I did not initially support the skybridge aspect of this project because it is inconsistent with the long-standing policy of the city with respect to other proposed developments. That said, given the decisions that will be made by the time I assume office, if elected, I would support the skybridge because it is now necessary to make the project a success. Again, I would have preferred another solution to that matter, such as not creating a second level of retail, but the current plan is not mine to change.

If elected, I will insist on more public input in the planning process, so these types of problems do not reoccur.

• The City Creek Center development is seen as a significant step toward the revitalization of downtown Salt Lake City. What other steps need to be taken to achieve that goal?

We need to reflect back on the Olympic Games when Salt Lake City witnessed the unique blend of people that comprise our city. Our civic pride brought us together and made Salt Lake City the best city it could be. We need to re-energize that pride by weaving the fabric of our city together to offer visitors our well-known hospitality on Main Street. A village within a city, if you will. This can be done through a mix of shops, restaurants, galleries and boutique establishments that characterize the city's culture.

• A Dan Jones & Associates survey commissioned by Salt Lake City showed that 78 percent of city residents say Pioneer Park should be renovated to become a more welcoming place. How so you propose to accomplish that?

With the addition of new housing in the downtown area, Pioneer Park becomes increasingly important as a resource for that emerging urban community. Unlike other parks in the city, Pioneer Park has never really been viewed as the asset to the neighborhoods that it could be.

We need to change that perspective by turning it into a walkable, livable park that people want to visit. I support the redoubling of efforts on the part of (Salt Lake Police Chief Chris) Burbank to increase line officers who can address the crime and vagrancy issues. I will continue the dialogue with residents and officials about the redevelopment of the park, but we need to solve the violence and drug trade problems first.

• Why should voters choose you over you opponent to represent District 6 on the Salt Lake City Council?

This district needs someone who can protect the quality of life we all expect in our neighborhoods. This guardianship will take more than just a weekly council meeting. It takes someone with the ability, the energy and the time to devote to the critical issues facing all of us. I have the ability, gained from eight years as owner and operator of Emigration Market. I have the energy and optimism from the support I receive from my neighbors. And I have the time to dedicate to serving this district because I am a small-business owner with a capable staff to run the store when I am needed on council business. I will work tirelessly and effectively for the betterment of Salt Lake City and its residents. My only agenda is District 6. I am accessible. As residents in this area already know, I am in the district all day, every day!