I have one main priority this year: to retain and create new JOBS.

We can do this by…

One, Improving our JUSTICE system. Police Chief Monroe requested 125 police officers this year. With the help of the federal COPS program, I will work hard to meet that goal with matching local funds.

Two, Expanding OPPORTUNITY. We must retrain our work force for the jobs of tomorrow so we can attract the businesses of tomorrow.

Three, BUILDING infrastructure. Manufacturers, distributors and other employers will not locate here if they cannot get their goods and services to market in a timely way. Building and improving city roads, expanding transit, and adding a third runway are all critical components in making sure.

Four, STRENGTHENING our education system. We learn from the past but we teach for the future. A quality school system not only teaches the next generation of Charlotte citizens but it is a crucial component in our ability to attract new businesses.

This is why Charlotte cannot wait for things to simply blow over. Now is not the time for limited vision. As my old track coach said, when facing a hill, you have to sprint up it or you will fall behind.