Profession: Carpenter. Previously worked in motion picture industry and in manufacturing. Politics: Democrat. First time running for office. Education: Went to film school in San Francisco. Studied architecture at Wilbur Wright College in Chicago. Completing bachelor's degree in public administration at Eastern Michigan University. Personal: Married to Helen Bunch, an art teacher at Pioneer High School. Web site: www.scottfora2council.com

What he told us:

• Lifelong environmentalist. Performed first demonstration at age 14 in opposition to a nuclear power plant in Indiana.

• "Caught the bug" and wants to continue his public service after being involved with various city committees and task forces, including the Ann Arbor Park Advisory Commission and Ann Arbor Environmental Commission.

• Wants to see better customer service from the city, including sidewalk repair programs and the building department.

• Wants to further the green goals of the city and improve recycling in the business community; supports stronger protections for the Huron River.

• Wants to pursue regional cooperation on purchasing power with the county, townships and schools to get better prices.

• "I think that what we need in City Council is somebody who has a proactive approach, who can communicate their ideas in such a way that makes sense to other people. Often the approach is that the message isn't bad, it's just the delivery, and I think what we need in this seat for the 5th Ward now is better delivery of the message."

• Says the budget is the biggest issue. "We're looking at 10 percent cuts across the board. That's going to affect kids programs, it's going to affect seniors programs, it's going to affect everything going on in the city. We have to find ways to adapt. Once again, finding budget-neutral, proactive solutions."

• Says the idea of a city income tax sounds good on the surface, but he needs more information; worries what would happen to DDA funding if the city's operating millage is eliminated in exchange for a city income tax.

• Opposes the City Place development, but thinks the city should increase density downtown.

• Favors removal of Argo Dam because he believes the rowing community can be accommodated at other sites.