Still Putting Charlotte First

The Charlotte City Council makes numerous decisions each year that impact our lives. The dedication and public service of past generations of City leaders created the prosperity and quality of life we enjoy today. As a Charlotte native, I am informed by this past as I envision the future of this great city. I want Charlotte to be a city of hope.

Today, many new challenges face our growing community. Our City government must be efficient and effective. We must widen the doors of opportunity to people in all parts of the City to create more jobs, expand our tax base and promote personal responsibility. We must embrace growth and strengthen our sense of community at the same time. With capable, committed and courageous leadership, Charlotte's present and future can be even brighter than its past.

When I first asked for your vote in the 2005 election, I pledged to put Charlotte first. My record shows that I kept my promises. Here are some of my key issues and how I have delivered results for Charlotte.

1. Better Public Safety.
   Between 2001-2005, the City Council did not create a single new police position even as Charlotte’s population grew by double digits. In 2006, the Police Department requested 70 additional police positions, and, over the Mayor’s veto, Anthony helped the City Council deliver them. Today, Charlotte has a new University City police district, reduced police response times and a lower overall violent crime rate.

2. Better Roads.
   The City of Charlotte had not built a new road since 2002, and paved roads on a near 31-year cycle, far short of the 12-year industry standard. With Anthony’s leadership, the City of Charlotte is now building new roads again and has reduced the road paving cycle to 14 years.

3. Better Neighborhoods.
   In 2005, the City Council allocated no new dollars for curbs, sidewalks, gutters, streetlights, planting strips, and other physical improvements through the Neighborhood Improvement Program. Today, Charlotte has a five-year $75 million program to improve neighborhoods throughout the city.

4. More Opportunity.
   For years, Charlotte had no clear plan to promote private sector-led improvements in distressed business corridors to enhance job growth, expand the tax base, and strengthen neighborhoods. Anthony drove the City Council to adopt a five-corridor strategy, now being implemented.

5. Accountability.
   Anthony can be counted on to ask the hard questions and to make sure your tax dollars are being used efficiently and effectively.