Better Savannah Episode 59: The Mayor Edna Jackson Interview (HD 165)

<p>Edna Branch Jackson is the 65th Mayor of Savannah, Georgia, and the first African-American woman to hold this position. Prior to her election in 2011, she served three terms as Alderman at Large on Savannah City Council, including serving two terms as Mayor Pro Tem. </p><p>We were honored to former Mayor Edna Jackson on the show. She made it clear she is running only to fulfil the remainder of the unexpired term of the late Rep. Mickey Stephens. Her top priorities are fair redistricting and Medicaid Expansion. </p><p>It's clear that the former Mayor would be an Ambassador for the Democratic Party/Caucus to the Brian Kemp (Governor) Administration, especially on the top party priorities of redistricting and Medicaid Expansion. Because there are 5 candidates in this race, it is highly unlikely that one candidate will clear the 50% + 1 threshold needed to avoid a runoff. The runoff will take place in December after the special Legislative Session will end. </p><p>On the local issues most important to Better Savannah it is unlikely we will find an ally in the former mayor.  We could not get commitments on Impact Fee changes, City of Savannah Charter reform to include agenda access, audits for SEDA (Savannah Economic Development Authority), or reform of the Board of SEDA. </p><p>To her credit, she seemed open to Hotel Motel Tax reform and to preserving the land known as the Weeping Time. </p><p>Former Mayor Jackson could not have been a better interview and although we disagree on the local agenda for policy, we enjoyed the respectful dialogue. We thank her for her career of leadership and service. </p><p>Find out more about Mayor Jackson's campaign here: https://edna4ga165.com/</p>