Germantown trustee candidates split over downtown vision, density and tax tradeoffs

Germantown village trustee candidates answered resident questions on redevelopment, budgets, maintenance and communications at a Chamber-hosted forum.

David Bomb, a long‑time trustee candidate, framed his campaign around fighting misinformation and advancing a village‑center vision that emphasizes residential density first to support downtown retail. "I want to get the information back out to our residents," he said, urging public discussion before approvals. Scott Heffley, a finance professional, warned of substantial borrowing and deferred maintenance and said the village needs stronger financial oversight to manage $95 million in debt and planned capital programs.

Candidates widely agreed that a single 200‑unit multifamily proposal at a central site should not proceed without explicit resident engagement and a coherent plan: most said density may be required to support shops and restaurants, but that community visioning and detailed planning must come first. Several candidates also highlighted a lack of proactive long‑term maintenance budgeting (park pavilions and public safety facility needs were cited) and recommended clearer capital asset schedules and life‑cycle cost planning.

Proposals to improve communications included searchable website agendas and email blasts, pop‑up meet‑and‑greets at community events, and more visible notices for significant agenda items. On taxes, candidates said some rate increases are likely amid major borrowing but argued better procurement, prioritization and economic development can ease the burden over time.

The forum underscored broad agreement on process — more resident input and clearer plans — while revealing sharp differences over the scale and timing of redevelopment and housing density.