Diane Jones seeks Ward 4 Alderman position in Republican Primary

I, Diane M. Jones, am a candidate for alderwoman of Ward 4.

For more than 50 years of my life I have lived within 40 miles of my present home.  I have North MS values and know what is important to our people.  My hometown is Holly Springs. When we were looking for a place to retire we chose New Albany because my husband’s grandmother had lived here and owned restaurants downtown in the late 1950’s and early 1960’s, so he was familiar with the area. We moved here in 2008.

My qualifications for the job include:

• Eight+ years with the management training program at Holiday Inns in Olive Branch.  We trained hotel managers how to be effective in their jobs.  During my time there I honed my management skills.
• Ten+ years as Executive Director of Public Housing in Holly Springs.   During my tenure my staff and I built playgrounds for the children, opened a summer youth program, reduced drug problems, promoted home ownership among residents, and renovated all the units under my management.
• Operated my own management and consulting company for 6 years specializing in Section 8 housing.
• Retired from the Division of Medicaid after 9 years.

I am an active member of Calvary United Methodist Church.  Service is important to me and I currently serve as chairperson of the Staff/Pastor Relations Committee. I am also on the finance committee and co-teach both a Sunday school class and Bible study.

New Albany has many things to commend it to business, tourist and new residents.  We have wonderful medical facilities, great places to eat and shop, and good parks and recreational opportunities.  City leaders have done a wonderful job of attracting business, promoting tourism and maintaining a viable downtown area.

So, why am I running for Ward 4 Alderman?

Because it is time that New Albany moves to the next step to ensure growth and quality of life for our residents.

• The conditions in some of our residential areas are in great need of help.  They lack safe places for children to ride their bikes and for people to exercise and walk their dogs. Citizens are concerned about lowering property values that could be addressed through ordinances and codes.
• Better animal control and an animal shelter are important issues.
• Affordable housing for young, first time homeowners and retirees is missing from New Albany.  And,
• Lastly, the citizens need to feel that their voice is being heard. That is a perception only city leaders can change.

If elected I will work hard to address these concerns.  I am retired so I will be a full time alderwoman.  Thank you for considering me for the position.

VOTE ON APRIL 6 FOR DIANE M. JONES, ALDERWOMAN FOR WARD 4. A VOICE FOR ALL THE PEOPLE.

By

Diane Jones