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Writer's pictureTopsail Times

Candidate Questionnaire: Chelsea Kurtz For Holly Ridge Council


1. What are your greatest strengths and skill set that will make you a good elected official?

I have two degrees in politics, one Bachelor’s and one Master’s degree.

2. Is there a particular issue that motivated you to run for office?

Yes, lack of infrastructure and vision for the future of this town.

3. Do you currently or have you ever held an elected office before, and if so, what office?

Yes, I have been elected twice, for two three year terms on my HOA board.

4. As an elected official you will have to make decisions regarding zoning. What, if any, is your experience with zoning and how will it benefit the voters if you are elected?

As a real estate agent, I am familiar with zoning. I am always seeking advice from experts in their respective fields and if a particular issue arose that I understand needs more clarification and depth of understanding, I will be seeking that expertise prior to decision making for the town.

5. Traffic is a major issue, especially during the tourist season. One concern is the lack of sidewalks and dedicated bike paths. Do you agree this is a concern and if so, what would you like to see changed or added regarding sidewalks and bike paths?

We absolutely need sidewalks here, I plan to push for sidewalks and pedestrian paths from 17 to Surf City along highway 50.

6. Our area is unique in the fact that we are comprised of several small towns and two counties. Do you feel it is important to work alongside the neighboring towns/counties and are there any specific issues you want addressed or feel needs more work?

Yes, we must consider our relationships and geographical significance with Surf City, Sneads Ferry and Hampstead. Specifically, we should consider working with Surf City as much as possible, since most of our only amenities are located there.

7. Hurricanes are a way of life in coastal areas. 1) Do you feel your town is properly prepared to handle a major storm? 2) What improvements, if any, would you like to see take place, regarding communication, shelters, or staff?

We need better mass communication to update our citizens in real time and to prepare them for evacuations ahead of time. Currently Surf City has an instagram, and a much more robust website. We need communication across multiple platforms, not just the facebook page.

8. If elected and a proposal was created regarding term limits, would you support it?

Yes, I personally don’t believe anyone should hold the same position for more than a decade.

9. As time is always precious, do you agree that as an elected official, it is your responsibility to learn about the topics to be discussed ahead of time to help expedite discussions and decisions during the meetings?

Of course, the town council meeting itself should not be the fact finding mission. This allows items to be tabled and forgotten or delayed action becomes the pace of the council.

10. If your community has paid parking: What issues do you have regarding the current program and would you work to change or alter the existing program in your community?

N/A

11. Tell me something about yourself that may be of interest to the community.

I have a bachelor’s degree in Politics and a Master’s degree in Conflict Management and Negotiation. I’m a mother, a military spouse, a business owner, and a Christian. I’m always willing to discuss opinions or ideas that conflict with my own. I want what’s best for the community.



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