From "The Council's Chamber"

As we come to another campaign season this Fall,
Accessmilton.com thought it would be a good idea to have a quick Q & A with those up for re-election. While voters don't always agree with those in office, it should be stressed that our elected officials spend countless hours dealing with the responsibilities of the position. That said, many hours are spent away from their families. Thus, respect should be a given.

This Month we speak with District 3 Council Person Bill Lusk.

1. Why did you decide to run for political office in Milton?

Prior to the incorporation of the City, I served on the Northwest Fulton Design Review Board for several years. I wanted to continue that service to help shape the character of Milton. My goal in life is to serve. I am in a service industry; I serve my church; I have served my Country; I serve my profession, so serving my community seemed the right thing to do.

2. Has anything surprised you that you didn't anticipate prior to holding your seat?

The time requirement. It is amazing at the amount of printed material that crosses my desk regarding City issues. All of it requires an adequate amount of time to read and evaluate. In order to make good decisions on various issues, often times actual site visits are required. There is no better way to get involved in the City, however. My time management skills have improved, by necessity.

3. What has been your proudest moment as an elected official?

Launching our Police and Fire Departments was one of the proudest. That event deflated the sails of the naysayers who thought that Milton could not make it. I continue to be proud of our progress and look forward to great things in the future.

4. What has been your biggest disappointment as an elected official?

It happened last year when Billy Beckett resigned. A few great leaders come along in a lifetime. In my opinion, he was one of them. He was on the path to lead us to excellence. Unfortunately, there will always be a few folks like John Wilkes Booth and Lee Harvey Oswald who ruin it for the rest of us.

5. What do you think will be the greatest challenge(s) for the city during the next five years?

The challenge is here. It is the same one that confronts every governmental jurisdiction: Our Budget. Decreasing revenues from sales, property, income, excise and all other forms of taxes will place a strain on the services that the City provides. It is not unique to us. Since everyone else is experiencing the same issue, perhaps we can collaborate on solutions. This will be an opportunity to run government as efficiently as private enterprise.

6. What do you envision Milton being like in ten years?

As our population continues to age, our City must change to accommodate that sector. Providing housing and facilities for seniors will become a necessity. A sustainable community includes facilities from cradle to grave. We can maintain the rural character that has made Milton an attraction, however, it also has to be an attraction for all ages. Small pocket communities within the City will develop. Bike and golf cart paths must be expanded to provide alternate means of transportation as fuel costs rise. What I see is a City styled around the Peachtree City model.