Running for Snellville City Council: Bobby Howard

Three seats are open on the council: Post 3, 4 and 5. Incumbent Bobby Howard is running for re-election for his seat, Post 4, which has been challenged by candidate Dexter Harrison.

Name: Bobby Howard
How long have you lived in Snellville? 19 years
Educational background: High School and EMT Training
Family: Married with one daughter
Military background: none
Occupation: Business Owner

How many terms/years have you served on the council? 2 years

What inspired you to run for re-election? My decision to move into the "public service" arena was for one reason and one reason only....TO SERVE THE PEOPLE OF SNELLVILLE...period and I want to continue the city's positive and confident momentum. The city of Snellville began a real turn around in 2010 when the stalemated 3-3 council was moved to a 4-2 majority with Barbara Bender, Tod Warner, Tom Witts and Mayor Jerry Oberholtzer. This city began to blossom and show what a community could be. The retail community took notice as well and many of the empty buildings began to get filled and updated. I want to be a part of the continued good things happening here in Snellville.

What are some of the notable projects you've helped or spearheaded in the past? Not sure I would call it a project, but the city budget is very important and the fact that your tax money is at stake is worth looking at deeper. I did that and we have lowered taxes the last 2 years with no reduction in services. I have also been an ardent supporter of "shop local" we do have it all here in Snellville. The Community Garden sprung to life and I enjoyed being a part of that effort. Public safety has always been a top priority for me. The Snellville Police Department does an outstanding job in keeping our city secure, and making Snellville a place where folks feel safe and I will actively support the police department to ensure that it is equipped to meet the challenges of the future. I firmly believe that if a community feels safe, it will thrive and prosper.

What are some of the immediate projects you want to work on if you are re-elected? The Towne Center Project and the effects of the Hwy 78 Continuous Flow Intersection needs to be at the top of the list. This will reshaped the City of Snellville for years to come..
How would you accomplish them? By working with the State, County and Private Industry to fulfill all of the requirements needed to bring to a successful conclusion.

What are some of your long-term goals for the city? Control Spending, keep taxes low and maintain a high level of city services.
How would you accomplish them? Making sure all departments are using all of the tools to work efficiently and in a manner that makes us all proud.

What do you think is the greatest challenge facing Snellville, and how would you approach it? Finding a balance between economic growth and the Live, Work Play Community that we can be. The proof is in the pudding as they say.....before 2009...no growth, no community events, no Snellville Tourism & Trade......and today Economic growth from all directions, Community events every weekend, Snellville Farmers Market, Community Garden @ Snellville, the best Police Department just to name a few.... Great things happen in Snellville when we work as a community!

Do you want to add anything? The citizens have a choice this election cycle...go backward to pre 2009 or continue with leadership that gets things done and does what BEST for all of Snellville. I am happy to meet with any citizen who may have questions and I have said this before...if you hear something that doesn't sound right please feel free to call me 404-583-1099. I appreciate your time and your consideration. www.electbobby.org.