"No one should fear losing their home because of special assessments" - Mark Splonskowski
"I live in the great City Of Bismarck with my wife Alexandria, our daughter Charlotte, and a son due this coming spring. I currently work for Burleigh County as A Tax Appraiser and have been there since 2014. Speaking with the tax payers, explaining the way the process works, and addressing their grievances is part of my inspiration to run for office."
LIST OF ISSUES
EDUCATION
Mark wants to work with other political subdivisions and developers for a more responsible growth plan for Bismarck. Mark said "Schools drive neighborhood growth and property value, this is why the city commission must work openly with the local school board when there is talk about closing schools."
HOUSING
The success of Bismarck is in the hands of the people who invest in the future of our community. "If the City Commission cant work openly and honestly with developers we will see a rise in housing costs, in a community already hurting from a lack of affordable housing." he continued "We cant be a community if we rob people of their homes through special assessments, or rob them through irresponsible fees on empty lots that make their first home unattainable.".
LAW ENFORCEMENT
Mark is concerned about the rising crime rate in Bismarck and how the City Commission will work to stem this in the future." In 2016 the reported annual crime in Bismarck showed a 97% increase, that is 44% higher than the average of crimes committed in North Dakota, It is also 29% higher than the national average. If we want to protect the investment people have put into their homes and businesses we need to focus on this growing problem. "we must continue our support of local law enforcement, and that means keeping them a priority in budget making." .
BUDGET
If elected to the City Commission Mark will work to eliminate special assessments, out of control spending, and see the tax payers money spent efficiently. With proper prioritizing the City of Bismarck can continue to grow, with a competitive tax plan that fully funds infrastructure, police, and fire protection, without anyone losing their homes. The city commission owes it the the tax payers to encourage growth not to use the tax code to manipulate or punish development.