Council Candidates in District 5 | Question of the Week Five | Aug. 2
Each week through the Primary, The Breeze will ask the candidates for Cape Coral City Council an issue-related question. In the interest of fairness, each candidate is limited to the same amount of words, about 100, for their response.
This week’s question:
How would you build consensus to accomplish your objectives?
District 5 candidates’ answers:
Jason Conzelman
Jason Conzelman
YouTube.com/@Conzelman4Councilman
I would confirm that I had full support from most of the citizens Cape Coral. I would then use my leadership skills to convince other members of the city Council that what I was doing was best for the city best for them and overall best for the people living in Cape Coral
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Joseph Kilraine
Joseph Kilraine
The ability to build consensus is a process which begins with earned respect through principled and consistent leadership. Transparency, fact-based logic, openness to listen to dissent, persistent engagement, all contribute to instill others to invest in the process and find a solution. Mission focus is key and when possible, necessary, and to ensure closure, it is OK to leave a little on the table provided the primary objectives are obtained. In preparation, do whatever it takes to be knowledgeable and informed. Understand the subject matter and what is important to those with whom you must reach consensus.
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Charlie Pease
Charlie Pease
Transparent communication! This includes communicating openly on the dais by responding to public input and holding regular workshops to discuss key issues with residents. We need to engage community experts by restoring advisory boards such as the Budget Review Committee, and we need to focus on win-win solutions rather than personal disagreements. We need to improve dialogue and encourage discussion during regular Council meetings (this is the only time Council can legally discuss key issues amongst one another without violating the Sunshine Law). Finally, we need to be willing to revisit decisions and change our minds if new information emerges.
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Robert Welsh
Robert Welsh (Incumbent)
I am diplomatic, honest and responsible. I know how to listen closely to details and formulate conclusions based on fact. I gather information from reputable resources within the city, and throughout our community, county and state when necessary and I am always available for open communication with Cape Coral citizens. The Florida Sunshine law only allows communication between Council Members at public meetings. Active interaction with our city manager and department heads will enable me to further any initiatives effectively.
Editor’s Note: This week’s question has been updated to include a response from Jason Conzelman.