Candidate Survey: Steven McKay for Frederick County Council, District 2

TheDuckpin.com Candidate Survey

Name*

Steven McKay

Age*

58

Office Sought*

County Council

County*

Frederick

District, if applicable*

2

Political Party*

Republican

Education*

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science; Masters of Public Management, National Security Concentration

Career/Occupation*

Federal contractor in the National Security field

Political Experience*

Currently finishing my first four-year term as County Council Member; prior to that lead a community group focused on development-related issues in Frederick County.

Social Media Accounts*

https://www.facebook.com/SteveMcKay4FrederickCounty https://twitter.com/mckay4FredCo

Website*

http://www.McKay4FrederickCounty.org/

Why are you running for office?*

I'm running for a second term as Council Member because I believe that I have been doing a good job for Frederick County. At the outset, I set out to accomplish certain priorities related to our land development regulations and I've been able to get those changes done. In the meantime, I was able to get two additional bills into law that provide property tax credits to our disable veterans and retired service members. I also accomplished a three-part effort, involving State legislation and two Charter amendments, to improve how we fill vacancies with our County Executive, County Council, and Board of Education, by enabling these decisions to go to the voter. I've also worked to help our agricultural community and to fight against continual high growth in the County budget. Lastly, I believe that I've been a reasonable and professional voice on our Council. I interact respectfully with my colleagues and I clearly articulate my decisions, including through regular interaction with my constituents via email and social media. This is how I've served my first term and if I'm re-elected, it is how I'll continue to serve.

Who do you consider your political role model, and why?*

I don't know that I have a political role model, mainly because I don't see myself as political person. The politics don't drive me nearly as much as the issues and the simple task of fixing problems. There have been national level leaders that I've admired over my lifetime, including both Presidents Bush, Senator Romney, Senator McCain, and Ross Perot. But these would all be for many and varied reasons.

What is your favorite book about politics and policy, and why?*

I don't think I could name one.

What will be your top priority in office?*

Continued vigilance on over-development in the County, providing for some budgetary restraint, and support for our veterans.

What is the biggest issue facing your area?*

Development pressures.

What are the three biggest issues facing Maryland?*

Spending, taxes, and dominant position of a few Democrat-controlled counties over the rest of the State.

What is your position on life issues? (abortion, assisted suicide)*

I don't have public positions on these issues. At the County level, they are really not in our purview.

What is your position on taxes and spending?*

I prefer moderate growth in government spending and when government runs a surplus, it should look for ways to provide the money back to the taxpayers. Taxes should be the minimum that we need to fund core government functions (education, emergency services, and a social net).

What is your position on gun rights?*

I don't have a public position on gun rights because this is not an issue under the County's purview. Personally, I think individuals have a right to bear arms but that is not without reasonable limits, in terms of the types of weapons and background checks.

What is your position on the legalization of marijuana?*

I am opposed to it.

What is your position on the current three-tiered system for the sale and distribution of alcohol?*

I have no opinion on it. I'm content where I current can buy alcohol.

What is your position on land use, growth, and development?*

I have been a strong advocate for responsible growth. Most importantly, this means that we should grow a little slower and we must ensure that critical infrastructure (roads, schools, water & sewer) are provided in time for the need posed by new development. I favor farmland preservation in Frederick County and opposed encroachment of new development in our agricultural areas.

What is your position on crime and public safety?*

I oppose crime and support public safety! Our County Sheriff has done a good job controlling crime in Frederick County.

What is your position on county tax caps?*

Our primary issue is about finding ways to lower taxes.

N/A

Was Joe Biden legitimately elected President of the United States in the November 2020 Election?*

Yes

Do you pledge to accept the results of your election?*

Yes