Various Issue Positions

Forced Annexation:

I believe that anyone forced into taxation without having a choice of who represents them; and by extension, leverages said taxes against them, is un-American. Annexation is often a necessary function of a city's growth; however, forced annexation does not take into account the voices of those being annexed. A city should be managed well enough and offer attractive enough services that it would serve as a benefit for a certain population to be annexed. Furthermore, those who are to be annexed should at least have the ability to vote on the issue.

Taxpayer-Funded Capital Projects:

A hot-button issue affecting us as taxpayers in Wilmington currently is that of our very expensive convention center currently under construction in downtown Wilmington. Every signal was given that this was a bad idea to burden overtaxed citizens with, and yet the decision was made regardless of public opinion. There is nothing that can be done about the convention center's development - contracts are in place and the deal is set. However, I will continually monitor its performance as a revenue generator, which is what it was promised to be, and at the first sign of its losing money, will vote in favor of selling it back to the private sector where such a project should belong in the first place.

Titan Cement Plant

Another topic of heated debate in our community is that of Titan America wanting to build a cement manufacturing facility in New Hanover County. As a City Councilman, I would have no direct authority over the affairs of the county. However, Wilmington would be affected by the facility's presence, and therefore it is an important issue to tackle.

UPDATE 10/21/09: I have given this issue more consideration. My thoughts go to my sister, who has suffered from severe autism since the day she was born. Autism has been intimately linked to mercury poisoning, and therefore, how in good conscience could I turn a blind eye to a facility that will be emitting massive amounts of mercury into our local environment? Even if Titan passes all regulation for mercury level output, I could opt for zero mercury by positioning myself against the plant.

No mercury level is considered "safe" for children and our sensitive waterways, that have already sustained huge environmental costs due to the failing of our sewer infrastructure. We need clean jobs in our region - poisoning our community isn't worth what Titan has to offer. Plus, what reverse economic impact will be felt when people in our community pack up and leave town when Titan is built?

Absolutely NO to Titan Cement Plant.

If you would like ask me a question regarding a specific issue, please send to ben@mccoyforcouncil.com