DECISION 2023: Unassigned fund balance shouldn't be used to pay for budget items

Editor's note: The Rochester Voice asked candidates for mayor and City Council to respond to a series of questions. Below is the submission from Keith Fitz, who is running for a Ward 4 Seat B council seat. Don't forget to vote on Nov. 7.

Name: Keith Fitts

Occupation: Information Technology

Question 1. What moves could be made to make Rochester government more transparent

All meetings should be open to the public. Decisions that are made behind closed doors often result in negative changes for the city. A stronger social media presence (Facebook, X, TikTok) may better communicate important meetings and changes to a wider audience.

Question 2 Do you believe the unassigned fund balance is an appropriate place from which to draw funds for capital improvement project and reserve accounts?

No, those expenses should follow proper budget control and be planned for elsewhere.

Question 3 Would you ever consider expending a portion of the unassigned fund balance to significantly reduce residents' tax burden?

Yes, if there are unassigned funds, the residents were overtaxed and it should be returned to them.

Questions 4. What do you think needs to happen to reduce the number of homeless persons living in Rochester?

The city, in conjunction with other organizations and groups should work together to provide resources, safe shelter, and a path forward for the unhoused community. The Park and Ride is not an appropriate shelter site, so by naming official areas, more people can be helped.

Question 5 What is the number one problem when focusing on the continued re-emergence of the city's downtown.

Identity or a lack thereof. Many want the downtown to stay the way it is, and claim historic preservation. That is contradictory to economic growth, additional housing, and revitalizing the downtown. If we can focus on a modern and positive identity, we can do a lot more.

Question 6 Explain your position on affordable (workforce) housing, including to what degree should government be subsidizing the builders' cost of construction.

Fixing this problem requires two things: affordable housing and jobs in Rochester and surrounding areas that pay a living wage. We have an obligation to attract projects that will bring both of these things, but any subsidies are paid for by the residents. I do not believe we should subsidize builders' cost of construction.

Question 7. Why do you think you're best for the job? (If running opposed, you may comment on what you bring to the table or choose not to answer.)

I bring a few years of experience from the Rochester Planning Board and Parking Review Group, am involved in my community, and firmly believe that just because we traditionally do something doesn't make it the best way.