Positions
Opponent’s Negative Campaigning
My opponent, Mike Nyden, has chosen a negative campaign strategy in which I will not participate. I do however need to correct false statements that he has made related to deficit budgets and spending. The truth is that I support and have only voted for balanced budgets and responsible spending. Furthermore, GA State Law O.C.G.A. 36-81-3(b)(1) requires local government to have balanced budgets, making deficit budgets illegal.
Fiscally Conservative Budgeting
I believe that all governments should be required to balance their budgets, and that budgeting should be accomplished through fiscally conservative principles. I believe that we should look closely at every line item in the budget, carefully consider the needs of our City, look for efficiencies, and reduce spending wherever possible. During my tenure on City Council we reduced the millage rate, reduced spending, and reduced the number of city employees. Because of this conservative approach, Roswell has emerged from the worst recession since the Great Depression in excellent financial health.
Transparent Government
I believe in transparent government. Currently the City of Roswell makes sure that Council meetings are clearly advertised on a timely basis to give our residents the opportunity to observe and to participate in their local government. We recognize however that people's schedules do not always allow them to make the trip to City Hall. To make meetings more accessible, we are installing video equipment in the Council Chambers and will make the videos available both on RCTV and the Internet. I hope this added convenience will enable more of our residents to become involved in the governing of our City.
The Truth about Roswell’s Finances
Roswell is financially healthy. Since I have served on Council, there has been an operating fund surplus of at least $4 million at the end of each fiscal year. (Source: City of Roswell Strategic Planning & Budgeting Office). Currently, there is approximately $13 million available for investment in our city’s infrastructure and capital projects above the emergency reserve. Roswell is one of two Georgia cities with a AAA bond rating. This rating is an indication of confidence in our present and future financial strength.
Milton County
The re-establishment of Milton County is critical for the future success of Roswell, North Fulton, South Fulton and the City of Atlanta. It is clear that inefficiencies in the current Fulton County government are significant. The per capita cost of services for Fulton County are 14% higher than Dekalb County and 56% higher than both Gwinnett and Cobb counties. Attempts to reform Fulton County over the years have been largely rejected or have only resulted in minor changes. The taxpayers of Roswell and its sister cities in North Fulton should not be held hostage to a poorly functioning, inefficient government that is unwilling to change. It's time for Milton County.
Recreation and Parks
I wholeheartedly support Roswell's nationally recognized Recreation and Parks Department. It is one of the city's crown jewels. Many of our residents moved here for the recreation and parks system, and others discovered this treasure shortly after moving here. It is a significant component of our excellent quality of life. The Recreation and Parks Department was subject to significant cuts in the Mayor's recent draft budget which was supported by my opponent. I did not support the Mayor's changes and voted accordingly.