Snellville Officials Discuss the State of the City

On the first of every month, Snellville city council members will respond to a series of questions about the state of the city. This month, the mayor will respond in a separate article. 

What's your favorite recreational activity in town?

Diane Krause: I love music - slow and easy to the sounds of a Big Band. I enjoyed the Snellville Tourism and Trade's presentation of the with the Wylie Street Coyotes. It was a fantastic evening to sit back and unwind under the stars.

I also love to eat! So, when the festivals (October 20th will be the third Snellville Fall Festival) hit the green in front of city hall, I head over to the vendors and enjoy all the food items. Fantastic. Somehow, eating on the green with the sounds of the city surrounding me is awesome. Then, with a full and happy stomach, I walk it off visiting with the residents and volunteers who make Snellville such a great place to live.

Why are you proud to be somebody in Snellville?

Mike Sabbagh: Proud, knowing we have the greatest police force, I am confident I can count on them and feel safe all the time. Because of the skill, friendly and knowledgeable staff, we are seeing businesses flourish in our city.

I am proud to represent our own, the citizens of this great city. I am proud and humble to contribute to making new policies about "what makes the city a home sweet home and yet businesses can continue to thrive." I am proud of our school district and our educators as they instill not only school knowledge but community spirit into the young men and young women.

I am proud of all the volunteers helping out making Snellville a great place to be.

I am a proud Snellvillian and thanks to our citizens who entrusted me with this position.

Tell me about someone who is making a difference in our community right now?

Tom Witts: I would say that Aimee Copeland has made, and is making, the biggest difference in our community.  Since her tragedy in early May, Aimee's cause has brought the entire community together. The blood drives at the churches and the schools, the concerts in the park, and the countless hours of time from the volunteers and citizens has brought people together and created friendships that will last a lifetime.  Watching Aimee's wing being built in 30 days was amazing. Andy's perpetual smile and dedication to his family was inspirational to the entire country.  After a summer full of activities throughout the City, it will be a very special night on September 15th when our Aimee comes to the Towne Green and we all get a chance to welcome her home.

What's one of the most exciting things that's going on in the business realm?

Bobby Howard: The Wal-Mart Neighborhood Market opening. The opening of the new Neighborhood market is very exciting for the west side of our city. It adds 80 plus new jobs and replaces an old empty building with a new state of the art facility. This is another big win for our city. We are very pleased to have been selected by Wal-Mart for this neighborhood grocery/pharmacy. 

Looking back at the past month, what stood out to you as the biggest step forward for our community?

Dave Emanuel: Hiring a new City Manager wasn't just the biggest step, it was a giant step forward. I'm particularly pleased that Mr. Sanders was finally nominated to fill the position. In June, we interviewed four exceptionally well-qualified candidates, and when we concluded those interviews, it was clear to me and I believe a number of other Council members that Mr. Sanders was absolutely the best choice for Snellville. He brings a unique combination of expertise, professionalism and knowledge of Georgia municipal operation to the job.

Snellville already has a top notch staff and under Mr. Sanders' leadership, that staff will be able to serve the citizens more efficiently.