Amor Taylor on the issues, in her own words

Note: In the interest of providing voter information and fair election coverage, The Sentinel has given all eight Citrus Heights city council candidates an equal opportunity to submit 100-word written statements on a variety of local issues. Amor Taylor’s unedited responses can be found below. See other candidate responses in the article: “Citrus Heights city council candidates on the issues, in their own words”

Amor Taylor, 51, serves on the City’s Construction Board of Appeals and plans to open a Menchie’s frozen yogurt franchise in Citrus Heights next year. She previously served as director of public policy services for the California Foundation for Independent Living Centers. (Click to read full candidate profile)

Homelessness is ranked among the top issues faced by businesses and residents in Citrus Heights. What is your plan to address this and what role do you see private organizations playing? (Be specific)

“I believe we can reduce homelessness by addressing the needs of those who seek help. Their most immediate needs are meals and a place to shower. I would like to see a place where they can receive a meals on a regular basis rotating with private organizations and volunteers to assist, then be directed to local services and resources for assistance and a possible work program. As mentioned in Roseville, where they are assisting with street cleaning and other jobs. If an individual had $6, it’s not likely they will take a bus downtown to get services. It’s meeting them where they are.”

Measure B would raise the sales tax by half a cent throughout Sacramento County to pay for roads and Regional Transit projects. If the vote were held today, would you vote “yes” or “no” on Measure B, and why?

“I would support Measure B to begin to repair our much needed roads, infrastructure, and making regional transit improvements for those that use it.”

One of the City’s strategic planning goals is to enhance public safety. What specifically would you advocate doing to enhance public safety in Citrus Heights?

“I have noticed an increase in police presence in our community in recent months. That’s a positive. I believe that blighted neighborhoods draw increased crime. Clean streets, bright street lights in the evening, maintaining our properties, knowing your neighbors, and taking an active role in neighborhood associations are critical to the safety of all residents.”

Body-worn cameras have been praised by many as a way to increase accountability and decrease false claims against police. Do you believe CHPD should implement body-worn cameras within the next two years? Why, or why not?

“Yes, as it protects our police force, our community, and our residents.”

Many of you have advocated for a fiscally conservative policy and maintaining the City’s history of operating debt free. What is your specific plan to address the growing cost of pensions and maintaining a balanced budget with healthy reserves?

“It goes without saying that the city has shown its fiscal responsibility by operating debt free. It is important to rebuild our reserves, while maintaining financial commitments to funding pensions if that is the case, and balancing the budget at the same time.”

In August, the city council voted 4-0 to oppose Proposition 64, which would legalize recreational marijuana in California. Do you agree with the council’s decision?

“At this time, I am undecided. Every morning, my teens and I smell weed in two areas on the way to school. Whether they are recreational users or individuals with medical cards, I don’t know. However, I think people will continue to find ways to smoke recreational marijuana whether Prop 64 passes or not.”

It is well-known that many homeowners choose to ignore required building permits while doing remodel or construction work on their properties, citing permit costs or “excessive regulations.” What would you do to address this?

“Council should review local building codes to decide if minor projects may be done without permits or inspections. For example, non-electrical projects under a certain dollar amount.”

What, if any, are two existing city regulations/codes that you think should be changed, and why?

“None at this time.”

>>See other candidate responses: “Citrus Heights city council candidates on the issues, in their own words”