Judi Brown Clarke

2017 candidate for Lansing Mayor

In July of 2017, the State Journal asked eight questions of Lansing's mayoral candidates. Answers were
limited to 100 words.

1) What would be your top three priorities if elected?

Clarke: Infrastructure improvements specifically roads and sidewalks; education and workforce
development; neighborhoods and business corridor development.

2) What should the city do to fix its pension and health care shortfall?

Clarke: Lansing's unfunded pension and health care shortfall is well over $600 million. Bankruptcy is a
possibility if we do not continue the fiscal prudency of the Hollister and Bernero administrations. I would
not sell the BWL because we would be sacrificing a long-term, sustainable revenue source for a short-
term, one-time payment. Lansing hired the Segal Consulting firm to conduct a comprehensive study
that identified potential cost-saving solutions. Working with Segal Consulting and the Financial Health
Team, the city will assess the different solutions and create an effective strategic plan that addresses
the shortfall.

3) What is your stance on commercial and residential regulations for medical marijuana?

Clarke: Every city that addresses the medical marihuana industry needs to respect the vote that made
this market possible. As a city council member, I proposed a medical marihuana ordinance that aligns
with current state laws and reflects best practices of other national cities. It is my desire to create a safe
and fair process that provides Lansing's patients access to quality businesses and safe products. Key
aspects include the establishment/oversight of a Lansing Medical Marihuana Commission, reduction of
dispensaries from 75 to 25, and buffering zones aligned with the Department of Licensing and
Regulatory Affairs.

4) How would you improve relationships among the citys elected officials?

Clarke: Since the city council members and city clerk are my current colleagues, I already have
relationships with each and look forward to continuing to work positively with them. There will be times
of disagreement; however, it will always be about the issues and not personal attacks. The bottom line
is that neither the mayor, city council members, nor the city clerk can effectively and efficiently serve
the community working alone. It is important to keep the "community first" in all matters, and ensure
that the lines of communication remain open and receptive to discourse.

5) How can the city improve its infrastructure given funding limitations?

Clarke: Due to inadequate levels of state infrastructure funding, estimates are that it will cost over $211
million to restore Lansing's streets to just an average condition. Mayor Bernero recommended a ballot
measure be taken to the voters this November to provide a 1.0 dedicated millage for additional road
funding. I support this millage. If passed by the residents, as mayor, I will ensure these funds are added
to our limited state funds and used specifically for road repairs. While this funding is not adequate to
repair all roads, but it will make a significant and positive impact with the city.