Back to Voter Guide
Candidates
Connie Baker
Ronnie Anderson
Issues
1. Local Climate Impacts
2. Gas Drilling and Development Setbacks
3. Renewable Commitments
4. Landfill Expansion & Zero Waste
5. Land Development and Green Spaces
6. Community Engagement
Survey Responses
1. Local Climate Impacts
What are your greatest concerns about the impacts of climate change on Denton and its residents, and what must the city do to mitigate those impacts? What barriers exist to getting these solutions enacted?
Connie Baker
My greatest concerns are about increased heat, drought, insect outbreaks and declining water supplies that lead to a reduced yield in crop, roadways, bridges, wildfires, etc. Same with extreme rainfalls in other areas. Many climate changes effects are manageable by reducing emission gases. Planning ahead and taking action to build protections where already exposed in vulnerable areas.
Ronnie Anderson
No Response
2. Gas Drilling and Development Setbacks
The city recently voted to expand reverse setbacks on development near gas wells to 500 ft. Do you believe the 500 ft reverse setback is sufficient to protect public health? What measures would you like to see implemented to mitigate health concerns from potential air, water, soil, and fire concerns related to gas wells?
Connie Baker
No, I feel 500 ft. is still too close to protect the public. I am not sure what measures could be implemented, but i would be willing to look into this matter.
Ronnie Anderson
No Response
3. Renewable Commitments
Denton has committed to using only 100% renewable energy and reducing air pollution. Recently there was a possibility City Council would have to decide whether or not to sell its share in the Gibbons Creek Coal Plant, which would restart the plant and create non-renewable energy and air pollution. The Gibbons Creek site still may be sold to be used for industrial processes that could create harmful emissions. How would you ensure Denton upholds its commitment to renewable energy and reducing air pollution?
Connie Baker
The Gibson Creek Coal Plant would be beneficial to decommission the plant and go with the plan to create a family-friendly area. Selling the Gibson Creek Plant could endanger the health of area residents and polluting the air and water.
Ronnie Anderson
No Response
4. Landfill Expansion & Zero Waste
Denton is in the final stages of permitting to expand its landfill to over 200 ft high. Right now, over 50% of annual trash disposal is coming from outside cities and businesses at wholesale rates. What kinds of programs and policies would you consider to reduce trash volumes at the Denton Landfill from within the city and from outside cities and businesses? Would you consider any recycling mandates for businesses or apartments, or food waste diversion mandates (composting, food donations) for food businesses?
Connie Baker
It is my understanding that clothes are a big item in landfills. It would help to have more clothes recycle bins around town and encourage people to donate to our 2 Goodwill centers. Bringing your own cloth bags for groceries helps save the landfills from plastic bags. Composting sites would be helpful with leftover food items, such as, banana peels, egg shells, etc. Recycling bins for paper and cardboard, etc. at business would be very beneficial. Denton has a great recycle program with containers available for home use. We need to use them more by talking to our community members.
Ronnie Anderson
No Response
5. Land Development and Green Spaces
City Council and the Planning-and-Zoning commission have recently seen some high-profile development projects approved that would severely impact or even destroy large swathes of important green corridors, further exacerbating species loss and the financial impacts thereof. Where do you stand on such developments and what steps could the city take to sustain and protect regional environmental assets?
Connie Baker
Building projects are essential to growth, but we need to consider how each project will effect the agriculture, wildlife, air pollution, traffic and other components. We need to develop a strategic future vision.
Ronnie Anderson
No Response
6. Community Engagement
How would you engage and support community members to make positive environmental changes in Denton?
Connie Baker
We could add more open spaces, such as hiking trails, parks and activity centers. Reduce waste by better recycling methods. Encouraging carpools, public transit and bikes as alternate transportation.
Ronnie Anderson
No Response
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