Sam Bowen
An Innovator, tech-entrepreneur, and business leader — Sam Bowen has lived in the South Fulton community for over 14 years. A graduate of Oglethorpe University and American InterContinental University, Sam is trained in Information Technology and Businesses Administration. Coupled with two decades of experience in the tech industry Sam’s experience as the Chief Information Officer for the Georgia Professional Standards Commission — managing a large staff and implementing a high-value technology infrastructure — is just a small part of his work in the Greater Atlanta community and the State of Georgia.
Bowen has served in the non-profit, public, and private sector leading teams, balancing budgets, and helping organizations make smart business decisions to push organizations forward. Through his work as a software developer, product manager, and analyst Sam has been dedicated to discovering simple and sustainable solutions for organizations that touch cities across the state.
A member of Elizabeth Baptist church, Bowen’s service to all stretches deep in the community. He’s spent time supporting organizations such as: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, The National Kidney Foundation, Toys for Tots, Angel Tree Atlanta, Louisiana Flood Relief Fund and many more. Outside of his active participation as a member of Chattahoochee Hills Charter School PTO, Sam is a member of the Technology Association of Georgia, The American Institute of Graphic Arts, ATDC.org, and the Atlanta Track Club.
Sam resides in the Walden Park community with his wife, Denise and two daughters Reese and Reagan.
Damita Chatman
Occupation: Association President
Years lived in Walden Park: 11
Education: Los Angeles Community College
Age: 53
Family: Married to David; one son, Kameron, 25
Endorsements:
Candidate statement: My mission is to build a transparent connection between our new city government, families, communities and schools. I believe the values of the people, who reside in this city, should be reflected in the decisions that are made which impact the current and future state of South Fulton. It is my passion, to build a city that reflects the values of its citizens, and that is why I am running for City Council.
Experience: As the wife of a highly decorated Marine Master Gunnery Sergeant, I have 28 years of experience understanding rank and respect. I’ve worked closely with Key Wives Club at Camp Pendleton, CA overseeing families of deployed spouses. I have volunteered in multiple schools while residing in Oceanside, CA, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina and Atlanta, Ga. While residing in San Diego, CA, from 1989 to 2003 I fed homeless men, women and children on “Skid Row” in San Diego County and Tijuana, Mexico. I served on the Westlake High School Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) Board as Secretary from 2008-2009. From 2005 to 2009 I played a vital role at Westlake High School where I worked with students and assisted other parents of Westlake by serving breakfast to staff and volunteering in other areas where I was needed. I’ve had the opportunity to develop relationships with many youth and adults in our community. I serve on the South Fulton Beautiful Committee to help clean up the communities by cleaning up trash along the streets. I was instrumental in getting the vote passed for Cityhood. I’ve worked with Protecting Our Schools, South Fulton Now and the People’s Campaign.
I attended Los Angeles Community college where I studied Early Child care. I worked at AB Plastics from 1982-1988. I was one of the first 75 people to be employed by Callaway Golf Company of Carlsbad Ca., under the leadership of the late Ely Callaway. In 1988 my husband and I decided that I would be a stay at home mother to raise our son. In 1993 I returned to the workforce and was employed at Signet Amorlite for 14 years until being relocated. It was there
that I worked in the capacity of shift lead and overseen over 100 people. By working with a diverse group of people, it has allowed me to enhance my leadership skills.
As the President of one the largest subdivisions in South Fulton, I have oversight and responsibility to maintain fiscal and financial solvency. I work closely with residents, legal and a management team to settle and reach agreeable decisions to avoid costly court procedures when applicable. Under my leadership as President I have worked to omplete projects/plans that include installing sidewalks, sprinkler systems, privacy gates and flood lights in the community’s common areas. I have worked with the association to take ownership of 3000 curbside trees so
homeowners wouldn’t have to endure the cost for pine straw; lowered assessments three times, managing over a half million dollars of projects. I oversee a $550,000.00 budget. I have worked with board members to oversee the building of additional housing on the property and ensure
that all building guideline were in compliance. I have completed multiple leadership classes through Weissman, Nowack, Curry & Wilco Attorneys at Law where I have gained knowledge on how to run an association to bankruptcy classes etc. As the president, I uphold the covenant and bylaws which govern the subdivision in an effort way so to maintain property values. As a result of sound vendor selection and priority spending, we have been able to decrease annual assessments and maintain a stable reserve fund.
My vision for the new city of South Fulton is to become a thriving city where people want to live and families want to raise children; a city where employment rates are up and crime is down. My focus and priority is on the most important and vital concerns of the citizens of South Fulton and enhancing our city by tackling those issues that are essential to our community. I believe I offer a new and different perspective because it is my passion to protect our community that propelled me into the People’s Campaign.
I am asking for your vote because I believe we need leadership who leads from the heart and is guided by truthfulness, facts and fiscal responsibility. I bring new ideas and the commitment of hard work and determination to successfully represent the citizens of our city. The people of South Fulton are my focus and agenda, and I take the gravity of that charge very seriously, as this is our home. It is now time to set a new tone in who will represent you in South Fulton; you can count on me to do just that. If you want someone who lives in this community and will work tirelessly to represent South Fulton with integrity, dignity and respect for the people, vote for me. I will serve the citizens of South Fulton with great honor and pride. Let’s make the new city of South Fulton the great city we voted it to be.
Allyson Dozier
Allyson Dozier, is a passionate and proven Community Activist, as evidenced by her life work. Dozier is a great neighbor, resident of the South Fulton Community for over 10+ years. She has always served the community and schools (in some capacity) everywhere she has lived.
Today, Dozier is running to serve as your committed and trusted District 2, City Council Member in the newly incorporated City of South Fulton. LIBERATED at last!
Dozier, currently serves as the Community Services Director for the Berean Outreach Ministries Center. The human resource services provided for Georgia residents are; food pantry services, job training/placement, health screenings, emergency assistance, clothing, shelter resources, placing special emphasis on care of our, at risk populations of seniors and children. Dozier continues to work hard to improve our schools, protect and strengthen our communities.
Education
Dozier earned her BA in Political Science at Pace University in New York. She also served as the Vice President of the Political Activities Group during her studies. Completed Background Investigations School at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC).
Highlights of Dozier professional employment includes, Small Business Ownership, Department of Treasury, Program Analyst responsible for monitoring the progress of corrective actions in response to Internal Audit, Inspector General or General Accounting Office (GAO) audit findings and reporting the results to Department of Treasury; fulfilling information requests for Senior Council and Congressional Hearings.
Dozier conducted Security Clearance Background Investigations, from Top Secret to Basic, in coordination with the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Police Departments, Educational Institutions, Credit Bureaus and Employers for suitability impacts at Inspections Internal Security Division, Department of Treasury.
Mrs. Dozier was an Employee Relations Assistant, responsible for applying regulations in the interest of Federal Employee Benefits; and a Secretary for the Department of Treasury. She also worked in Travel, Retail and for the Veterans Administration.
South Fulton Community Service Highlights...
2014/2016 - Fulton County Representative - State of GA Department of Education Superintendent’s Parent Advisory Council.
2013/2015 - Community Service Liaison, Berean Outreach Ministries Center
2015 - Parent Advisory Council Vice President, Renaissance Elementary
2014 - Inspired Fulton County Board of Commissioners to Amend Zoning Resolution Article 28.3)
2012/2015 - HOA President, Falls Homeowners Association
2013/2015 – Campaigned for Cityhood; attended, hosted informational meetings, and made visits to the State Legislature to encourage passage of HB 514.
2010/2009 - HOA Board Secretary, Falls HOA
2007/2008 - HOA Pool Committee Chairperson, Falls HOA
1999/2005 - Education Ministry Director, Seabrook Church
1999/2001- Youth Services Director, Crowne Meadows HOA
Mrs. Dozier is happily married to Todd Dozier Sr., her high school sweetheart for 29 years. She is also the Mother of 4 sons. Allyson loves children, strengthening schools and community, the beach, and gardening.
Mrs. Dozier’s prayer that she can inspire residents of South Fulton to get engaged in some capacity in schools, community, at church, volunteer organizations, business associations to grow South Fulton to be a great place to live, work and play. Home property values will not increase without growing great schools, real investment in our children, select, planned economic development, safer communities, and strong environmental protections. You can learn more about new job listings, updates on new city, the upcoming election and Mrs. Dozier; when you visit the District #2 Website set up just for you at www.VOTEALLYSONDOZIER.COM. THANK YOU FOR SPENDING THE TIME TO CARE ABOUT OUR COMMUNITY.
Corro'll Driskell, Sr.
www.CorrollDriskell.com
twitter.com\cdriskell fb.me\electcorrolldriskell
MILITARY
- Persian Gulf War Veteran United State Navy
- National Defense Service Medal (NDSM) United States Navy (USN), 1992
-Southwest Asia Service Medal (SASM) United States Navy, 1991
-Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (SSDR) United States Navy, 1989 - 1992
EDUCATION
-Georgia State University Andrew Young School of Policy Studies B.S, Urban Policy Studies Local Government Management, August 2004
-United Way V.I.P. Graduate (Volunteer Involvement Program)
IN THE COMMUNITY
- The Enon Baptist Church http://www.theenonchurch.org/
- Kappa Alpha Psi, Fraternity Incorporated
- 2014 Alumni United Way Volunteer Involvement Program (V.I.P.)
- 2014 - Present Regency Oaks Neighborhood Association, Board of Directors
- 2014 - Present South Fulton HOA Alliance, Co-Founder
- Communities Against Crime
- 2014 - Present Georgia HOA Alliance, Co-Founder
- HOA Boot Camp http://www.HOABootCamp.org
- 2015 - Present Friends of Wolf Creek, Board of Directors, President
- Friends of Wolf Creek Library
- Friends of Wolf Creek Amphitheater
- 2014 - 2016 Stonewall Tell Elementary School Governance Council (SGC)
- Budget Sub-Committee, Chair- Fulton County District 5 Committee member at Constituent Services Task Force (CSTG)
- Economic Development & Sustainability Sub-committee at Constituent Services Task Force (CSTF), Co-Chair
- Fulton County District 7 Committee member at South Fulton Economic Development Ambassador Advisory Committee
- Business Development Subcommittee at South Fulton Economic Development Ambassador Advisory Committee, Co-Chair
- February 2014 - May 2014 Community Investment Fund Volunteer at Unitedway
2014-2015 Investment Fund Volunteer
- February 2015 - May 2015 Community Investment Fund Volunteer at Unitedway 2014-2015 Investment Fund Volunteer
- 2015 - Present Advisory Board Member at Giving A Hand, Inc.
OUTSIDE THE COMMUNITY
- 2012 - Present Professional Member at AIIM (Association for Information and Image Management)
- 2010 - Present Member at AIIM (Association for Information and Image Management) C27, Document Management Technologies
- 2010 - Present Member at AIIM/ANSI C21, Advance Data Storage Subsystems
- 2000 - 2004 Junior Achievement of Atlanta
POLICY EXPERIENCE
- Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG) - January 2005 - April 2005
- Member at AIIM C27, Document Management Technologies - January 2010 - Present
- Member at AIIM/ANSI C21, Advance Data Storage Subsystems - January 2010 - Present
- Professional Member at AIIM (Association for Information and Image Management)
- Community Investment Fund Volunteer at Unitedway 2014-2015 Investment Fund Volunteer February 2014 - May 2014
- Community Investment Fund Volunteer at Unitedway 2014-2015 Investment Fund Volunteer February 2015 - May 2015
- Advisory Board Member at Giving A Hand, Inc. 2015 - Present
Angelia Gay-Bankston
Angelia Gay-Bankston made the decision to run for District 2 City Council of South Fulton because of her limitless love for her community, and her desire to invest in the community’s future and stand for the values of the neighborhood.
Angelia is a Hughes Spaulding baby, born, raised and educated in Atlanta Georgia. Angelia attended and graduated from Frederick Douglass High School and matriculated to Georgia State University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Public Relations and Journalism. She has served on the Board of Director’s for Metro Atlanta Respite & Developmental Services, Inc., as a member of The Women’s Economic Development Center, as Vice-President for Georgia United Child Care Consortium and Associates, as a member of The Georgia Child Care Association, The National Black Child Development Institute, The Coalition Of 100 Black Women, The American Red Cross Minority Recruitment Advisory Board, The Atlanta Business League and the Atlanta Junior League. She has worked tirelessly in her community as a volunteer and advocate for causes that support the development of children, and for women who have been victims of domestic violence.
Inspired by her parent’s commitment to public service, Angelia joined the family business shortly after college as the owner of Angel’s Paradise Higher Learning Academy. The academy offers specialized learning programs in an environment that provides customized activities designed to help each child achieve goals in social, emotional, physical, intellectual and creative development. In addition to the early childhood component, the academy also has two state funded Pre-Kindergarten classes. Angel’s Paradise of Higher Learning was one of the first centers in the Atlanta area to be accredited by The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and to be awarded a quality rating for delivering exceptional service. In addition, Angel’s provides regular parenting classes and has served as a training site for the Department of Family and Children Services work program which provides employment experience to women in transition.
Angelia is also the CEO of Network of Family Services, a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization that supports families through education and outreach with the aim of preventing abuse and neglect, cultivating healthy relationships, and anger issues, providing parenting support, and building life skills. This program has also partnered with the Male Café- which provides men with the opportunity to express their frustration and learn how to effectively channel their negative energy into a positive energy thus helping them with conflict resolution and parenting.
Angelia’s has received much recognition and numerous accolades for her outstanding service to the community. She was inducted into The Atlanta Business League Business Hall of Fame for Pioneering Entrepreneurial Endeavors; she won the Atlanta Business League’s Success against the Odds Award, and the Georgia Minority Business Neophyte Award; she has been recognized several times as one of the “Top 100 Black Women of Influence,” Women Looking Ahead and the “100 Most Influential Women” through The Atlanta Business League and she and currently serves as the President of the Frederick Douglass High School Alumni Association. Angelia is not only a successful entrepreneur, she is a devoted wife to Reginald and loving mother of three beautiful children.
With years of hard work and community service under her belt, Angelia believes it is now time to embark upon a rewarding journey in public service, which will afford her the opportunity to address community issues, and to help shape the City of South Fulton’s future. “I am excited about the creation of the City South Fulton, and ready to get to work spreading positive energy in our City government. I am accessible and open to ideas, and I possess the tenacity and patience to see our ideas through to fruition. My goal is to work towards changes that will positively affect our way of living, ensure safe neighborhoods, preserve the natural beauty, diverse ecology and outdoor recreational space of our communities, protect our senior citizens, and address issues that affect our youth. I plan to advocate for our city to operate with the latest and best technologies in all areas so that we are the most efficient running city, and I am ready to work with our public safety entities on keeping our residents safe. I also want to help bring new businesses and jobs to the City of South Fulton so that our city will thrive- because the engine of economic growth is powered by the people.”
Carmalitha L. Gumbs, MBA, MHA
Why am I Running for City Council?
Simply because I care. I am not running because I have been cherry picked to run for this seat or have any special interests. I am running because I am invested in seeing our City do well. Honestly, I never imagined myself being a politician, but after working in the profession of economic development, and seeing how many cities were annexing themselves and understanding the benefits to do so, my outlook changed. This past November, residents voted overwhelmingly to incorporate the new city of South Fulton. At that time, we positioned ourselves to develop the power, influence and resources to get the things we need and deserve to ensure we can live, work, play and raise our children in a vibrant and safe community.
As Fulton’s newest city, South Fulton still needs business revenue in order to reduce the burden on homeowners, increased economic development opportunities so we can spend our money at-home, professionalism and productivity of city leadership and staff, and a community development strategy to make our city functional, comfortable, neighborly, beautiful, interesting, fun, and attractive.
As a new city, it is my belief that WE need experienced leadership. I am excited to serve the constituents in District 2. I am ready to bring my energy, creativity, professionalism, economic development and local government expertise, along with my extensive history of community service to our city.
My Vision for South Fulton
I see a vibrant, thriving, fiscally sound, and safe City full of endless opportunities where we can live, work, play, and raise our children. I believe we can be a clean and greener City, attracting local businesses, large retailers, new development and great restaurants. I see a City with improved schools, and improved recreation facilities, and an abundance of activities and programs for our youth. I see a City where our seniors are active and engaged in the community, not afraid to leave their homes. I see a City with plenty of green space, walking and biking trails, sidewalks, and other amenities. I see an active and healthy City. I see a City where we can feel a sense of comfort of knowing your neighbors. A City of the people. Our City. Our Voice. Our Future.
Education:
Norfolk State University, Bachelor of Social Work
Strayer University, Masters in Business Administration, Marketing
Strayer University, Masters in Healthcare Administration
Employment:
DeKalb County Government, Chief of Staff/Communications Director for Board of Commissioners
DeKalb County/The Collaborative Firm (East Point), Director of Marketing and Communications
ChenMed/JenCare Neighborhood Medical Centers, Cultural and Community Affairs Manager
Humana Inc. Georgia, Senior Marketing Manager
City of Richmond, Virginia Local Government, Lead Social Worker
Liquid Soul Media/General Mills, Inc., Brand Ambassador (Metro Atlanta)
M320 Consulting Group, Engagement Manager
Affiliations:
2016 Honoree for Who’s Who In Black Atlanta
2015 Women on the Move Atlanta Business Chronicle
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated (Tau Epsilon Omega Chapter), East Point, GA
2014-2017 Rising Phenomenal Women (RPW) of Metro Atlanta
2016-2018 Metro Atlanta Drifters, Inc., Elected Vice President
2015-2017 Member, Junior League of Atlanta
2015-2017 Board Member, Sporty Girls, Inc.
2012-2016 Elected Board Member and Chair Development, DeKalb for Seniors, Inc.
Church:
Impact Church, Pastor Olu Brown, East Point, GA
Proud mother of a wonderful daughter, Kerrington.
Odari Head
CHANGING THE NARRATIVE IN SOUTH FULTON
As a native and being raised in South Fulton, Georgia Odari felt inspired to run for District 2 – City Council. Odari M. Head was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. He is the middle child of long time South Fulton residents Phenus and Sheila Head. Odari grew up in South Fulton, graduating from Westlake High School’s Science and Math Magnet program in 1996. He continued his education at Tuskegee University double majoring in Business Administration and Management Science. During this time Odari learned fundamental financial and operation principles of how to successfully own and manage a business. As a family man with strong values, a businessman with the utmost integrity, and a loving father of two sons, (8-year-old) Jayden Head and (10-year-old) Cameron Head, Odari is extremely passionate about contributing to his community.
Today, Odari serves as CEO of Head’s Plumbing Sales & Service, Inc. A family owned and operated business started by his father, mother, and grandfather in 1981. Over the last 10 years Head’s plumbing has grown exponentially under Odari’s leadership, expanding the fleet from one truck to five trucks while servicing South Fulton communities and beyond.
One of Head Plumbing’s largest vendors is “Meals on Wheels,” who partners with Head’s Plumbing on providing affordable services to senior citizens. Odari is currently a member of the Georgia Plumbing Heating Coolers Contractor Association as well as the Atlanta Business League.
Odari’s vision is to serve as an influential advocate for positive change in the community focusing on impacting the youth and senior citizens of South Fulton. His plan consists of:
* Development of Youth Mentorship Programs
* Creation of Senior Citizen Outreach Assistance
* Establishing Safer and Cleaner Neighborhoods
* Building Eco-friendly Communities
Odari’s leadership, vision, strategic planning, drive, and great business acumen positions him as the best candidate to serve on South Fulton’s City Council.
Asegun Henry
Profession: Professor of Mechanical Engineering (MechE) at Georgia Tech
Age: 35
Family: Married with children
Education: BS from FAMU & MS and PhD from MIT
Website: www.DrHenry.org
Platform Summary –
TRANSPARENCY, PARTICIPATION & ACCOUNTABILITY
Within first year of office, I will:
- Hold quarterly and as needed town hall meetings to discuss issues and poll the community in person.
- Introduce an electronic polling/participation system that will:
- Send out information on topics you designate interest in (e.g., no spam).
- Provide a brief overview of new bills / ideas / proposals / issues.
- Provide 1-2 arguments in favor.
- Provide 1-2 arguments against.
- Allow you to vote in favor/against.
- Display poll results on this website.
- After the first year I will:
- Propose legislation that will formalize the electronic polling / participation system.
- Propose legislation that will require city council members to vote in accordance with poll results.
- Propose legislation that will allow council members to be impeached.
- Propose legislation that will give the community direct veto power over bills.
PUBLIC SAFETY
Working with law enforcement I have developed a comprehensive plan for criminal justice reform that will include:
- A greatly improved police reporting system to drastically reduce the amount of time police spend on non “police work”.
- For juveniles – More severe consequences to prevent repeat offenders, along with penalties/fines for their parents.
- For juveniles – A mandatory requirement of participation and completion of a mentoring program along with mandatory community service (i.e., trash cleanup) and participation in job training programs.
- A wide array of youth programs involving community volunteers and police (i.e., sports leagues, a formal mentoring program, a chess league, debate team tournaments, dance competitions etc.).
- Modification of rules around when police officers can chase a suspect (i.e., car thefts without use of a deadly weapon).
- Increasing the number of officers for an intensified and coordinated effort to end criminal activity on and around Old National.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Will work with economic development experts / consultants and the community working group to:
- Work with developers and provide economic incentives to build a high quality indoor mall.
- Recruit more diverse options for grocery stores and restaurants.
- Work with city planning experts to develop a 10 year city plan with zoning strategies.
- Work with transportation experts to widen / add roads that will increase access to highways.
- Work with and recruit targeted companies to move their offices and facilities to our new city for job creation.
- Organize and sponsor a seminar/workshop series (i.e., health & nutrition, financial planning, entrepreneurship etc.).
- Survey the community to determine what other types of businesses are of interest.
- Host community events (i.e., a national HBCU reuinion, Cook-offs etc.).
Why I am Running
I have also been looking for ways to utilize my skills and talents to more directly engage our community and contribute. I care deeply about my community and nation, so much so that my entire life is dedicated to ensuring our survival. My life and professional work is dedicated to mitigating climate change, which is arguably the most important problem in the history of mankind. I work on developing a form of solar energy that can supply electricity both during the day and at night, called concentrated solar power. My goal is to reduce its cost so it can be cheaper than fossil fuels and eventually replace them. In essence, this mission equates to trying to save our species from extinction, and it ultimately stems from an extremely deep sense of concern and responsibility for not only our local community, but for all people everywhere. Having a philosophy of thinking globally while acting locally, my entire life is dedicated to the betterment and survival of life on this planet, but I am also aware of the critical importance that local everyday efforts play in the success of worldwide initiatives. I am passionate about getting involved because I care and I know I can offer a unique skillset to help build this new city government. The chance to serve on the city council, particularly through this first election, is a unique opportunity to make a huge impact in the local community and beyond, and that is why I am running.
In the short term, I believe that the most pressing issue the community is faced with is public safety (see my answer to question to number 6 for more detail on this). However, there is a bigger long-term issue we should also pay attention to, which is, what will be the culture, function, expectations, and fate of our local government. The possibility that we can have a more engaging and transparent government, where the power resides directly in the hands of the people is what prompted me to run. To be frank, I have placed little faith in the effectiveness of politicians. However, what inspired me to run was seeing the excitement of other candidates, who, like me, represented everyday people, with great interest and concern for the quality of our life in our community. Many had no prior political experience or large campaign budgets, but were rich in pride and hope for what our new city represents for us. From my view, that is what makes this first election different. We have an opportunity here to create a new government culture, and we can define the role of city council members and the mayor as we see fit. In my view, city council members should simply be representatives of the people’s views, meaning that council members should always be transparent, collaborate with, and make decisions based on direct input from the community. It is for this reason, that the most important thing I want to accomplish by running, is to implement a transparency and participation system that puts the power directly in the hands of the people — literally.
About Me
I have lived in what is now the new city of south fulton, for the last ~ 5 years and I’m a husband, father and professor of mechanical engineering at Georgia Tech. I’m a proud graduate of both Florida A & M University (Bachelors) and MIT (Masters and Ph.D.). I’m a resourceful, successful and accomplished problem solver. I’m a very fast learner and I understand how to look at problems holistically to develop optimal solutions. As a professor, I’m also a very effective communicator, with an international reputation, as I’ve given invited lectures around the world and have published more than 30 peer reviewed scientific journal articles (see curriculum vitae at: http://www.ase.gatech.edu/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Asegun-Henry-CV-Current.pdf).
I do not have any experience as a politician, but prior to starting at Georgia I worked at the U.S. department of energy (DOE), in the advanced research projects agency – energy (ARPA-E), which is one of the most effective and efficient parts of the DOE. Therefore, I am is well acquainted with how smoothly and effectively government can operate with good leadership and when smart/adaptable policies and procedures are put in place from the beginning. I have experience building large collaborations with large budgets. While at ARPA-E, I helped develop a new 30 million dollar program centered on new hybrid approaches to utilizing solar energy. I have also proposed, led and executed large technology development projects with multi-million dollar budgets. The major skills I bring to the position of city council member are the ability to learn quickly, work well with others to find common ground, and I will be committed to genuinely listening and understanding the needs/desires of the community. My experience as a scientist/engineer will also be invaluable, because my extensive experience developing creative, effective, sustainable and practical solutions to problems will also be applicable to the problems that will be faced by the new city council.
Kenneth F. Joe, Sr.
WHY AM I RUNNING FOR THE DISTRICT 2 COUNCILMAN Seat? – Since 2006 my wife of 19 years and our son, have lived in the Walden Park Subdivision. My family and I love where we live. I know that becoming OUR OWN CITY, is still scary to a large percentage of our community. The 2016 Cityhood vote was 60% yes and 40% no. I knew we had a lot of proving to do to our neighbors who still didn’t feel comfortable with the idea of us being our OWN City. I knew after watching the Presidential Election unfold, it was time that we all stepped up to help lead and bring all of OUR Neighbors Together in a combined effort. I heard some rumblings from some of our neighbors who felt if someone opposed the Cityhood vote they should not be able to hold office or work for OUR New City. Having read this online and heard this in public meetings, my campaign slogan became clear: “Lets’ Build OUR New City TOGETHER!” After all, it will take all of us to do the hard work necessary to build the GREAT City we all want. We must have leaders that believe in this for us to truly reach our potential.
WHY I AM SEEKING YOUR VOTE? - "I FEEL THAT I HAVE SKILLS THAT CAN HELP OUR NEW CITY BE SUCCESSFUL". I was also moved by the call to action by President Obama. It was clear to me that although like most people, I am too busy, already with a full plate, with not enough time in the day, Family, Church, Fraternity & Work responsibilities, "Our Community Needs All the Willing" right now. The Debate on whether we should or should not be a City is over. WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER NOW! It doesn't matter if you were part of the 80% who voted against being a City in 2007 or the 20% who voted for it. It Doesn't matter if you were part of the 60% who voted for OUR City in 2016 or part of the 40% who didn't. WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER NOW. It doesn't matter if you worked with organizations in support of OUR city or worked for the no vote. WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER NOW. No matter what side you were on, we all have a responsibility to ensure we build an infrastructure that enhances our community for our families and neighbors. We are linked together in this whether we like it or not. We OWE it to our CHILDREN to come together through positive dialogue to vote for the leaders with the skill sets needed to ensure OUR CITY IS GREAT! We have a lot of work to do! We are all EQUAL PARTNERS in this! Council Seats & the Mayor position is not about who has lived here the longest, whether you voted YES or NO, if you volunteer frequently, who your friends are, if your subdivision is bigger than others, who endorses you, how much money you have or any of the countless things that provide little to no evidence that you have the competencies necessary to ensure we build an infrastructure that will:
- Improve our schools
- Create a Partnership with our Police & Community
- Show Pride in OUR city by how clean it is and well maintained our roads and neighborhoods are
- Fostering Community Through Neighborhood Festivals and Community "Block/Subdivision Parties"
- Active Neighborhood Watch Programs in EVERY community that are supported by our elected leaders, police & neighborhood/subdivision leaders
- Statues & legislation that DETER "OPPORTUNISTIC CRIMINALS" from wanting to break the law within OUR CITY.
- Ensuring that we have a zoning plan that encourages diverse neighborhoods that include, shopping, culture, services that keep our dollars in our community and is attractive to new businesses & commercial development
- Services & housing that support the lifestyle of our Seniors & Youth
- Parks that are Clean, Attractive & encourages family picnics and recreational activities
EDUCATION
There is nothing more important than the education of our children. The true standard of how well we are doing as a city has everything to do with the quality of education we offer and provide to our children. If our property values are increasing and development is on the rise, but our schools are below standard, we are failing. We must be committed to providing quality education for our children right here in our city. It is true that our schools are better than Atlanta, but that is a low-bar to compare ourselves. We are successful when all of our schools are performing at or above standard. We have good schools here in South Fulton, not all are performing as well as they should, but we have to aim for GREAT schools. As district 2 councilman I will support:
- Incentive pay for teachers who students perform above State & Federal Standards.
- Increasing the number of Charter & Magnet Schools that focus on technology, STEM curriculum, entrepreneurship & arts
- Increased field trips that help broaden the horizons of our children
- Incentives for parent involvement **I welcome any ideas from residents and will support those initiatives that help drive our school system to GREATNESS. Our Children deserve no less. Having worked in Child Welfare for almost 30 years, you can count on me to make this a priority and be the champion for our children’s education & wellbeing in our government.
Development for our city? - How Great it is to Live in South Fulton where the possibility for Development has only been scratched! In the first 1-5 years can we see District 2 having an Outback Steakhouse, Planet Fitness, Chucky Cheese, Panera Bread, Wild Wings, Movie theater where you can have dinner, wine and be waited on! Fulton Industrial, Butner Rd, etc……. I see District 2 as the District where everyone in South Fulton want to come at night and enjoy an anniversary dinner, go on a date, plan a child’s birthday party or just go to the gym. Every district will have their own identity why can’t this be ours? Upscale restaurants, a pub where you can go to play pool, throw darts or watch a game. We become known as the district of flowers because all of our public green space areas are beautifully designed specifically to go with the architecture. This vision for district 2 requires rezoning to move away from the heavy residential zoning plan that Fulton had envisioned. How about an Atlantic Station type of feel right here in district 2….
South Fulton Parkway, Old National etc., we have opportunity for hotels, business centers, senior communities, recreational centers, shopping malls etc. Residential communities with homes starting at $250,000. We can build and be leaders in the Aerotropolis design. In addition, we will need to hire a top-rated branding firm that has experience in municipality branding. We have to start redefining how we are viewed and telling our story our way with enthusiasm and a positive message. Attracting businesses starts with us protecting our brand and getting others to see our city through the same lens we have. This starts by ensuring we have leaders that are ambassadors of our brand, who lead and talk through positivity no matter the pressure or the negativity around them. We need leaders that will go “high when they go low” We must have incentives for residents who want to start small businesses and ensure we have a staff that is able to work with them as needed to help them through the process. We are the City of South Fulton and we have OUR Brightest Days AHEAD!
Security and Safety of Our City - Our Police must have a true Community Policing approach. This starts with a residency requirement. There are studies that support communities are safer and more united in its security when police and the community are in sync. I would support incentives for our current police to comply with the residency requirement within a 12-24-month period. This starts with the residency of our Police Chief. In addition, all new police hires would have to comply with the residency requirement prior to being hired. We also must hold parents accountable for chronic juvenile behavior if it is found that have not attempted to aggressively address the behavior. We must also invest in activities for youth to do in our city besides sports.
GREEN SPACE - I would champion investment in our Parks. In addition, encouraging schools and subdivisions to have community gardens. All of our municipal green space should be neatly decorated and manicured at all times. How our city looks and feels is a testament to how we care for our citizens and how we take pride in where we live. There are studies that show that clean communities have less crime and progressive educational systems. Being a gardener myself, I can attest that it also reduces stress, provides good exercise and is a source of pride when you are able to grow, share and eat your own food. We can have first class Farmer markets within our city and local communities.
These are not lofty goals! All of these things are possible if we elect leaders who are committed to the vision. I am committed to helping ensure we have these things. I owe it to my family & to my fellow neighbors of our city. If elected, I promise your voice will always be heard in your government. Please visit the following for more information about me and the campaign: www.kennethfjoesr.com https://www.facebook.com/kennethfjoesrdistrict2councilman https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenneth-f-joe-sr-ms-ms-2970859
Nicola Rochester
Profession: Attorney Age: 36 Family: Married with children Education: Frederick Douglass High Emory University Penn State Dickinson School of Law Website: www.electnicola.com
I am Nicola Rochester. I am a wife, mother, attorney and business owner. I have lived in South Fulton since age 4. I am a graduate of Frederick Douglass High School and Emory University. I received my law degree from Penn State Dickinson School of Law. I am the managing partner of the Law Office of Nicola Robinson, LLC., where I specialize in family law.
My desire to serve people has taken me through many areas of community service, including: 100 Black Women Mecca Chapter, Junior League of Douglas County, South Fulton Mocha Moms, Girls on the Run, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Habitat for Humanity, Hands on Atlanta, the Atlanta Community Food Bank, and Hosea Feed the Hungry, to name a few.
I will engage my extensive experience, legal training and expertise to surmount the challenges our city will face. This will ensure the right start for South Fulton and the residents of Council District 2. I am prepared and ready to represent the residents of South Fulton on day one!
It is my vision that we will build a city that we are proud to call home — a city that cares for our needs and dreams.
My Priorities are ...
● Reducing Crime - As your Councilwoman it is my priority to make sure we have a police department that is well staffed, well trained, and well equipped with the tools necessary to ensure our safety. I will ensure we have clear city boundaries and know exactly who will answer our 911 calls and dispatch help in times of peril.
● Smart Economic Growth - As your Councilwoman, I will work to recruit small businesses and entrepreneurs that fit with the progressive vision of South Fulton. We must attract businesses that complement and support the lifestyles of our residents.
● Quality Services - I am committed to ensuring the residents of South Fulton no longer have to drive north for a nice dinner, quality entertainment, or exciting and safe family recreation.
● Quality Jobs - I am committed to recruiting jobs to District 2 that offer growth opportunities commensurate with the education and experience of our population.
● Educational Partnerships - As your Councilwoman, I will work to create partnerships
with schools and colleges to ensure our students receive the support necessary to successfully prepare for higher education and beyond.
● Recreational Opportunities - I will work to ensure that we build a strong Recreation Department that is responsive to the needs and interests of our children and youth.
● Senior Services - I will champion the needs of our seniors. I will establish a Senior Advisory Board for South Fulton District 2, to ensure the concerns of our seniors are heard and represented in all decisions made. We must work to make sure the City of South Fulton offers our seniors an array of education and recreation options.
