Far too often campaigns are about empty promises, hollow slogans and spin. I’m running for the City Council because I believe that we must unite as community to solve the tough challenges we face. Part of that means having the willingness to identify the problem and then offer a solution.
Below I have outlined some of the ideas I have on how we can make life better in Norman. Not all of the items are a total fix for what ails us, and many of them will take many years to complete. Yet I feel strongly that we must at least begin working towards many of these goals.
I have offered the most comprehensive plan put forth by any candidate running for the council this year, and I’ve done it because this is an important election and I take the process very seriously. I hope you will take the time to look over my plans, and share any thoughts you might have with me. You can call me any time at 819-0955 or email me at marshallfornorman@gmail.com.
THE MARSHALL PLAN
Public Safety
No duty of government is more important than the protection and care of our citizens. For too long this duty has been overlooked, and we are critically shorthanded. I support permanent funding sources to increase the number of Norman fire and police personnel.
Innovative Government
No matter the issue, Norman’s elected officials should be leading the way with bold ideas. We should lead the way in areas such as government efficiency, i-government and e-government. More serves should be available online, and council sessions viewable anytime on the city website along with the ability to submit questions online.
Roads
The planning and implementation of street projects must be done in a more efficient manner, including weekend, and in non-residential areas, evening work. I will work diligently to ensure that repairs and rebuilding take a more planned and common sense approach.
Water Supply
Norman will certainly suffer in the future if we don’t act now be securing new long-term and safe sources of drinking water. I have said throughout this campaign that science should prevail and the City must look at all available options.
Storm Water
Drainage issues continue to plague Norman, and are getting worse. As property values are affected and flood insurance rises, this issue has been allowed to reached an almost crisis level. I’ll work to find solutions to drainage problems in areas like “ Lake McGee” and Imhoff Creek and put this issue at the forefront of my efforts if I’m on the council.
Arts District
Norman has a great deal to offer, but we can do even more by encouraging the development of a strong Arts District in the downtown area. The successful renovation of the campus corner area is a blueprint showing us how to capture this emerging market and draw visitors to our city year around.
Smart Growth
First and foremost we have to protect our existing neighborhoods, and future growth must be done on a planned and reasoned basis that benefits all of our citizens. I’ll always ensure that citizens have a say when it comes to this, and have pledged to let people vote on large publicly financed projects.
Greenspace and Parks
The December ice storms wreaked havoc on our public parks. I fully support programs such as ReLeaf Norman and will do all I can to replace our loss. I also feel strongly that we must continue to invest in new greenspace and parks, not just for our children today, but tomorrow as well.
Quality of Life
I have always loved Norman’s small town feel. Simple things like building sidewalks for bicycles, adding curb-cuts to existing sidewalks and reducing noise along I-35 and Highway 9 will go a long way towards maintaining that way of life.
Jobs and Economy
To pay for all of this, I believe we need more tax payers rather than more taxes. We can maintain a strong economy by protecting our locally owned businesses and working to attract solid, good paying jobs. I am a firm believer that Norman’s needs can be met without asking taxpayers to give up any more of their hard earned money.
