Accomplishments
Gills Creek Memorial Park
After the 2015 flood, a scenic strip of land along Gills Creek was donated to the city which culminated with the design and approval of a special and unique park that opened in April, 2024. Along with the park, grant funding from the State was received to replace the bridge. The park features a boardwalk overlooking Gills Creek, green space, splash pad and small performance stage.
Most importantly, this park is a memorial to two fallen Forest Acres officers. The two officers are Patrolman Richey O’Brian Finch (End of Watch: February 21, 1974 and Police Officer Gregory Thomas Alia (End of Watch: September 30, 2015).
Midlands Council of Governments & TPAC
I am proud to serve on the board of the Midlands Council of Governments (COG) as the Forest Acres representative. Within that board, I am also on the Executive Committee and Transportation Sub-Committee. During my time on the board, I have been successful in securing grant funding for two Intersection Studies (Beltline Blvd & Forest Dr. and Trenholm Rd. & Forest Dr) as well as a Road Safety Audit (Forest Dr./Beltline Blvd to Percival Rd.).
I was also recently voted by my fellow council members to be the Forest Acres representative on the Transportation Penny Advisory Committee to ensure our voice is heard on penny tax projects in our city .
Sweep the Acres
Sweep the Acres is a meaningful community event started by myself and a friend to pick up litter on our streets across our city. This event occurs each Spring and continues to grow each year with a variety of volunteers such as boy and girl scouts, local schools, churches and Forest Acres Rotary.
FAPD Support
I am passionate about supporting our police department and providing the necessary resources to support our community. During my term in office, FAPD has modernized their vehicle equipment and increased efficiencies with reporting. Additional training has been a focus which includes de-escalation tactics and use of force as well as more proactively planning for active shooter events. A number of stop signs, security cameras and additional lighting have been added for the safety of our residents. FAPD staffing is near full capacity reflecting an increase in diversity and professionalism.
Business Growth
We have seen a tremendous influx of new businesses that have chosen to open in our city over the last four years. This has been an outstanding combination of restaurant, retail, medical and traditional office providing greater convenience for our residents. Although most have occupied existing locations, others have redeveloped older properties enhancing curb appeal. The Richland Mall redevelopment is underway which was a 931,000 square feet enclosed mall and will now be transformed to a mixed-use development (215,000 square feet) with a 5-acre city park and amphitheater.
Annexation Growth
An initiative during my term on council has been annexation. In the last four years, Forest Acres has annexed forty new residential properties supporting the interest and growth of our city. Not only do annexations add additional tax revenue, but it also allows the city to gain efficiencies with public works and FAPD, and foster community connections.
Community Focused Ordinances
I have voted in favor of ordinances that I think support our greater community. This includes an ordinance limiting the distance of businesses, such as smoke or vape shops, from opening near parks, schools and churches. A fireworks ordinance to limit the times that fireworks can be used on Independence Day (10am-11pm) and New Years Eve (until 1am). Finally, tightened vagrancy regulations on loitering, urban camping and the use of public spaces. These measures aim to balance individual rights with public safety and the enjoyment of community spaces.
