There are better ways to bring in more money, without costing Davenport taxpayers. That was the message yesterday from Bob Babcock, who announced he's running for City Council in the 8th Ward.
Babcock is a long-time activist from Davenport, and has several ideas to make the best use of existing resources. For example, he wants to increase funding for road repairs and snow plowing.
And, he says it wouldn't require raising taxes.
He also proposes expanding hours for Citibus. Babcock says the current limited hours make it hard for residents to travel at night, or get home after work. And walking home late can be dangerous, especially in the winter.
Babcock also supports a program to help Davenport students pay for college tuition, in exchange for community service. He says the "Davenport Promise" program failed six years ago because it would have been funded by taxes, instead of donations.
The theme of Babcock's city council campaign is "We Love Davenport." The 8th Ward seat is currently held by Kerri Tompkins, who was elected in 2013.