What Do Annapolis Ward 1 Candidates Propose for Housing, City Dock, and Taxes?

The upcoming primary race in Annapolis’ Ward 1 is shaping up to be highly competitive, with five Democratic candidates vying for the opportunity to advance to the November election. Key issues include housing, short-term rentals, the City Dock project, and the city budget. Each candidate has distinct ideas and proposals aimed at addressing the challenges facing their community.

Last updated: 30 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways from the Annapolis Ward 1 Democratic Primary

• Five Democrats are competing in the primary, with housing and short-term rentals being pivotal issues.
• Incumbent Harry Huntley proposes limiting short-term rentals based on occupancy rates.
• Ben Bramsen advocates for stricter regulations on short-term rentals to preserve affordable housing.
• The City Dock Project is set to begin construction, with debates over funding priorities ongoing.
• Candidates have differing views on managing the city budget and property taxes.

Understanding the Candidates and Their Positions

The Contenders

Annapolis' Ward 1 is a vibrant area marked by its historic downtown and waterfront charm. The Democratic primary features five candidates, each bringing unique perspectives and backgrounds. The candidates include: - **Harry Huntley**: The sitting alderman who seeks to continue his tenure. - **Ben Bramsen**: A regional director of a tutoring service focused on housing issues. - **Kathleen McDermott**: A former federal prosecutor with insights into the legal implications of local policies. - **Ron Gunzburger**: A former government official with experience in administration. - **Genevieve Torri**: A former chair of the city's Art in Public Places Commission.

Housing and Short-Term Rentals

Housing affordability and the regulation of short-term rentals are hot topics in the primary. Ward 1 is home to a significant number of short-term rental properties, which many residents feel are exacerbating the local housing crisis. - **Huntley's Proposal**: Huntley has suggested legislation that would limit new short-term rental licenses if more than 10% of a block’s units are already designated for short-term rental use. He believes this approach balances the needs of property owners with the demand for affordable housing. - **Opposition Stance**: Bramsen, McDermott, and Gunzburger call for a moratorium on new short-term rental licenses, arguing that the current regulations allow for excessive short-term rentals that drive up housing prices. McDermott asserts that the prioritisation of short-term rentals is displacing long-term tenants and harming the availability of affordable housing. - **Proposed Solutions**: Bramsen advocates for fines against "bad-faith landlords" who keep properties vacant while waiting for higher-paying tenants. Torri proposes a block-by-block analysis to determine appropriate licensing, while Gunzburger suggests aligning life and safety codes for both rental types to encourage long-term leasing.

The City Dock Project

Annapolis is preparing to commence the City Dock Project next month, which aims to enhance flood resilience in the area. The project will include flood prevention barriers and additional amenities, funded in part by a $33 million grant from FEMA, which is still pending. - **Candidate Views on the Project**: Huntley argues against any changes to the project, warning that such discussions could delay essential flood mitigation efforts. Conversely, Gunzburger believes funds could be better allocated towards raising sea walls and other critical infrastructure rather than luxurious amenities. - **Concerns Over Funding**: McDermott has raised issues regarding the transparency of the project’s funding, suggesting that the city should draft a contingency plan in light of the uncertain FEMA grant. Bramsen has described the project’s budget as bloated, advocating for a separation of flood mitigation efforts from additional features.

City Budget and Property Tax Implications

The management of the city budget and property taxes is another critical issue in the primary race, especially considering the city’s budget has roughly doubled over the past decade. - **Huntley's Financial Goals**: Huntley, who has significant experience on the finance committee, aims to see increased funding for essential services like road repairs. He supports outcome-based budgeting to enhance financial efficiency. - **Alternative Approaches**: Gunzburger suggests consolidating some municipal services with the county to save costs, while Torri and McDermott advocate for increased funding for emergency services. McDermott specifically emphasises the importance of public safety in budget allocations. - **Property Tax Conversations**: Candidates are divided on the issue of property taxes. Huntley envisions a future where property tax rates could be lowered through improved fiscal management, while Bramsen warns against promises of tax cuts without substantial spending reductions.

What Lies Ahead for Ward 1

As the primary approaches, it is clear that the candidates will need to clarify their positions on these pressing issues to gain the support of Ward 1 residents. The outcomes of their proposals will significantly influence the community's landscape, especially regarding housing availability, city infrastructure, and fiscal responsibility. In a city where residents are increasingly concerned about affordability and environmental sustainability, the candidates' stances will shape not only the primary race but also the general election in November. The competition is fierce, and the decisions made in the upcoming months could have lasting impacts on the community.

FAQs

Who are the candidates in Annapolis’ Ward 1 primary race?

The candidates include Harry Huntley (incumbent), Ben Bramsen, Kathleen McDermott, Ron Gunzburger, and Genevieve Torri, each with distinct platforms addressing local issues.

What are the main issues in the Ward 1 primary election?

The primary focuses on housing affordability, regulation of short-term rentals, the City Dock Project, and management of the city budget and property taxes.

What is the City Dock Project?

The City Dock Project aims to enhance flood resilience with barriers, parks, and a welcome centre, funded partly by a pending grant from FEMA.

How do candidates plan to address housing issues?

Candidates propose varying solutions, including moratoriums on short-term rentals and legislation to convert single-family homes into duplexes to increase affordable housing.

What is the current state of the city budget?

Annapolis’ budget has doubled in the past decade, leading to discussions about fiscal responsibility, funding priorities, and potential property tax adjustments.