Ann Arbor Mayor John Hieftje thinks investments made during his tenure are already paying results and will continue to do so. The issue of spending priorities however is one voters will be looking at as the city chooses a new mayor for the first time in 14 years.
Hieftje points to the underground parking structure as helping grow the local economy. That's because he doesn't think the city's growing tech sector would have been possible without additional parking downtown. He says these jobs have helped keep the area more active, boosting restuarants and other businesses.
Hieftje also believes the now discontinued percent for art program is making the city more attractive to visitors and future residents.
On the campaign trail however the four Democrats running for mayor have mixed thoughts on what attention the city should place in areas beyond the basics. Tune into 89.1 WEMU on Monday for a report on what community members and the candidates are saying about basic services and more aspirational projects.
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— Andrew Cluley is the Ann Arbor beat reporter, and anchor for 89.1 WEMU News. Contact him at 734.487.3363 or email him acluley@emich.edu.