Letter to the Editor: We can make our community a model of success

“The way to gain a good reputation is to endeavor to be what you desire to appear.” – Socrates. On Nov. 5, 2013, our great city of Statesboro faces another major election. Although it may not be covered by the likes of CNN, FOX or MSNBC, we as a community have arrived at a critical crossroads leading us into the future. I have decided to run for mayor because the challenge is great and it requires us to decide if we want to keep the status quo or move our community forward in a way that supports our strategic vision. Now the concept of “forward” is not a republican or democratic ideal, it’s not a government intrusion, but it instead is an agenda of the people that focuses on taking what we consider to be our best and making it even better.

My platform consists of one that supports economic development, transparency, leadership, and youth development. At the top of my agenda is a platform entitled “Statesboro Works.” This initiative focuses on college/career readiness, workforce development and entrepreneurship. We must work to foster relationships with the community, our educational institutions and our businesses to ensure that we have a community that is not only ready, but can sustain business growth. Secondly, we will work to implement the Youth Now Initiative, which focuses on preparing our young people through civic engagement opportunities, mentorship and job readiness. We must work to ensure that all our youth are given adequate opportunities to be successful.

Finally, we will work to ensure accountability and transparency by making sure that our city council meetings are televised on cable and streamed over the Internet. It is my plan to archive all meetings allowing them to be retrievable for up to one year.

I have no doubt that my vision will help to improve lives for all of our citizens. We can only do that if we truly recognize our problems and involve all stakeholders in order to create effective solutions. I look forward to an exciting campaign. I welcome the challenge to debate the issues, defend my experiences, and win over those who may be somewhat skeptical. With my leadership and your support we can make our community a true model of success for the rest of the nation to follow.

Respectfully Submitted,

Jonathan McCollar

2013 Candidate for Mayor