Elkhart Mayoral Candidates Agree: Property Taxes are Top Issue

by Ed Ernstes (ernstes@wsbt.com)

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Elkhart Mayoral Candidates Agree: Property Taxes are Top Issue

By Beth Boehne

Story Created: Oct 22, 2007 at 3:10 PM EST

Story Updated: Nov 5, 2007 at 11:29 AM EST

(WSBT) The three candidates for Elkhart mayor will square off in a debate Monday night.

Earlier this month, each of the candidates told WSBT News what issues are their top concerns.

Jim Pettit is the Republican candidate for mayor in Elkhart. A local businessman, he is also a city council member.

He says he's heard from voters about what the next mayor's top concerns should be.

"One of the first things is property taxes. Crime and gangs is another issue, and thirdly is economic development,” Pettit told WSBT News. “I intend to build on what’s already here, and by moving forward, rather than sitting still and maybe even looking back. However let’s not forget Elkhart is a city of a lot of neighborhoods, not just downtown."

The Democratic candidate for mayor is Dick Moore, former street commissioner and former fire chief, with 32 years of government experience.

“One of the top issues is property tax. The second one, I believe, in order is crime, and third, the people are asking us to stop the excessive spending, which we have had a considerable amount of over the last seven years,” Moore said. “I think another big issue here in Elkhart is economic development.”

The Independent candidate mayor is local businessman Oscar Gibson.

“Right now I think they are concerned about the property taxes, the crime and just general knowledge of the city,” Gibson said. “There are a lot of renter associations now coming out, talking about renters. Immigration is becoming a big issue. But I believe it is the taxes and the crime in downtown.”

The debate starts Monday at 6 p.m. at the Elkhart Center Building. Judge James Rieckhoff will serve as moderator. It's expected to last for well over an hour.

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