Recently on The "Wake Up With Dee Morning Show", Host Dr. Dee Dawkins Haigler spoke with the mayor of Stockbridge Anthony Ford, he discussed his eight years of leadership, key accomplishments like paying off a $22.5 million amphitheater, and his vision for a senior and youth center.
Mr. Ford, the city's first African American mayor and a 12-year elected official, emphasized Stockbridge's role as the ancestral home of the Martin Luther King Jr. family in Henry County. "We remain one complete city," he said, reflecting on the 2018 defeat of a de-annexation effort that preserved the city's boundaries.
Among his achievements, Mr. Ford pointed to tax relief programs offering up to $35,000 in homestead exemptions for seniors and septic tank owners, and maintaining a 3.77% millage rate despite rising property values. The highlight was the VyStar Amphitheater, opened in September 2021 with a Patti LaBelle and Gladys Knight concert, which the city paid off in its fourth season. A mortgage-burning ceremony is set for Oct. 25 from 6-8 p.m. at the venue, open to the public with entertainment.
Mr. Ford also spoke about economic development and Infrastructure improvements. Running for re-election on Nov. 4, Mr. Ford, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and Western Chapel United Methodist Church, seeks to build a senior and youth center on city-owned land. "We want to have a senior and youth center," he said, noting it would foster intergenerational programs.
Mr. Ford encouraged voting and contributions at mayoranthonyford.com, stressing community involvement. "It's your constitutional right to be a registered voter, and that's your power," he said.
To listen to the full interview, click the link above.