League of Women Voters of Ohio Education Fund
Hamilton County, OH November 8, 2005 Election
	Steve E. Grote Answers Questions Candidate for Trustee; Township of Green

Questions & Answers

1. What are your Qualifications for Office? (50 word limit)

Having previously been elected to the offices of both Green Township Trustee and Clerk, voters have already passed judgment on my qualifications. By constantly listening, learning and keeping an open mind to new ideas and opinions, my service to the community will represent the best practices and concepts available.

2. What plans do you have to address your top three priorities? (100 word limit)

Keeping unneeded township tax requests off the ballot is the only way to keep taxes low. I opposed both the request for a township parks levy and also worked to lower the existing road levy.

I would suggest a return to the $1,000 level of all expenditures that need to be reviewed prior to approval by township trustees.

By working to preserve the natural characteristics of the township I will also be in fact working to retain the existing residential character of the area.

3. What steps would you take to ensure that all public facilities are accessible to people with disabilities? (100 words limit)

To the extent already dictated by the federal government regarding access issues for those with disabilities, we are in basic compliance with most of the standards. It is a good idea to have additional resources to those who need them who might attend the public meetings of the trustees. Yet, it is not entirely possible to adequately meet the needs of all on a short term notice basis. We should work to improve the cable telecast of the meetings to benefit those who cannot otherwise attend the meetings in person.

4. What specific steps will you take to expand recycling services in your community? (100 words limit)

A number of residents have requested that we provide recyvling bins/services in the ever growing number of condominium projects in the Green Township area. Since this is private property, we can only do what the property owners/homeowners associations permit. Neighboring municipalities already provide drop off bins in public locations not too far distant from Green Township. For the record, Green Township is already one of the leaders in total tons recycled. Yet, we can always improve.

5. What steps would you take to provide affordable housing for all residents of your community? (100 words limit)

The definition of affordable housing needs to include the reality of home ownership. ONLY when residents have a stake in the future outcome of their actions will they take a proactive position to take the necessary steps for upkeep of their property. By keeping property taxes as low as possible home ownership is made more accessible to those of limited incomes both seniors/younger citizens alike. Home ownership is still an important cornerstone in the American dream. Green Township provides many young couples a great opportunity to become home owners due to the lower entry price range of our homes.