I believe a combination of increased police presence as well as educational programs for the youth will not only have a immediate impact but will curb criminal activity over the long-term.

2. Terms of office have been extended from two to four years for city government, where do you see projects in the city’s urban core (U.S. 321/I-85 entrance, historic downtown business district, Highland neighborhoods, Franklin Avenue and the Loray Mill) in four years?

The City Center must become “The Center” once again in order to preserve Gastonia’s character. I envision a downtown core alive with foot traffic, shops and living space. Utilizing existing buildings for mixed-use projects is the key.

3. What do you think the most important infrastructure needs are in Gastonia, Gaston County, as the area continues to grow?

Water supply constraints and traffic. Growth is inevitable. We need to be in a position to handle the strains on our resources before the situation is dire. Better to plan now than try to control later.

4) What do you think are the two biggest issues in Gastonia?

- Economic Development: We need diversity in our tax base, especially in the core, in order to survive the loss of textile.

- Crime: We must reduce crime in order to make our town a safer place to live, work and play.