Mayor Glen Stewart met Kim Studeny Calhoon last Thursday in the Elizabeth Pastor Recital Hall for the first mayoral debate.  The debate focused on the city of Ashland’s finances, which is one of the biggest issues in this year’s election. 

The debate was an opportunity for the candidates to show their strengths and the platform they would stand on throughout the election.  Stewart referred back to his lengthy experience, both in his six years as mayor, and in his many years working for General Motors.  Studeny Calhoon listed her entrepreneurial experience as her primary strength.  She believes in making Ashland as business-friendly as possible, which would increase the city’s tax revenue, which has fallen by $600,000 each year since 2010.

“We are not sending the message to newcomers to live in Ashland,” Studeny Calhoon said.

Studeny Calhoon used much of her speaking time to highlight her plan to improve the financial situation of the city of Ashland.  She wants to “refocus” the budget, increase revenue from grants and create jobs in Ashland to increase the tax revenue.  Her plans rely mainly on increasing Ashland’s tax revenue, and she did not present a plan should her attempts to increase the revenue fail. 

Stewart, however, was forthcoming with his plans for the budget, should revenue continue to fall.  The mayor made clear that budget cuts have occurred since 2008, and they will continue if necessary.  Stewart did not present a clear vision for Ashland, instead focusing on what he has done for the city in his time as mayor. 

“We have to live within our means,” said Stewart, “There are only so many dollars to go around.”

Another issue brought up is the role of sustainability and the parks system in Ashland.  Studeny Calhoon believes the parks are critical to the attractiveness of Ashland to newcomers, and keeping the “greenspaces” of Ashland well-maintained is a priority of hers.  She points to the $360,000 in landfill fees and a cut to the maintenance of parks as problems with the current administration.  Stewart responded, stating the recycling program does not break even and it is costing the city money right now.

Studeny Calhoon’s concluding statements captured the essence of everything she said during the debate.  She said Ashland needed a new image, and electing her would make that image “Ashland is progressive.”  Even to the point of evading certain questions, Studeny Calhoon stuck to presenting her plan for the city, should she be elected.

Stewart took a much more direct view, simply answering the questions asked and always referring back to his time in office.  Both candidates know the budget situation is difficult, and each has their own views on taking care of the problem and ensuring the citizens of Ashland “see a return on their investment” as Studeny Calhoon said during the debate.

The next debate will focus on business in Ashland, and will be held Oct. 10 in the Elizabeth Pastor Recital Hall.