What is your position on the proposed agreement with Sanford for water and sewer treatment for Siler City?
In my opinion, this is the best possible solution to an ongoing problem. This project or joint venture with Sanford will solve so many of our current issues. For example, clean drinking water, affordable housing, and jobs. I have spoken with the Assistant School Superintendent about the possibility of new schools being built in Siler City. That will not happen until we increase our water and sewer capacity. By making this agreement we have everything to gain (clean drinking water, affordable housing, new schools, and jobs). By not entering into this agreement, we have everything to lose, including the seventy-seven million dollars the NC State Legislature designated to the citizens of Siler City to make all this happen.
What are your plans for upgrading or maintaining the infrastructure in Siler City, such as roads, public buildings, broadband access, and other utilities?
I personally think we must prioritize our list (our roads are in bad shape) and work accordingly
In some instances we may have to hire more staff and in others private contractors. Let me be clear in that we must work toward building relationships with our county, state, and federal government to fix some things, while producing solutions with the problems we can fix.
How will you engage with the community to ensure that the voices of all residents are heard and considered in town decision making?
I will do this by making myself available to our citizens. For the past several weeks we have had Coffee and Conversation the Chatham Rabbit from9-11 on Mondays. It has been a great learning experience. I have met so many great people. I have found that it is true “People don’t care how much you know, until they know how much you care”. In me people will always have a voice. I chose my campaign slogan very carefully. “For All the People”.
How will you ensure the town is prepared for emergencies and what are plans for enhancing public safety?
Better equip EMS, Police and Fire Dept. with all the tools needed to do the job. For example, local and county EMS collaboration for improved response time. Also, sometime in the near future we need to look at our fire department to add full-time firefighters. There is a saying “If you see something, say something”, community watch has saved lives and prevented some problems before they get out of hand. Sometimes we do not know if you do not tell us. Communication is the key to safe neighborhoods.
Why are you running for Mayor?
To me this is the most important question. Let me explain every time you mark your ballot you are voting for yourself, your family, and your friends. Your name is on the ballot. So, when you mark the ballot and it says Donald Matthews, it really says You. Because it is all about you. That is why I am running for Mayor, YOU!!!