Keisha Sean Waites - Candidate: Atlanta City Council Post 3

What makes you qualified to hold this office?
KW: In Feb 2012, I was elected to the Georgia General Assembly as State Rep. for district 60, where I served 3 terms. I had the privilege of serving on the Public Safety, Transportation, and Juvenile Justice committees, and was responsible for vetting legislation and policy.

I am the only candidate in the race that has successfully served 3 terms in a legislative capacity. Given the challenges we are facing citywide, we must have a representative that has the experience to navigate the volatile political current. Secondly, given the adversarial role between the state of Georgia and the City of Atlanta, I have the capacity to serve as an olive branch and conduit to improving relations.

I have been a small business owner in Atlanta for over two decades, providing affordable housing to veterans and working families. For 19 years I worked at the local, state, regional and federal levels, developing relationships and learning how to move important policy issues through all levels of government.

I believe that my diverse qualifications and experience, decades of community involvement, service in the state legislature, and my proven background in crisis management and problem-solving uniquely qualify me to serve.

Why are you running for this seat?
KW: As a native Atlantan, I am outraged by the spiking crime and violence. Our city is at a crossroads, and there is a real opportunity to equitably manage and capitalize on the growth that’s coming. I can help the most people by influencing future legislation that ensures that growth benefits all areas of the city.

What is your vision for Atlanta?
KW: COVID changed the way people live, work and play. One of the results is that our mix of commercial, office, industrial and residential needs have changed. One of the most important tasks for the Mayor and Council is to assure residents that their tax dollars are being spent wisely, with a focus on providing quality services. These services include public safety: fully staffing our police department, infrastructure planning and maintenance.

One of the biggest challenges our city faces is the need to eradicate the “Pay to Play” culture that has permeated for many decades. Until we put an end to nepotism and cronyism city hall will remain toxic and plagued with scandal. We must change the existing culture at City Hall and create a focus on openness, service, and stewardship of public resources.

We are elected to deliver results. Public trust and integrity are essential for our city to thrive, attract new industry, new commerce and new residents.

What are your views on the Buckhead cityhood movement?
KW: Quality of life issues such as public safety, effective use of taxpayer money, and the future of Atlanta as a cohesive city affect everyone. The Buckhead cityhood movement exists because residents and business owners do not feel their concerns are being heard or addressed. This is a communication problem. As a city-wide representative, I would make it my priority to be an effective conduit between Buckhead residents and city government.

What do think are the top issues facing our city?
KW: Public safety and violence prevention, restoring public trust, and regional transit solutions for traffic congestion.

For additional information go to www.keishawaites.com.

Paid for by Committee to Elect Keisha Sean Waites.