mincow 05-31-22 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Regarding the Lakewood hospital development, Ms. Kolis stated that she does not have enough information to remark on the current proposal but that she is hopeful that the city will develop something that can make Lakewood proud, benefit the public and add economic value. Vinko Kovanovic Interview Mr. Kovanovic provided an opening statement wherein he described his background, education, and professional experience. Mr. Kovanovic explained that his parents and their family immigrated to Ward 4 from Yugoslavia and took jobs in manufacturing and that if appointed, he would be the first foreign-born ethnic minority on Council. Mr. Kovanovic discussed his service in Kosovo and Bosnia and explained how the skills of diplomacy and human intelligence that he learned will translate to service on Council. He committed to being a solution-oriented councilmember. Mr. Kovanovic remarked that he embodies Ward 4 and its identity. In response to a question, Mr. Kovanovic identified aging homes where residents do not have the financial capacity to maintain them as a challenge for Ward 4. He highlighted the wealth disparity among the ward's residents, where some struggle to afford basic home maintenance and others are very well-off and the job of the Ward 4 councilmember to bridge that disparity. In response to a question, Mr. Kovanovic expressed a commitment to help the city meet its sustainability goals. He offered ideas for providing residents with more resources for sustainability actions and encouraged interagency collaboration. In response to a question, Mr. Kovanovic offered solutions to some of the challenges faced by Ward 4 residents. He committed to being present and listening to residents. He proposed partnering with schools and social services agencies to prevent violence and crime. In response to a question, Mr. Kovanovic stated that he would prioritize restoring the diversity and strength of Lakewood's small businesses. He shared fond memories of these businesses from growing up here. In response to a question, Mr. Kovanovic stated that he would run for the Ward 4 seat. If not appointed, he identified other areas of civic life that would interest him. Mr. Kovanovic additionally spoke about finding out more about who Lakewood landlords are and holding them to high standards as well as making sure that the public is aware of the unmatched public services they receive in exchange for their tax dollars. In response to a question, Mr. Kovanovic shared that he is hard-working and does well under pressure. He provided an example of the customer service standards under which he is accustomed to working. Regarding the downtown development, Mr. Kovanovic expressed excitement for the opportunity the development may provide to Ward 4 residents in terms of jobs 3