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Ypsilanti is a community with serious issues, but opportunities as well. Its small tax base and lean budget challenge its ability to provide necessary services. But its affordable housing and emerging arts scene have given it increasing appeal, particularly to millennials.

Against that backdrop, first-term Mayor Paul Schreiber faces a challenge in the Democratic primary from Peter Murdock, the former mayor who now serves on City Council in Ward Three. Between these two able candidates, there are clear differences.

Schreiber supported the proposal for a city income tax that was put before voters in 2007, while Murdock led the opposition against it. The request was soundly rejected, and both men now agree that an income tax is “off the table.’’

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Paul Schreiber

In the effort to attract development to the Water Street property, Schreiber favors creating zoning districts that call for multiple-story buildings with a mix of business and residential use. Murdock prefers to keep the city’s options open for what developers might propose. Either way, development is likely to be a ways off in this tight economy.

A more immediate issue is the fate of the Thompson Block. Schreiber supported an agreement negotiated between the city manager and developer Stewart Beal to make the fire-damaged building safe, but Murdock voted with the council majority that rejected the agreement. The city and Beal are now in court, with no resolution pending. We editorialized previously on this issue, and continue to believe the proposed agreement was reasonable and that the city would be further along if City Council had adopted it at the time.

Schreiber’s stance on the issue reflects the pragmatic approach he takes to city issues, as one might expect from an electronic engineer. He’s provided steady leadership, has worked to involved citizens in city government, and has avoided the political tumult that at times characterized Murdock’s tenure as mayor in the 1980s.

Murdock, meanwhile, has been a solid member of council, bringing experience and institutional knowledge to the role. In this case, we don’t see a compelling case for turning over the mayor’s office. We endorse Schreiber for re-election. Ypsilanti would benefit most by both men continuing capably in their current roles.

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