In the lead-up to the Danville City Council election, candidate Maureen Belko answered several pressing questions about the city’s future. Her responses showcase her expertise in compliance audit and economics, as well as her dedication to improving infrastructure, public services, housing, and economic development. Here are key takeaways from her Q&A session:
Qualifications and What Sets Her Apart
Belko emphasized her background in compliance audits and data analysis, stating that these skills would allow her to bring an urgently needed perspective to city council. She criticized the current council’s spending priorities, pointing out the focus on luxury projects and salary increases while essential services—like firefighter wages—were delayed.
“We need to realign our priorities back to our assets, our services, and our people,” Belko said.
Top Issue Facing Danville: Infrastructure
Belko highlighted Danville’s need to prepare for rapid growth by investing in utilities, roads, and city services. She stressed that these improvements will help attract new residents and ensure that people choose to stay in the city.
Addressing the Animal Shelter Controversy
Belko advocated for a strategic, long-term plan for the animal shelter, proposing key hires to improve fundraising, marketing, and operations. She noted that collaboration between conflicting parties has reached a standstill and believes decisive leadership is needed to push the shelter forward.
Balancing Small Business Growth with Industry Partnerships
Belko emphasized the importance of education—both for the workforce and for families—as a cornerstone of Danville’s economic development. She credited improvements in local schools with encouraging some families to return to the city from surrounding areas.
Capping Taxes and Reducing Utility Bills
Belko criticized rising property taxes, citing inflated appraisals despite a slight tax rate reduction. She proposed new solutions to support renters by incentivizing landlords to make energy-efficient upgrades, which would lower utility costs and create more transparency for tenants.
Casino Revenue and Strategic Investments
Belko expressed concerns that many residents are unaware of the Investing in Danville Committee, which manages casino revenue projects. She called for better marketing and metrics tracking to document the impact of these investments and make the community feel included in the city’s growth.
Preserving Danville’s History and Character
Belko stressed that Danville should maintain its small-town charm, avoiding comparisons to larger cities like Richmond or Greensboro. She believes that the city’s strength lies in reinvesting in its people and balancing growth with respect for community values.
Plan for Affordable Housing
Belko identified the need for more middle-income housing to relieve pressure on lower-income housing and prevent displacement. She proposed diversifying construction locations beyond the River District to create more sustainable housing opportunities across the city.
Supporting Danville Public Schools
Belko believes the council’s role is to focus on the city’s economy, ensuring that students and teachers benefit from stable housing, employment, and utility rates. She argued that by creating a strong economic foundation, schools and students will thrive.
Improving Public Safety and Reducing Crime
Belko advocated for better access to healthcare services as part of her crime prevention strategy. She pointed out that untreated physical and mental health issues often lead to crises, contributing to higher crime rates. Her solution includes recruiting more healthcare providers to ease the burden on existing clinics and increase access to care.
Belko’s responses reflect her commitment to fiscal responsibility, strategic investments, and community-driven growth. Her approach focuses on addressing challenges through data-driven solutions and ensuring Danville remains a place where people want to live, work, and thrive.