Yvonne Johnson Interview: “Going to vote for…”
Posted by ryan on February 25, 2008
Q. Do you ever regret running for mayor?
A. Not yet. I haven’t regretted it yet. Sometimes it’s challenging. Sometimes it’s very rewarding and humbling, and so I’ve had more rewarding days than I’ve had where I just said, ‘Argh, I’m frustrated,’ or whatever.
Q. Is the City Council doing enough to address the issues facing the city?
A. I think we’re a new council, what 60-some days, and I think we are very focused on many things we are directing the manager to do that will make service and life in the city better. I think we have come in running and will continue to do so.
Q.What will resolve the issues within the police department?
A. I think, one, the mediation process we’re going to use with many of the parties. I think the court system. And I think just this department going on doing the things that really need to be done.
Q. Why hasn’t transparency gotten better with this City Council?
A. I think it has. I think this City Council really pushes for transparency, and I think it will continue to do so.
Q. What is your greatest fear for the city?
A. I guess I always fear that we’ll have some natural disaster, like Katrina or something of that nature, and people will be homeless and distraught. I guess that’s my greatest fear. I pray that that doesn’t happen.
Q. What is your greatest hope for the city?
A. That we really celebrate the diversity that exists in our city and really do much better about building trust among people who are different. I think there’s a real desire and hunger in many, many areas of this city, with many people, to work together to make things better.
Q. What should the City Council do to help improve the schools?
A. We can certainly help with the infrastructure when they’re building schools or remodeling schools. We can make sure, too, that children after school have wonderful activities and wholesome activities to engage in through our parks and through our libraries.
Q. What is your favorite spot in the city?
A. (Country) Park, sitting by the lake. I love the water, the nature and the tranquility.
Q. What project are you most excited about that the city is undertaking?
A. I think that the thing that has a lot of excitement for me is the development of the property at High Point Road and Elm Street, and how that might really connect that section to downtown.
Q. Who has your vote for president?
A. I think I’m going to vote for Barack Obama. I feel an energy, a hope, and I connect with a spirit that is just phenomenal. (Q&A from the News & Record)
