4 candidates are running to fill Macon-Bibb Commission seat for District 8

Michelle Parks, Donice Bryant, Kim L. Jenkins and Daniel Angelo are running for the Macon-Bibb County Commission District 8 seat that’s up for grabs in Tuesday’s election

The winner will replace the current commissioner, Virgil Watkins Jr., who has been in office since 2014 and has hit his term limit. The four candidates mentioned public safety, economic development and affordable housing as major issues they want to address.

Michele Parks is a case manager for Benchmark Human Services and also serves on the Middle Georgia Regional Council and the Macon-Bibb Board of Elections. Donice Bryant has a background in law enforcement with the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office. Daniel Angelo is a retired firefighter who continues to support first responders through his work on the Fire and Police Pension Board. Kim L. Jenkins is a retired educator and ordained minister.

Early voting ends Friday, and Election Day takes place Tuesday. Because the race is non-partisan, it will be decided in May instead of during the General Election in November. The winner’s term will begin Jan. 1.

The answers below are from the candidates in their own words, but slight edits have been made for clarity and writing style.

Michelle Parks

What makes you qualified to run for office?

I am motivated to run for office because I am disgusted by the increasing crime rates, rampant poverty, lack of affordable housing and the politicians who prioritize their financial gain over the needs of their constituents. It is high time for a change. We need to rethink how we elect our officials and move away from voting based on popularity, and away from following what the masses of people are saying because it’s not getting us anywhere. We must learn to think independently and not keep electing candidates who do not keep their word or look out for their constituents. If elected, I will focus on strengthening our community and economy by researching ways to improve economic development, infrastructure, affordable housing and public safety. I have created a plan to reduce poverty, improve infrastructure (including improving jail maintenance and community relationships), and ensure public safety. I am in the process of collaborating with local gang members to tackle violent crimes and promote positive awareness among our youth in Macon.

How do you plan to engage with the residents of Macon during your campaign and while in office?

I plan to connect with the community by maintaining integrity, being transparent, keeping my promises and promoting my agenda for a stronger, wealthier community. I will reach out to citizens through canvassing and promoting my platform via social media, flyers and word of mouth.

What are the three biggest issues you see in Macon-Bibb County?

Infrastructure, public safety and affordable housing are the three biggest issues I see. Addressing these critical issues is essential for the well-being and prosperity of our community. I want to work together to find solutions that enhance the safety, livability and economic vitality of Macon-Bibb County.

How do you plan to solve those issues while in office?

I am currently working with gang leaders in my community to find ways to stop violence and crime. By working with gang members in communities, we can significantly reduce crime rates, better understand the root causes of their behavior and work together to develop solutions that address those issues. I feel this approach not only helps to prevent crime but also contributes to creating safer communities, lower incarceration rates and more cohesive communities.

As part of my plan to improve economic development and affordable housing by reducing poverty in our neighborhoods, I have developed a proposal that includes an action plan to provide cash assistance for every resident in Macon-Bibb. I have devised a plan that aims to enhance our environment, promote fairness and empower the individuals in our society. Through my research, I have come across a government initiative known as Universal Basic Income that has been widely debated for years. It’s a working program that has been around for years. I would like to partner with Macon Housing, public housing and private landlords to find ways to better serve our community.

For infrastructure, I want to work with officials to improve transportation, reduce traffic congestion and ensure safe roads. Additionally, I thing we need to focus on modernizing the city’s water and sewer systems and enhancing public safety. These measures can help improve the overall quality of life for residents and make Macon a better place to live, work and visit.

Is there anything else you would like to add that you feel is important for voters to know?

I have more than 32 years of experience in the social services field. I bring a wealth of experience to working with families and individuals to improve their lives. I am dedicated to my community. Macon is rising so should the people that live in Macon.

Daniel Angelo

What makes you qualified to run for office?

I served for 34 years in the Macon-Bibb Fire Department, and am a retired fire suppression captain. I’ve spent the last 18 years on the Fire and Police Pension Board, the last 10 of those 18 years as chairman. I’ve also spent 12 years at the Firemen’s Credit Union, and am the owner and operator of Angelo Plumbing and Irrigation.

How do you plan on connecting with Macon residents on the campaign trail and while in office?

I’ve been riding in Bloomfield and West Macon-Bibb picking up tires and talking to residents reporting issues. I want to be a boots-on-the-ground commissioner for the people in my district.

What are the three biggest issues you see in Macon-Bibb County?

Crime, infrastructure and the homeless population.

How do you plan to solve these issues while in office?

By supporting law enforcement and Macon Violence Prevention programs. I also plan on allocating more money for road improvement and finding new, innovative solutions for the homeless population.

Is there anything else you would like to add that you feel is important for voters to know?

I believe in a safe, clean community that we all can be proud to call home, and believe in responsible spending without raising taxes

Donice Bryant

What makes you qualified to run for office?

As a resident of the Bloomfield/Heath Road area for 25 years, I have had the privilege of working closely with the community. My experience has given me a unique understanding of the needs and concerns of the residents, allowing me to better serve and protect them. With two and a half decades in law enforcement, I have dedicated my career to serving the public. I have been in different departments where I was responsible for overseeing all operations and activities within my district.

How do you plan on connecting with Macon residents on the campaign trail and while in office?

My plans are to remain active as I currently am now — boots on the ground, knocking on doors, attending community events and proactively addressing residents’ issues. In addition, I will schedule regular town hall meetings every quarter, while welcoming an open door policy to foster ongoing community events and collaborations.

What are the three biggest issues you see in Macon-Bibb County?

I am concerned about youth development and senior citizens assistance, community safety and affordable housing.

How do you plan to solve these issues while in office?

For our youth development, I want to implement a committee of youths to hear about them and their concerns and issues. For our Seniors, I want to put a plan in action to provide accessibility to things such as transportation to and from senior centers, doctors appointments and pharmacies. I want to work closely with public service agencies to get funding and address issues within the community. I want to partner with housing agencies and landlords to see about offering grants and/or programs to help with home ownership.

Is there anything else you would like to add that you feel is important for voters to know?

I’m committed to getting this commissioner seat and serving my community. I am not only passionate about my community, but I am sacrificing my family and livelihood by taking a leave of absence from my job without pay to dedicate myself to this election. At this time, I believe I am the only candidate who has done this. I would like to bridge the gap and CHANGE OUR MINDSET as I will Do-Nice for our community.

Kim L. Jenkins

Jenkins did not respond to requests for comment, but according to her campaign website, she wants to improve infrastructure, tackle public safety, increase affordable housing and support local businesses.

Jenkins is a retired educator and an ordained minister. She is currently involved with the Neighborhood Watch Sheriff Program, the Macon Bibb Recreation Center, Macon Black Voices, Triad Senior Citizen Program and Keeping Macon Bibb Beautiful.