PATRICK BURKE III
1. Why do you believe you are the best person for this position?
Experience and Proven leadership. I was on the front lines in the fight against the Casino and Library issue representing District 8 as your RPEC member. My many years of community involvement in District 8 gives me a better understanding of specific issues and challenges. Successfully managing several small businesses gives me a good understanding of budgeting and finance.
2. Are you in favor of a restricted section for sexually explicit books (described in Act 436) at the public library (meaning a need for parental approval to view, not just putting books in the adult section that is still accessible)?
I am in favor of a restricted section of the library for sexually explicit books where children have no access. I am not in favor of banning books; however, I am in favor of protecting the innocence of our children by placing such books in a separate area of the library.
3. How do you plan to force the Library Board to change current actions and make decisions according to St. Tammany community standards?
By supporting legislation that would give the Parish Council full oversight authority over the Library Board. When law is passed then compel the Library Board members to adhere to Community Standards. If they refuse, then immediately remove them. If it leads to lawsuits, then so be it. Our children are worth fighting for!
4. What do you see as the most important problem that needs solving in this parish?
High Density Developments that cause drainage issues, traffic problems and put a heavy burden on our infrastructure. I am not against growth as we need it, I am for smart growth. Before developments are approved, we need to do our due diligence to ensure we have the adequate infrastructure in place to support it.
5. What will be your approach to fix the financial crisis facing the parish?
A strategic approach. We must analyze the entire budget and identify the causes of the crisis. Our crisis is a complex one. We have underfunded state mandated services for the DA and the Jail while the library is sitting on 14 million. Reallocate funds without increasing taxes. We need to prioritize services without compromising essential services.
6. Bio Info:
Patrick Burke, married to Katrina Burke for 28 years. He has 5 children and 4 grandchildren. US Army Veteran. He is a Mortgage Banker and a Notary Public. Member of the Slidell Rotary Club. Leadership Northshore graduate and Board of Trustees member. He serves as an Elections Commissioner. He was elected to the St Tammany Republican Parish Executive Committee and The Republican State Central Committee (LAGOP). He is a charter member of Men of Steel and serves on the Slidell Heritage Festival Board.