Who’s running for Macon-Bibb County Commission District 6? These are the candidates.
George Thomas will face incumbent Raymond Wilder next week in the race for the Macon-Bibb County Commission seat in District 6.
Wilder has been in office since 2020 and is seeking a second four-year term. Wilder works as an insurance adjuster and grew up in Macon. Thomas works as a leasing manager with NewTown Macon, a local economic development agency.
During his previous term, Wilder was active in improving Macon’s infrastructure. Thomas also highlighted infrastructure as a major issue, as well as building equitable services and improving recreating areas.
Early voting for the May races ends on Friday, and Election Day is May 21. 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.
George Thomas
What makes you qualified to run for office?
What makes me qualified for the position is my educational background, having a Bachelor’s in political science and a Master’s in public administration. I am also committed to the community, serving on multiple boards and currently serving as the chair of the ESPLOST committee, to name one. I am vested in this community, owning a home here and raising my family right here in District 6.
How do you plan on connecting with Macon residents on the campaign trail and while in office?
I’ve been doing my best to connect with the residents of the district. I’ve been going door to door, using social media, sending text messages, mailing information, and attending community events. It’s been a lot of work, but it’s important to me to hear from everyone and understand their needs and concerns.
What are the three biggest issues you see in Macon-Bibb County?
We definitely have some pressing issues in our district. The first issue I see is our infrastructure woes, particularly the poor condition of roads. If it is not Eisenhower or Thomaston Road, they need urgent attention. The lack of a recreation center in our area, which is situated outside of I-475, deprives our residents of essential community spaces. It’s unjust that our citizens must travel far for recreational resources that other parts of the county enjoy while paying the same taxes. Accountability is paramount, we deserve equitable services in our district, just like other areas receive. As your advocate, I pledge to address these challenges head-on and work tirelessly to ensure a better future for our community.
How do you plan to solve those issues while in office?
I’m fully committed to addressing our district’s infrastructure challenges head-on. I’ll tirelessly advocate for increased funding to tackle our deteriorating roads, ensuring they receive the attention they desperately need. Exploring options like a TSPLOST specifically dedicated to infrastructure spending will be a priority, providing a sustainable solution to our pressing infrastructure needs.
Regarding the lack of recreational facilities in our district, I’ll engage directly with residents and engineers to identify suitable locations. By leveraging community input and expertise, we can determine the best approach for integrating recreational amenities into our district. I’ll then champion these projects as part of our next round of SPLOST initiatives, drawing on successful models like the South Bibb Recreation Center to guide our efforts.
Accountability is non-negotiable. I’ll personally follow up on issues until they’re effectively addressed, ensuring that our residents receive the services and support they deserve. By prioritizing transparency and responsiveness, I’ll uphold the trust of our community and work tirelessly to deliver results for all constituents. Together, we’ll pave the way for a brighter future in our district.
Is there anything else you would like to add that you feel is important for voters to know?
I want voters to understand that I am deeply invested in their well-being and am already working diligently to enhance our district. As chair of ESPLOST, I’ve overseen the successful renovation of Heritage Elementary School, located right here in our district. Additionally, as vice chair of the school council, I actively contribute to shaping the educational experience for our children. Looking ahead, Skyview Elementary, another district school, is scheduled for renovations in the near future.
I approach my role as a community leader with a strong foundation in faith, family and home ownership. These values drive my commitment to serving our district and realizing its full potential. I firmly believe that we should aspire for greatness, not settle for mediocrity.
With early voting starting on April 29 and Election Day on May 21, I urge you to vote for the candidate who will propel our district forward. Vote George Thomas as your next District 6 county commissioner. Together, we can achieve greatness for our community. A Better Future Starts Today.
Raymond Wilder
Raymond Wilder is the incumbent candidate for the District 6 seat. Wilder was first elected in 2020, and ran on a platform emphasizing public safety and infrastructure.
Wilder didn’t respond to a request for comment from The Telegraph. But according to campaign materials, during his first term Wilder opened three convenience centers, built a new fire training center, increased spending on re-surfacing roads, cleared more than 675 blighted properties, created incentives for longtime public safety employees to improve retention and worked to pass OLOST to lower the mileage rate. If he elected to a second term, Wilder said he wants to continue to work with the mayor and other commissioners to support law enforcement and the fire department.
Wilder is a Macon-Bibb County native. He previously worked as an insurance adjuster and serves on the Bibb County Fire and Police Pension Board.
