Special Education Teacher-Clayton County Public Schools
Previous civic experience outside of politics?:
Yes
If “Yes”, please list and describe your prior political campaign experiences, including candidate/issue, date, location, role and impact.
I grew up in a politically active house where both my parents served in local office. My father served on our local Board of Ed and then was elected a Town Councilman. We made calls, served as poll runners, and tracked names of folks who voted at the local headquarters on Election Day.
Previous community experience
I have served as a member of a homeowners association, served on a Community Theater Board of Directors (several years as Vice President) and served for a year on a City Board of Finance (elected position).
List three reasons why Democrats in Clayton County should vote for you
Reason number one I would like ALL voters to consider me is my passion for improving our community. Reason number 2 (again for ALL voters): I intend to return a level of integrity to the Ward 2 Council seat and reason number 3 (and the most important reason). I will be a positive presence in our ward and throughout the city to meet with folks in the ward to hear directly from you about the issues you face. I will inform you of events and issues that impact both the city and citizens in my Ward
What do you aim to achieve by running for office?
I would like the people in my ward to feel like they have a Seat at the Table of City Government. That they feel Included, Empowered and Informed of City Business
Is there any area of government that you would vote to expand in any way? If so, please list and describe
I’m hearing from our Seniors who live in “Senior Housing” that there’s a frustration level about rent increases that are out pacing Cost of Living adjustments. I’d like to see if there is a mechanism within City Government to assist tenants when dealing with ever increasing rental fees.
Would you support expanding nondiscrimination protections for your city’s residents in public employment, private employment, public accommodations and housing to include sexual orientation, gender identity, creed, domestic relationship status, parental status, familial status, veteran status and hair style or texture?
Yes
Do you support ending single-family zoning to allow for more diverse housing options?
No
What incentives would you offer businesses to come to your city?
I think every city needs to put their collective “best foot forward” in order to attract new businesses. Certainly, offer some sort of tax breaks, but also encourage property owners to keep rents and fees in check while a new business gets established.
What solutions would you bring to your intended position to 1) mitigate contributions to climate change in housing and transportation 2) increase flexibility and security in response to climate change and 3) diversity transportation options for your residents?
In Forest Park, we seriously need to review our commitment to a comprehensive recycling program. We lost support a few years ago from a local recycling plant due to our community’s lack of adherence to recycling practices. I feel very strongly that climate change is a real thing. I also have been raised to follow proper recycling guidelines. I feel it is up to our city leadership to lead by example and to invest in resources to educate citizens about the benefits of recycling plastic, glass and cans. We could utilize the schools in our city to assist in educating our citizens. Public Transportation is yet another way for urban areas and suburban areas to combat climate change. I would support out county and municipal leaders to fight for access to light rail and expanded bus service. I would hope, as an elected official of the largest city that we could provide more job opportunities locally so that our citizens don’t have to travel far for work. Perhaps our new employers in town could collaborate on a ride share or shuttle program for employees.
As someone elected to your position in city government, you will be able to appoint or influence appointments of persons to various city boards. How will you ensure that you’re selecting the right individual?
I will meet, get to know and discuss options with citizens who want to be involved. I would also seek out references from other community members. As I understand our current practice in Forest Park is for our City Manager to review and score potential board members applications.
What is your position with regard to zoning changes within your city or district/post (with regard to logistic centers, retail development, housing, or other commercial develop)?
I’m excited to see the results of our city’s zoning code revisions. I do want this city to improve our “curb appeal”, but I’m cautious about the possibility of out pricing some of our long term residents at the same time.
What is your stance on minimum parking requirements? Would you work to eliminate such requirements to reduce stress on climate, space use and property cost?
I need to research this issue and decide how it would apply to Forest Park.
What is your stance on decriminalizing jaywalking and removing or reducing police from low-level traffic enforcement, given that a growing body of research has called for removing police from traffic enforcement due to the high level of unnecessarily adverse interactions between civilians and police? If not, why?
I agree that we need to reevaluate the use of our police personnel. One of the issues that keep popping up during traffic stops seems to be the cases when the officer discovers warrants for the person stopped. Rather than placing the person in custody (which usually ends badly), I’d like to see a system where the address is confirmed and an appointment is made for serving the warrant. Kind of like having the same privilege as people with money to negotiate the terms of their surrender.
Current Georgia law requires that all bicycles must come to a complete stop at stop signs and red lights. Would you support this law being changed in order to allow cities like yours to adopt the “Idaho stop”, in which bicycles are allowed to treat stop signs as yield signals, as is currently allowed in 9 states? If not, why?
I’m in favor of the Idaho Stop and would urge my state legislators to support such a law. If passed we will need to educate our cycling community. We will need to educate younger cyclists as well.
What is your stance on raising the minimum wage to $15 or more?
I think it is a good idea but I also would like to see some transparency on conditions some workers are forced to deal with.
Do you support decriminalizing cannabis possession within city limits?
Absolutely, here in Forest Park the city council has done that over the last four years. I give credit to our current governing body for their foresight. This is a step towards the types of reforms needed by our judicial system to apply justice on a more equitable level. I personally would love to see either the State of Georgia legalize recreational use of cannabis or for the Federal Government remove cannabis from the narcotics list.
What solutions would you introduce or support to increase housing supply and reduce cost of living in your city?
I’m concerned about our Senior citizens and others who reside in housing and are facing what I consider to be excessive hikes in their rent. I would like to partner with our various property managers to see what we could do to reduce this impact on our Seniors and others utilizing “Low Income” housing. If property managers are unwilling to work with the governing body, I would like to pursue possible ordinances dictating rental rates. As far as supply, we have vacant units all over the city. We need to work with property owners who have vacant properties to fill them. I don’t think the solution is for the city to buy up inventory then rent out. To reduce the cost of living in our city, we need to help our citizens who want to work find local jobs that pay well.
How will you promote restorative justice and address abusive and racist practices by the police force?
Community policing starts with communities with a police force that looks like their community. Community policing should include a majority of officers who reside in city limits. Community policing also should include training or an approach geared towards de-escalation of situations rather than neutralizing a perceived threat. Our system also really needs to look at the concept of “qualified immunity” for our police force. I think a Citizen’s Review Board might be a possible way to link our police force.
Any Other Issues/Topics You Wish To Discuss?
Everyone please get out to Vote!
Please submit a short biography
I was born in Connecticut and in 2004 I moved to Georgia to pursue a career in teaching. I was fortunate enough to find a position in Special Education with the Clayton County School system. My first class was located at Morrow High School. My unit was relocated to Forest Park High School and I began my tenure at “the Park” in the Fall of 2006. I’ve been there since. While at FPHS, in addition to teaching the coolest group of students one could ever teach, I have served as a Softball, Baseball, Volleyball and Golf Coach. I also have lent my voice to the basketball and baseball programs as a PA announcer for home games. I am the oldest of three. My sisters live in Colorado and Connecticut. I have a son who lives in Fort Myers, FL. But most importantly, I am married to the most supportive, talented, and amazing wife, Ann Pellegrine.
Please fill out a campaign statement (less than 200 words)
I want to help the residents in Ward 2 of Forest Park to have a seat at the table of .city government.
List three reasons why Democrats in Clayton County should vote for you:
I support the goals of the Democratic Party locally and nationally through active participation through financial support and by working to elect Democrats.
I will work to protect the right to vote.
I support paying people a living wage, equality in housing, protecting access to health insurance for all, job training and protecting Civil Rights.
What do you aim to achieve by running for office?
Decrease the poverty and unemployment rates in Riverdale.
Diversify retail and casual dining offerings in Riverdale and Clayton County to retain sales tax dollars going to Henry, Fulton and Fayetteville counties.
Increase opportunities for young high school graduates not going to college to participate in Apprenticeships and Internships
Repair roads in Riverdale neighborhoods
Clean up trash along city streets
Provide representation to Ward 3 residents by holding quarterly listening sessions.
Is there any area of government that you would vote to expand in any way? If so, please list and describe.
Job Training for youths and adults in professions that are growing such as those in science, technology, light manufacturing, transportation ( truck drivers, train engineers and conductors) welding, construction, etc.
Home improvement grants to disadvantaged senior citizens and the disabled.
Access to medical insurance and care
Would you support expanding nondiscrimination protections for your city’s residents in public employment, private employment, public accommodations and housing to include sexual orientation, gender identity, creed, domestic relationship status, parental status, familial status, veteran status and hair style or texture?
Yes
Do you support ending single-family zoning to allow for more diverse housing options?
Yes
What incentives would you offer businesses to come to your city?
Tax abatements in return for documented job creation.
What solutions would you bring to your intended position to 1) mitigate contributions to climate change in housing and transportation 2) increase flexibility and security in response to climate change and 3) diversity transportation options for your residents?
The promotion of building materials that can be recycled and electric vehicles and mass transit.
More use of non-evasive energy such as solar and wind where feasible.
Install bike lanes, commuter trains, ride sharing.
As someone elected to your position in city government, you will be able to appoint or influence appointments of persons to various city boards. How will you ensure that you’re selecting the right individual?
People seeking to be appointed to City boards and commissions should complete an application and list their qualifications to serve. Boards and commissions should reflect the gender, racial and economic composition of the community.
What is your position with regard to zoning changes within your city or district/post (with regard to logistic centers, retail development, housing, or other commercial develop)?
Zoning changes should do “no harm” to existing establishments. Changes should seek to co-exist and not displace.
What is your stance on minimum parking requirements? Would you work to eliminate such requirements to reduce stress on climate, space use and property cost?
My answer depends on where the minimum parking requirements will be located. If it’s downtown that is designed to be walkable then yes I would support them.
What is your stance on decriminalizing jaywalking and removing or reducing police from low-level traffic enforcement, given that a growing body of research has called for removing police from traffic enforcement due to the high level of unnecessarily adverse interactions between civilians and police? If not, why?
I am not in favor of removing police officers from traffic stops because of the aggressive nature of some drivers these days. Simple traffic accidents often quickly escalate to violence.I think that a properly trained police force will know how to de-escalate when tempers flare.
Current Georgia law requires that all bicycles must come to a complete stop at stop signs and red lights. Would you support this law being changed in order to allow cities like yours to adopt the “Idaho stop”, in which bicycles are allowed to treat stop signs as yield signals, as is currently allowed in 9 states? If not, why?
Yes, if State law allows Idaho stops for cyclists I can support that as well.
What is your stance on raising the minimum wage to $15 or more?
100% supportive
Do you support decriminalizing cannabis possession within city limits?
Yes
What solutions would you introduce or support to increase housing supply and reduce cost of living in your city?
The housing stock should reflect the economic base of the city BUT be able to attract housing to accommodate rising incomes, ie. starter homes for first time homebuyers that match their incomes and and as incomes rise and people want to continue to live in the same area, next level housing should be available. I believe that every effort should be made to increase INCOMES so that everyone enjoys a comfortable lifestyle.
How will you promote restorative justice and address abusive and racist practices by the police force?
Yes, I would support a “Second Chances” program for all felons not just non-violent offenders.
Any Other Issues/Topics You Wish To Discuss?
We need to create a “School to Work” program instead of a @School to Prison” or “School to Grave”. We MUST stop the senseless deaths of people especially young people.
Please submit a short biography
I am a native of Georgia who was educated in the public schools of Columbus, Georgia. I have been a business owner. I have an advance degree in Public Administration and have worked in local government for most of my professional career. I have two daughters and recently became a grandmother for the first time! I have lived in Clayton County since 2004.
Please fill out a campaign statement (less than 200 words)
I am a candidate for Riverdale City Council Ward 3 because I believe that we can do Better! Better in Economic Development, Employment, Beautification, Housing, and Education. Riverdale has a reputation of being dirty, crime infested and poverty stricken. This is not true! I can help change the image and narrative for Riverdale and Clayton County using my extensive contacts in the private and public sectors.
If you live in Jonesboro, Forest Park, Lake City, Morrow, and Riverdale, please get ready for municipal elections! Early voting runs from October 12-October 30, with Election Day on November 2. Here are your municipal candidates:
RIVERDALE, Ga. – Collaborating to document this defining moment, 41 Black women elected to office collaborated to pen letters that celebrate Black excellence.
“When we realized that Clayton County had the most Black women elected to office in the country, we decided to take a photo to capture the moment. But such a powerful moment in time deserved more recognition, so we decided to write a book where we could share our experiences with young ladies,” says State Rep. Rhonda Burnough (D-Riverdale).
“Legacy Letters: A Gift for Tomorrow’s Leaders” is a collection of letters to young women created by the Black women who currently hold office in Clayton County. The letters include information about how career paths were chosen, personal advice on their journeys and how to achieve success. Insight into each elected position and the role in ensuring the county runs properly offers teachable moments for readers of all ages.
“The reason it was important for me to participate is that I want little girls who look like me to know that all things are possible. I want them to know, for a fact, that they can do or be whatever their heart desires. With dedication, determination and desire all things are possible, even for each of them.” State Court Judge Margaret Spencer
The book also features includes a letter written by the late Sonna Singleton Gregory, the beloved District 1 County Commissioner who passed from ovarian cancer in May. Her legacy is also celebrated throughout the book with pictures and tributes to her accomplishments.
“As Clayton County’s youngest elected official, participating in this history-making book has been a privilege, honor and responsibility. I’m excited for the readers from every age, gender, race and zip code who will learn about the leadership and excellence in my hometown. It is my hope that someone somewhere reads our stories and sees themselves . . . becoming emboldened and inspired to take up space in the name of good trouble. Our young people cannot be what they cannot see.” Jasmine Bowles, Board Member – District 1.
“From a conversation on a call with 1000 Phenomenal Black Women, I learned that Clayton County Georgia had the most black female elected women in the USA,” says State Rep. Sandra Scott Givens (D-Rex). “Legacy Letters” is the beginning of a New Direction for our girls, daughters, and young ladies across the world. It is amazing that 41 Phenomenal Black Elected Women in Clayton County Georgia have come together and created a book of inspiration, guidance, hope, and strength. It is my hope that young ladies will read each letter and let them become part of their daily bread.”
On Tuesday, October 5, the 41 women gathered to celebrate the book release and their latest contribution to the Clayton County community at Arts Clayton Gallery from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Representative Rhonda Burnough represents the citizens of District 77, which includes portions of Clayton County. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2016 and currently serves on the Special Committee on Election Integrity and the Economic Development & Tourism, Governmental Affairs, Higher Education and Small Business Development committees.
To pre-order this book, please fill out this form, after which you can do either of the following:
send it as a PDF to [email protected] with a $22 payment via Cash App to $RhondaBurnough (extra $2.00 to cover Cash App fee)
mail completed and printed form with $20 payment to: Rhonda Burnough, 7843 Clearview Circle, Riverdale, Georgia 30296
If you are not able to pick up your books from Rhonda Burnough or Sandra Scott, please include an extra $3.00 to your book order for shipping costs.
Last night, we were glad to have Alaina Reaves join us for our Runoff Candidate Forum for District 1, to which we also invited Dr. Aleika Anderson. We asked Ms. Reaves the big questions on how she would move District 1 and Clayton County forward. Attendees submitted several questions in the chat. You can watch our forum on our Facebook page and now on our Youtube channel as well.
We hope that this candidate forum has been informative for District 1 voters before voting in the runoff begins.
Alaina Reaves, Candidate for Clayton County Board of Commissioners District 1
Clayton Democrats sent out a questionnaire to all 10 candidates for the September 21, 2021 special election for Clayton County Board of Commissioners District 1. We received five responses. The following are responses from candidate Alaina Reaves. We encourage residents in District 1 to vote on Tuesday for who they would like to have in this position.
1. What qualifications do you have that make you qualified than the other candidates?
I am the best candidate for this job, because Clayton County is on the verge of expansion and I am representative of the largest growing demographics in the county and Metro Atlanta. I am a millennial, first time homeowner working remotely. We are one of the youngest counties in the Metro area, but lack cultural venues and recreational activities for all ages, these young residents are the future economic base and current workforce in the county. We have the most affordable housing options in Metropolitan Atlanta, and renters/ buyers are moving to the county as housing costs rise elsewhere. Clayton County is a burgeoning logistics hub with hundreds of acres of undeveloped and under-developed land ready for use. The County Commission will decide and shape Clayton County through planning and zoning, economic development, and setting the priorities that will shape the next 10 years.
I plan to make infrastructure a priority in the budget. This is not limited to road repairs, but also improvements such as increasing sidewalks, adding traffic calming measures and making intersections safer for pedestrians. Over 50% of residents in Clayton County are renters, yet many of the programs and assistance offered by the county directly assist homeowners and homebuyers. On the County Commission I plan to recruit affordable rental properties to the District and demand renter’s rights for living standards and rental relief, especially during this COVID-19 pandemic.
2. What incentives would you offer businesses to come to Clayton County?
In Economic Development, we commonly use incentives as a part of the toolbox of resources for incoming and existing businesses. Before heavily recruiting new businesses to Clayton County and in District 1, I would survey the needs of existing small businesses, companies, and franchises. I would look into securing funds through options such as the Community Development Block Grants, the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) through financial institutions and nonprofits, and establish Public Private Partnerships. I firmly believe that Community Improvement Districts are under utilized in Clayton County, through this process businesses in a designated perimeter essentially paid a deferred tax to improve the areas within those boundaries.
When recruiting companies and new business, it is important that we address the needs of existing businesses. When we create an environment for businesses to thrive in Clayton County, it becomes that much easier to recruit new businesses using incentive tools like the federal Opportunity Zones tax benefits and Tax Allocation Districts. A very important tool that Clayton County has is its Tier 1 standing with the state Economic Development Office and Department of Community Affairs. A Tier 1 rating recognizes an area that is in distress and the state provides a tax incentive of $4,000 per job a company creates in a Tier 1 district. While this Tier 1 standing acknowledges some challenges in Clayton County, it is an opportunity to invite companies to locate in Clayton County bringing jobs and opportunities.
3. What percentage of Clayton County’s budget comes in the form of direct payments and all grants from federal sources of indirectly through state money and non-cognizable grants sourced from the federal budget?
Clayton County typically receives less than 2% of its revenue from intragovernmental grants and federal or state sources. In May of this year, Clayton County received $66 Million in emergency COVID relief funding through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Those funds were distributed to Clayton residents through the Clayton Cares small business grants, emergency rental assistance, and funding to promote the health and safety of Clayton residents during the COVID-19 pandemic.
4. Dekalb County has implemented ways to increased Covid-19 vaccinations. What are some of your ideas to increase COVID vaccinations in our county?
The health and well-being of Clayton residents is the biggest priority. I applaud Dekalb County for their success getting their citizens vaccinated against COVID-19. As a community organizer, I fully believe in meeting people where they are and using innovative ideas to reach them. One option to increase vaccine rates is providing incentives like lotteries or gifts to residents who get the vaccine. Partnering with churches, community groups and organizations is another way to connect with the community and increase vaccination rates. Most important is hearing community concerns around the vaccine, addressing its effectiveness and benefits using fact-based information.
5. What has been your community involvement prior to seeking the seat of the District I Commissioner?
I am a veteran community organizer who is passionate about building connections and engaging with my community. I spent more than 10 years as a public servant working in the nonprofit sector and every level of government. I grew up in Clayton County volunteering in the community with my church and as a Girl Scout. Throughout Georgia and Clayton County, I spent years advocating for voting rights and civic engagement. In May of 2020, as president of the Clayton County Young Democrats, we hosted a widely-attended candidate forum for the legislative and municipal primary elections. Last year, I was elected as the youngest Democratic National Committee member for Georgia. Locally, I have served on the City of Morrow Urban Redevelopment Agency for the past two years and was recently appointed to the Clayton County Citizens MARTA Advisory Board. I pledge to use my skills and experience to enact smart policy, invest in the community, and improve the quality of life for the people of District 1.
6. As a commissioner, you will be able to appoint persons to the various county boards, How will you ensure that you’re selecting the right individual?
A very important opportunity for Commissioners to receive input from the community is through board appointment for district citizens. There are over 20 boards and advisory groups in Clayton County ranging from the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board, Board of Health, Elections & Registrations, and 2 boards dedicated to zoning. I would seek community input for recommendations using resumes and community experience. I would interview potential candidates and potentially host public discussions with applicants.
7. There is 14months left in the unexpired term of the late Commissioner Sonya Gregory. If you are elected, what will be your priority?
My top two priorities for the remaining months in the unexpired term is beautification and initiating a review of Zoning Maps. One of the most important duties of a Commissioner is to recruit businesses to the county including companies, restaurants and financial institutions. Before recruiting new businesses to the area, we need to revitalize the community by cleaning up the area. I want to evaluate the County schedule for mowing services, tree trimming, and overall maintenance especially on county-owned properties. I would utilize the Code Enforcement office to engage existing businesses on their appearance including addressing trash in parking lots and lawn maintenance. My second priority is to initiate a review of the Zoning Maps for the County. This review should be conducted with input from the Office of Community Affairs, Economic Development Office, Planning and Zoning boards, and most importantly the community and businesses.
8. How will you engage with the citizens in District I?
This is a great question! Engaging with Clayton County residents is something I have done for years, and am excited for the opportunity to engage with them as the next County Commissioner for District 1. I would recruit precinct leaders to report on the pulse of the community with regular meetings. I would connect with neighborhood leaders and HOA Boards in their neighborhoods to get an on-the-ground under view of the community including walking the neighborhood and streets. I believe in meeting people where they are in every area of their lives because complaints and concerns from residents are going to come from what affects them on a day to day experience. I would also convene regular town halls either in person or via Zoom during times convenient to the work and families lives of residents. Additionally, I would utilize social media including Facebook groups, email listservs, and Nextdoor app to engage residents virtually and foster productive discussion.
9. Are you aware of any other revenue streams that can be utilized other than raising property taxes?
Great question! We cannot balance the County’s budget on the backs of homeowners and property taxes alone. Most county budgets are sustained with revenue including property taxes, but a major revenue stream that Clayton County needs to capitalize is sales taxes from goods and services. In my conversations with District 1 residents, I heard from a near-majority of folks travel outside of Clayton County to shop for groceries and household items. This is a major loss in sales tax from county inhabitants. By recruiting high quality stores, restaurants, and grocery stores, Clayton County residents can keep that sales revenue within the County.
10. What is your position with regard to zoning changes within District I (with regard to logistic centers, retail development, housing, or other commercial develop)?
One of my first priorities is to initiate a review of the zoning maps to incentivize different forms of development besides the current trend of logistics centers, mechanic shops, and industrial buildings. To create a true live, work, play community, we need to have a variety of businesses and residential neighborhoods created prioritizing the needs of the residents who call District 1 home.
Clayton Democrats sent out a questionnaire to all 10 candidates for the September 21, 2021 special election for Clayton County Board of Commissioners District 1. We received five responses. The following are responses from candidate Shegale Crute-Thurmond. We encourage residents in District 1 to vote on Tuesday for who they would like to have in this position.
1. What qualifications do you have that make you qualified than the other candidates?
I believe in both my professional experience and work history with Clayton County make me the best candidate for the job. Professionally, I have worked as a paralegal for over 25 years specializing in contracts, mergers, acquisitions, and various types of litigation. I currently work for the DeKalb County Sheriffs Office in the legal department. Having this specialized skill sets brings me to the table with a unique ability and competency to understand contracts, zoning, ordinances, budgets and other technical aspects of the duties of commissioners. That coupled with my strong work ethic and the fact that I have attended all the commissioner regular meetings and work sessions, makes me able to hit the ground running on day one. I am a problem solver and will work to obtain the very best for district one.
2. What incentives would you offer businesses to come to Clayton County?
Currently, there are many business incentives already been offered to Clayton County business owners through federal funding, and also since our county has been designated tear one by Georgia Public Affairs. I believe that we should offer them partnerships and incentives that augment the state level incentives, but I believe those incentives should directly benefit the county and its citizens. As it stands, companies can use credits that they obtain through incentives out of state and even transfer them to other subsidiaries which has not given a great benefit to us locally. Both the Clayton and County and Airport chambers offer a technical assistance and training to businesses to maximize their ability to receive various incentives and contract opportunities that may be available to them. I will research, learn more, an offer to assist businesses however we can to ensure their success.
3. What percentage of Clayton County’s budget comes in the form of direct payments and all grants from federal sources of indirectly through state money and non-cognizable grants sourced from the federal budget?
Direct payments from grants and federal sources is about 1% of the county budget. It should be noted however that this will change significantly in the coming years as the county has received over $60 million in federal federal stimulus. The two distributions were approved and will be distributed throughout various departments To be performed and completed (spent) By December 2026.
4. Dekalb County has implemented ways to increased Covid-19 vaccinations. What are some of your ideas to increase COVID vaccinations in our county?
The county approved federal designation for The category of “public health response“ of the American rescue plan act revenue that was received on this past year. I think our county officials should spend time researching what has worked effectively throughout the state and southern region and immediately begin to implement measures to ensure that our residents receive testing, information, and vaccines in a timely and convenient manner.
5. What has been your community involvement prior to seeking the seat of the District I Commissioner?
I have served the county in many capacities, been a parent, citizen, and member of my church. I have served on many boards to include the United Way. DFACS, CASA, Rotary, Citizens for Progressive transit, and many others. Ive served alongside many others who helped to bring about the first and second SPLOST projects. In addition to that I also fought to bring transit out into the community. I have always been an active member of whatever organizations I have been a part of and have served our community for many years at my church.
6. As a commissioner, you will be able to appoint persons to the various county boards, How will you ensure that you’re selecting the right individual?
One great thing about campaigning, if you do it right, you meet amazing people within your district. District 1 is no exception to this. I would work to find citizens that I know are concerned and engaged in our community who have lived here and who understand the dynamics and the characteristics. Of course, there is a formal vetting process, but I will first go to the phenomenal poole district 1 citizens to pull for my nominations for committees and boards.
7. There is 14months left in the unexpired term of the late Commissioner Sonya Gregory. If you are elected, what will be your priority?
My first priority will be to look at and assess the existing zoning and development projects. I want to make sure that they are in line with what I have heard the citizens say that they want to see, and more importantly what they do not want to see. In addition to that I will be learning more about the budget, in order to assess and evaluate a clear and concise strategy
8. How will you engage with the citizens in District I?
Citizen engagement is key to the success of District one. The citizens in our district are concerned and engaged they understand the issues. I will continue in the tradition that was started in District to hold monthly community meetings. In addition to that, I will engage the citizens by returning their calls, following up on their concerns, and communicating Matters but I believe all concerned them.. I also believe that we must continue to keep a continue dialogue through attending meetings and HOA gatherings within the district.
9. Are you aware of any other revenue streams that can be utilized other than raising property taxes?
Yes. I believe that there are several other aspects that we can use to work to lower property taxes and remove the burden that is so heavy on our citizens. We can first start by improving collection, optimizing collection and audit the process to increase our collection right and minimize leakage. We can also introduce new revenue levers such as additional service fees, fines, charges and establish a cost plus model to help to generate additional revenue pay. For example, charging higher fees for expedited processing of our existing services and serve and processing times. We should also look into asset monetization, leases joint ventures, and joint development agreements with the surrounding counties. This would all help to increase and create emerging options that are more into the innovative
10. What is your position with regard to zoning changes within District I (with regard to logistic centers, retail development, housing, or other commercial develop)?
With regard to zoning changes, I believe that this is probably the most critical aspect of taking the sake of commissioner in district one. Zoning dictates how our county will be shaped and what the framework what ultimately look like. It is important that our new development is fully comprehensive taking in all considerations to include the existing communities and the people who live there. The industrial zoning has become burdensome to the citizens in the area. I have committed to them that I will not approve any more zoning of industrial plants in that area. In addition, I believe that it is imperative that we look at existing zoning projects that are upcoming and work to curtail their impact on the area. This is a very detailed and challenging task. I encourage citizens to visit VoteShegale.com and review my plan in more detail for this area.
Jae Brown, Candidate for Clayton County Board of Commissioners District 1
Clayton Democrats sent out a questionnaire to all 10 candidates for the September 21, 2021 special election for Clayton County Board of Commissioners District 1. We received five responses. The following are responses from candidate Jae Brown. We encourage residents in District 1 to vote on Tuesday for who they would like to have in this position.
1. What qualifications do you have that make you qualified than the other candidates?
What differentiates this candidate is the servant leadership style, compassion and she have the ability to expert facilitation. As a seasoned, professional Administrator; possesses innate strategic/tactical skills, used to produce result-oriented work that is clear, concise and thorough
2. What incentives would you offer businesses to come to Clayton County?
First and foremost I want to develop homegrown talent in the community. So much talent leaves our county to work in other areas of the Metro. There is genius in this community and we need to release it. We have the infrastructure, leadership and resources to create a crop of business owners and entrepreneurs from our own citizens. As far as being an attractive place for businesses, I am working with various leaders in the community to set up free Wifi for cities and unincorporated areas in the county. Free Wifi will not only help close the digital divide, it will be a recruiting tool for businesses. We are already the most favorable county for businesses tax wise. So I will stress that benefit and also tout that the average of our citizens is 35. These people are mature and an young enough to be molded into any job you need.
3. What percentage of Clayton County’s budget comes in the form of direct payments and all grants from federal sources of indirectly through state money and non-cognizable grants sourced from the federal budget?
for 2021 our General Fund dollars were $ 215,432,901 and our Special Revenue funds are 35,785,707. Special Revenue Funds make up a little over 14% of the budget.
4. Dekalb County has implemented ways to increased Covid-19 vaccinations. What are some of your ideas to increase COVID vaccinations in our county?
Utilize some of the Covid-19 funds to pay for transportation to sites. Implement a mobile vaccination plan. We meet people in communities and provide shots at churches, schools, neighborhood meetings.
5. What has been your community involvement prior to seeking the seat of the District I Commissioner?
Volunteer with local Boy Scouts Troop, Member of 100 Black Men South Metro, Served on Board of Directors for several organizations (United Way AAP, Urban Young Professionals League Atlanta, Auditory Verbal Center, New Leaders Council, Harriet Tubman School of Science and Technology)
6. As a commissioner, you will be able to appoint persons to the various county boards, How will you ensure that you’re selecting the right individual?
I will assure I will appoint the right individual through looking at their resumes, volunteer experiences and commitment to the the community.
7. There is 14months left in the unexpired term of the late Commissioner Sonya Gregory. If you are elected, what will be your priority?
1. Continue to listen to citizen concerns and needs; 2. Address the most pressing needs and concerns of citizens; 3. Increase vaccination rate of citizens, 4. develop business development program for citizens
8. How will you engage with the citizens in District I?
Neighborhood association meetings, district community engagement meetings, PTA meetings and weekly office hours dedicated to hearing from citizens through visits or phone calls.
9. Are you aware of any other revenue streams that can be utilized other than raising property taxes?
Yes, the federal government can change the language in some policies to direct fuel tax money to the county. This could bring millions of dollars to the county. I am currently working with officials familiar with the policy to see what needs to be done to make it happen.
10. What is your position with regard to zoning changes within District I (with regard to logistic centers, retail development, housing, or other commercial develop)?
1. Assure there are proper buffers between commercial and residential areas. 2. Create noise ordinance policies in commercial zones to reduce noise spilling over to residential areas. 3. Turn empty commercial properties into innovation zones for small businesses.
Ernest Strozier, Candidate for Clayton County Board of Commissioners District 1
Clayton Democrats sent out a questionnaire to all 10 candidates for the September 21, 2021 special election for Clayton County Board of Commissioners District 1. We received five responses. The following are responses from candidate Ernest Strozier. We encourage residents in District 1 to vote on Tuesday for who they would like to have in this position.
1. What qualifications do you have that make you qualified than the other candidates?
I have over 20 years of leadership experience brining resources to the community. I have sat on nonprofit boards for the last 15 years and understand the commitment it takes to be a present leader in a large organization. I am the Clayton County dream, I graduated from Morrow High School, went to the military and college (GSU, UGA and Cornell), came back to the community to put roots down. I have worked in senior positions in the military, federal government, nonprofit and business community. I am currently an entrepreneur. My leadership has been recognized through awards such as 40 Leaders Under 40 (Georgia Trend Magazine), 40 Business Leaders Under 40 (Atlanta Business Chronicle), Rising Star (Urban League of Atlanta). I have been part of classes in various leadership programs (LEAD Atlanta, New Leaders Council Atlanta, Regional Leadership Institute, United Way VIP). I understand the community has been good to me and I am always working hard to make the community better for others. I am not asking to be a leader in the community. I am already that, what I am asking is to lead in a different capacity.
2. What incentives would you offer businesses to come to Clayton County?
I would look at offering county owned land at a discount, offering opportunity zones which offer qualified investors certain tax benefits when they invest unrealized capital gain into the designated area of the county.
3. What percentage of Clayton County’s budget comes in the form of direct payments and all grants from federal sources of indirectly through state money and non-cognizable grants sourced from the federal budget?
Around 6.7 percent of or $26.7 million dollars of Clayton County’s budget come from these sources.
4. Dekalb County has implemented ways to increased Covid-19 vaccinations. What are some of your ideas to increase COVID vaccinations in our county?
I would partner with local businesses to obtain gift cards to give citizens as an incentive to get the vaccination, the gift cards would be picked based on the age we are seeking to appeal to.
5. What has been your community involvement prior to seeking the seat of the District I Commissioner?
Prior to seeking office in Clayton County I was involved in the community in the northern part of Clayton County which is partially located in College Park where I served a a police officer. I also have volunteered with Area In Need ministries an organization that reaches out to the less privileged by supplying school supplies and food.
6. As a commissioner, you will be able to appoint persons to the various county boards, How will you ensure that you’re selecting the right individual?
Serving on a politically appointed board is very important. I will assure that individuals appointed by me are thoroughly vetted and pass the same background check as any other county employee.
7. There is 14months left in the unexpired term of the late Commissioner Sonya Gregory. If you are elected, what will be your priority?
My first priorities would be to slow the building of warehouses in the district that don’t already have tenants when completed and attract businesses that pay a decent living wage.
8. How will you engage with the citizens in District I?
Engaging with the community is very important, during the warmer months I would host “Walk With Your Commissioner” in preselected neighborhoods and myself along with the department heads would walk and chat with the citizens about concerns in there neighborhood. I would also hold once a month coffee chats at the local coffee where I would engage the citizens of district 1.
9. Are you aware of any other revenue streams that can be utilized other than raising property taxes?
Being a resident of Clayton County I’m never going to be proactive for raising taxes. Hartsfield- Jackson Atlanta Airport sits squarely in Clayton County and we don’t receive any revenue from the airport. Even though there have been court decisions on this revenue stream I would want to revisit this source of revenue.
10. What is your position with regard to zoning changes within District I (with regard to logistic centers, retail development, housing, or other commercial develop)?
I would oppose any zoning changes that will displace space for building affordable housing, lower the value of the homes already in the county, bring crime to the area and effect the quality of life for the residents of Clayton County.
Hackwin L. Devoe, Candidate for Clayton County Board of Commissioners District 1
Clayton Democrats sent out a questionnaire to all 10 candidates for the September 21, 2021 special election for Clayton County Board of Commissioners District 1. We received five responses. The following are responses from candidate Hackwin Devoe. We encourage residents in District 1 to vote on Tuesday for who they would like to have in this position.
1. What qualifications do you have that make you qualified than the other candidates?
Hello! My name is Hackwin L. Devoe. I believe that Clayton County Matters! I am a public servant with 21 years of local government administration experience with DeKalb County government. I worked with senior departmental leaders, community & faith leaders, local Commissioners, and the citizens of the County. Moreover, with my military experience and current position as our community’s HOA President (of The Promenade At Rex Ridge), I have learned what good servant leadership means, and will always put people above politics.
2. What incentives would you offer businesses to come to Clayton County?
Tax credits are always beneficial to business bottom line. I would continue to support tax credits such as the Opportunity Zone and Tier 1 credits. However, there must be some component in which we the residents of Clayton County will benefit from said business’ presence in our community. Businesses must always be in partnership with the community they serve.
3. What percentage of Clayton County’s budget comes in the form of direct payments and all grants from federal sources of indirectly through state money and non-cognizable grants sourced from the federal budget?
Although both the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for 2020 and the 2022 Annual Operating Budget are published/posted on the County’s website, I will not purport that I have the answer readily available. This question lends itself more to the Chief Financial Officer’s role to analyze and advise the Board of Commission so that decisions can be made on how best to allocate funds. I plan to work closely and regularly with CFO Bivins and the finance group to ensure that resources are allocated and employed in a transparent and fiscally responsible manner.
4. Dekalb County has implemented ways to increased Covid-19 vaccinations. What are some of your ideas to increase COVID vaccinations in our county?
As an employee of DeKalb County, I have seen the efforts up close. I would mirror DeKalb’s efforts so not to reinvent the wheel. That is, I would set up vaccination sites in areas within the County in which are convenient to the citizens. However, I would support giving gift cards to local restaurants instead of $100 debit cards.
5. What has been your community involvement prior to seeking the seat of the District I Commissioner?
I am the HOA president of my community here in Rex (The Promenade at Rex). I have worked with our community in communicating with Public Safety, new developers, and sanitation/beautification departments as it relates to the safety, sustainability, health and wellbeing of our community.
6. As a commissioner, you will be able to appoint persons to the various county boards, How will you ensure that you’re selecting the right individual?
While resumes and references give you a partial picture of an individual, I learned that several interviews afford a deeper level of vetting. It is in “real time” conversation that one can learn more about a person as opposed to printed words on a paper.
7. There is 14months left in the unexpired term of the late Commissioner Sonya Gregory. If you are elected, what will be your priority?
In talking with my neighbors in the surround community, I understand that there are a myriad of issues and concerns. However, no issue has been more prevalent to our neighbors than the blight in this County. That is, the dilapidated buildings and trash on our streets. It is an eyesore for everyone who lives or visits our County. It negatively affects our property value and image of our community.
8. How will you engage with the citizens in District I?
I will be accessible and available on weekdays and weekends outside of the standard office hours. In addition to this, I would schedule townhall meetings and hearing sessions to keep the community informed with the ongoings of the County. Weekly email / social media post will be one of many formats to engage the citizens. Moreover, I would avail myself to neighborhood HOA’s community meetings.
9. Are you aware of any other revenue streams that can be utilized other than raising property taxes?
Yes, such as TAD (Tax allocated Districts) funds, Federal & State grants, and SPLOST. These are revenue streams that can be leveraged to accomplish capital outlay projects and other county initiatives without raising property taxes.
10. What is your position with regard to zoning changes within District I (with regard to logistic centers, retail development, housing, or other commercial develop)?
The approach to zoning within District 1 must be balanced and comprehensive. While commercial zoning brings in some jobs and tax dollars, too many logistic centers and commercial development detracts from residential sustainability and growth, as families do not want to live amid warehouses and truck stops. Proper planning and strategic placement of residential homes and logistic centers will remedy the problem we have now of overdevelopment of logistic centers.
