Greetings! This week I would like to discuss economic development and Fayetteville’s nationally recognized Mainstreet program as well as respond to some of the statements made by my opponent.

With regard to Mainstreet and economic development, I support positive Mainstreet initiatives similar to those that over the past 3 years have brought over 370 jobs, 112 new businesses and $12,500,000 in public and private investment to the Mainstreet District. As Chairman of our Downtown Development Authority, I have secured almost $500,000 of low interest loans for recent projects. I will continue to use all resources that are available to attract and retain the types of business that are suitable and provide a value added benefit to our Citizens.

As published in his first interview with The Citizen newspaper, my opponent favors allowing larger signage for commercial businesses, and cited the Southside Starbucks Coffee as an example of an overly restrictive sign ordinance. The land upon which Starbucks rests IS OWNED BY MY OPPONENT. In fact, Fayette tax records show my opponent and his family own over $4 million worth of property! He states “My position is unique because my family has some of the most developed land and undeveloped land within the city limits. So I see both sides of the issues as they relate to development.” This puts my opponent in the position of influencing and voting on commercial development within the City. This is clearly a conflict and not in the best interests of the citizens!

My opponent is also quoted as saying “The City currently is collecting, on average, approximately $160,000 more taxes each year over each preceding year simply because of increased property tax assessments”. The facts are that a majority of the $160,000 was due to an increase in the value of the digest (i.e. new construction) NOT increased assessments due to revaluation. The City’s tax rate has remained stable or decreased every year for the past decade. The yearly tax that the owner of a $200,000 home pays to the City is $242. That is fact!

I have the proven experience, knowledge, insight, and the interests of the Citizens of Fayetteville as my primary focus, not personal financial gain.

Fayetteville is a superior place to live, raise our children and operate our businesses and I need your HELP and your VOTE on November 8th to continue making progress on the issues you care about!

Al Hovey-King
Councilman
City of Fayetteville
Ofc: 770-461-6029
Cell: 404-886-8587
Ahoveyking@fayetteville-ga.gov
hoveyking@bellsouth.net

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