I have held out of this local election for a number of reasons, not least of which is my lack of strong knowledge of most of the issues.
However, over the last few days I have given increasing attention to my personal city council race, district 6 which covers the prime intown areas of Virginia Highlands, Midtown, Ansley Park, etc. (Map here: MAP).
After some considered thought, I support Steve Brodie to replace Fauver.
I oppose Fauver for one main reason; she supports the Piedmont Park Parking Deck.
Steve Brodie on the other hand opposes the deck, and has the endorsement of the
» The Sierra Club
» Creative Loafing
» The Southern Voice
» Atlanta Professional Fire Fighters
» International Brotherhood of Police Officers
» Atlanta-North Georgia Labor Council
» Fulton County Tax Payers Association
He supports the Beltline, though his position is admittedly a little bit troubling to me. He supports what he calls a "smart TAD" (Tax assessment District), as opposed to the one that's being voted on now. That would normally be enough to get me to vote for Fauver who enthusiastically backs the Beltline in its current incarnation.
However, the reality is that the Sierra Club, a strong beltline supporter, backs him he will not derail the beltline, and he might actually act to protect the public's interest as the Beltline goes forward.
Fauver on the other hand seems clearly to be an instrument of Ansley Park and Mayor Franklin. Not that being and instrument of the mayor is all bad, but Atlanta could use more progressive politicians on its bench.
This is not the easiest decision, but given my vigorous opposition to the parking deck, I support Brodie and I hope you do too.