Two years ago I ran for office to bring a business-like approach to city management and the budget. My first priority is ensuring the city budget is 100 percent open to the public and represents the priorities of the citizens from safety, public works and leisure activities while being fiscally responsible.

I am proud that over the last two budget cycles I have been involved in, we have added over $2 million to our reserves. This was no accident.

I am especially proud of the fact that we didn’t spend this money. We saved that money to level out future budgets, enabling a rational, long-term budget plan.

Independent outside financial review has concurred with this approach. Our city recently received a Triple-A financial rating as proof.

In the next few years I want to see:

1. A stronger focus on community through citizen participation in long-range planning and in decisions that shape the community.

2. The cart path network maintained and expanded.

3. A city government that is open and congenial.

4. A strong city economy based on thoughtful and targeted economic development.

5. The city working with the county and state governments to reduce their tax burdens and to return more decisions to the local level, where people are better equipped to understand local needs and desires.

6. Traffic problems solved at the local level and not by consultants and bureaucrats operating by remote control from Atlanta.

I humbly request your support and vote.

Eric Imker

Candidate, Post 1

Peachtree City, Ga.