FAQs

What type of businesses do you want to see develop in Downtown Kennesaw?

Since becoming a resident of Kennesaw, I’ve spent time at many of our local spots—Burnt Hickory, Dry County, The Nest—all of which have since closed. Each of these places gave residents a chance to gather, enjoy good food and drink, and feel part of our community. Their absence has left a noticeable gap.

I want to see more restaurants, breweries, and gathering spaces return to our downtown. These are the kinds of places that bring people together, attract visitors, and make Kennesaw a destination. When people are talking about their weekend plans, I want them to think about coming to Downtown Kennesaw first.

What is a Speed Table?

A speed table is a raised, wider version of a speed bump, wide enough that a crosswalk can be built right on top of it. Unlike standard speed bumps, speed tables provide a smoother crossing for pedestrians while still requiring drivers to slow down.

Here in Kennesaw, the city has already installed illuminated pedestrian signs to increase crosswalk visibility. While these have helped, they haven’t solved the problem of speeding. A speed table adds an extra layer of protection by physically forcing cars to SLOW DOWN, making our streets safer for everyone.

If you could change one thing in Kennesaw tomorrow, what would it be?

When the new amphitheater was built downtown, Kennesaw lost its only playground. Many local families have expressed a desire for a new place where their children can play while they enjoy everything downtown has to offer. As part of downtown redevelopment, I will make it a priority to ensure that a new playground is included—creating a family-friendly space that strengthens our community and makes downtown more welcoming for everyone.

What have you done for Kennesaw already?

I’ve been a volunteer with the Kennesaw Downtown Development Authority for nearly four years, where I’ve taken an active role in strengthening our community. I’ve helped run the Kennesaw Farmer’s Market, which not only supports early-stage entrepreneurs but also draws more people into our downtown. I’ve also pitched in with setup and breakdown for our First Friday Concerts—an event that continues to build a strong sense of community for residents.

Beyond Kennesaw, I’ve worked on statewide program evaluations and currently serve as a consultant with the Federal District of Northern Georgia. I volunteer my time with the Federal District’s RISE and ATL Court Programs, which focus on rehabilitating offenders by connecting them with services and support to become productive members of society instead of sending them to prison. In all these roles, I’ve helped policymakers save taxpayer money and advised stakeholders on how to improve outcomes in their programs. I bring that same results-driven approach to the work I want to continue here in Kennesaw.

What do you mean when you say “eliminate steps for select types of businesses”?

From my experience working with the Kennesaw Farmer’s Market over the past four years, I’ve seen firsthand how many of our vendors are small-scale bakers and makers. For these types of low-impact businesses, requiring them to submit photos and attend public hearings is unnecessary. It wastes their time and the City’s time.

For businesses that can reasonably operate without disturbing their neighbors, we should streamline the process and make their road to existence as smooth as possible. By eliminating unnecessary steps, we remove barriers for entrepreneurs, support local economic growth, and show that Kennesaw is a place that welcomes small business innovation.

What is your current work/academic experience?

My academic path led me to Georgia State University, where I earned my bachelor’s degree and am now completing my PhD in Criminal Justice and Criminology. My research and professional work focus on helping courts, agencies, and community programs operate more effectively, with an emphasis on giving people opportunities to succeed rather than fall through the cracks. I currently consult for the Northern District of Georgia's ATL & RISE alternative to incarnation courts.

What do you see as the primary responsibilities of a city councilmember?

City Council is first and foremost a position of public service. Their principal responsibility is to ensure that the laws of Kennesaw are working in the best interest of the people of Kennesaw. That requires council members to do everything in their power to make informed, educated decisions when shaping new policy.

Additionally, a council member's responsibilities do not end when meetings are adjourned. Maintaining a presence in the community is just as important as their presence at council meetings.

What has prepared you to meet these responsibilities? 

I have prepared myself for this role through a combination of professional experience, academic training, and direct service to the Kennesaw community. As a doctoral candidate in Criminal Justice and Criminology at Georgia State University, my work has focused on evaluating how government programs and policies can be more effective, efficient, and fair. 

Professionally, I have partnered with courts, law enforcement, and community agencies to improve data sharing, accountability, and outcomes; skills directly relevant to making informed policy decisions for our city.

Locally, I have volunteered with the Kennesaw Downtown Development Authority and helped run the Farmers Market, giving me firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities facing small businesses and residents. These experiences have taught me how to listen, build consensus, and approach problems with both data-driven analysis and a community-centered perspective. Together, they have prepared me to carry out the responsibilities of City Council with diligence, accessibility, and a commitment to public service.