I spent more than 40 years as a journalist serving the vital role as a watchdog of government.

I will bring those same investigative skills to City Council, ensuring our tax dollars are spent wisely and decisions made with your best interests in mind.

KEEPING TAXES LOW:

I want to keep our taxes and utility fees as low as possible. The best way to do that without cutting services? Encourage more development of new businesses and homes so land that’s not as valuable today generates more tax revenue tomorrow. We need to increase our tax base so others will share our tax burden.

PROTECTING OUR OWN:

When Washington sneezes we all get sick.

I will work to ensure that whatever economic issues the federal government causes us locally, we respond in all ways possible to help our citizens cope with the fallout.

EDUCATING OUR COMMUNITY:

Our older daughter teaches special education at Walnut Grove Elementary and is a proud graduate of Georgia Gwinnett College. She even met her husband there!

Our state’s newest college continues to serve a valuable role in our community.

I will maintain the city’s ironclad relationship with GGC and Gwinnett Technical College to make sure students, parents and faculty all understand everyone has a place in Lawrenceville.

SMALL BUSINESSES:

Our younger daughter is a small business success story, meeting payroll each month for her nine employees. She is such an inspiration, but it sure didn’t come easy.

I have a personal desire to make sure small businesses can navigate the minefields of government bureaucracy and be successful, too.

HOUSING:

We must provide more housing opportunities for people of all income levels, from affordable housing to executive-level homes.

I support legislative efforts to limit the practice of corporations buying up entry level homes for rentals rather than giving first-time homebuyers more affordable options.

Owning your home gives you a greater stake in your community’s future.