Photo: Councilwoman Leslie Ford

Posted by: Randy Lewis

Tell us a little about yourself and what qualifies you to represent the Second ward? 

My full name is Leslie Yasmin Ford, and I am a native of Pittsburgh, PA. I have been a resident of  Middletown for 12 years, and I raised my 4 children here. They are: Tiffany age 22, Grace age 20, Omar age 18, and John age 15.  My entire residency in Middletown has been in the 2nd ward, so I am familiar with its' issues. My children also attended Middletown City Schools and I am familiar with the school system's issues as well.  I attended Miami University, and my major was Gerontology.
(I only have nine credits left for my Bachelor's Degree). During my time at MUM, I was very active in student groups, and was active in student government (Treasurer).  What qualifies me to represent the second ward is a passion and committment to the people. My board affiliations (SELF, United Way, and City Liason to the Middletown Library Board of Trustees) reflect my dedication to the citizens, of Middletown.
 
Where would you like to see the city in the next few years?

I would like to see a few things progress.  In the second ward, I would like to see continued progress towards unity of areas of the second ward, specifically the Amanda area and the Douglass Park area. They are only separated geographically by less than a mile or two, but they still "feel" separate. I would like Amanda, Douglass Park, and Downtown to be more united.  In addition, while I have supported East End
Development, I would like our focus for infrastructure and economic development to have more emphasis on ward 2.  I also am optimistic that the coming rail system (if we are selected as a stop) will be a catalyst for more development on this side of town.
 
What is your plan to replace the businesses that Middletown has lost?

Aside from more incentives that the city can provide (tax relief) I would like to pursue a more  aggresive advertising campaign to lure businesses to relocate here.  I realize that will be of some expense, and given our budget situation, we really can't spare much at all.  However, I think the long-term  gain to the city will be well worth the expense.
 

How would you begin to repair and strengthen our relationships with the surrounding communities?

I think we as the leadership have already taken steps in this regard.  I think the key is to continue to keep the lines of communication open, and to continue to support their efforts.  I think cooperation on both sides will strengthen relationships in the long run.  I think we now have an attitude of  openess that other communities are starting to recognize.
 
What would you like to see happen with the downtown area?

My dream is for downtown to be highly developed. I would like to add that Downtown and the East End are not (or should not) be competing entities, but rather they ideally should be complementary.  Downtown could be artsy and eclectic, with specialty shops, and have homes for artists and students.  I'd like to see stores that reflect the character of Middletown.
 
What are your thoughts on Middletown's Section 8 situation and what would you like to see happen?

I think we as a city need to be honest about who we are and where we are, economically. We are a working-class city with a lot of citizens that need assistance.  I think that the section 8 program should remain in place, and that we should not reduce the number of vouchers issued. I think stereotypes about citizens receiving section 8 assistance are unfounded.  This is a program that assists residents in becoming more self-sufficient.  We need to stop worrying about our "image" and get to the business of helping those in need.
 
Tell us how you would handle the city's budget concerns?

This is a tough one, because the cuts we have made to city departments have our staff working on a shoe-string. I'll tell you what the answer is NOT.  Staff reductions are not an option for me.  That would be the classic knee-jerk reaction, but my belief is that you hold on to your good city workers in times of trouble.  They've been fantastic.  I think if we all work together, we will find a solution.
 
In your opinion, what is the biggest problem that needs addressed in Middletown and how do we repair it?

The Economy/Jobs. I believe we are at 12% unemployment, and we as a city are really struggling. We have to be more aggresive in drawing in new businesses, and also providing the job training to our citizens so they can compete in this tight economy.