Dallas City Council District 2 Candidate Q&A With Sukhbir Kaur

Editor’s Note: This is the first in a series of responses to CandysDirt.com questionnaires issued to all candidates running for office in the May 6 Dallas City Council election. We’ll be revealing their responses over the next several days. District 1 candidates Chad West, Mariana Griggs, and Albert Mata did not respond to the questionnaire, so we’re starting with District 2. West, the incumbent, declined to participate “out of respect” for District 11 candidate Jaynie Schultz, who is running against CandysDirt.com publisher Candace Evans. Early voting begins April 24.

Sukhbir Kaur, candidate for District 2 City Council
Opponent: Incumbent Jesse Moreno did not respond to the questionnaire.

Why do you think Dallas continues to attract corporate relocations and new residents at a greater frequency than the rest of the nation?

The cost of doing business is affordable and favorable tax climate for businesses. Skilled workforce access, world-class airports, education, and research universities and affordable real estate, spectacular museums and performing arts venues, and restaurants. Dallas has evolved into a major financial and tech hub. 

What areas in your district could see a housing boom in the next few years?

NW and South and East , along Harry HInes, W Mockingbird, Medical District, Deep Ellum. 

What is occurring in your area that could poise your district for growth, and how can you support that?

People and businesses are moving in at a faster pace as close proximity to the educational and financial institutions, medical facilities, airport and freeway, arts and cultural activities, downtown Dallas community, parks and public transportation, housing being built, parks, etc. 

I would continue to work on public safety and health with community involvement and support.

Enforcement of code compliance and ban on panhandling, homeless encampment (prevention of drugs buy, sell, havens being created) in alleys, underpasses, and neighborhood homes. 

Public education and awareness. 

Making permits process efficient. 

Building on affordable housing and homeownership.

Better care of city recreational centers and parks. 

How can the City of Dallas improve the redistricting process, and how would that positively impact your district?

Redistricting process must reflect the best interests of the people, not the incumbent political parties or candidate. 

How would you vote on the matter of allowing or restricting short-term rentals in residential neighborhoods?

Short-term rentals with more public safeguards, higher business tax rates, higher insurance rates, disclosure. 

How do you feel about the Public Facility Corporation financing structure for multifamily development? 

PFC is funded by taxpayers’ money — it takes away money from public safety, sanitation services, and city services like public transportation, hospitals, education, parks, recreational centers, roads, streets care, and upgrades. More property taxes are levied on homeowners, businesses, and the general public. It increases the cost of living. It is rife with corruption and rents are still high for housing. 

It needs safeguards, public awareness, and education as it impacts property tax base and bottom line. 

How do you plan to engage with the public and local media?

Communication by honest and continuing engagement. Transparent and timely information sharing and getting feedback. 

How do you feel about using historic and conservation districts to preserve a neighborhood’s character?

Preserving and conservation of historic districts brings value, charm, culture, and beauty to a city, especially a fast-growing community like the great city of Dallas. Making sure properties are up to the building codes. 

What is the role of a developer in providing affordable housing? What is the role of the city in providing affordable housing?

Developers are change makers by converting empty office buildings to housing units and so much more. City needs to provide efficient services to support businesses and housing. And incentives with safeguards. Which does not increase base tax rate for bottom line and any public safety concerns. 

What projects/needs in your district should be given priority in the 2024 bond?

Public safety, crime, narcotics, drug prevention, public education awareness, transportation, street repairs, solar lights, paved alleys, overgrown shrubs etc., sanitation, underpasses, homeless encampment, panhandling, upgrade and care of public recreational centers and parks, housing.