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communities. She noted that she ran for the Ward 1 seat in 2019 and is ready and able to hit the <br /> ground running immediately on Council. <br /> In response to a question, Ms. Rodriguez-Carbone spoke about what would be her top priorities <br /> as a councilperson. She emphasized that Lakewood's small businesses are an important part of <br /> Lakewood's vibrancy and local economy and continue to need support. She also spoke about the <br /> downtown development project and that as a councilperson, she would focus on community <br /> outreach to ensure that residents are part of the plan for the project. She also mentioned <br /> maintaining home values and developing public health infrastructure. <br /> In response to a question, Ms. Rodriguez-Carbone addressed how she would approach public <br /> safety challenges as a councilperson. She suggested that public safety be addressed from both a <br /> policing perspective and a community perspective. She discussed the need to invest in tools, <br /> training and resources for the police while also engaging the community. She suggested that <br /> Lakewood Police Department collaborate more closely with Human Services and that there be a <br /> resource officer to assist police with mental health issues and human services issues. <br /> In response to a question, Ms. Rodriguez-Carbone discussed her view of the most pressing issues <br /> in Ward 1. She spoke of using block clubs as a tool to help support and connect residents. She <br /> further remarked that were she not selected to fill the position that her public service will <br /> continue and that she will take initiative to increase opportunities for people of color in politics. <br /> In response to a question, Ms. Rodriguez-Carbone discussed strategies for increasing <br /> Lakewood's diversity and affordability. She spoke of the need for diversity among the city's <br /> leadership and about her connections to minority communities. She discussed improving <br /> affordability of housing to maintain and grow diversity. <br /> In response to a question, Ms. Rodriguez-Carbone discussed her approach to constituent services <br /> which involves proactive outreach and continuous communication. She remarked that she has <br /> energy to dedicate to the job and the residents at all times. She affirmed that she would campaign <br /> to maintain the seat, if appointed. <br /> Ms. Rodriguez-Carbone made closing remarks regarding her candidacy. <br /> Aidan Lawrence <br /> Mr. Lawrence provided opening remarks, discussing his love of Lakewood and desire to help <br /> make it even better by serving on City Council. He has lived on Cordova Ave. with his family <br /> for a few years. <br /> In response to a question, Mr. Lawrence discussed what would be his main priorities as a <br /> councilmember. He spoke about providing financial assistance to residents of lower economic <br /> means to preserve and grow diversity in the city. He also spoke about using city assets for <br /> sustainability initiatives such as community gardening or greenhouses. Regarding ward 1, he <br /> expressed a desire to do something about late-night traffic and speeding related to bars. <br /> 2 <br />