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George Hartzman handed a reporter an inch-high stack of reading material, including printouts of his blog and a copy of his book, “Questions for America: An Economic, Geopolitical Philosophical Almanac.”

The book is a compilation of quotes from historical figures and research on topics as varied as business ethics and population growth, with Hartzman’s questions laced in between.

Hartzman, a financial adviser and teacher, is now bringing this approach to city politics, challenging incumbent Zack Matheny in the District 3 City Council race.

Hartzman has challenged the City Council’s decision to put $205 million worth of bond issues on the ballot. Hartman recently spoke out against the council’s decision to start many of those projects this year.

“If you increase debt, you increase taxes,” Hartzman said at a recent lunch interview. “You’re taxing income of my children.”

Hartzman said the city should keep down spending and debt while the recession continues.

“We should have a positive cash flow before we take on anything,” Hartzman said.

Hartzman is against the city helping to complete the final stages of the Urban Loop.

“We should have it rerouted really, or canceled,” he said.

Hartzman would like to see a law that prevents City Council candidates from accepting campaign contributions from anyone who does business with Greensboro for up to a year before or after the election. He is also limiting the kinds of contributions he receives.

“I’m not taking money from PACs (political action committees.) I’m not taking more than $100 from anyone.” he said.

George Hartzman's web site.

News & Record info about George Hartzman.

District 3 map.