New Beginning, New Vision, New Albany
Recent News on Valerie
Meet the Candidate
May 14th, 6pm - 8pm @ the Albany Public Library
This event is your chance to meet Albany Mayoral candidate
"Valerie comes with new ideas, a new vision, and a "New Beginning" that will lead to a new Albany."
FAQ
Why Do You Want To Be Mayor of Albany?
I’ve spent many years working in the communities of Albany as a pastor, community activist, and educator. I’ve gotten to know the people of our great city, and I’ve heard their concerns and know how so many of them are tired of the status quo in Albany politics. I want to be the Mayor of Albany to give my family, friends and the people the kind of leadership they deserve; fair, honest and inclusive. I took this leap of faith because it was imperative for me to do something to make a difference in this city.
My goals for the position include:
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Bringing a new standard of open and innovative leadership to the office
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Creating a diverse leadership team that more truly represents the people of Albany
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Creating a “We” Government, which will include representatives from the community
What Are The First Things You Will Do as Mayor of Albany?
As Mayor, I will gather a smart and dynamic team to work with me to map out a plan to start Albany on it's road to restoration. With that in mind, We will go over the budget with a fine tooth comb to wean out waste and prioritize spending needs, if necessary, and find out if we can reduce taxes.
Reach out to the youth and hold informational sessions to see what's on their minds and discuss with them way that we can help them become productive and fulfilled as they mature to adulthood
What Will You Do to Reduce Juvenile Crime and Gang Activity?
Crime, and especially juvenile crime, is a priority for me. I believe the most effective approach is to meet children where they are. To listen to their stories, find out why they do what they do, and work to help them find alternatives to improve their lives, is a major way to break ground.
I intend to visit every school in Albany to talk with the staff and administration, and the students to find out how we can help them overcome the daily challenges they face at school. We will work together with families to include them in the discussion about saving their children from crime, truancy, substance abuse and STD's.
For those already incarcerated - I will create apprenticeships and job training programs to help them transition out of lives of crime to law abiding, contributing citizens. I want to give them the choice to move away from self destruction to positive self-motivation by providing incentives and support. I will include them in the reshaping of their own lives.
What Will You Do About The Large Number of Vacant Properties in Albany?
The vacant buildings in Albany are more than eyesores. They are a breeding ground for crime. But with some creative action, they could also be a tremendous opportunity.
Smart thinking and some creative ideas can turn the buildings into a “living classroom.” We can teach job skills, like construction and remodeling, to the people of our city who need a chance to change. Once remodeled, homes can be sold to residents at affordable rates; be used for needed child care centers, temporary half-way houses, or ongoing skills faciities, etc..
These can be important stepping stones between criminal lifestyles and law abiding lifestyles; broken families and healthy families, or unemployment or gainfully employed. The ideas are only limited by stale, outmoded thinking.
We Have Many Minority-Owned and Women-Owned Businesses in Albany. How Will You Ensure They Get a Fair Share?
I think that many of these businesses will need different kinds of help, and that’s why the most important thing to do is build open lanes of communication. Only through listening can I find out what roadblocks these businesses face.
In general, my aim is to provide education, training, and a transparent contracting system that levels the playing field.
How Do You Plan to Bring Diversity to Albany’s Leadership?
Diversity in leadership is the only way for the people to be fairly represented. And I want to bring that diversity to Albany’s government.
As Mayor, I will be actively seeking qualified leaders from diverse backgrounds who have the experience and the drive to help me accomplish my vision of a New Albany.
How Can I get Involved?
First of all, thank you for your enthusiasm. Successful campaigns depend on the efforts of passionate people like you.
You can get involved in a number of ways. You can Make a Donation, Volunteer, or even Host an Event. For more information, click the links to be taken to my action pages.
I Have More Questions. Where Can I get More Answers?
Your questions are very important to me. Please visit my contact page to submit your questions and we will be in touch with you as soon as possible.
