Ken Dishman, City Council District 2 candidate would like to see low voter turn out predictions for Election Day, proven wrong. Dishman says that proactive measures may have to take place to move Sandy Springs forward but it's time to put aside political differences.
Fellow Residents of Sandy Springs:
As we turn the page from the Galambos Era to the next phase of our young city, there is an immense amount of work to be done to build upon her legacy. Our new mayor and city council must be able to quickly set aside any political differences and work well together immediately to move Sandy Springs forward.
Our city has a number of strengths and qualities that we can build on. Topping the list are our great neighborhoods, beautiful parks, prosperous business environment, and the rich diversity of our citizenry.
As Rusty Paul has stated: The last eight years have been all about establishing Sandy Springs as a city; now it is time for us to truly become a community.
During the next four years, decisions will be made that will set the course for Sandy Springs for the next 50 years.
The multi-million dollar City Center project is already in motion. The new council will be tasked with bringing our biggest ever project to fruition in the most optimal and cost-effective manner possible.
Recognizing that our city is only as strong as its weakest district, the next four years will also likely bring a concerted effort to revitalize some of the more disadvantaged areas of Sandy Springs. To encourage smart growth and redevelopment, the council may decide to utilize proactive measures such as reforming zoning codes, offering tax incentives, and redirecting Federal Community Development Block Grant funding.
Neighboring cities such as Roswell and Marietta have proven that unsafe and crime-infested housing can be successfully redeveloped into higher end mixed use properties that can still accommodate lower and moderate income families while also creating green space and favorable locations for small businesses, larger retailers and non-profits.
These prospective revitalization efforts stand to impact ALL of us through lower crime, better quality schools, a more vibrant restaurant and retail community, and of course, higher property values! Helping to lead us through this transformation is the foundation of my campaign and the reason I want to represent you.
Yes, despite recent predictions of a low voter turnout, this election really does matter for you and your family. I’ll share with you that I’ve met all of the candidates in our mayoral and council district races. We are very fortunate to have such a group of talented and passionate individuals who are willing to serve their community and work to ensure a future of prosperity and a high quality of life.
The votes you cast next Tuesday could go far in determining whether Sandy Springs is the kind of community years from now that your children and grandchildren will want to live in.
There are still a few more days before Election Tuesday, with plenty of time to become more informed about your mayoral and district candidates. One resource: The League of Women Voters of Georgia has produced a comprehensive Voter Guide, available athttp://c3.thevoterguide.org/v/ajc13/build.do.
Finally, please remind your friends and neighbors to be sure to vote on or before Tuesday, November 5th! This election really does matter to all residents of Sandy Springs!
Sincerely,
Ken Dishman
Candidate, Sandy Springs City Council, District 2
http://kendishmanforsandysprings.org
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