Goals

I was asked recently what some of the goals I would like to accomplish while in office. Here is what I shared:

1) Bring job opportunities to Griffin. One of the major ways to improve the quality of life in Griffin is to provide good employment with good wages. That means attracting strong employers/businesses to our area.

2) Improve the City's relationship with the County. Ideally, we are all in this together. What is good for the future of Griffin often benefits Spalding County, and the reverse can be true as well. At some point, we have to be completely on the up and up on both sides, and lay aside our issues (whatever they are) for the better future of Griffin-Spalding and her citizens. The focus of both city and county commissioners must be on the better future of Griffin, not personal interests or favors, and serving our constituency with honor, integrity and enthusiasm.

3) See the Land Bank become more functional. Another aspect of improving the quality of life in our area is improving the neighborhoods in which we live. Purchasing properties upon which to make improvement, removing blighted properties, and demanding out of town owners to maintain quality living spaces is imperative. Hand in hand with this is preserving one of Griffin's great assets, her largely intact historic downtown. Continuing to bring business downtown brings people downtown, which begets more business.

4) Perhaps most importantly, to encourage our citizens to become involved. There are so many opportunities available for our citizens to volunteer their time and talents, to serve on local boards and committees, to have their voices heard and make an impact toward our positive future. It doesn't have to be running for an elected office; utilizing the public comments portion of the commission meetings is a prime way for the Board of Commissioners to hear what is on the minds of the people they represent. It is the time when we can make known our support for or disapproval of actions the Board is taking. Our citizen involvement is truly our greatest asset, and most untapped resource.

The bottom line is this: Dedicated Work toward a Positive Future. This is our hometown. It is the place my children call home and the place they will (or won't) return to when they are grown. I feel a responsibility to do my part to make Griffin the best she can be, as far as I am able. I believe as a candidate, and a commissioner, I can make a positive impact on that future. I am part of the demographic of Griffin. We are a family who works hard to make a living and a future for our family. When we moved here 13 years ago, it was because we chose this town. True- we don't have a family name or family money tied to the history of Griffin, but that comes with it's own benefits. My commitment, my focus, is for the best possible future for Griffin, with no strings attached. I am not, nor will I be, in anybody's pocket. Dedication, hard work (including thoroughly educating myself on the issues that come before me), enthusiasm, and pursuing a bright future for Griffin are my goals in this campaign.

I would love to offer anyone interested to help with the campaign. The biggest need right now is (of course) financial. The qualifying fee is $403.20. Yard signs are going to be upwards of $1000, should we decide to use them. Other products to help get my name out would be a terrific help. The biggest push for the campaign will be in August, September and early October, preparing for early voting and pushing through to election day. I have already purchased, with campaign contributions, a voting list for District 3. It is my plan and desire to visit each household personally during August, September, and October. I would value your help and input, particularly as the heart of election season draws closer. Please contact me at smh4Griffin@gmail.com for more information, questions, contributions, etc.

Blessings!
Shannon
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