Moving Snellville Forward -- More Than a Slogan

For the past two years, as a Snellville Planning Commissioner, I have observed and worked with a number of City Council members. My decision to run for Post 1 of the Council was based largely on those observations and interactions.

Fortunately, (or unfortunately, depending on your point of view) I was unopposed in my bid for a Council seat, so I’ve spent time that would normally be devoted to campaigning, going door-to-door to meet residents and discuss their concerns and ideas. I’ve also spent some of that time assisting Barbara Bender in her campaign for mayor.

I have supported Barbara since she first considered running for mayor. Through my activities on the Planning Commission, I saw first hand how Barbara approaches city government—she does whatever research is necessary to ensure she has all the facts, she shows up at meetings on time, and she works with other Council members to build consensus and to turn good ideas into better ones.

In talking with voters, the one theme that constantly bubbles to the surface is a desire for a Council and mayor that can work together. Many voters have told me they’re tired of the bickering, pettiness negative publicity of the past. Since 2009, that has largely subsided, but the only mayoral candidate who can assure a positive approach to the future is Barbara Bender. It’s no surprise that she has been endorsed by three of my fellow members of the new Council, and by numerous civic and religious leaders.

As a Snellville resident, I am as concerned as my fellow citizens about maintaining a positive image. The negativity of the past has contributed to a decline in property values, increased costs and led to the postponement of beneficial projects. As a Councilman, I will do everything possible to promote a positive approach to Council business. And with Barbara as mayor, I know we’ll have the positive leadership it needs to move Snellville forward.

As you have undoubtedly noticed, “Moving Snellville Forward!” is Barbara’s campaign slogan. But it’s much more than that. It’s a commitment to creating the positive environment that will ensure Snellville moves into the future traveling in the right direction. I join my fellow council members in making that commitment, and in endorsing Barbara as the only candidate who can truly lead the way.