On October 10, Z107.7 News hosted a Twentynine Palms District Candidate Forum moderated by News Director Gary Daigneault at Theatre 29 in Twentynine Palms. Reporter Heather Clisby was also there and in part three of a three-part story, has this report on District 5…
Six candidates faced their voting public on October 10 for the Twentynine Palms district elections on November 6. This report features responses from District 5 candidates, incumbent Mayor McArthur Wright and challenger Cora Heiser.
On luring investors to the city, Wright pointed to Project Phoenix and the current council’s success in obtaining $6 million from the state. He noted that Starbuck’s and Coldstone Creamery are set to open soon. Heiser echoed these strong efforts and suggested considering unique “out of the box” businesses such as a trampoline park or a wine bar.
Regarding City Hall’s current four-day schedule, Heiser said it should be open on Fridays and, if need be, a half Saturday. Wright said, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” and pointed to the $2.5 million a year in savings from the cutback.
Abandoned shopping carts create a poor city image and Wright noted it was an issue when he ran four years ago. Heiser then commented, “It was addressed then and we’re still talking about it.” Wright suggested working with the stores to handle while Heiser wants to determine the root problem.
Regarding the pension funding liability, Heiser pointed to City Manager Frank Luckino who “has a handle on that.” Wright concurred, saying “hiring Frank Luckino was one of the smartest things we ever did.”
On maintaining strong Marine base relations, Wright said they are working on the wastewater treatment plant together and noted that he, in fact, works on base with direct command. Heiser suggested more efforts toward Marine families via social media.
Regarding the city’s conversion to district elections, an overturn was suggested. Heiser stated that “We the people have the power to change it” but is not personally against the change. Wright explained that the change helps protect the city against liability but that they are working with lobbyists.
On the homeless issue, Wright agreed it is a problem both locally and state-wide and highlighted local organizations such as Morongo Basin ARCH, Morongo Basin Haven and Yucca Valley Reach Out. Heiser stressed the need for nighttime shelters and more city solutions.
Regarding the return of city council meetings to public access cable, Wright teased the audience, “I’ve been told I look good on camera” but explained they lack the staff to film and produce the show. Heiser said she supported any effort toward more community engagement.
As for district-specific plans, Heiser wants more streamlined efforts in the removal of public eyesores such as mattresses, tires and burned-out trailers. Wright stressed that he would represent the city “as a whole” and would continue to work on solutions for homelessness and resources for veterans.
Regarding legal commercial marijuana growth in the city, Wright expressed concern for Marines and that the substance is still a federal offense. “I would say ‘no’ right now,” Wright said. Heiser is concerned about the lack of environmental studies done but was open to hearing about tax benefits. “Perhaps the financing of a sewer project?” she said, even offering a catchy slogan: “Pot for the Potty?”
