Ward II: Frank Borovetz vs. Shawn Raper

Q: As one councilor on a council of nine, what special contributions would you have to offer?

BOROVETZ: I have experience in providing service to citizens and responding timely and accurately to their concerns. I have researched strategic plan applications for municipalities which should be useful. As the first city budget chairman, this prior knowledge will help Muskogee continue being good stewards of available finances. I am an independent thinker.

RAPER: I have a bachelor’s degree in finance from Northeastern State University, so I have a strong understanding of budget issues. I have more than 18 years of experience in small business as a restaurant operator and a Realtor.

I have helped many businesses relocate or expand in Muskogee so I understand their unique needs.

I am a strong advocate in selling Muskogee to new industries.

Q: What steps should Muskogee take the next couple of years to improve its economic base and vitality?

RAPER: We have to get serious about recruiting new industrial and tech jobs for our city. Most people would like to see Muskogee grow, but that won’t happen without new jobs. We have to identify what actions we can take to make us more competitive in attracting new industries. Then we have to make those changes.

We also need to provide additional support for Muskogee Development Corp. to help them sell Muskogee. We should also develop a way to track their effectiveness so we can be sure we are getting our money’s worth.

Improvements to the city that enhance quality of life issues are also be important to the growth of our local economy. We should continue to make Muskogee a more attractive and friendly place to live.

BOROVETZ: The city of Muskogee must demonstrate and re-establish confidence with the citizens for economic development to bring quality jobs to the area. An aggressive posture by the City Council working in unison with Muskogee Development must be shown if a dedicated tax for economic development is voted by the electorate.

A strategic plan for Muskogee will provide a future with a vision that will enhance unity among the citizens. This vision will utilize our strengths and weaknesses in reaching a conclusion. We will know what Muskogeeans want for the future with paths, goals and checkpoints along the way to guide us.