Q&A with Michael Bell, Church Hill alderman candidate

Michael Bell is running for reelection as a Church Hill alderman in a two-year term. There is one open seat and three candidates. In addition to Bell, they are Keith Gibson and Kathryn Boggs Metcalf. Q: What inspired you to run for this position? A: I currently hold the position and have been a member of the BMA for five years. Q: What experiences have prepared or qualified you for this position? A: Again, being a member of the BMA for five years. Obtained a B.S. from ETSU in 1990. I've worked on the business side of manufacturing for 35 years. Q: What are your top goals and priorities, if elected? A: I would like to create more harmony with the current board. I would like to see everyone working together with common goals and agendas for the citizens of Church Hill. I would like to see our parks and rec department grow for our children. I'd also like to see if we can find better insurance coverage for our employees. We need to ensure Church Hill is ready for the future. Q: What do you believe are the strengths and weaknesses of your town's Board of Mayor and Aldermen? What does this governing body do well, and how could it improve? A: Strengths — I believe all board members have the city's best interest at heart. Weaknesses — due to different backgrounds and beliefs, the board seems to clash on certain issues. Ways that I would improve: spending more time together as a board, rather than 30 minutes a month, would greatly create more harmonization. Q: What issues do you feel are most important to residents, and how do you plan to connect with constituents and address their concerns? A: The biggest issue facing the board is whether or not to hire a city manager. I feel this decision should be left to the citizens of Church Hill rather than seven people on the BMA.