City Council elections are important. The local level is where we, as residents, can have the most impact on our day-to-day lives.
I have been involved in the Montevallo community for approximately a decade and have been a resident for 4 years. Each group I have worked with has sparked an interest in me to do more.
From living here and being involved in community activities, I know what a great place Montevallo is. Montevallo is so rich in culture with the historic charm, community of artists and musicians, safe neighborhoods, commitment to the environment, and amazing people. We need to let others see what Montevallo is and what it can be! Working together, we can build a future that highlights the best we have to offer.
The City has faced challenges and continues to encounter challenges at all levels: politically, economically, culturally and socially. We have experienced and will continue to face trying economic times. We are challenged to become a thriving community that serves all its residents while maintaining our safe community-focused environment.
But with challenges also comes opportunities! We want to instill in current residents and the children a sense of pride in Montevallo and a desire to give back to the community. Working together as a community and embracing our history will allow us to build a successful future.
To accomplish this, I believe it is vital for the City of Montevallo to recruit and retain more businesses. Funds brought into the city will increase the services that can be offered to Montevallo residents, making life better for everyone. In these development efforts, we need to not only focus on Main Street but also on Hwy. 25.
Economic growth is crucial. It will provide more resources to fulfill community needs and create more jobs. We need businesses that strengthen the fabric of our community.
But it's not just about business, we need to encourage giving back to the community by offering simple solutions. In speaking with residents, I have learned of the need for a community foundation. I know others are looking into this, but I think doing the research is something we should make a priority. Setting up a non-profit foundation would allow community members to donate directly to the needs of our residents.
For example, there are financial needs for kids playing on sports teams through our parks and recreation programs. It's not just the initial fee to be a part of the team but the cost of jerseys and equipment add up. Then, when a team makes it to a championship, they have to buy new shirts - again the costs add up. Many of our residents do not have the funds to do this. Having a foundation would allow donations to be made for these types of needs.
We can only accomplish these things by working together. I welcome conversations with each of you. I want to hear what is most important in your day-to-day life. I believe in listening to the needs of the community and collaborating on opportunities to meet these challenges. To collaborate, we must set aside personal bias and selfish interest in favor of the greater good.
Being on city council and being a public servant means abandoning our personal differences to truly serve the residents. I want to be a part of this type of collaboration, so that is why I am running for district 3. I humbly ask for your support and your vote on August 23. I would feel so honored to serve the City of Montevallo in this way.