Political Philosophy for Gerri Harbison

Candidate for
Council Member; City of Montgomery

I want to preserve the City of Montgomery as a first-class residential community. As a licensed realtor I know that we must maintain a high quality of life by supporting existing city services and expanding on those services. We must provide a wide range of recreational programs and activities to preserve the reputation of Montgomery as a premier family community. Our city is a great place to live, work and raise a family. As a council member I will work to maintain our services as well as expand them, while staying within our city budget. It is essential that we stay competitive with other communities in the area. City Council's goal should be to provide substantial benefits at an affordable cost rather than adequate benefits at the least cost.

I believe in the City Manager style of government. We should retain a full time professional manager, who has training in city management and gives full-time commitment to the day-to-day business of running our city. Our city manager follows the guidelines that are established by city council and the city charter. Returning to a part-time mayor style of government would not be in the best interests of a forward-looking community.

I feel that a strong uniform zoning code that allows for our current residential flavor is essential. We must maintain the proper balance of existing green space while permitting controlled development in our community.

I want to help make Montgomery pro-active rather than re-active. Strategic planning direction is needed on issues such as storm water/ sewers, municipal building renovations, maintenance of infrastructure, business development and historical preservation.

I have a background of service to the community. Now, I am stepping forward to give my time to help govern Montgomery. We need a strong council to help maintain our city as the kind of place we all moved here for. I am ready to answer that call.