JOBS
The City of East Point's unemployment rate is 12.6%, which is higher than the national average of 9.1%, In addition, East Point's jobless rate also exceeds Georgia's 9.8% unemployment rate and the Atlanta MSA, which is 9.7%. Georgia has exceeded the national unemployment rate for nearly four years, and the long-term unemployed still account for 54.7 percent of Georgia's 460,172 jobless workers.
This employment drought continues, and is a result of many contributing factors including rising inflation, stagnant wages, a dwindling housing sector and an unstable stock market. It is important that we provide the educational resources and workforce development to adequately prepare East Point citizens for a competitive job market. Education is the cornerstone to building our future, which begins with youth. We must be committed to strengthening our schools, serving as mentors to students and encouraging them to attain higher education.
Entrepreneurship is a viable career option for many people who have lost their jobs. The economic downturn has created a new reality for the unemployed, which often results in a start-up business. Evidence suggests that nurturing small independent businesses can impact economic growth and result in job creation for the local community.
Unemployment is a priority, and we must take a holistic approach to addressing this issue. I will continue to explore ways to help minimize its impact on East Point by providing our citizens with the proper tools needed to succeed.
Source: Georgia Department of Labor May 2011
Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2011
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Wellness is an active process of becoming aware and making choices toward a more successful existence. According to Dr. Charles B. Corbin, Professor of Exercise and Wellness at Arizona State University, wellness is a multidimensional state of being and the existence of positive health exemplified by the individual's quality of life and a sense of well-being.
The World Health Organization predicts that worldwide in 2015 approximately 2.3 billion adults will be overweight and in excess of 700 million people obese. One in every three Americans is overweight or suffers from obesity, which is defined as an abnormal or excessive fat accumulation that may impair health.
Childhood obesity is on the rise as well. Nearly one in three American children is overweight or obese. The numbers are higher in African American and Hispanic communities, where it impacts nearly 40% of children. First Lady, Michelle Obama is dedicated to solving the challenge of childhood obesity by promoting physical activity and ensuring families have access to healthy affordable food.
Obesity is a growing epidemic in America. Research suggests the prevalence of obesity is higher among individuals residing in the Midwest and South, and the City of East Point is not exempt. It is my belief that a healthy body goes hand-in-hand with a healthy mind.
By year-end, I plan to launch a health and wellness initiative that will serve as a platform to promote a healthier lifestyle for our citizens. This also provides an opportunity for us to work together to make our community healthier.
Source: Center For Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
The current state of the national economy is at the forefront of our country's agenda. These economic difficulties are multi-faceted and range from rising inflation to a dwindling housing sector, which has also impacted the City of East Point.
Fortunately, the sound fiscal decisions of Council have positioned East Point for economic growth. We have a $3.2 million surplus during a time when many cities are experiencing large budget deficits. The Fiscal Year 2012 Budget allocates funding for tangible improvements to the infrastructure that can be visually recognized, which include enhancements to East Point's major gateways and striping of roads and cross walks throughout the city. Improvements like these make East Point a competitive choice for young professionals and families that wish to relocate.
These are exciting times for the City of East Point. Our close proximity to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, the establishment of the new government center, the development of the Commons area and the re-development of Fort McPherson will make East Point a viable destination attracting more retail, commercial and residential development.
Economic development is a major component for a vibrant city, as it creates jobs, increases brain gain and generates revenue. I will continue to identify, introduce and support legislation that promotes economic development.