Lisa Cowand

District 3 Candidate
Incumbent

Lisa Cowand


1. Why do you think you’d make a good supervisor?

My children were the main motivation for my getting involved in local government, over 17 years ago and to this day, remain my driving force. I am optimistic about our future. However, I am also concerned about our future.

It is essential that we have dedicated and involved leadership to ensure that our standard of living is not compromised. It is imperative that we continue to seek quality employment, focus on a safe community, strive for a pristine environment and continually improve on our educational systems, so that our families can inherit a community that they too can be proud of. I am committed to ensuring that our standard of living is not compromised.

Serving as your supervisor, I have a great appreciation of the importance that involvement, honesty and full-time commitment hold in the effectiveness of county government. My experience on Planning Boards and Commissions - along with my elected office - have prepared me well for the unprecedented challenges we face.

I am proud of our community – I’m equally proud of my record. I have demonstrated the ability to work with others and achieve positive results. I am committed to openness and involvement. I need your support and ask that you consider my qualifications and sincerity when you make your choice on August 7th.


2. What do you think are the three overall priorities for Hancock County?

1. A post-disaster recovery vision for housing in Hancock County has emerged. Affordable housing is at the top of the list.

2. Katrina’s storm surge resulted in destruction of water and sewer systems, our storm water drainage systems and treatment plants throughout the county. We are now faced with reconstruction and expansion of those systems to enable residential and commercial building.

3. Economic revitalization: Port and Harbor expansions, tourism development and cultural services are all catalysts, having multiple positive impacts on our community and recovery.


3. What are your concerns for infrastructure in the county?

Prior to Katrina, our infrastructure had steadily improved. As you may remember, the Bay of St. Louis was one of the top impaired bodies of water in our state. We have since received the prestigious Gulf Guardian Award for making great strides in cleaning the waterways – all the way to the lower reaches of the Jourdan River.

Now, more than ever, confirmed plans to improve on our wastewater are a must. We don’t want to digress. We cannot afford to cut any corners in insuring that we leave a healthy environment for our future generations to inherit.


4. What are your thoughts on improving communication between the county and city governments for more cooperation and efficiency?

Communication must and can always be improved on. With the monumental task and challenges that Katrina has presented, communications between city and county government was and continues to be a daily routine. Discussions on a quarter basis have and will continue to transpire, to insure a comprehensive recovery.


5. Should consolidation of any services be considered between Hancock county and the cities of Bay St. Louis and Waveland?

We have a proven record in consolidating service: Our tax department, E-911, Regional Waste Authority and our Hancock Solid Waste Authority have all worked well. These consolidations not only allow our county to speak with one voice, but open dialogue once again between your elected officials. Recreation and code enforcement could also be considered.


6. The Board of Supervisors is currently considering an Interim Development Ordinance . What’s your opinion of the proposed ordinance?

With the exception to some minor changes, I think it is a good working tool. I support the Interim Development Ordinance. Our county is in the process of updating our comprehensive plan – this ordinance will bridge the gap until our comprehensive plan is in place. Premature development or development of the wrong type or wrong location could prohibit our county’s ability to plan for common sense growth patterns, basic services and other amenities efficiently. The IDO is essential to the rebuilding of our county.


7. What’s your vision for the Bayou Caddy/Lakeshore/Clermont Harbor area?

As you may know, the C-4 zoning that directly affects that area is in litigation and at this time, I must reserve comment.


8. What are your thoughts on balancing future growth and the quality of life for residents?

Now is the time for us to balance; planning is a must. A comprehensive plan, coupled with an updated land use and zoning plan, will not only guide what our future growth will allow, but where and how it will be allowed as well. Implementation of the IDO will also insure the county’s ability to plan for rational growth patterns, restore basic facilities and provide essential services in an efficient manner.

Economic growth and development should match our citizens expectations for protection of Hancock County’s natural resources.