STAFF REPORTS
In advance of the election in Franklin on Oct. 22, Franklin Home Page has asked each candidate — whether they have an opponent or not — to answer a series of questions about their candidacy.
The following is the seventh in a series we will publish ahead of election night. Read the other pieces in our series here.
Incumbent Pearl Bransford, who is running against Bhavani Muvvala to keep her at-large alderman seat, answered the following questions via an email questionnaire:
How is your campaign helping voters learn about you?
I have a very opened campaign where I have hosted several Meet & Greet Events in different neighborhoods and communities. I’m also publishing my message in the local press.
In your time as alderman-at-large, what has been your biggest achievement?
There are many achievements that has been accomplished over my 12 years as Alderman at Large. Most notable is my vote to support the additional funding needed to get Matcher state ready for approval. This vote of support was significant to all citizens of Franklin. My vote to support Parks and sidewalks Improvements with the city and Public Private partnership with Friends of Franklin Parks.
What do you bring as alderman-at-large that you think your opponent wouldn’t?
In 5-10 years, I envision a thriving city that is focus on a high quality of life for all its citizens. A city that take care of its homeless and hungry.
What is the biggest community issue facing your constituents now, and what would you do to remedy it?
You should vote for me because I bring a deeper understanding of the Franklin community than my opponent. I’ve lived in Franklin for 35 years. I plan to continue to live here. I have served on various local Boards and Committees. I know many of the old locals and the newcomers that has grown with Franklin growth. I want to help lead a safe, caring and prosperous city for the next generation.
Franklin is facing a lot of issues related to growth. Where do you see the area in 5-10 years and what do you see as your role in that conversation?
There are, in my opinion, three issues facing the Franklin community at large. Housing, Traffic and a sustainable entry level workforce. All Three issues are interdependent of each other. We need local entry level workers for many service jobs. Notice the Help Wanted Signs? Some possible steps would include Developers incentives, Public Private Partnership. Public Safety and teachers housing incentives. We need workers that can afford to live here and have proximity to local jobs.
If a constituent asked, “Why should I vote for you?,” what would be your response?
I will bring to the Board an involved local community advocate that will listen to all constituency.
What made you run for re-election?
I’m running for re-election because I have invested time and talent in understanding and serving the local community. I’m running because I want to create policies and procedures that will leave our city in good standing for the next generations. Clean water, good sanitation practices, safe streets, open spaces and parks. I’m approachable and I will listen to all citizens.