“Are we moving in a direction that our children will be proud of?”  According to former Davidson, NC Mayor Randall Kincaid, their city adopted a philosophy by which public officials asked this question before every decision.

It’s such a simple thing. And yet, it’s brilliant in its simplicity: “Are we moving in a direction that our children will be proud of?”

It’s brilliant because ultimately, that’s the job of city leaders: to create a future better than the present, to work steadily for continuous improvement, to create a city that our children will be proud to live, work, and play in years from now.

“Are we moving in a direction that our children will be proud of?”

It’s brilliant because it forces us to stop and consider the long-term goal or vision before making short-term decisions.

And above all else, that’s what we need to do on city council. We need a vision. And we need people committed to making it a reality. We need people willing to ask, “Are we moving in a direction that our children will be proud of?” at every turn.

I have a vision for Simpsonville that I think will make it, beyond a doubt, the kind of city our children and their children will be proud of.

We’re on our way. But to fully realize this vision of Simpsonville, I think we need to focus on a few key areas:

1. Commit to community and cultural programs and services:
   • Provide access to the arts for all of our citizens,
   • Support programs that educate, inform, and inspire through a variety of cultural activities.
2. This will lead to economic development…because community development is economic development.
   • Grow and retain current businesses (by keeping Simpsonville dollars in Simpsonville and bringing outside $ in),
   • Attract and support new businesses.
3. But in order to do this, we need to work together. We need everybody on board. So we need to commit to creating unity and building partnerships.
   • Partner with individual citizens, local businesses, non-profit organizations, civic groups
   • Work together for a common goal, a shared vision

Then we can ask ourselves, “Are we moving in a direction our children can be proud of?” And answer ourselves with a resounding yes. Yes, we are moving in a direction our children will be proud of. Yes, we are creating a better Simpsonville for the future.

It’s time to get people on council who can do that. I think I’m just that kind of person.  And that’s why I’m asking for your vote on November 3rd.