Monica DeLancy (MDJ Staff/Laura Moon)

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On July 31, voters in southwest Cobb will select their next county commissioner from among six Democrats: Lisa Cupid, Monica DeLancy, Ruth Negron, Dr. Michael Rhett, Connie Taylor and incumbent Woody Thompson. No Republicans qualified to run for the post, so the winner of the primary will most likely be the one taking office in January.

Negron did not return her answers to the Journal.

Monica DeLancy

Democrat

Age: 38

Residence: Austell

Occupation: Community advocate

Previous political experience: First time candidate

Education: Bachelor of Science, Biology Dillard University New Orleans, Lousiana

Family: Brianne, 12; Ernest, 10

Do you plan to vote for the TIA on July 31?

I am still weighing options

If Cobb voters reject TIA but it passes metro-wide, would you spend county money to sue in an effort to block it?

As an elected official, I would be willing to work with the other members of the council to weigh and consider our best options. First and foremost, however, I would be willing to honor our democratic process and adequately represent the voice of the Cobb community and their decision/concerns about the matter.

Can the scope of county government, and thus county expenses, be reduced further? If so, what would you cut?

I believe at this time the county is operating on a budget that has endured enough cuts. If there would be any more cuts, it will have to be in the best interest to make sure we maintain public safety to keep our families safe.

Is the practice of “walking the halls” to gauge commissioners’ feelings on issues before they vote in public efficient government, or does it circumvent open meetings laws?

I plan to operate as a transparent elected official who believes in keeping the community engaged and aware of my standing on issues. I believe that this line of communication and transparency is not in violation of open meeting laws.

Does Cobb offer too little, too much or the right amount of financial incentives to lure new jobs?

It is my belief that Cobb officials need to direct incentives to provide proper resources and training for jobs being lured to the area. It serves little purpose and benefit to our community to lure jobs/employers with employees already in place-who may not reside in the Cobb area. Cobb officials need to lure jobs that will employ Cobb residents.

Should the commission have stronger oversight of the two Community Improvement Districts? If so, what type of oversight do you envision?

I envision that the Community Improvement Districts should receive input from residents and the input should be used to make that best decisions are being made.

Do you promise not to vote for a tax increase during this term, if elected?

At this time I am not able to make a conclusive statement about this issue.

When the county SPLOST expires, would you support an extension for four, five or six years?

I would support the decision if the majority of the residents are in favor of the project.

Do you favor changing the law to allow SPLOST money to support the arts?

Being able to live in an area where you can visit museums, watch a live play and explore different cultures is what needed to shape a community.

Should Cobb spend tax dollars on the Chamber’s EDGE program?

Initially if that what is in the budget, to continue to leverage funding we must have the right partners in place to apply for grants and seek other funding resources.

Do you favor outsourcing more economic-development work to the Chamber?

If the employees will be Cobb residents I would be in favor of it. We have to get people back to work.

What should the county do to encourage redevelopment in south Cobb?

The county should continue to engage businesses to offer their input. The county should have business owners who have been in the area over 5 years to be a true stakeholder in the process and not just in name only. In addition make sure all partners that are included reflect diversity.

What is the biggest problem you want to solve, if elected, and how would you do it?

The biggest problem we have is not enough people knowing the real issues and what to do, I would be a hands on official who will work non-stop on informing the people about the issues by attending homeowner association meeting, apartment community meetings and school meetings. I want the community to know they have a voice.