issues

As a candidate for District 1 of Atlanta City Council my goal is to focus on several key elements:

Equity

District 1 is one of the most diverse in Atlanta when it comes to financial, racial, ethnic, religious, sexual orientation, gender identity, transportation, and housing differences. I see this as an opportunity to ensure that District 1 is a place where ALL PEOPLE can make a home. Each family, home and resident should be given access to the resources and opportunities appropriate for them to achieve their individual dreams. Some other ideas I have surrounding equitable practices include:

  • Instituting an equity score around proposed legislation
  • Ensuring that community benefits agreements (CBAs) accompany new developments
  • Directing dollars from the city’s displacement fund to rapidly changing neighborhoods in D1

 

Safety

It is not feasible to eliminate all crime in a major city but studies have shown that community safety is directly correlated to open communication between neighbors and law enforcement. As an NPU chair it was important that APD Zone 3 leadership and Code Enforcement consistently attend meetings to create a healthy and positive dialogue. I plan to improve public safety through:

  • Amplifying strong neighborhood associations and Neighborhood Watch groups
  • Seeking grants and city funding towards improved lighting
  • and public security cameras for our streets and parks
    Continuing to support and participate in Pre-Trial and Pre-Arrest Diversion programs to prevent the creation of career criminals

Connectivity

A community is not merely a group of homes in a given area, it is defined by the collective bonds and relationships of the individuals in that area. For too long neighborhoods in District 1 have operated in a disparate manner. A rising tide lifts all ships and as communities in our district continue to prosper that should inevitably lead to greater opportunities in neighboring communities. Thus my slogan “WE are District One!!!”

Access

As a neighbor of South Atlanta I worked with neighbors and Focused Community Strategies to help launch Carver Community Market to address our food desert. As an NPU chair I worked with Atlanta BOE to educate Carver Cluster residents during the Turnaround Strategy and Implementation. As a member of Morehouse School of Medicine’s PRC and Morehouse Healthcare’s Board of Trustees I sponsored health screenings, food co-ops and free Covid vaccinations for District 1 residents. My plans toward access include:

  • Work with parents and educators to continue to improve the quality of our schools and wrap around services
  • Advocate for improved public transportation with safer bus stops in District 1
  • Making sure all residents have convenient access to healthy food options
  • Gaining 100% internet access across District 1