Al Hovey-King

Greetings! This week I wish to offer information and facts concerning economic development and respond to some of my opponent’s statements.

With regard to Mainstreet and economic development, I support positive initiatives similar to those that over the past five years have brought $12,500,000 in public and private investment to the Mainstreet District and provided over 370 jobs and 112 new businesses.

As chairman of our Downtown Development Authority, I have secured over $500,000 in low-interest loans for recent projects. I will continue to use all resources that are available to attract businesses that provide a value-added benefit to our citizens.

However, it is difficult to attract new business if you don’t have control of the property and the owner is either not interested or not motivated in placing a business in the vacant space. A property owner cannot be forced to lease his property if he chooses not to.

As stated in his initial press release, my opponent has indicated he has the experience to fill the existing vacancies. If this is so and he has been a Fayette County resident and businessman for 40 years, why hasn’t he brought his expertise forward earlier?

In his required financial disclosure, my opponent indicates that he has “Direct Ownership” in real estate valued in excess of $4 million. This real estate is located in Fayetteville, unincorporated Fayette County as well as Douglas and Henry counties.

I find it interesting that the strip commercial center he owns in Stockbridge, while fully leased, houses a used tire dealer, auto body shop and mechanical repair facility.

Oh, by the way, half of the building is bright yellow. Is this what Fayetteville needs on its main highways? If he can “fill existing vacancies,” then why has he been unable to keep a tenant in his property on Highway 85 North?

I have the experience through a proven record of serving the city, I have the knowledge, I have the insight, I have the commitment, and I have the interests of the citizens of Fayetteville as my primary focus.

I have been a resident of Fayetteville for over 27 years and I only want the best for the citizens.

If you have questions or concerns and would like to discuss them with me, call me at 770-461-4320 or email me at [email protected]. I need your HELP and your VOTE on Nov. 6.

----------

Mickey Edwards

No essay submitted by Edwards by deadline.

----------