Laserfiche WebLink
Laura Rodriguez-Carbone Interview <br /> Candidate Laura Rodriguez-Carbone made an opening statement, stating that she recently ran a <br /> campaign for the ward 1 seat during which she heard from many residents about their thoughts <br /> on the future direction of the City. She summarized her various roles in public service over the <br /> past twenty years. She highlighted her strength in reaching out to diverse communities and the <br /> unique perspective she could provide as a Latina. <br /> In response to a question from Councilmember Rader about what cities should do to become <br /> more sustainable, Ms. Rodriguez-Carbone recommended that the City empower the public to be <br /> stewards of the environment through recycling and other means and to serve as a good role <br /> model. <br /> In response to a question from President O'Malley asking what unique qualities she would bring <br /> to the body of Council, Ms. Rodriguez-Carbone highlighted her ethnicity as a Latina, her work in <br /> underserved communities, and her background seeking out and delivering grant funding. <br /> In response to a question from Vice President Litten asking if she will run for election if <br /> appointed to the seat and what she believes Council's priorities should be, Ms. Rodriguez- <br /> Carbone replied that she plans to run for the at-large Council seat regardless of whether or not <br /> she is appointed and that she has begun her campaign. She stated that she feels very strong about <br /> Lakewood and its future and plans to be as involved as possible. She remarked that if appointed <br /> her focus would be on human services, public transportation, and the City's sewers. <br /> Councilmember Shachner referenced a political forum in which Ms. Rodriguez-Carbone was <br /> asked if a losing candidate should be appointed to Council. At that forum Ms. Rodriguez- <br /> Carbone stated that such a candidate should not be appointed. Ms. Rodriguez-Carbone stated that <br /> her situation is unique since she qualified in her primary election. <br /> Ms. Rodriguez-Carbone thanked Council for their consideration and stated that she will remain <br /> active in the community and would like to be a resource to Council. <br /> Nora Katzenberger Interview <br /> In an opening statement, Ms. Katzenberger highlighted her personal history as a renter and <br /> homeowner in Lakewood, noting that she was inspired to apply through her involvement with <br /> Lakewood schools. She highlighted her leadership ability and long history as a communications <br /> leader and fundraiser, having held positions with the Bank of New York, New York University, <br /> University Hospitals, and her current position as a web creative manager for Progressive Auto <br /> Insurance. She has been involved with Lakewood Schools PTA, serving as its president at one <br /> point, and worked to reinstate a 5h grade maturation unit that was no longer being taught. She <br /> helped form a partnership with the Cleveland Clinic and helped to insure students were receiving <br /> that educational component. She also serves as the campaign manager for the upcoming school <br /> levy, where she manages a group of volunteers and connects with voters. <br /> Councilmember Rader asked Ms. Katzenberger how a municipality can combat climate change <br /> and how the city could keep young people as residents who eventually grow their families here, <br /> 2 <br />