See what we can do to educate the community at large to reduce those issues in Gastonia. This would require us to become familiar with the services offered and needed … for our youth since they are the target for gang involvement.

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?

Hopefully, downtown will once again be a hub of activity year round. Great strides have already been made on the beautification project in the north corridor Highland Community. The Franklin Avenue study has been completed. Construction on the Loray Mill Project is expected to begin in the first quarter of 2008.

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

- Water and sewer expansion

- Education of our youth

- Water and sewer upgrades

- Growth of the electrical system

- City road improvements and expansion

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

I believe that the two largest issues in our community are public safety and education. Many citizens have contacted me about safety concerns in their neighborhood. Several have specifically mentioned drugs and gang related activity.”