FAQs

Thank you to all that came out to the Meet the Candidate Forum.  I wanted to use my blog to relay and address some of the most frequently asked questions that came up not only at the forum, but also as I have been walking the neighborhoods and meeting with and talking to voters. 

·         How will the council help improve the business development of Old Town Helena?
This has probably been one of the most asked questions/concerns that I have heard.  During my current term on the city council, I have done a lot of due diligence on this topic. Unfortunately there is no simple, short term answer. 

·         Helena does not currently have an active Economic Development Board.  The council is very limited in its power to attract new business.  The creation of an active Economic Development Board with some real power to attract business development would be a big step in improving the business environment in Old Town Helena. 

·         During my current term as a member of the council, I did attend a seminar on small town development and branding and found that there are companies out there that focus on helping small towns like ours develop their business districts.  Of course this is not a free service, so it is something that would have to be given a lot of consideration.  It is my understanding that these companies work hard with the city to work within a reasonable budget based on the revenue and budget of the city.

·         Other issues facing potential new business owners in Old Town Helena is the cost of rent.  Again, unfortunately since most of the real estate is privately owned, there is not a lot the council can to regarding rental rates.   The council certainly encourages property owners to look at the potential for downtown and make their rental rates reasonable to attract new business which would benefit everyone.

 

·         What can be done to elevate some of the traffic congestion particularly on 261/Morgan Road?

·         Once again, this is an issue over which the council holds very little control.  We all agree that there is a lot of congestion, especially in the morning and evening during rush hours.  Plans have been approved to four lane 261/Morgan Road for a number of years, but the issue is that of funding which is controlled by the state and by the county.

·         If I live in one of the more recently annexed subdivisions that is in Jefferson County, can I still vote in the city election even though Helena is in Shelby County?

·         The answer is yes.  As long as you are properly registered you certainly have a voice in the city of Helena and I encourage you to vote.  At the county level you would still vote in Jefferson County.

·         Why do you have two people running against you for Place 1 while Place 5 is unopposed?

·         As the incumbent in Place 1, I chose to run for re-election to the seat I have held for four years.  I am very dedicated to continuing to work for the residents of Helena.  As to why I have two opponents, you would have to contact each of them and ask why they both chose to run against me leaving one seat unopposed. 

As my campaign moves forward, I again encourage and urge you to contact me with your questions and concerns.  I cannot reiterate enough how important it is for me to hear from you, the residents! 
You may call me directly at (205) 451-2955 or email me at auhulsey@gmail.com.