Deb Andrews

Age: 66

Address: 1235 A St.

Occupation: Retired

Political party: Independent

Website: None

Andrews, who has followed state, local and national issues and testified at local and state hearings, is promoting a city manager form of government. The mayor, she says, has grown too powerful and insulated. She says the city needs to improve residential snow removal and extend StarTran bus service to Sundays and holidays. She also believes the city should suspend unions, which she says are too powerful.  

Andrews, who is not accepting any campaign donations, says she will work tirelessly to put the citizen back in charge of city hall. 

What do you hope to accomplish during four years on the City Council?

Citizen services prioritized and improved; union suspended. Unnecessary or overreaching rules and regulations eliminated. Bidding process expanded, mayor's discretionary spending ability reduced. City Council members gain staff and legal counsel. Pause TIF and occupation tax for new construction. Reduce, eliminate, freeze or slow increases in taxes, fees and fines. Eliminate mayor position, adopt a City Council-manager form of government.

What are the three most important city services, in order of priority?

Safety, health, transportation.

Are any city services underfunded? If so, how would you correct that?

StarTran, snow removal, park maintenance. Redirect funds.

Should the city end the defined benefit pension plan for new firefighters and police? Explain your answer.

Yes. The current plan is not sustainable and is $190 million in debt. A cash balance benefit plan (defined contribution) as defined in LB30 would be sustainable for new hires, as well as taxpayers.

Should the city use the tax increment financing (TIF) program more or less aggressively?

Less, there is no evidence TIF benefits the taxpayer over the long term. Government should not subsidize private business or pick winners and losers.

The council and mayor recently approved a ban on cardboard in the landfill as a way to encourage more recycling. Should the city be doing more or less to promote recycling?

Less. Instead of incentivizing recycling, the city weaponized it by implementing a fine on haulers that will affect everyone.

The library board is moving forward on plans for a new central library in the downtown area. That may require a bond issue. Would you favor asking voters to consider a library bond issue?

No. I have attended several meetings to learn about the "library" proposal. I learned it is not a library (definition and purpose clear) that is proposed, but a community center. I have not seen any research, polls or citizen input on the need for a community center in downtown Lincoln.

The city has struggled with adequately funding city golf courses. Suggestions have included selling a golf course and privatizing golf course management. What is your solution?

Citizens inform me the golf program was self-sustaining until revenue was siphoned off and redirected. That should be examined.

How should Lincoln address the emerald ash borer disease?

Thoughtfully. Request bids from private companies. Contact corrections for possible community work experience for detainees. Solicit plans from students at universities and colleges in the area. Suggest course credit with host school. Offer cash prize or Pinnacle Bank Arena box if plan adopted. Compare costs with simply increasing the city's current tree removal program.

Why should people vote for you?

I will work tirelessly to put the citizen back in charge of city hall and focus on services, spending and costs. As an independent candidate with a self-financed campaign, I am in a unique position to represent the citizen. I don't have to please party or donors. I will discover and implement ways to increase transparency, accountability and efficiency.