Candidate Biography (submitted by candidate):

Education:
UNC-Chapel Hill BA in History and Art History
Master's in Public Administration, UNCW

Professional Experience:
Founder and CEO of Hamilton Planning -- Present
Projects include the new White Space Technology testing currently taking place in Wilmington -- the first of its kind in the world.
Marketing, Governmental Relations and Business development Consultant -- April 2007 to February 2010
Wilmington Downtown, Inc., Executive Director -- August 2001 to April 2007
Led the effort to redevelop downtown by encouraging and helping investment in real estate and recruiting new businesses and job opportunities
Senior Planner, Long Range Planning, City of Wilmington, NC -- November 2000 to August 2001
Associate Planner/Historic Preservation Planner, City of Wilmington, NC -- October 1998 to November 2000
Planner I, Historic Preservation and Downtown Development, Washington, NC -- July 1997 to October 1998

Family:
Susi's roots in New Hanover County run deep.  Her grandfather was a barber at the Wilmington Hotel until it was demolished in the 1960's, when he moved his business to Walnut Street, and her grandmother worked at Sutton Council Furniture for 30 years. They raised their family in Castle Hayne, in a house on the corner of Victoria Lane and Castle Hayne Road, which still stands today. Both Susi's and husband Steve's fathers graduated from New Hanover High School in 1961. Susi and Steve have been married for 13 years, and they have a 5 year old daughter, Parker

1. What is the single biggest issue facing the district?

Job creation.  We must find creative ways to bring good businesses to Wilmington.  PPD and Screen Gems are success stories because they chose to locate their businesses here and they employ thousands of people.  It is not just the quality of life that brings people to our District, but also the quality of our people.  A sound education system is a critical component to job growth and to attract good businesses to our region.  As a member of our legislature, I would use my economic development experience to bring new businesses to New Hanover County and create jobs.

2. Why are you a better choice to represent the 18th House district than your opponent?

My combined education and professional experience in economic development make me the best choice. I have a proven track record of assisting officials and business leaders in bringing jobs to Wilmington.  For example, I was instrumental in the relocation of Castle Branch from Wake County to Downtown Wilmington, bringing 125 jobs. I also assisted with the retention of RSM McGladrey, and the relocation of Bank of America Headquarters, in the Central Business District. I understand and have experience with the policies and processes of city, county and state government.

3. The proposed Titan America cement plant is within the district. What is your position on the company's proposal?

Titan must meet the new EPA regulations and all NC permitting requirements before they can do business in NC.  If the regulations are not sufficient to protect our environment, then recourse is through the Courts.  I do not support Titan's application as it is currently written since it allows for 268 lbs of mercury to be emitted into the air.  If current environmental regulations are not sufficient to protect our environment, it is the responsibility of elected leaders and professionals to strengthen our environmental standards. I will meet that responsibility.