In a continuing effort to streamline its connection with Waycross citizens, Mayor Michael-Angelo James and all commissioners have been issued cell phones for city business.
The phones were activated last week after being introduced by City Manager Ulysses “Duke” Rayford and Director of Business Integration and Information Systems Patrick Simmons during the city commission’s November 4 work session. They will be city property and transfer to the office holder for the length of their term.
“This initiative aims to foster transparency and ensure that our community can easily reach their representatives,” the city said in a news release Tuesday, November 12.
“Whether you prefer to call, text, or leave a voicemail, this new system is designed to facilitate communication and strengthen our connection with the community we serve.”
The phone numbers are:
• Mayor: (912) 722-1366 ;
• District 2: (912) 670-3377, Commissioner Sheinita Bennett;
•
(912) 670-3378, Commissioner Katrena Felder; • District 4: (912) 670-3386, Commissioner Diane Hopkins. Hopkins informed city officials she preferred citizens use (912) 283-4888, a land line, to contact her, Simmons said.
• District 5: (912) 670-3388, Commissioner Alvin Nelson.
The commission’s District 1 seat, formerly held by the late Norman Davis, will be decided in a runoff election Tuesday, December 3 matching Shawn Roberts and Jene´Walker who emerged from a three-person race that included Willie Oliver. None received more than 50 percent of the vote in the November 5 General Election.
Either Roberts or Walker will have phone number (912) 670-3171 upon taking office next month.
“Commissioners won’t have to put their personal (phone) numbers out any longer,” Rayford said. “Technology is the best way to bridge some of our communication and performance gaps (with citizens). This will help keep our communication uniform.”
Bennett praised Rayford and Simmons for the move, calling it an “excellent choice” to better connect with constituents.
Simmons said each commissioner’s page on the city’s website will be updated to reflect the new line of communication.
“With greater cyber security concerns, most commissions are going to cell phones (for their commissioners),” said Rayford, who added Ware County was planning on the same program for its commissioners.
“We believe having a reliable means of communication will help us better address your concerns and suggestions,” the release said. “Together, we can work toward a better future for all districts.”
