SPOTLIGHT Q and A with Mableton District 3 candidates

Victor Arnold

What do you think are the 3 most pressing concerns for residents in the new city of Mableton?

Higher tax implication, Sanitation  Parks and Recreation.

What are your goals and objectives as an elected official for the new city of Mableton?

1. Setting a strong foundation  2.Introducing new business   3.Community engagement

How would you describe your management/leadership style?

I have worked in the Health and Wellness industry as a manager for 37 years. I find it best to figure out what the customers or citizens need and take it back to the round table to discuss. We can achieve more as a group.

What actions will you take to ensure that high-quality and effective communication occurs throughout the city of Mableton?

If we provide a designated website for our citizens so they can keep up with the issues we are discussing and voting on. This would provide the transparency that will build trust in their local government.

As Mayor or member of the city council, how will you provide effective communication with other members of the governing body?

I think the first thing our New Mayor and City Council need is mentorship from Smyrna, Austell, and Powder Springs elected officials. We are new at the job we do not want to waste taxpayers’ money by making mistakes trying to figure this out on our own.

What are your plans to ensure that the new city of Mableton has the budget appropriation to meet the needs of the residents?

This will take a lot of discussion at the round table. I have been told that Mableton is already in a deficit. I need to see what we have as a city to work with in order to create an effective plan.

What do you plan to accomplish in your first 30 days? In your first 90 days?

In my first 30 days, I plan to dive right into taxes to figure out what’s going to be most cost-effective for our citizens. In the first 90 days, I plan to let the citizens help choose our sanitation company, YOU CHOOSE IT WE USE IT. I also plan on implementing Code enforcement on Veterans Memorial and Mableton Parkway.

What is your position on de-annexation?

Let them go if they do not want to be a part of  Mableton.

Describe an ethical dilemma you’ve faced. How did you resolve it?

I am at the gas pump waiting my turn when the other car leaves another car moved in front of me and took my turn. After he took my turn I said to them that I was waiting for the pump. They indicated to keep waiting. Instead of getting into an altercation, I let them pump their gas and then I pumped mine.

What are your plans for redevelopment for the new city of Mableton?

1. Short-term goals Code enforcement  2. Medium-term goals choosing the right eateries 3. Zoning oversight making sure they fit our community.

Keisha Jeffcoat

What do you think are the 3 most pressing concerns for residents in the new city of Mableton? 

(1) Increased Taxes  (2) De-annexation concerns  (3) Blight and trash

What are your goals and objectives as an elected official for the new city of Mableton?

As a city council leader, my objective is to work collaboratively with the new mayor and city council to facilitate a seamless transition of our city’s services. It’s essential to have open communication channels that enable me to understand the challenges faced by District 3 residents and ensure that their needs are met. My key priorities will include partnering with officials to ensure the complete implementation of city services, implementing a fiscally responsible budget so we can prioritize our spending, optimizing infrastructure by eliminating blight, and enforcing code violations. I will also work on building strong relationships with both Cobb County officials and District 3 residents.

How would you describe your management/leadership style?

My leadership style is adaptable and it really depends on the situation.  I can either be a transformational, democratic, or autocratic leader depending on the situation’s urgency and requirements. My ultimate goal is to inspire those under my leadership, regardless of the chosen style.

What actions will you take to ensure that high-quality and effective communication occurs throughout the city of Mableton?

I would take several actions to ensure quality and effective communication for my district. First, I would hold regular town hall meetings to address the concerns and ideas of the residents directly. I would leverage social media platforms to keep residents informed about community events. Additionally, I would establish a customer feedback system that allows residents to submit feedback and provide valuable insights into the community’s wants and needs. Lastly, I would use technology, such as emails and SMS texting, to engage with the residents and create a stronger, more connected community.

As Mayor or member of the city council, how will you provide effective communication with other members of the governing body?

As City Council, I will attend the regularly scheduled council meetings and work sessions. This will allow me to stay informed about the latest developments, ask questions, and provide input on current issues. Active listening will be key in understanding the council’s views and perspectives on certain issues. It’s important to take notes and ask follow-up questions to help clear up any points of contention or misunderstandings. I will also leverage technology to keep in touch with the mayor and members of the council i.e. video conferencing tools, email, etc. It’s important to work collaboratively with other members of the council to build consensus on issues, seek compromise where necessary, and find common ground.

What are your plans to ensure that the new city of Mableton has the budget appropriation to meet the needs of the residents?

As a new city council member, budget appropriation is critical in supporting our city’s growth and development.  My plan is to work closely with the city’s financial officers (City Manager, CFO, Budget Director, Treasurer, and Auditor) to conduct a comprehensive needs assessment which will help to determine District 3’s priorities and the areas that will require the most funding. Our team will prioritize essential services such as public safety, infrastructure improvement, and education. Reviewing the budget regularly will be critical so our resources are allocated effectively and there’s enough funding to meet District 3’s needs. It’s also important to look at funding sources like state and federal grants to help reduce the financial burden on the city.

What do you plan to accomplish in your first 30 days? In your first 90 days?

To ensure a successful start for our new city, I plan to be proactive, strategic, and collaborative in my approach. Initially, there will be a lot of ground to cover to build the foundation of our city, so it’s important to be strategic, thinks quickly yet methodically, and take action. Initially, we will be “building a plane and flying it at the same time” so during the first 30 days, I will start with building relationships at the county and local levels. I will meet with our new government to get a better understanding of their perspectives and priorities for our city. I will also attend city staff meetings; town hall meetings to introduce myself to the community and gather feedback on their issues and concerns. I will review any pending legislation and proposals to ensure I am up-to-date on all current issues facing the city. Lastly, I will draft proposals for new policies or initiatives that align with my own priorities and the concerns of my constituents.    During my first 90 days, I will work with the city’s financial team to discuss our budget and determine the areas that require the most funding. I will also work to support a smooth transition of our “city lite” services and any other essential services. Work with the city council to develop policies and implement initiatives that address the concerns and priorities of District 3. It’s also important to establish community outreach so that I can receive continuous feedback from the community.    Rather than taking a linear approach, my intention is to prioritize building relationships while also making progress on initiatives for my district.

What is your position on de-annexation?

I believe in our electoral process and our democracy. I trust that the results of the election represent the voice of our community, even if the results were by a small margin.  However, it’s equally important to acknowledge and listen to the residents who voted against cityhood and are now proposing de-annexation. I’m aware of the concerns expressed by those who opposed cityhood, including the fear of higher taxes and loss of autonomous decision-making. I believe the best approach is to conduct a thorough evaluation of the possible implications of allowing some to de-annex by doing a cost-benefit analysis to determine if it’s the best option for our community. For example, conducting Gallup surveys, town hall meetings, and other forms of engagement will help to get direct feedback so the new leadership can work collaboratively with the citizens to educate, dispel myths and offer possible alternative options.  This will help to foster a sense of community and give residents an opportunity to voice their concerns and be heard.  Ultimately, I want us to move forward as a unified community and support the changes that are happening in our new city.

Describe an ethical dilemma you’ve faced. How did you resolve it?

During my tenure as an Army Officer, I served as the leader of the Freedom of Information Privacy Act Office for my three-star command. One day, I received a FOIA request from a grieving mother whose son had tragically lost his life while serving our country in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Her son, a high-profile soldier, had garnered significant media attention, and she was seeking information about his passing. However, after consulting with our JAG officers, I learned that I was legally prohibited from disclosing the details of the case. Although I empathized with the mother’s anguish and wished I could provide her with the answers she sought, I was bound by my duty to follow orders and uphold the law. This was a difficult internal struggle for me as I navigated the tension between what I believed was the right thing to do and the expectations of my command. Collaborating with my command and JAG office, we explored options to fulfill the mother’s request while still adhering to legal obligations. Through careful consideration and redaction of sensitive information, we were able to provide her with additional details and documents that brought her some measure of closure. It was gratifying to know that we were able to help her in some way during her time of grief.

What are your plans for redevelopment for the new city of Mableton?

The redevelopment will require careful planning, collaboration, and execution.  Initially, I would conduct a needs assessment to identify the existing infrastructure, services, and amenities within the city. This can help pinpoint areas that need redevelopment and prioritize them. Then I would talk with my stakeholders within my community including residents, businesses, and community organizations to ensure the redevelopment plan reflects the needs of our community here in District 3. Particularly, in District 3, my priority would be on policing up our main thruways, businesses, and residential areas. I will work with our officials to review zoning maps and implement any necessary zoning changes needed. More importantly, securing funding will be critical. I would explore funding sources like grants, loans, public-private partnerships, and tax incentives to help us build and improve our area. Once funding is secured, we can begin executing the plan including constructing new infrastructure, renovating existing buildings, and implementing new policies and regulations. Lastly, monitoring our efforts to ensure continuous improvement will help us achieve our goals.

Yashica Marshall

What do you think are the 3 most pressing concerns for residents in the new city of Mableton?

1. Additional levied taxes  2. Redevelopment  3. Resource deserts (e.g. lack of options)

What are your goals and objectives as an elected official for the new city of Mableton?

1. Setting a strong foundation  2. Introducing new business   3. Community engagement

How would you describe your management/leadership style?

I would state my leadership style is one of inclusiveness. I think it’s important to listen to different viewpoints so your decisions are informed and considerate. I am a decisive leader that understands the importance of motivating your team to want to do the work and do it well.

What actions will you take to ensure that high-quality and effective communication occurs throughout the city of Mableton?

I think Mableton really has to engage Social Media platforms more and establish a database of residents willing to receive electronic communications so information can be pushed out more efficiently in a way that is cost-effective.

As Mayor or member of the city council, how will you provide effective communication with other members of the governing body?

I would propose we have a group chat where we communicate with each other regularly. I would like to see us have social engagements with each other on a regular basis so that we feel really connected and feel we work together as a team.

What are your plans to ensure that the new city of Mableton has the budget appropriation to meet the needs of the residents?

We need to work with the county to provide hard numbers as it relates to providing the services we have determined to take on. Once we have actual cost associated with each service, we have to determine all areas where revenue will flow from and how much reliable revenue will be generated from each source. We can then determine whether the anticipated cash flow meets or exceeds needs. We also need to look at where we may be able to make cuts or reallocate resources for savings that can go toward capital investments.

What do you plan to accomplish in your first 30 days? In your first 90 days?

In the first 30 days, I would like to have formulated a fully comprehensive plan for transitioning of services. I would like to have an RFP out to identify a consulting firm to help guide us through the process of transitioning. I would like to have identified all revenue resources and started the process of recouping revenue from those sources. By the first ninety days, I would like to have hired a city manager and city attorney. I would like to have transitioned over at least planning and zoning to address any current applications. I would like to have established an interactive website that keeps residents informed of all stages of the process. I will also like to have adopted our own set of ordinances to start working on enforcement efforts.

What is your position on de-annexation?

My position on de-annexation is that if a community requests to be de-annexed as long as their de-annexation doesn’t harm the progression of the City of Mableton. I would not oppose it.

Describe an ethical dilemma you’ve faced. How did you resolve it?

As an attorney, I’ve had to represent individuals in matters where I was pretty certain their actions weren’t in line with the letter of the law and I didn’t agree with the actions they had taken but I still needed to represent them in accordance with my oath to provide the best legal care and defend my client to the best my ability. After the cases had settled, I wasn’t willing to take them on for future cases given I became familiar with their character.

What are your plans for redevelopment for the new city of Mableton?

The redevelopment will need to start with code enforcement. We need to ensure buildings that have sat vacant or are up to code and can be used for as a new business resource. We need to prioritize new business applications so we can start seeing businesses flow into the area.

Barry Kreebs

What do you think are the 3 most pressing concerns for residents in the new city of Mableton?

Public safety, economic development, transportation/traffic 

What are your goals and objectives as an elected official for the new city of Mableton?

Prevent problems from Fulton County from crossing the border into Cobb County 2. Develop Veterans Memorial Hwy and Mableton Pkwy. Attract young professionals into the city of Mableton.  

How would you describe your management/leadership style?

I believe in teamwork and positive reinforcement.  I am a supportive person who will work hard to achieve our goals.  

What actions will you take to ensure that high-quality and effective communication occurs throughout the city of Mableton?

The City of Austell just purchased software called CivicPlus which will document all city council meetings, past minutes, and upcoming agendas on their city website.  I like this idea.  I also believe in communication with our media friends and social media.

As Mayor or member of the city council, how will you provide effective communication with other members of the governing body?

Being very active in the community for almost a decade, I already have friendships with many of the active candidates.  We have worked together on many projects and have always cooperated.   I do not see anything changing in the future.

What are your plans to ensure that the new city of Mableton has the budget appropriation to meet the needs of the residents?

We are going to have to form a comprehensive plan for the city and match up the fees that will be coming from our sources.  If we fall short on funding, some projects may be delayed.  I do not want to increase taxes on our citizens.  

What do you plan to accomplish in your first 30 days? In your first 90 days?

In the first 30 days, I would like to have formulated a fully comprehensive plan on transitioning of services. I would like to have an RFP out to identify a consulting firm to help guide us through the process of transitioning. I would like to have identified all revenue resources and started the process of recouping revenue from those sources. By the first ninety days, I would like to have hired a city manager and city attorney. I would like to have transitioned over at least planning and zoning to address any current applications. I would like to have established an interactive website that keeps residents informed of all stages of the process. I will also like to have adopted our own set of ordinances to start working on enforcement efforts.

What is your position on de-annexation?

I would like for our neighbors who want to be de-annexed to give us a chance to prove that we can be effective for them as a city. If they still want to de-annex and a high percentage of the entire neighborhood wants to de-annex, I will vote to allow it.  I have attended the meetings and I understand their frustration with the process.  

Describe an ethical dilemma you’ve faced. How did you resolve it?

Just recently, I got an email from a potential constituent asking if I would govern based on my Christian faith.  I replied back that I would not impose my faith on the new city.  However, my faith does help form my values and my inspiration for the city.  I prefer a wholesome, family-friendly city.  I am not in favor of more liquor stores, pawn shops, predatory lending places, etc

What are your plans for redevelopment for the new city of Mableton?

We need to attract needed upscale businesses and young professionals.  Since I am mostly retired, I have the time to take potential businesses around to show them Mableton’s potential.

William Wilson

What do you think are the 3 most pressing concerns for residents in the new city of Mableton?

Economic Development that is desired by the community.

Cleaning and transforming our main corridors into new businesses that are thriving. 

Ensuring that we have a fiscally responsible Mayor and Council that creates an economic engine to increase commercial taxes so to enhance service without increasing property taxes on citizens. With this we can help foster various initiatives in our schools, parks, etc.  

What are your goals and objectives as an elected official for the new city of Mableton?

Making sure promises made are promises kept. Same taxes, and better services are a reality. The University of Georgia confirmed the city can fund itself without raising taxes on citizens and have a surplus. We as council and mayor must be responsible for the surplus and spending. We need to utilize zoning, code enforcement, and economic development to bring in business desired by our citizens. We can then use those taxes to increase our surplus to fund projects the community would like to see.

How would you describe your management/leadership style?

A cross between transformational and servant. I am a transformational leader that emphasizes change and transformation. I would adopt this approach and strive to inspire others to achieve more than they ever thought possible by tapping into their potential.

Key Transformational Characteristics:

·      Focus on the Future

·      Focus on Change 

·      Focus on People 

As a servant, I embrace ethical decision-making. I will make decisions based on what is right for everyone involved, rather than just benefitting a select few. This fosters an environment where creativity and problem-solving thrive as team members feel empowered to suggest new solutions and build upon each other’s ideas.

Key Servant Characteristics:

·      Increasing Motivation 

·      Increasing Communication 

·      Empowering those on the council and Mayor 

What actions will you take to ensure that high-quality and effective communication occurs throughout the city of Mableton?

I will ensure that we utilize social media, print, and town halls to create engagement with our citizens. Having meetings with HOA boards, utilizing civic organizations, and getting out in the public are going to also be vital. It is important that the community drives decisions in the new city. We are doing this to better our quality of life and the citizens are key in providing guidance.

As Mayor or member of the city council, how will you provide effective communication with other members of the governing body?

By listening and using best practices as found in books such as “How to Listen with Intention”. It is imperative that all voices are heard in the council. Each member will represent individuals and communities with different needs. To address those needs we will need to be advised as a group on what the details are.  If we can help to solve the issues important in the 6 districts the city as a collective will thrive. 

What are your plans to ensure that the new city of Mableton has the budget appropriation to meet the needs of the residents?

Creating an economic engine to support small businesses and attract new businesses into the city. We will be starting the city with a surplus even after funding the city government. It has been proven by the majority of cities created in the metro Atlanta area over the last 20 years that you can have a thriving city without raising taxes. This is done by increasing commercial, industrial, and other various tax bases to ensure the citizens are not burdened. We will maximize our revenue by negotiating intergovernmental agreements with the county to ensure taxes generated here are staying here. We will make sure that franchise fees, that are benefiting other municipalities, are staying here. With strong leadership and a vision, The City of Mableton can grow in a manner that is fiscally responsible without raising taxes.

What do you plan to accomplish in your first 30 days? In your first 90 days?

Set meetings with consulting firms, the county, and other city governments. It is important to look at best practices to implement from day one. We are building the foundation for a city that will look to prosper for generations. To do so the base has to be solid. I have had the opportunity to meet with consulting firms in the past. One had a 423-point process from starting the city to taking over services from the county. I believe utilizing the knowledge of those who have proven to provide success in other metro cities is an asset.  

What is your position on de-annexation?

I am against it and would ask the council and mayor to not consider any de-annexation until after the first term. As a city, we need to understand our tax digest and what the revenue and cost will look like. I would not harm the city left behind by de-annexing. We had an election and the majority have spoken. In the future, if the council and mayor would like to discuss I will do so but would never agree to anything unless it is in the best interest of the city. 

Describe an ethical dilemma you’ve faced. How did you resolve it?

Right now, we have 5 individuals running as de-annex candidates. As I would like to support all those running, I have a hard time engaging with those advocating to put the city in a financial dilemma from the start. If successful they could put the remaining city in financial hardship where delivering on increased service levels without raising taxes could no longer be a reality. I have started to reach out to those candidates to discuss why such decisions are not in the best interest of our community.   

What are your plans for redevelopment for the new city of Mableton?

Revitalizing our main corridors of Mableton Parkway and Veterans Memorial. I have had the opportunity to meet with the Brookhaven Chamber and the transformation Buford Highway has gone through is exactly what we can accomplish here in Mableton. I have seen the process and steps needed to make this a reality and will bring this blueprint to the council. We also need, and the citizens want, a downtown. We will need to engage with property owners and developers to turn the wants of the community into a reality.  This will foster small local business growth, foster new jobs, create an identity, and build a city that our citizens and others will want to engage in.