Wilson recommends Hakeem re-election
Our community has a number of challenges. With issues ranging from job creation to affordable housing to public safety and access to preschool education for children living in poverty, we need a City Council person who is experienced, knowledgeable and in touch with the community.
For a number of years, Yusuf Hakeem has proven himself to be a strong advocate for the community. As a leader of a faith-based organization, I have been impressed by his willingness to include all segments of the community in his decision-making process. District 9 would be well served by re-electing Yusuf Hakeem to the City Council.
The Rev. Dr. Jeffrey T Wilson
Anderson voter now for Oglesby
It was strange to receive a mailer from Councilman Chris Anderson attacking District 7 opponent Erskine Oglesby for accepting financial contributions from persons who, Anderson said, do not support affordable housing, and asking: “What’s in it for them?” The problem with asking that question is that donor records show Anderson accepts support from wealthy developers and attorneys, some of whom don’t seem to support affordable housing either. I’m sure Anderson would recoil if Oglesby asked: “What’s in it for them?” But at the only debate during this runoff election, Oglesby said not one negative word about Anderson. Oglesby spent his time laying out his program and goals. Despite receiving an invitation, Anderson did not attend.
Anderson’s broadside against Oglesby did raise a critical issue. It appears that a comparative few of Chattanooga’s wealthy developers and the attorneys who serve them actually make the effort to do something important about affordable housing for those in need.
Mr. Anderson, I suggest you not criticize Oglesby’s donors until your donors have made a significant difference in this problem. I voted for you the first time; now I’m voting for Mr. Oglesby to see if he can be the difference.
Franklin McCallie
Oglesby the spark District 7 needs
If there ever was a time that a change was needed, it is now. The constituents in District 7 deserve a voice. For far too long, this district has been viewed as a downtrodden, poorly represented, violence-riddled area. However, Erskine Oglesby knows about the buried treasures that are embedded in this community.
Many greats have been born and educated in District 7, and this area has more to churn out from its current residents. With Erskine as the councilman, District 7 will have a voice, a voice that will not only talk about change but will see it through. Erskine has been a man about the people his entire life. From his work with the 100 Black Men mentoring group in inner-city schools to serving on various boards and panels that help educate and pour into our youth, his commitment to empowering and improving tomorrow’s leaders is evident.
A vote for Erskine Oglesby is a step in the right direction.
Shawn A. Tatum
Harrison
Voter appreciates Anderson’s work
I agree that Chris Anderson’s campaign has been a bit harsh at times this year, but I still greatly urge you to vote for him.
I always hear, “What can I do to help?” from him whenever there is something that can be a positive addition to my neighborhood. I wish that everyone knew how much he really cares about his district and how hard he has worked to assist active community groups in making their neighborhoods better places to live.
I appreciate that he acknowledges my neighborhood has been overlooked for 30-plus years, and he has changed that. New sidewalks, roads paved and Wi-Fi access installed just three weeks after it was requested for a building that will be used by community partners. He has also pulled money out of his own pocket to help out with community events.
So, if you truly vote for those who are willing to work hard for you and your neighborhood, stop and look at the work that Chris Anderson has done for District 7. He’s done a great job!
Lisa Davis
58 doesn’t need more overcrowding
I am in agreement with all of those opposed to the proposed Flats on 58. There is more than enough congestion in the area with three schools in the proposed area. During morning rush hour, southbound traffic is backed up to Hunter Road, and during afternoon rush hour, northbound traffic is backed up to Hickory Valley Road.
Let the people of Harrison vote on the proposal. And to add insult to injury, a Super Walmart is going in at North Hickory Valley Road and Highway 58 and a new apartment complex at Champion Road and Highway 58. Doesn’t anyone look at the infrastructure or lack thereof before approving all these proposals?
Jem Dickinson
Harrison