In Part 2 of 5 of the Advocate video debate between mayoral candidates Mike Rawlings and David Kunkle, the discussion centers on neighborhoods — can they receive the same type of attention and funding as large outside development projects? Rawlings says they are separate issues, but we should be able to do both (1:30). Kunkle points out how neighborhoods such as the Bishop Arts District in Oak Cliff can thrive even with a small amount of money from the city (2:42). What’s the mayor’s role in it all? Both candidates agree they could help initiate discussions and get the right people involved, but Rawlings adds that the neighborhoods still must take ownership and lead their own development projects (5:53).
The first video segment was about big spending (i.e. the Calatrava bridge), an issue on which Rawlings and Kunkle disagree. Stay tuned for the third installment where the candidates delve into the city budget and how to get it back on track.
Election Day is June 18, and early voting runs June 6-14.