Mayor David Jordan

Like all small towns across America, Royston is dealing with many issues, both large and small. We are not unique. We are facing the same issues with which so many rural communities must contend. Fortunately, Royston is unique in the fact that we do operate on a balanced budget with little debt. We are also blessed with low crime, good schools, and close proximity to commerce and recreation. Royston is in the center of everywhere, with opportunity all around.

Even in this poor economy, I believe growth is coming to northeast Georgia. The questions are when will that growth come, and will Royston be prepared to attract it? I think we will be prepared, but it is most important that we turn the local economy around, revive it, and encourage new growth in Royston. New jobs are essential to our local economy. Elected officials cannot do it alone. We must get the public involved.

Part of the solution is continued fiscal responsibility. I have always felt responsible for knowing where and how our money is spent. City Hall must continue to improve on budget control. Considering the current economic situation, we should first consider the financial impact on the community. You and I cannot afford something we don't need.
We need to set an agenda for our council to get the community more involved in decision-making through better communication. Our city council must listen to both residents and business. The council must prioritize and act, and the public must take ownership of our community.

Growth and progress must be balanced with community needs and desires. I believe we must first maintain what we have. For example, there are many areas in town where rainwater runoff and street drainage have been severely neglected. Also, street and sidewalk repairs are necessary. These must be made a priority, and addressed immediately. Also, drinking water and sewer lines are in need of service and replacement. Although the city has been working to expand our water system, we must make the maintenance of existing lines a priority. The city has applied for approximately $406,000 in state matching grants to replace sewer lines around Grove Street and the elementary school area.

The city is diligently working to pursue many other grants. We continue to pursue the upgrade of our public library, and I would like to see this plan completed with minimal financial burden to the community. The library is at the top of the state's list to receive $1.2 M in state funding to match the tremendous and generous private grant already received. I'm also excited with the progress of the city's new wellness park. We need a place for folks to go, for seniors and children to relax or exercise, and these facilities demonstrate our dedication to the emphasis on quality of life in our community. We have received in excess of $120,000 from ARRA state parks and forestry grants for the Tri-County Wellness Park.

With continued community support and involvement, Royston will have a bright future. I encourage you to attend our council meetings and be involved in our progress.
 

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David Jordan has served as a city councilman for over a decade before he was elected Mayor. His term began in January 2010 and will end in December 2013. To contact David, please call him at (706) 245-7232 or email him at MayorJordan@CityofRoyston.com

David is a graduate of The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina. He holds a Master of Business Administration and is currently a professor teaching business and information systems at Emmanuel College in Franklin Springs, Georgia.