Eva Worthing – Ward 9
Age: 37
Family: Single Mom of 2 young children, 2 and 7 years old.
Education: Master’s Degree in Education
Occupation: Administrative Assistant (Former Teacher – taught for 13 years)
Why do you feel you are a good fit for Flint City Council?
I feel that I am a good fit for City Council because I am a natural born leader. Leaders listen to others opinions and reflect on what they’ve heard; they do not bully or boss others around. Secondly, my main focus has always been to help others. This is why I went into teaching and why I am now running for council. I have the determination and passion to ensure that my community is always taken care of. And lastly, I have integrity and would proudly represent my constituents by always doing what is right.
What are the top five issues you want to focus on as a City Council member?
The number one issue for the city of Flint is still safe drinking water, unfortunately. The other issues that I would focus on are blight, the safety of our citizens, bringing new businesses to the city and developing a council that will work together and in an organized, professional manner.
How would you help the city navigate through the water crisis?
I would advocate for the continuation of expanded Medicaid services, food benefits, and any other services that have helped our citizens recover from the water crisis. I also would like to see even more programs developed, specifically urban farming that provides high nutrient foods that help combat the effects of lead. I would ensure that pipes are and will continue to be replaced until all lead tainted pipes are gone.
What would your water source recommendation be?
I believe that Flint should continue using GLWA as the city’s water source. Unfortunately, the city does not have the resources nor the expertise in place to safely ensure clean drinking water. Until the Flint plant is capable of producing clean water and properly staffed, GLWA is our best option.
How satisfied are you with Flint’s current administration?
Many decisions in the city of Flint have been made to benefit the powerful and connected. I will restore the spirit of public service to the office of City Council. All city business should be conducted in a professional and organized manner with a unified goal of doing what is best for the entire city.
Millions of dollars have been poured into the development of downtown Flint. How would you develop other areas of the city and what areas do you think need more focus?
A thriving downtown results in more money for services and for the entire community. However, I would love to see more grants being used and more focus put into our schools. Children are our future and we need to invest in their well-being and education. Creating an environment that encourages businesses to come to Flint will help with that goal. I would love to see a grocery store where KMART used to be on Dort Hwy. in the 9th Ward.
A complaint from some millennials is the lack of opportunity in Flint. How would you tackle that issue in hopes of keeping young people in Flint?
I support the University of Michigan-Flint and helping attract young people to our city. This also encourages businesses to invest in Flint. Also, we as a Council and those of us who live in the City need to encourage our local artists and support their talents. The more vibrant we are as a city, the more businesses and opportunities we will attract.
What is your opinion about blight in Flint and how would you tackle it?
Blight has been a problem in urban areas for generations and must be constantly dealt with. Because blight brings down home values and brings more crime, we should either tear down or rehabilitate foreclosed homes. I believe blight is best dealt with when citizens are active and engaged. There is a monthly crime watch meeting that I would love to see more community participation in.
How would you build better communication with the administration in hopes of unifying the two bodies to work for the betterment of the Flint community?
First of all, I will work effectively with the mayor and fellow councilors to solve problems. While disagreements with others are inevitable, I am personable and a successful communicator who listens to others’ ideas with an open mind. Roberts Rules of Order needs to be followed in the Flint City Council meetings to make them practical and orderly for the public. I have no conflicts of interest or political aspirations to be mayor so it is in my best interest to work with the current administration instead of trying to tear it down.
What are the top three top goals that you hope to accomplish as a City Council member?
The number one issue for the city of Flint is safe drinking water. First, I believe we need to address those who have already been impacted by lead poisoning. I plan to develop urban-farming programs to benefit expectant mothers and children that will reduce lead levels and its effects. The second issue that I’d like to address is safety. Emergency calls to 911 are not always answered and response times can be slow. My goal is to increase police presence by working with the budget and applying for grants. Lastly, I will support established businesses and bring new businesses to the 9th Ward.
If there was one thing you could tell all Flint residents what would it be?
As a single mother to two young children, my focus is solely on making my community the best place it can possibly be. I will answer to my constituents by listening and responding to emails and phone calls. Monthly coffee hours, ward meetings, and social media are all ways that I plan on keeping my constituents informed. I truly have the best interest of my city in mind!