2023 Election Candidates for Lafayette City Council District 5

Addressing the high cost of living in Lafayette, officials should consider changes to the city’s Development Code. While updating zoning policies could make it easier to build housing, it’s important to be cautious about how this might affect neighborhood character. We need to involve the local community to gather input on these changes because the impact won’t be the same everywhere.

As a young person who understands the struggle of high living costs, I suggest simplifying regulations for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). This means making it easier for homeowners to add rental units on their property. This could increase available housing options, potentially lowering costs. But, it’s essential to balance this with the need to maintain the unique identity of Lafayette’s neighborhoods. So, collaboration with the community and thoughtful planning is key to finding the right solutions for everyone.

Nureaka Ross

Kenneth Boudreaux did not answer this question.

Yes, I would support using public funds for housing initiatives. As a young person invested in our future, I believe housing is a fundamental need. Public funds can help in various ways, like providing rent assistance for those struggling to make ends meet or offering loans to first-time home buyers who might otherwise struggle to enter the housing market. Public subsidies for housing developments and infrastructure can increase the supply of affordable homes, ultimately making it easier for people like me to find suitable places to live. By investing in housing initiatives, we not only address immediate needs but also contribute to the long-term stability and prosperity of our communities, which benefits everyone, young and old alike.

Nureaka Ross

Kenneth Boudreaux did not answer this question.

Local government plays a crucial role in economic development and the job market. As a young person who left Lafayette at 18 to serve active duty military due to limited opportunities, I understand the importance of these issues. The local government should actively work to create an environment that fosters job growth. This includes attracting new businesses, supporting existing ones, and investing in infrastructure that facilitates economic activity.

Additionally, public investments, like those made in projects such as LUS Fiber, can stimulate economic development by providing high-speed internet access and enhancing communication capabilities for businesses. These investments not only create jobs directly but also make Lafayette more attractive to tech-savvy industries and remote workers, potentially stemming the tide of young people leaving in search of better opportunities.

Furthermore, local government should collaborate with educational institutions to align curriculum with the needs of local industries. By doing so, they can help young people acquire the skills required for the job market in Lafayette, reducing the need to leave for opportunities elsewhere.

Nureaka Ross

Kenneth Boudreaux did not answer this question.

Yes, Lafayette should consider spending public dollars on quality of life programs and infrastructure. Such investments, including parks, bike trails, performing arts centers, and more, play a vital role in attracting and retaining talent in our community. As a young person and mother of two, I understand the importance of having access to these amenities for a vibrant and family-friendly city.

These quality of life initiatives not only make our city more enjoyable but also contribute to its overall economic health. They create spaces for leisure, recreation, and cultural enrichment, enhancing residents’ well-being. Additionally, they make Lafayette a more appealing place for professionals, including young talent, to live and work.

However, the extent of this investment should be carefully balanced with the available budget and other essential public services. It’s crucial to prioritize projects that have the most significant positive impact on our community’s quality of life while ensuring fiscal responsibility. Involving the community in decision-making and considering long-term benefits will help strike the right balance, making Lafayette an attractive and thriving place for residents of all ages.

Nureaka Ross

Kenneth Boudreaux did not answer this question.

Yes, I would support stricter development standards to reduce flood risk, especially in the context of climate change. As someone who raised awareness about construction materials through a viral video about Dr Horton, I understand the importance of scrutinizing building practices. Adapting our development standards to consider the increasing severity of storms is a proactive step to enhance Lafayette’s resilience.

However, it’s essential to acknowledge that higher standards might come with increased construction costs. While these upfront expenses may seem daunting, they can prevent costly damage and disruption in the long run. Think of it as an investment in our community’s safety and well-being.

By implementing stricter standards, we can better safeguard our homes, businesses, and infrastructure from flooding and extreme weather events. This not only protects us from immediate risks but also ensures a more sustainable future for Lafayette in the face of climate change. It’s a balanced approach that aims to strike the right chord between safeguarding our community and managing costs effectively.

Nureaka Ross

Kenneth Boudreaux did not answer this question.

Prioritizing spending on stormwater management and infrastructure is crucial for the future. While Lafayette has invested millions in drainage infrastructure recently, it’s essential to be proactive rather than reactive. As a young person, I understand that my generation and the next will bear the consequences of past mistakes. To make informed decisions, we should consult with experts, including environmentalists and architects.

By involving experts, we can ensure that our investments are well-planned and sustainable. They can help us design infrastructure that not only addresses current issues but also considers future challenges, like climate change. It’s about finding a balance between the budget limitations of local government and the long-term needs of our community. This way, we can create effective stormwater management systems that minimize flooding and protect our environment. Ultimately, this proactive approach is an investment in a safer and more resilient future for Lafayette and the generations to come.

Nureaka Ross

Kenneth Boudreaux did not answer this question.