© 2003, Rotary Club of Charleston

P.O. Box 21029
Charleston, SC 29413-1029

Club secretary:
Carroll Schweers
chasrot@comcast.net

Mayoral candidates present their platforms
Rotarians get firsthand view of candidates in Charleston race

OCT. 21, 2003 - Club members enjoyed a spirited presentation and mini-debate this week by all five of the candidates for the Charleston mayor position. Those candidates are: Jimmy Bailey, Kwadjo Campbell, Tom Doyle, Marc Knapp, and the incumbent, Joe Riley. Registered voters will select from these five individuals on November 4, 2003.

In a session moderated by Larry Tarleton, each candidate made a brief introduction of his qualifications and platform, which was followed by questions submitted by Rotarians with answers by the candidates.

In short summary, some of the topics covered were as follows. Campbell, in his second term on Charleston City Council, argued for more conservative and priority spending, increased policing, and a decrease in the size of government as a whole. Knapp, who said the voters "keep electing people who have no clue what their job entails," wanted to replace certain officials, including Rotarians Reuben Greenberg (Chief of Police) and Howard Chapman (CARTA) and get back to the "nuts and bolts" of running the City.

Riley, seeking his 8th consecutive term as mayor, focused on successes of the past, including achievements in the Police and Fire Departments and spoke of a continued focus on education. Doyle had four themes: change, fairness, inclusion and accountability. Among other things, he supports tolls to complete I-526, so that those who use it, pay for it. Finally, Bailey said Charleston is a "first class city with third world problems", including non-fire retardant uniforms for firefighters. If elected, he would focus on crime, traffic, and other "basics."

-- Amy Jenkins

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