League of Women Voters election survey: Marvin Crenshaw, candidate for Dallas City Council, District 7

by Staff of of League of Women Voters

The League of Women Voters of Dallas sent a questionnaire to every candidate running for public office in Dallas County. The election on May 9 features a number of city council races.

The responses of Marvin E. Crenshaw, who is running for the District 7 seat on the Dallas City Council, appear below. Crenshaw is running against seven other opponents - incumbent Carolyn R. Davis, Charles "Chazz" Redd, Ron Price,John Jay Myers, Anthony "Tony" Rios, Donald P. Parish, Sr., and Gary Wayne Springer.

LWV: What are your qualifications for this office?

Crenshaw: I am over 18 years of age, a registered voter and have lived in District 7 6 months as required by the city charter. In 1988 I was co-plaintiff in the voting rights lawsuit which created the 14- 1 city council structure. I have offered my services in 1983 84.

LWV: The City of Dallas has a potential $100M shortfall in the next city budget. How would you close the gap? If you would cut services, which ones would you cut?

Crenshaw: The one service I would cut is the $1million of Dallas taxpayers money used to provide protection for former president George W. Bush.

LWV: Are you in favor of a convention center hotel? If yes, do you support the current plan to finance its construction with revenue bonds and have the city own the hotel?

Crenshaw: I am in favor of a convention center hotel but do not support the current plan of financing Embassy Suites in Houston will build a $250 million convention center hotel with out tax payer assistance. I also support the right of the citizens group who gathered petitions as required by the charter. I will vote Yes on Proposition 1.

LWV: What is your response to recent reports (e.g., Corps of Engineers, North Texas Tollway Authority) regarding the Trinity River tollroad/levee issues?

Crenshaw: The citizens who reside in city council district 7 voted against the toll road and understood the importance of the levees. Also, a Lamar street economic development district should be formed to assist the recyling centers and the other businesses on Lamar. As the representative from district look out for the welfare of the citizens of district 7 and the business on Lamar.

LWV: Do you think the City of Dallas Ethics Code needs to be strengthened? If yes, in what way(s)?

Crenshaw: No answer provided.