RESTORR Petersburg
I respectfully request your support to RESTORR Petersburg with a focus on common sense governance, accountability, and transparency. These principles are vital for advancing quality education, safe and clean neighborhoods, vibrant recreation, thriving businesses, current and future development, and fostering pride in our city’s limitless potential.
Serving the Community Through Accountable and Transparent Governance
Effective government decisions must always prioritize the community’s best interests, guided by logic, common sense, and a commitment to transparency. Recent experiences in our city highlight the need for stronger accountability and clearer communication between city leaders and residents.
Accountability in Development Projects
The Ramada Inn development serves as a cautionary tale of what happens when governance and accountability fall short. Despite the developer’s failure to meet contractual obligations, no consequences were imposed, resulting in the city reacquiring the property at a significant financial cost. To prevent similar situations, I propose establishing clear accountability measures and regular project audits for all future developments.
Regarding the historic Peabody School; while city leadership claims to be exploring renovation options, concerns persist due to contradictory statements, lack of transparency, and the absence of published detailed plans. To address these issues, I will advocate for the renovation of Peabody for educational purposes, and the publication of comprehensive renovation plans and regular progress updates, ensuring residents are kept informed and involved.
Improving Customer Service and Professionalism
Residents deserve prompt, courteous, and professional service from all city staff and departments. Unfortunately, poor customer service has become more common, leaving many feeling like an inconvenience rather than valued members of the community. To promote accountability and improve interactions, I will collaborate with City Council members and the City Manager to establish clear standards for conduct and professionalism, along with appropriate actions when these standards are not consistently met.
Enhancing Transparency in City Operations
City actions directly affect residents, so it is essential that everyone is kept informed about government activities. The casino vendor selection process lacked transparency, and citizens are unclear about how the city plans to spend and invest the expected casino revenue. Danville VA officials proactively sought input from a citizen advisory committee regarding the use of their projected casino funds—a model of openness and citizen involvement that our city should emulate.
To foster transparency, I will hold monthly Ward 3 meetings the week following each City Council meeting and share recaps on social media. I encourage all residents to participate, share their feedback, and stay engaged in the decision-making process.
Commitment to Community Partnership
Through partnership and open communication, we can build a city that reflects our shared values and aspirations. I am committed to working with city leaders and residents to ensure that all initiatives and policies are anchored in practical, sensible, and well-considered approaches. Together, we can create a more accountable, transparent, and responsive local government.
TOGETHER, WE CAN WIN THIS RACE!
