Aila Boyd
aboyd@mainstreetnewspapers.com
Salem residents gathered at the Salem Public Library on Oct. 18 for “Coffee with City Council,” a forum where candidates running for Salem City Council shared their platforms and answered questions. Local journalist Gene Marrano moderated the event, which was hosted by the Salem-Roanoke County Chamber of Commerce. Three candidates—Jim Wallace, Mayor Renee Turk and Anne Marie Green—participated, while former City Councilman John Saunders was absent.
Jim Wallace, when asked why he was running, mentioned that years ago, he had been upset about issues in the schools and wanted to replace the school board. He expressed satisfaction with recent economic developments in the city, including the Valleydale and 419 projects, and emphasized the importance of adhering to zoning and codes. Wallace also called for Salem to engage with the “Virginia Main Street” program.
Mayor Renee Turk, who lost her 2019 election bid but won a seat in 2020, explained that she ran to bring a woman’s business perspective to the City Council. With a background in business and education, she saw her role as a great opportunity to serve the city.
Anne Marie Green stressed the need for Salem to be careful with spending, citing the city’s water tower project as an example of a poor decision. She emphasized the importance of maintaining the city’s existing buildings and assets.
During the forum, the candidates were asked whether Salem is business-friendly and if the city effectively cuts through red tape. Wallace pointed to recent economic developments and the city’s comprehensive 10-year plan through the Virginia Main Street program. Turk called business the “lifeblood of the city” and said she was open to improvements. Green added that supporting small and unique businesses is critical to attracting visitors.
On the topic of fiscal responsibility, Wallace advocated for maintaining a six-month fiscal reserve and returning any surplus funds to taxpayers. He also stressed the importance of balancing Salem’s high level of services with real estate valuations. Turk described the city’s finances as a balancing act between revenue and expenses, highlighting the importance of thoughtful decisions when using taxpayer money. Green emphasized the need to use funds to maintain public infrastructure.
Housing affordability and development were also discussed, with the candidates weighing in on the HopeTree housing project. Turk defended her decision to support the project after 10 months of information gathering, noting that it preserves green space, maintains historic buildings and includes traffic studies and density restrictions. Wallace opposed the development, arguing that Salem does not have a housing issue and that the federal government cannot solve the housing problem. He also pointed to upcoming homes in the Valleydale project. Green acknowledged that housing costs, like $2,000 monthly apartments at Valleydale, may be affordable for newcomers but remain out of reach for many locals.
When asked about Salem’s biggest challenges, Wallace pointed to aging infrastructure and the importance of economic development to generate revenue. Turk mentioned the need for more hotels to capture lodging taxes from visitors attending events in Salem. Green noted that the city’s population has skewed younger in recent years, and she stressed the importance of attracting young families.
The forum concluded with the candidates sharing what they believe is the best aspect of Salem. Wallace and Green both emphasized safety and the sense of community, while Turk highlighted the city’s quality of life, services and camaraderie.
