Cody Smith’s Key Campaign Issues

#1 Accountability To The People

According to the Declaration of Independence, the government gets its power to govern from the people that it governs. As the Declaration says, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.

I believe our city governemnt should be transparent.  Transparency promotes accountability and provides information for citizens about what their Government is doing.

Public engagement enhances the government's effectiveness and improves the quality of its decisions. My office will create and promote forums that increase opportunities for citizens to participate in policymaking and to provide their Government with the benefits of their collective expertise and information. 

#2 Reducing Unnecessary City Expenditures

It is no secret that it takes money to make things happen, and your city government is no exception. Our roads, bridges, and city water system are all tax payer funded by you, the citizen. To ensure the same level or service we currently enjoy without raising taxes, the City Council must be more thoughtful in how they spend YOUR money. We can achieve this goal by prioritizing projects in the budget based on need, efficient division of human resources, seeking local bids that will pump revenue back into our local economy, and requiring all boards and authorities to submit a budget for approval as well as  participate in yearly audits.

 

#3 Protecting Our Neighborhoods

Living in Coastal Georgia does come with some unique challenges. One thing we have plenty of is rain. With heavy rainfall and poorly maintained residential ditches, our community is prone to flooding, threatening our property and investments. I promise to support and promote common- sense, affordable solutions to combat our city’s flooding and drainage issues head on. The need for a solution is urgent to preserve our small town from the destructive force of mother nature.

#4 Small Businesses and Creating Job Opportunities

As a small businessman, I know it can be hard to get your foot in the door. Between licensing, fees, permits, and review boards, it can seem almost impossible to get started at all.

I want to make it easier for residents to pursue their entrepreneurial endeavors by targeting and eliminating unnecessary, burdensome regulations and fees that serve as a barrier to entry for everyday citizens. I would like to strengthen the city’s resources to attract new businesses to operate in St. Marys and bring good paying jobs to our local community.

 

#5 Kings Bay Submarine Base

We owe an un-payable debt the the men and women whom have put their lives on the line in defense of our freedom and values.

St. Marys is fortunate enough to be home to the world’s mightiest nuclear submarine fleet! With thousands of service members and their families living here, it is no surprise that many choose to make St. Marys their forever- home after service.

I would like to explore prioritizing veteran hires for all future city workforce needs. With their world class training and a wealth of hard- earned experience, our veterans are a major asset to our community!

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