This is the fourth in a series of candidate question and answer features St. Tammany News will run before the upcoming elections. Each candidate was asked a series of the same five questions.

Michael T. “Terry” Youngs, District F candidate for the Slidell City Council has lived in the district for 37 years, 29 of them with his wife Nancy Stogner Youngs. The conservative Christian Republican supports the Republican party platform and is an active member of Grace Memorial Baptist Church, has been a part-time employee of the church, and has headed several outreach programs.

Youngs experience and education includes attending the University of Southwestern Louisiana 1963-1965; United States Air Force Vietnam veteran, 1966-1970, discharged with honors; retirement from the Slidell Police Department, with honors in 2001 after 27 years of service at all levels from patrol officer to supervisor, to division commander and executive level positions. He has conducted law enforcement seminars throughout the southeast United States for LSU and the University of North Florida.

YOUNGS

He has specialized training in human resources development; supervision; management; administration; integrity leadership; internal affairs; and ethics and integrity. He is also a certified law enforcement instructor in Louisiana and Florida.

He is a former chairman of the local chapter of Ducks Unlimited, a former member of Fraternal Order of Police and served as construction lead for Habitat for Humanity. He also worked for the National Park Service as Administrative Ranger.

Youngs listed his attributes as being self-motivated, having great initiative, is dedicated and possesses a wealth of administrative experience

What do you think is the biggest problem facing your district? Problems vary depending on the area of the district; however, flooding and drainage are of concern throughout. Some areas are in much greater need than others, and need to be addressed first.

Street and sidewalk repair is also needed district wide. Hazardous situations, both streets and sidewalks, should be the next priority, followed by damage that could increase if left unchecked.

Code enforcement is another issued to be addressed. Although maybe not a health or safety hazard, enforcement is necessary to maintain a clean, presentable area, and to maintain property values.

What can be done to protect Slidell from future hurricanes? The tidal surge from Katrina was most devastating. The construction of a protective levee for the southern and eastern edges of the city is essential. This, along with timely and effective canal and ditch maintenance is also essential. We must bear in mind, that a 15-20 foot tidal surge could only be stopped by a 16-21 foot levee! We must decide what level of protection we want.

Do you think the city’s finances are in good shape? If not, what can be done to improve them? Slidell, like most other cities, is experiencing financial difficulties. The finances of the city are not in good shape. Only an upturn in the economy will correct this problem. Until then, we might consider the following: not filling vacancies (except essential positions); impose a hiring freeze; severely restrict overtime, except for catastrophic emergencies; eliminate unnecessary or redundant positions; and reevaluate priorities in purchasing and projects. During times such as these, we all must adjust our spending habits and priorities.

What can be done to improve the quality of life in Slidell? The quality of life in Slidell is very good. Our health care facilities, law enforcement and education are outstanding. City services are good, but are hindered by financial constraints. Sewerage and drainage in some parts of the city are old and need repair or replacement, some of this will be funded by existing bonds. Many streets and sidewalks need repair, with much of this damage being caused by erosion due to leaks in the drainage. These must be addressed first to prevent further damage. Routine street repairs need to continue, on a priority basis, with those presenting no long term, ill-effect being put on hold until the economy allows it.

What can be done to bring more jobs to the city? It has been said that the process for opening a business is too difficult and confusing. Perhaps a realignment of the process in which all steps are coordinated with each other and follow a smoother flow will be helpful.

Attempting to attract new industry and business is essential.

Temporary tax breaks may be necessary to draw them. With increased population from hiring, and increased tax revenue from spending, the tax breaks could be offset and possibly generate increased sales tax in the future.