Ongoing Issues That Affect Rockdale County
Ethics Reform
As a champion of ethics reform, I support measures that would increase transparency in government and create a system of accountability. In 2014, I proposed to create an Ethics Board as an oversight committee for the Board of Commissioners and it received the full support of the board but the board members were never appointed by the next Board of Commission members who have been in place since 2015. I will work with other Commissioners to activate the Board.
Courthouse and Administrative Complex
I was invited to participate in an initial meeting for the expansion of the courthouse, which later was named the Judicial and Administrative Task Force project, by Commissioner Sherri Washington. I attended my first meeting with a group of other citizens and we were told about the imminent need for a Courthouse renovation and additional space to allow for the safe and healthy operations of the Judicial branch of our government. I agreed to participate because our community and its future are important to me and my family. I was born and raised in Rockdale and feel fortunate to have grown up in such a wonderful community. I shared my attendance at the meeting with others because I believe in transparency and wanted to make sure that I followed the notification rules that are required and to support good government practices. At all future meetings, we had an open and advertised forum for citizens to attend. I was elected to chair the board by fellow committee members and we proceeded to assess the needs of elected officials such as the Judges, Clerk of Courts, and the District Attorney. We discovered that there were real problems that included health and safety issues, ADA compliance, and a lack of space for employees to work in. Our committee was told that the Commissioners unilaterally agreed that the complex could ONLY be located in Olde Town Conyers. This information was relayed to us by Sue Sanders, who is in charge of the project. The committee took tours of various courthouses and administrative complexes in Georgia with the selected firm’s principal, Doug Shaw. The results of the work we did were combined in a Master Plan Recommendation Report. Although I support the expansion of the Courthouse and Administrative spaces to accommodate the staff, I am opposed to the excessive cost and would have explored all construction locations and costs.
Expanding to Five Member Board of Commissioners
I support voter rights and believe that the people of Rockdale County should be knowledgeable about all of the information regarding a 5 member board. This legislation would be carried by our state delegation and if passed by the General legislature, voters would be able to vote on an amendment during the election cycle. The legislation, in its current form, will also allow for a county manager form of government and the Chairman’s role would become a part-time position.
Taxes
I would continue to ensure that all budget hearings are open to the public and that department heads would be responsible for expenditures and budgets that were approved by the board. I would also eliminate excessive spending and use our impact fees from new permits and construction projects to enhance the quality of living in Rockdale County.
Moratorium on Residential Permits
I would work to closely review the planning and zoning department practices and stop additional projects for up to 6 months to give the Board of Commissioners time to assess how we will provide infrastructure and support for the thousands of recent residential developments. Let’s make sure that we can provide a safe community that can fulfill its current responsibilities of educating children, having appropriate road systems that are in good repair, and a sustainable water and sewer system before we add more housing in Rockdale. Maintaining the balance between good housing projects and the environment is essential for promoting sustainable development, protecting natural resources, safeguarding public health, and enhancing the overall well-being of communities now and in the future.
Jobs
Gainful employment is an essential component of moving our community forward. Our State ranks 4th in the nation for a person’s inability to escape poverty. This is an unacceptable place for Georgia to be and we must do better by setting the bar higher in Rockdale County. Job training, education opportunities, alternative education opportunities for high school students, and better job networks will lead to higher rates of well-trained employees who can reduce their need for government assistance.
Economic Development
A focal point of my experience has been the growth and development of our business community. We must retain and expand our current businesses. We must work hand in hand with the State Economic Development office to bring new partners to our community. We need to make sure that Rockdale is a top consideration for companies that can provide jobs with livable wages, and occupy real estate that can contribute to the tax digest. I support efficiency in government and streamlining the application process for businesses was a focal point of my previous service on the Board of Commissioners. These efforts will stimulate business growth and will be a win-win for creating jobs, beautifying our communities, and eliminating old buildings that are in disrepair.
Education
As a 32-year educator, JaNice knows that Education should be a top priority for all of Georgia and I am a strong supporter of making sure that each child has the best opportunities for success. A great education can change everything and it provides a way for a person to rise above social issues to become financially independent through gainful employment. A well-educated workforce is critical to the health of our State and I will work in collaboration with the School Board members and the Superintendent to ensure that students in Rockdale have opportunities to thrive.