Tim Ruser has launched a write-in campaign for mayor of Princeton. Incumbent Travis Volrath filed for the seat unopposed. The North Scott Press asked him to answer the seven questions we sent to Volrath and the four City Council candidates earlier this month. Here are his responses.
(1) What has motivated you to run for city government?
I decided I was not going to vote for the incumbent and rather than waste my vote I told my family of four to write in my name. From there a few other residents asked me if I was voting for our current Mayor and I inadvertently told them I was voting for myself. It was this that they took it upon themselves to campaign on my behalf. I support their efforts greatly. Truth be told certain recent and previous actions led me to ths decision.
(2) What relevant experience in leadership will you bring to the city?
I have been involved with this city’s government for over 20 years, beginning with the board of adjustments, planning and zoning, building inspector then back to planning and zoning. I have had the honor of being the Chairperson/Zoning Administrator for planning and zoning every year that I have served our community.
(3) Princeton has recently acquired the former Presbyterian Church and listed Boll’s Community Center for sale. Do you support these two decisions?
I do support these decisions. For the city to be able to control a larger piece of property (Presbyterian Church) is ideal for all that reside in that particular area. As for Boll’s? I feel it has had its time. The shear logistics of the limited access/parking has always inhibited its full potential as a Community Center. My wife and I had our wedding reception there, however fiscally the city needs to move away from it.
(4) How would you like to see the city of Princeton utilize the Presbyterian Church?
Unfortunately, Planning and Zoning was not offered the chance to walk through to building prior to accepting it. However, I would support and encourage the public to add their input as to how to incorporate the facility to house not only our City Hall but a center for the community thereby replacing Boll’s.
(5) What do you believe the city can do to address concerns at Rivercrest Estates?
As the current Zoning Administrator, I have recently worked with our police chief writing a letter to abate the nuisance for a particular trailer. I was informed by Freddy (police chief) that the process has been effective as the trailer is now vacated and secure. It will likely still take some time to remove the overall nuisance of the trailer, but I view this as a very positive step forward.
(6) How do you hope to revitalize River Drive?
I understand the improvement of the downtown street will aid greatly towards attracting new businesses. Currently there are not a lot of options for businesses as the properties are occupied. The selling of Boll’s as well as the removal of the old hotel, in my opinion, will incite some real interest of revitalization of our downtown.
(7) What other issues do you hope to see city government address?
We have an ageing infrastructure that will need to be addressed sooner than later with a real plan to tackle it by zones and/or necessity. Our ongoing nitrate issue with our new well will unfortunately be an ongoing process with the goal of resolving the contamination. Steps have been made and will likely have to be adjusted as results will dictate. I do believe we need to address the ongoing lack of safe space at our Fire Department. This may require a new public works facility in the not-so-distant future. As with everything, it all comes down to funding.