Candidate Q&A: Steven Kramer- City Council

Why are you running for this office, and what do you hope to accomplish during your  term? 

I want to be the eyes, ears, and voice for all our citizens that are keeping busy with careers, family, and  life that demands the bulk of their time. I'm retired and can devote the time needed to research issues and  make sound decisions while helping our community move forward in a effort to become a place we can all  be proud of and hand off to future generations. Attracting new businesses to our community would be a  major accomplishment. Making sure our police department and volunteer fire department have what they  need to do what they're called upon to do. The housing situation seems to have no end in sight as the  demand is strong and interest rates are heading down with more downward pressure expected. Those  accomplishments will help the community heal and move forward.  

What do you see as the most important issue facing Hudson right now? Getting the money issue straightened out. Lesson the concerns on the minds of our citizens.  When you have a "Meet the Candidates" at town hall and broadcast it live with over 2,000  people watching or in attendance that is a loud and clear message along with a wake up call to  all the candidates and current council that the community is concerned and wanting issues  resolved.

What experience or perspective do you bring that you believe will benefit the city? 
My experience as a independent owner operator in the dog-eat-dog world of transportation  taught me to be prepared for anything. Income fluctuations, unexpected expenses along with  knowing when, where, how and why to react to changing conditions was critical to survival. My  later years working in Health Care and then in LTL taught me compromise, patience, and  people skills. All these experiences showed me the importance of working as a team to get  things done and taught me when to lead and when to step back and follow.

How will you help improve communication and transparency between the city and residents?  
"Trust takes years to build, seconds to break, and forever to repair." Being honest and open  with our citizens is imperative. I'll make myself available to all the community for any of their  concerns. If I don't know an answer to a concern I will get the rest of the council and mayor  involved to get you a timely response. This is a team effort and we will work hard on communications and being transparent as a Mayor and Council. 

What does respectful leadership look like to you in local government?  Being observant, show respect, and thinking clearly before speaking. 10% of conflict is due to difference in opinion, 90% is due to delivery and tone of voice. Staying calm is key. 

Is there anything else you’d like voters to know? 

To be successful at anything you don't have to be special. You simply have to be what many  people are not. Consistant, determined, and willing to do the work. I'm ready to serve our  community.