesses don’t come without proper investment in infrastructure. Basic services are a necessity for our city. However, we must focus on funding priorities. As a former aide to the Foster administration, I know that the state can be a tremendous resource when promoting tourism, and I plan to work with the state to ensure that Baton Rouge’s tourism needs are met.

Do you think parish property taxes are too high?

Our citizens are overtaxed as it is. The real question is: Are we prioritizing our spending and receiving the right kind of services for our tax dollars, such as improving education, traffic and fighting crime.

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

There needs to be more fiscal responsibility in the city’s budgeting process. This can be accomplished by creating a system that meets our priorities, cuts waste and creates transparency that holds our elected officials responsible for the money they approve to spend.

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

All major cities in this country utilize some form of a traffic loop. I believe we should look into our options as well. I would support a loop project to be paid for by the people that use it.

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?

Our parish drinking ordinances are fair. As a mom, I am not for extended bar hours or open containers, which can increase crime and DWIs. Keeping our neighborhoods and our kids safe should be our No. 1 priority.

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 am not opposed to at-large council members as long as all districts are adequately represented and it doesn’t cost the taxpayers anymore to do it.

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 do not tolerate discrimination in any form.

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?

As a mom I am concerned with the safety of our children. I would be in favor of stricter ordinances for any breed of dog that could threaten the safety of our children.

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

As a life long resident of Baton Rouge, a product of the Baton Rouge public school system, a graduate of LSU and married mother of two, I have concerns about the future of our city. I am running for Metro Council because I want my family and our citizens to enjoy Baton Rouge the way I have my entire life. My top three priorities if elected are:

1. Keeping our neighborhoods safe for our children to grow up in.

2. Improving our traffic.

3. Creating an environment for business to grow while preserving the things that make Baton Rouge great.