Milford Times sent the same set of questions to all candidates who are running for the Ward 2 City Council seat currently held by Councilwoman Lori Connor who did not register to run for another term. These are responses from Nina Pletcher. The responses are in the candidate’s own words in response to questions gathered from members of the community. The election is Saturday, April 25 from 10 AM to 6 PM at the Public Works Office, 180 Vickers Drive, Milford. Only residents registered to vote in Ward 2 will be able to vote as all other seats are unopposed.
 Personal Commitment and Background
Do you as a prospective city council member have the time to commit to carrying out your duties, considering your occupation, business involvement, family and social commitments?
I am committed to the time requirements that are expected of the Council members.
 What experience do you have in working cooperatively with people you don’t agree with or dislike to resolve difficult issues?
I have a management background and have worked w/all genres of people. Plenty of disagreement to go around in my lifetime.
 Can you share with the public your history of involvement in the Milford Community and how it has prepared you to serve on City Council? How does this involvement qualify you to serve on council. Will you vote for or against something that you feel is the right thing for Milford even though you may be pressured to vote otherwise?
 I have attended as many Council meetings as possible, either in person or on Zoom since Covid (about 6 years).. I have observed the protocols and Council dynamics. I plan to vote on issues based on constituent input as best I can
Growth and Development
As Milford continues to grow, how do you plan to manage future development while maintaining the city’s character and quality of life?
Sprawl and density are a concern. As these remain an issue, maintaining the city’s character and quality of life will be a focus for me. Monitoring the Board of Adjustment and Planning & Zoning activity will be key.Â
 Do you believe current zoning regulations are adequate, or do they require changes? Additionally, what is your stance on high-density housing versus single-family development, and where should each be prioritized within the city?
I have to believe that the current zoning regs are adequate, but realize that these can and should be reviewed and modified as needed periodically. Â
Affordable housing is key whether it’s higher density or single-family housing
Economic Development
What strategies would you prioritize to attract new businesses to Milford while still supporting existing businesses?
A vigorous campaign to market Milford as OUR town and what it has to offer, much like Lewes and Berlin do, would be my wish/strategy to attract new businesses while supporting existing ones.Â
 How do you feel the city can encourage diverse economic growth beyond retail?
An aggressive campaign to recruit tenants for the new industrial park should attract a diverse clientele that goes beyond retail.
What role should incentives play in economic development and how would you ensure they benefit residences as well as new businesses?
I am not in favor of developers expecting to come before Council requesting waivers to the current Code. I would support whatever incentives are in place that are legal.
 In what ways would you support downtown vitality and small businesses as an economic driver in Milford?
Again. A vigorous campaign to market Milford as OUR town and encourage the hometown folks to shop local would support the downtown’s vitality.Â
Retail Marijuana
Milford currently prohibits marijuana sales within city limits; however, there are vape shops operating that sell unregulated THC products, and the city may be facing legal challenges from a dispensary that believes it was previously grandfathered under earlier regulations. Given these factors, do you support revisiting or modifying the city’s current ban on marijuana sales?
I do support the City to revisit their decision to ban marijuana salesÂ
 If so, what specific changes would you consider, and how would you address concerns related to regulation, fairness, public safety, and consistency in enforcement?
My understanding is that these dispensaries are prepared to ensure public safety, consistency of enforcement and regulation of their products. This should be no different than any other business whether it’s a grocery store, pharmacy,or restaurant that serves the public
Parks & Recs
As Milford continues to grow, what is your vision for expanding parks, recreational spaces, and family-friendly amenities?
If you build it they will come. No such thing as too many parks, trails, bike paths, etc. Promotes family time and overall good will.
 Are there specific types of facilities—such as playgrounds, walking trails, bike lanes, or community recreation areas—that you believe are currently lacking and should be prioritized?
Same as #1.
 How would you approach planning and funding these improvements, and how would you ensure they are accessible, safe, and beneficial for residents of all ages?
Grant dollars and always a good place to start for these recreational amenities. Good lighting and limits on when these amenities are open can help ensure public safety for all citizens of all ages. Emergency stations would also add to security.
 Additionally, how do you see investments in parks and recreation contributing to Milford’s overall quality of life and long-term growth?
- Same as #1. Â
