CAMPAIGN PLATFORM
BOLD IDEAS
Smart, Quality Growth
Economic Platform
The history of Powder Springs is one of spirit and substance that made the city a desirable place to live and work for decades. However, as other cities in Cobb County have stepped up their game to compete for economic development resources, Powder Springs has fallen behind in its ability to provide the infrastructure and support necessary to attract business and sustain growth.
As an experienced small business owner, Al Thurman believes that attracting small business and encouraging entrepreneurship are essential to realizing Powder Springs’ potential to be a fully developed city. Al Thurman’s goal is to upgrade the city’s development initiatives to support start-up business growth.
As a member of the City Council, Al Thurman voted against any policy making it difficult to start and grow a business. He has been the leading advocate for engaging an economic development director and establishing a much needed city department to drive development. Thanks to Al Thurman’s vision and persistence, Powder Springs has substantially strengthened its resources to pursue economic development and improve support for business.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Community Development and Environmental Protection Platform
Al Thurman believes quality neighborhoods should always be a top priority, and will continue to deploy his time, talent, and resources to build strong neighborhoods. Al Thurman will advocate for affordable housing, business development, and environmental beautification projects that create and protect natural green spaces.
Al Thurman has worked diligently to enhance our community amenities. He authored a proposal to fund the construction of the Ron Anderson Community Recreation Center at Wild Horse Creek Park. He led the city’s $828,000 SPLOST-funded initiative to replace the Hopkins Road Bridge and improve pedestrian links to the Silver Comet Trail. As the Council liaison to the Keep Powder Springs Beautiful Committee, Al Thurman supported the development of trails and natural walkways in the Powder Springs passive area.
TRANSPARENT, ACCOUNTABLE, VISIONARY LEADERSHIP
Leadership Platform:
Powder Springs must have cooperative, transparent, accountable leadership and a chief executive with 21st century vision, or we shall continue to watch homeowners and businesses bypass the city for more prosperous locations.
Al Thurman’s candidacy for mayor is driven by a sincere desire to bring new life to city governance. As a longtime resident, small business owner, and public servant, Al Thurman believes Powder Springs deserves a mayor who is forward-thinking to rekindle the city’s passion for growth, and action-oriented to implement a more aggressive development strategy.
During 13 years on the City Council, Al Thurman has established an outstanding record of public service, effectively responding to the needs of Powder Springs and serving its people with integrity, bipartisanship, and action. As a forward-thinking mayor, Al Thurman will transform city management. As a leader with vision, Al Thurman will introduce new policies making Powder Springs more competitive in the economic arena, but always inviting as a place to call home.
PUBLIC SAFETY, EDUCATION, AND TRANSPORTATION
Public Service Platform:
The quality of public safety, neighborhood security, emergency preparedness and response services are important considerations for residents and businesses. These critical areas will continue to be a top priority on Al’s leadership agenda over the next four years. Transportation and Education are equally important elements in his vision for Powder Springs economic development, revenue generation and improved quality of life.
Emergency Preparedness and Public Safety
Not long ago, Powder Springs was badly affected a significant flood disaster. To ensure we apply lessons learned from this event, Al is committed to emergency preparedness to protect our city, its residents and businesses.
Supporting Public Education
An educated workforce supports economic development. Having educated his children in Powder Springs' schools, Al remains an advocate for quality education to ensure our schools get the resources that our children need to succeed.
Transportation and Infrastructure
Roadways provide connection from our community to work, school, shopping, medical services and more. Maintaining this infrastructure is vital to our future as a 21st Century Business Center. Al supports roadway maintenance and cost-effective transport options for residents.