I wanted to see what the constituents of “Mayor Pete” think about their Mayor. Finding places where I was allowed to interview people on camera was difficult, but I was able to talk to some people off camera. Views were about 50-50 on thoughts about their Mayor.
Are you from the South Bend area? I would love to hear your thoughts about Mayor Buttigieg. Contact me to share your opinion.
A common theme among those who were not a fan, was the crime increase they have observed. According to City-Data.com the violent crime rate as of 2018 for South Bend was 565.4 the US average was 207.3, in 2010 before Mayor Buttigieg was elected in 2012. The violent crime rate was 391.6 and the US average was 223.2.
Though violent crime has increased, Mayor Buttigieg successfully pushed the “1,000 Properties in 1,000 days” initiative. Admired by those that were fans of the Mayor, this plan would either demolish or renew abandoned and rundown houses. Before Mayor Buttigiegs first term ended near 40% of the houses the project was aimed at were repaired and around 60% were demolished. The project was completed two months ahead of schedule.
Other projects were completed under Mayor Buttigieg such as the “Smart Streets” plan which seemed appreciated by those both with positive and negative overall reviews. “Smart Streets” plan made safer streets, added bike paths and more. The Mayor also spent millions to renew run down city parks.
So, do you think ‘Mayor Pete’ should be President Buttigieg?