Issues
Infrastructure
Like many other parts of our state, the roads and bridges in DeKalb County have endured a prolonged period of neglect and disrepair. However, we find ourselves in a unique moment, as federal funds are now available to address these issues like never before. We must seize this opportunity and continue to make the most of it. Our water and sewage systems also demand our attention. For far too long, they have been a source of frustration for residents in DeKalb County. Although there have been some minor improvements and progress in addressing billing issues in recent years, it is crucial to accelerate the pace of these efforts. Every severe storm should not induce anxiety about the county sewers' coping ability. The residents of DeKalb deserve to witness significant improvements and reassurance in this regard.
Public Safety
Residents wake up to distressing headlines daily, reporting yet another life lost in the metro region. Simultaneously, the events of recent years have deepened the divide of trust between many community members and our Police and Public Safety Officers. The Commission must allocate the necessary resources to equip our Officers with the essential tools to maintain community safety. However, this must be done in conjunction with implementing comprehensive training and establishing strong guidelines that foster trust restoration and reinforcement throughout the community. By striking this balance, we can work towards ensuring the safety of our community while rebuilding trust and strengthening the bond between law enforcement and residents.
Balanced Economic Growth
In today's economic climate, most residents have a mixed picture. On the one hand, unemployment rates are historically low, implying increased work opportunities. However, we must recognize that statistics alone do not reveal the complete picture. The nature of available jobs is essential, and unfortunately, many communities are confronted with an abundance of low-wage, inflexible positions offering limited avenues for growth. Additionally, inflationary pressures challenge small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs striving to realize their American dream. My unwavering focus will be to collaborate closely with the county's economic development teams to ensure the introduction of high-quality, well-paying jobs and economic investments in all areas of the county, particularly the regions south of I-20 that external investors have traditionally neglected.
Affordable Housing
It has become commonplace to acknowledge that the era of a single-income family affording their own home is a thing of the past. Regrettably, we now find ourselves in a climate where even dual-income households can struggle to find affordable rental apartments, let alone entry-level homes for purchase. This issue stems from market forces and policy choices made at the city, county, and state levels. As a priority, I will actively engage with new developers, urging them to clarify their commitment to providing affordable housing options. Simultaneously, I will collaborate with my colleagues throughout the county to ensure that we create and revise zoning regulations that foster the development of a housing supply capable of genuinely meeting the needs of all residents. Addressing the pressing issue of affordable housing will be a central focus of my efforts.
