Issue Highlights
While there are a number of issues of interest to residents, let me highlight the following:
Taxes and Fiscal Transparency
It is apparent we need to demystify and shed light and education on our budget process. My plan when elected is to be a listening ear to taxpayers and provide quarterly reviews.
Growth
Pursue and manage inevitable and desired growth that supports an intelligent and measured benefit for all. We need to secure recreation and family friendly amenities and support development of affordable housing. Standing still is not an option and jeopardizes our ability to remain fiscally sound.
Infrastructure / Traffic
We must maintain our infrastructure in proportion with our growth. Our transportation system must meet the needs of all our citizens. I want to focus on our Collector Street Plan because NCDOT has limited financial resources to invest in our local Highways. Keep traffic off of Rt. 17 and improve public safety response time by enacting this Plan as soon as possible. Study the role and feasibility of public transit. Ensure any future bridges between here and New Hanover County will serve the best interests of the people of Leland. Support the Rail Realignment project which will enhance our economic development.
Economic Development
My goal is to place emphasis on achieving the success of the Leland Innovation Park by attracting companies that will pay the wages that will draw young families to our town and balance out the population. This is one of the most vital aspects toward what we need to accomplish. The need to actively recruit businesses that will provide employment opportunities that provide living wages and that will support families to thrive instead of just survive is crucial to our ultimate success.
Intergovernmental Partnerships
I believe Initiating a sustainable working partnership with Brunswick County, the State, and with our neighboring towns of Navassa and Belville will provide great opportunities to offer each other in joint collaboration. This dynamic, which is missing now, will “float all boats.” To that end, let’s Initiate a dialogue through quarterly meetings with these key partners.