While canvassing in 2019, a Doraville resident asked me what my core values are. Not the issues that I’m working towards, but HOW I’m working towards them. I muddled through an answer but told them I’d take some more time and really put my thoughts together, so here I go…
1
Equality and Equity should be at the forefront of all decision making. Votes need to be for the good of all Doraville residents and not just special interest groups or businesses.
2
Sustainability and Green Thinking should always be used in planning for Doraville’s future. Always think in the long-term, even when the decisions seem to only affect the short-term.
3
Each council session is a learning experience. I may have expertise in architecture and related fields, but I am NOT an expert in everything. Listen to all sides before reaching a decision. Employ both logic and empathy when making decisions.
4
Don’t be afraid to admit a lack of knowledge or a mistake. Be humble in knowing what you don’t know. Ask for clarification on matters when necessary so that decision making is as informed as possible.
5
This is an elected position and my job is to serve the community at large. Stay connected to the residents and seek out their input on decisions that directly effect them. Stay accessible so that they can reach out to me when an issue arises. While I won’t be able to make everyone happy all the time, I can at least take the time to listen and learn.
6
Doing what is right and doing what is easy are not usually the same thing. Never take the easy way unless it is also the right way.
The past six years have given me to opportunity to put these values into effect. Being a city council member isn’t easy. It takes hard work, dedication, and the ability to work with others towards common goals and objectives. However, the positive growth our city has seen, has been well worth it.
What is Doraville?
Diversity
The state of being diverse; variety
Vitality
The state of being strong and active; energy
Community
a feeling of fellowship with others, as a result of sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals
When I first moved to Doraville, I didn’t truly understand why these three words served as the city’s motto, but the longer I’ve been a resident and council member, the more these words have resonated with me.
I had never before lived in a place so welcoming and open to new residents; never knew my neighbors by name (never-less invited them over for BBQs and game nights).
But this is what Doraville and Northwoods has become to me; a home.
Those who live outside of Doraville usually know of its existence as the home of the old GM plant and its restaurants, but this city is much, much more. Our diversity truly is our strength.
We openly welcome people of all races, religions, cultural backgrounds, sexual preferences and identities. We are home to hundreds of different locally owned restaurants and businesses that have created the thriving BuHi corridor. We are a stronger and better community because of our differences, not in spite of them.
My time on council has only served to emphasis just how important diversity is to our city. The current council has focused on keeping our city’s growth targeted at maintaining these three core values.