My faith in the voters in Peachtree City was restored during the election on Nov. 2. Not only did they turn out in higher numbers than usual (almost 30 percent of registered voters), they cast their ballots to firmly say NO to annexation and NO to continued high-density development. Finally, the quality of life in our city took precedence over the huge profits of a select few. The majority has spoken, and developers should beware.

The two candidates in the race for Post 2 who were most firmly against annexation and high-density growth received almost 80 percent of the votes between them. The fact that Dan Tennant won the race without the need for a runoff speaks volumes as well. Dan stood up for who he is and what he believes in, and has proven that an “average Joe” can and should represent his fellow citizens. Dan is enthusiastic and a firm believer that our city council must do what is best for all of us, not just what is best for those who only look to profit regardless of the cost to our city. I look forward to good things happening due to Dan's efforts.

Peachtree City's voters also firmly rejected the one candidate who saw fit to use his five-figure campaign war chest to do nothing more than attack the competition. Instead of speaking to the concerns of the voters, he chose to use a questionable “consultant” to mount a campaign of misinformation. I don't feel big dollars belong in small-town races, and it is clear that big dollars don't spell automatic victory. Perhaps his resounding defeat will mean we won't see his type of campaigning in future races.

Finally, I was pleased to see the showing by Melvin Ewing in the race for Post 1. Mr. Ewing did not have a huge campaign fund to draw on, and surely did not have the name recognition of the incumbent, yet he was able to garner over 31 percent of the vote. I sincerely hope that the victor in that race will understand that she needs to be more in tune with the needs of all Peachtree City voters, and that she moves forward with her “no annexation” pledge.

The biggest winner of all on Nov. 2 was you and I, the average Peachtree City resident. We now have a voice on our city council who will listen to our concerns and who will act on those concerns, and with the help of others on council who are really concerned about what is best for the city first, he can help our city continue to be a “great place to call home.” I urge everyone to stay involved, to attend council meetings and to write letters, to make it clear that we expect nothing but the best from our city government.

Steve Fodor
Peachtree City

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