Cynthia Hamilton

What are your top three priorities for enhancing economic growth opportunities throughout Hope Mills?

I would encourage new businesses in Hope Mills other than fast food restaurants, smoke shops, and incorporate sit-down family restaurants.  Acquiring grants in order to fund our projects instead of loans.  Hope Mills needs more training and education programs in order to help our citizens prepare for the workforce and also help our homeless population with employment. 

What are the most pressing issues facing Hope Mills, and how will you work to solve them?

The most important issue that I feel Hope Mills is facing is the rapid construction within the town limits, the destruction of our valuable green space, and the unnecessary spending that has had a major impact on the citizens.  Being honest, transparent and listening to the citizens of Hope Mills and acting on their concerns is very important to me.

What makes you the best candidate to represent Hope Mills?

My main concern is the welfare of the citizens, listening to their concerns and acting accordingly.   I would also to stop the unnecessary spending.  This has resulted in increased taxes which with inflation has had a negative effect on our citizens.  Also, my background in Financial Management, Human Resources and my attention to detail based on my previous Military Occupation Specialty has prepared me to provide the best possible service to my community.

Bonus question: Recent property revaluations have resulted in increased financial obligations for property owners within the Hope Mills town limits. The majority of property owners have experienced a substantial tax increase, averaging around 60%. If elected, what strategies would you implement to alleviate this financial strain on residents while maintaining the provision of essential services?

One of the first things I would do would be to review the current budget and cut back or completely eliminate the unnecessary spending.  I truly believe that if the unnecessary spending is stopped Hope Mills would be able to provide all services to the citizens.  Some of the priorities would be vehicle purchases, staff expenditures, ie training expenses, minimize events and/or limit the purchases related to events, require department heads or the Financial Manager to maintain a manning document for hiring purchases to cut back on excessive hiring.  Accountability within the town is a major concern and would definitely help get Hope Mills where it needs to be. We need to maintain what we have instead of constantly purchasing replacements for our facilities.   If we all work as a team we can get it done.  Focus on the needs instead of the want's!