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Jason Winston is in the runoffs for Atlanta City Council District 1.
Candidate website: www.jasonwinston.com
What makes your policy on public safety different and better than your opponent’s?
To me, a good public safety plan means expanding the (PAD) Policing Alternatives & Diversion Initiative to reduce the incarceration of people who need supportive services, like professional mental health support.
I’ll prioritize investing in Youth Violence Prevention Centers and work to strengthen the relationship between law enforcement and private citizens through neighborhood-based initiatives and community policing. We need to address biases and disparities in policing, while moving resources to the programs that need them the most.
The difference is that I have been living here for a lot longer and have the first-hand experience to take to Council.
Why are you the better choice to improve infrastructure and city services?
I’ve lived in Atlanta for all of my adult life. I know what it takes to live in Atlanta without a car and with one.
I didn’t have a car for two years when I moved here and relied on MARTA for transportation, so I understand the importance of public transportation that works. I’m personally committed to additional investment in MARTA. With the “More MARTA” program, we have a huge opportunity to expand Atlanta transit and make our city cleaner and more connected.
I’ll also work to expand our transportation options like the BeltLine Rail and prioritize the safety of all Atlanta residents, including making our streets safer for pedestrians and bike and scooter riders, along with ADA compliance.
We should also prioritize more “Complete Streets” projects throughout the city to safely accommodate pedestrians, cyclists, public transportation riders and vehicle traffic in dedicated transit lanes.
Why are you the better candidate for this office, period?
My grandfather instilled in me that service to others is the most important thing you can do in life.
I worked with him to make headstones for families that couldn’t afford them. He taught me the value of having a strong work ethic, but also about giving back.
So, since I was a kid I’ve done that. I’ve been there to serve every community I’ve been a part of. From volunteering to serve as a coach and mentor at the Boys and Girls Club since 2007 to educating our future leaders at Georgia State to my service leading The Grant Park Conservancy, I’ve always done whatever I can to help.
My business background, community volunteer work and experience leading the Grant Park Conservancy has prepared me for the work of a City Council representative for my district. I have worked closely with city officials and community leaders for over 14 years to make my community a better place to live, for everyone.