League of Women Voters election survey: Vonciel Jones Hill, candidate for Dallas City Council, District 5

by Staff 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 Vonciel Jones Hill, who is running for re-election for the District 5 seat on the Dallas City Council, appear below. Hill is being challenged by three other opponents - Jurline Hollins, Tiffinni Young, and Don Robinson.

LWV: What are your qualifications for this office?

Hill: I am currently serving District 5. I have implemented several major projects since I was elected in 2007, including a renovated shopping center in Pleasant Grove, "Trash Attack" (a beautification project), and an on-going truancy dialogue with DISD.

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?

Hill: I would reduce services, other than public safety, code enforcement, and street maintenance, and consider a minimum tax increase. I would cut twice weekly trash pick-up and have once weekly trash pick-up and once weekly recycle pick-up throughout the City.

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?

Hill: I favor a convention center hotel. I do not support its being owned by the city. I believe that the hotel should be privately owned.

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

Hill: The Trinity River Corridor project is an excellent public works endeavor. However, safety is paramount and the Council must be guided by the opinion of the experts as to how, when, and if, to proceed with the toll road. The problems with the levees must be corrected immediately.

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

Hill: In my opinion, the current Code is sufficient.