Leadership

By Laketa Cole

In order to bring about change in our city we must support leaders. I have shown leadership through sponsoring legislation, and by always fighting to make our city better.

I look forward to these opportunities with excitement and I take pride in what we have accomplished in the past. I am happy to be able to share with you the initiatives where I have taken a leadership role. I am also happy to share what I intend to lead on in the future: I spearheaded legislation to tackle Cincinnati's dangerous lead problem back in 2003, years before the news picked up the issue. I was on the forefront of solving the Fire Department brownouts problem. I led the effort to prevent predatory leasing against our most vulnerable populations- both through legislation and working to leverage the Community Reinvestment Act. I created the Neighborhood District Support Fund, which helps restore the vitality of our neighborhood business districts. Finally, through the Cole Train Pool Pass/Rec Pass program, I was able to raise money so our children could enjoy the cool water of a swimming pool and take advantage of the wonderful programming the Cincinnati Recreation Commission offers.
My record speaks for itself on the matter of leadership, but there is still much work to be done. During the recent budget deliberations, I took the lead in creating a $1 million youth violence prevention initiative and a $1.5 million youth job creation initiative. These will lower the crime rate in our City and give our young people vital job skills for the future. This $2.5 million is an investment in the future of Cincinnati, and it is an investment that will pay off. Additionally, I have taken a leadership role in helping our environment by sponsoring legislation that will encourage environmentally friendly buildings in Cincinnati. This exciting legislation, which will come on-line soon, will also help lower energy bills.
However, none of these deeds could have been accomplished without the cooperation of other Councilmembers. A large part of being a leader is the ability to collaborate and work with the other members of City Council and across political party lines. During my four years at City Hall, I have continually built coalitions and I will continue to do so. A strong Cincinnati requires strong leadership, and if given the opportunity, I look forward to providing that during the next term.