By LAURIE COKER
editor@portisabelsouthpadre.com
In a recent candidate forum featuring Lisa Graves, Brad Robinson, Jennifer Stout, and Tally Ragsdale, the common themes of communication and transparency took center stage as all candidates expressed their commitment to keeping residents, the city, and businesses well-informed. The event, sponsored by the SPI Chamber of Commerce, took place at the SPI Convention Center on Monday, January 15.
Lisa Graves:
Addressing Traffic
and Tourism
Concerns
Graves focused on traffic issues, public safety, and attracting tourists during off-seasons. She praised the positive aspects of the current council’s work and advocated for continued transparency through the city website. Graves highlighted the need for balance between residents and tourists, emphasizing open communication.
Tally Ragsdale:
Infrastructure
Upgrades and Youth
Involvement
Ragsdale prioritized WIFI and infrastructure upgrades, employee retention, and accountability for funds. She stressed the importance of transparency before decision-making and advocated for open communication. Ragsdale highlighted the role of youth in shaping the island’s future, emphasizing the market’s significance across age ranges.
Brad Robinson:
Advocating for Traffic
Safety and Business Support
Robinson highlighted traffic and pedestrian safety as crucial issues and emphasized supporting local businesses. He called for transparency in enforcing rules and laws, seeking income generation without burdening businesses with fines. Robinson expressed the importance of accessible agendas before meetings and emphasized community involvement.
Jennifer Stout:
Prioritizing Safety,
Individualism, and
24/7 Emergency Care
Stout emphasized completing ongoing projects, ensuring safety, modifying crosswalks, and advocating for law enforcement to enforce laws and rules. She stood out by expressing the need for a 24/7 emergency clinic and on-site vet care on the island. Stout stressed the importance of individualism on the council, urging members to be critical thinkers and consider diverse opinions. She also advocated for transparency and an open-door policy, aiming to respect permanent residents’ voices.
All candidates expressed their commitment to gathering and representing diverse populations, using various channels such as social media and open-door policies. The forum concluded with a shared message encouraging residents to be informed about all candidates and exercise their right to vote. The city council election promises diverse perspectives and ideas to address the community’s needs and concerns. To watch the entire forum, visit the SPI Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.
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