Candidate Q and A with Powder Springs Mayoral Candidate Larry W. Thomas

The municipal elections for five of the seven cities in Cobb County are currently underway. This includes Acworth, Austell, Kennesaw, Powder Springs, and Smyrna.

The Cobb County Democracy Center, in partnership with Spotlight, believes that voter engagement and informed decision-making are crucial in shaping the future of these cities. Candidates within competitive races have been asked to provide their positions on various issues to allow voters to gain insights into the candidates’ perspectives and priorities as voters make their choices in these local elections.

 
COBB COUNTY DEMOCRACY CENTER: Tell voters about yourself:

LARRY THOMAS: I am a retired U. S. Army Captain, having served 23 years in the Army plus another 11 as a defense contractor. I hold a BS in Management and an MBA. I am currently semi-retired, doing genealogy research and teaching part-time.

COBB COUNTY DEMOCRACY CENTER: Tell voters why you are the right choice for Mayor of Powder Springs and why they should cast their ballots for you.

LARRY THOMAS: I have a vision for Powder Springs that can be put into five categories for a prosperous future. Passionate Dedication. I am not just a resident of Powder Springs; this city is my heart and soul. I have spent the past several years learning to understand the intricacies of our community, its people, and the challenges and ambitions of all. My passion goes beyond politics, it’s a commitment to creating a city where every individual, every business owner, every family, and every neighborhood thrives. With a background in public service and an MBA, I bring a wealth of experience to the table. I have a proven track record of initiating and implementing policies that positively impact communities. I have a comprehensive economic plan to stimulate local businesses, attract new investments, and create job opportunities. We can ensure Powder Springs becomes a place where businesses want to operate by promoting entrepreneurship, supporting our local businesses, and fostering a business-friendly environment. I promote the safety of our people above everything else, through strategic partnerships with law enforcement, community engagement initiatives, and investment in neighborhoods. I will work tirelessly to make Powder Springs one of the County’s safest and most vibrant communities. I believe in true transparency, accountability, and open communication. My administration will operate with integrity, keeping citizens well informed about city matters and involving them in decision-making. It is my goal to establish several resident and business-led committees to advise the city on their views of our plans and for them to tell us what they would like to see done.

COBB COUNTY DEMOCRACY CENTER: What experience will you bring to the role of Mayor?

LARRY THOMAS: I have several decades of leadership, government work, and public service. I have listened to the concerns of the residents and business owners and will strive to put those concerns at the forefront of any city decision or plan. I have experience in government, industry, and small business which gives me a perspective of what is needed to improve our businesses in the city. I have a strong background in financial management and budgetary planning. I understand the importance of responsible fiscal policies. I will ensure that our city’s finances are managed prudently, maximizing resources for essential services, infrastructure improvements, and community programs.

COBB COUNTY DEMOCRACY CENTER: Give voters your thoughts on Ethical Leadership and why it should be a factor they consider as they elect the next Mayor:

LARRY THOMAS: Ethical Leadership has been my guiding principle since the first time I was put in a leadership position. It’s not just a set of values but a guiding principle that shapes the very foundation of any city.

By electing a Mayor who stands for these values, you are not just choosing a leader but shaping our community’s very essence. Together, let’s prioritize integrity, accountability, inclusivity, and compassion. Doing so can build a Powder Springs that we are all proud to call home.

COBB COUNTY DEMOCRACY CENTER: Other Cobb cities are actively looking at setting up ethics committees to review complaints and remedy conflicts of interest by city officials. As Mayor, would you consider setting up an Ethics Committee to address unethical behavior in government.

LARRY THOMAS: I wholeheartedly support the idea of creating an Ethics Committee. As your Mayor, I am committed to implementing this crucial initiative. We must ensure the people of Powder Springs have confidence that our city is operating in the most ethical manner and that complaints are not swept under the rug.

This would be just one of several resident or business-led committees I want to set up. Such committees promote transparency and accountability. Foundations we as a community can build on.

COBB COUNTY DEMOCRACY CENTER: Tell voters your thoughts on Transparency in Government.

LARRY THOMAS: Transparency in government is not just a principle; it’s a promise to you, the heart and soul of our community. For the past several years I have worked hard to bring to you the people, the plans of the city as I learn them. As Mayor, I am deeply committed to continuing to ensure an open, accessible, and accountable city government. Access to information allows citizens to actively participate in decision-making processes, voice concerns, and contribute to shaping policies that impact our community. When well-informed voters can hold their elected officials accountable, ensuring our actions align with their needs and aspirations.

COBB COUNTY DEMOCRACY CENTER: What are your thoughts on Powder Springs’ economy?

LARRY THOMAS: As a resident of Powder Springs, I am concerned about the city doubling its debt to build a new municipal building which was not needed at this time. I am concerned that the city has converted virtually all of the remaining property zoned commercial into either residential or mixed-use. Neither of these will help offset the current tax burden on the homeowners. We need a balanced economy that draws strength from various sectors. We can create a resilient local economy by nurturing small businesses, supporting local entrepreneurs, and attracting diverse industries. Small businesses are the backbone of our community. I am committed to providing them with the support they need to grow. I will work to promote our local attractions, events, and heritage sites. By drawing tourists, we stimulate the hospitality industry, create jobs, and increase revenue for local businesses. Investing in our infrastructure is an investment in our economic future. I will work to improve our roads, public transportation, and utility services. Together, we can create a thriving economic landscape that offers opportunities for all, preserves our community’s unique character, and ensures a prosperous future for future generations.

COBB COUNTY DEMOCRACY CENTER: Share with voters your views on Powder Spring’s infrastructure.

LARRY THOMAS: Our current administration has not done true comprehensive infrastructure studies with all of the new housing being built. I want to put a hold on all new housing developments until a thorough infrastructure review has been completed. That includes discussions with the principals of the schools, and the major grocery stores, as well as the traditional look at roads, utilities, police, and fire. The city has increased the cost of Public Services while reducing the actual service. I want to ensure we maintain our current sanitation regimen, Reside with Pride twice a year, and try to bring back curbside recycling. I am committed to ensuring that every neighborhood in Powder Springs benefits from improved infrastructure. I will prioritize historically underserved areas, investing in essential infrastructure to bridge gaps and promote equity across our city.

COBB COUNTY DEMOCRACY CENTER: Share your thoughts on Diversity and Inclusion and why it is important in Powder Springs.

LARRY THOMAS: Powder Springs continues to lead in community building that gives everyone the feeling of safety and being included in the community. Our city’s strength lies in its diversity. We are a tapestry of cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. We can build a more tolerant and interconnected Powder Springs by appreciating our differences, where every resident’s unique heritage is respected. As your Mayor, I am committed to creating a city where every resident feels a sense of belonging, where opportunities are accessible to all, and where our diversity is our greatest strength.

COBB COUNTY DEMOCRACY CENTER: What are your thoughts on Powder Springs Public Safety?

LARRY THOMAS: We have a very fine police force and we put Public Safety high on our priority list. Public safety is paramount in ensuring the well-being and prosperity of our community. Our police officers and firefighters are our local heroes, dedicated to keeping us safe. I will work closely with public safety agencies to identify their needs and advocate for funding to ensure they can effectively perform their duties, safeguarding our lives and property. Preventing crime starts with engaging our youth and providing them with positive opportunities and role models. I will support after-school programs, mentorship initiatives, and recreational activities that keep our children engaged and away from negative influences. Public safety is a shared responsibility. We can deter criminal activities and create safer neighborhoods by fostering a sense of ownership and vigilance within our community. I am dedicated to implementing comprehensive strategies that prioritize the safety and well-being of every resident.

COBB COUNTY DEMOCRACY CENTER: Please provide a closing statement.

LARRY THOMAS: I am grateful for the opportunity to share my vision and goals for our beloved city. Throughout our conversations, I have laid out my plans, beliefs, and commitment to making Powder Springs a community where every resident thrives, everyone is treated with dignity, diversity is celebrated, and opportunities abound for all. I am running to ensure that Powder Springs will thrive for generations yet to come. We are a great place for all people to live and I want to ensure that the citizen’s voice is truly heard. I chose Powder Springs as my final home because of its historic area and strategic location to the Silver Comet Trail, Atlanta, and other parts of Georgia. We have great potential and I want to see that potential succeed. I am looking forward to growing the number of businesses in Powder Springs by making the city truly business friendly. Powder Springs is not just a city; it’s our home. It’s where our families grow and where our collective future unfolds. I have been inspired as I speak with the people of Powder Springs about their hope to peacefully live and be a part of the community. I will be a mayor who continues to listen, collaborate, and advocate tirelessly for every resident and business owner.