The neighborhoods of District 5 are what make this community home. They're where we raised our kids, where we know our neighbors, and where our families have invested for generations. Development should strengthen that — not erase it.

Macon-Bibb County has made real progress in the fight against blight. Since 2021, the county has demolished over 700 blighted structures, and the new blight tax and Land Bank Authority are creating tools to return neglected properties to productive use. That progress matters, and I respect the work that's been done.

But demolition is only the first step. Tearing down a dangerous house doesn't automatically build a stronger neighborhood. What happens to that vacant lot afterward — who builds on it, what they build, and whether the people who already live there can afford to stay — that's the part that requires real attention, and that's where I want to make sure District 5 has a strong voice at the table.

Here's what I'll fight for as your Commissioner:

Thoughtful Blight Removal That Leads to Rebuilding. I support continuing the blight fight, but I want to make sure every demolition comes with a plan for what comes next. Vacant lots shouldn't sit empty for years. I will push the Land Bank Authority and our planning agencies to prioritize rebuilding on cleared properties — with input from the neighbors who live there, not just developers who don't.

Affordable Housing That Keeps Families in their Community. As our county commissions its first comprehensive housing study in years, I will fight to ensure affordable housing is a central priority — not an afterthought. District 5 families shouldn't be priced out of the neighborhoods they've called home for decades. I support expanding partnerships with Habitat for Humanity, NewTown Macon, and other organizations that are building affordable homes for working families.

Preserve Neighborhood Character. Development should fit the community, not replace it. I will advocate for zoning and land use decisions that respect the character of our established neighborhoods. When developers come to the table, residents should have a real seat — and a real say — in what gets built next door.

Address Illegal Dumping and Environmental Neglect. Too many neighborhoods in District 5 are dealing with illegal dumping, overgrown lots, and environmental neglect that makes our streets feel forgotten. This isn't just an eyesore — it's a public health and safety issue. I will work with Code Enforcement, Public Works, and community organizations to increase cleanups, strengthen enforcement, and create reporting systems that actually lead to action.

Smart Infrastructure Investment. Our roads, sidewalks, drainage, and lighting need attention. I will advocate for District 5's fair share of SPLOST and infrastructure funding to improve the basics that affect our quality of life every single day.

I've lived in this community my whole life. I raised my family here. I'm not running to change District 5 — I'm running to make sure it gets the investment and attention it deserves, on our terms.