Raised in the mountains of North Carolina, I left to attend Boston University in 1985. While visiting Georgia in the summer of 1987, I decided I didn't want to leave. It felt like home, so I completed my bachelor’s degree in Biology at Georgia State University and went to work for the Environmental Division of the Fulton County Health Department. Eventually, I found my passion in real estate and have been working in Gwinnett and the surrounding area for about 25 years.
In the early 90's, I was married and raising three children in what is now Peachtree Corners. We eventually decided that we wanted our children to grow up in a more rural environment, like we did, so they could have room to run, ride dirt bikes, garden and chase chickens. So, in 1999, we moved to what has become the City of Mulberry.
My children are adults now, and I have watched this area transform over the past 25 years into what is beginning to resemble Peachtree Corners. Change was inevitable when the Mall of Georgia opened and more people ventured out this way. Hamilton Mill subdivision has doubled in size over this time. Numerous communities, parks and schools have been built, and traffic has increased every year. Many families have moved away, and even more newcomers have arrived. Change has already happened and will continue. That is guaranteed.
Over the past year, I have witnessed the formation of Mulberry dividing this beautiful community. It is clear that those who are for the city are trying to preserve the area, by controlling future land use in an effort to prevent overcrowded schools and increased traffic. I understand the desire to control growth to maintain the character of this area. It is a wonderful place to raise a family.
Alternatively, I have observed that many who voted against the City of Mulberry have doubts that the promise of no city property taxes can be upheld. They are uncertain how the new city will generate enough revenue, or be able to maintain the same cost for services, and how new zoning regulations may affect them. Many of these citizens are long-term property owners who are concerned that they will not be able to sell their investment for the highest and best use.
I understand the concerns of both sides. The city was created to provide checks and balances on growth. I want to be a part of ensuring that promises made are promises fulfilled, and that ALL citizens of our community are heard and represented. I am confident that we can meet on common ground to come up with sensible solutions that work for everyone.
I hope you will vote for me on November 5th, so I can get to work toward bringing this community back together.
Change is inevitable, but growth must be smart to balance the needs of our community with the needs of landowners. It is crucial that the voices on each side of an issue are heard in the decision process.
"Don't spend more than you earn." City property taxes are off the table, so it is imperative to be prudent with spending while maintaining steady revenue. I will continually seek to lower costs while encouraging additional revenue streams.
Community input will be a top priority in order to make informed decisions. I will keep open lines of communication and rely on feedback from citizens and advice from experts to improve policies.
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