A Balanced Legislature is a Better Legislature!

ELECT Raymond Smith Jr for Mayor of Goldsboro
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    • 8 - POINT PLAN OUTLINE
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    • Home
    • About
    • Donate!
    • What has Raymond done?
      • GATEWAY TRANSIT
      • WAYNE COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD
      • HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
    • What will raymond do?
      • 8 - POINT PLAN OUTLINE
ELECT Raymond Smith Jr for Mayor of Goldsboro
  • Home
  • About
  • Donate!
  • What has Raymond done?
    • GATEWAY TRANSIT
    • WAYNE COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD
    • HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
  • What will raymond do?
    • 8 - POINT PLAN OUTLINE

Legislative Platform Overview

Education

Economic Development

Economic Development

  • Assessment of Current Educational Landscape:
    • Conduct thorough research to understand the current state of education in Wayne, Wilson, and Greene counties. This includes analyzing standardized test scores, graduation rates, teacher-student ratios, availability of resources, and existing educational programs.
    • Identify specific challenges and strengths within each county, understanding that each area might have unique needs and circumstances.
  • Community Engagement and Feedback:
    • Organize town hall meetings and focus group discussions in each county to gather input from teachers, parents, students, and community leaders.
    • Use surveys and questionnaires to reach a broader audience and gather diverse perspectives on what improvements are needed in the local education system.
  • Collaboration with Educational Experts and Stakeholders:
    • Work with educational experts, local school boards, teachers’ unions, and other stakeholders to develop practical and innovative solutions.
    • Consider partnerships with universities, non-profits, and businesses to enhance educational opportunities and resources.
  • Development of Specific Goals and Objectives:
    • Set clear, measurable goals for each county, addressing key areas such as improving literacy rates, increasing high school graduation rates, enhancing STEM education, and expanding access to early childhood education.
    • Develop specific objectives to achieve these goals, such as hiring more teachers, upgrading school facilities, or implementing new curriculum standards.
  • Policy Formulation and Legislative Initiatives:
    • Draft policies or legislative proposals that support the educational goals. This might include increased funding for schools, incentives for teacher retention, or programs to reduce educational disparities.
    • Work with state legislators and local authorities to advocate for these policies and secure necessary approvals or funding.
  • Implementation Plan:
    • Create a detailed implementation plan, outlining the steps, timeline, and resources required to achieve the educational objectives.
    • Ensure the plan is flexible and adaptable, allowing for adjustments based on ongoing feedback and changing circumstances.
  • Monitoring and Evaluation:
    • Establish a system for monitoring the progress of implemented measures and evaluating their impact on educational outcomes.
    • Regularly review and adjust strategies in response to evaluative data and feedback from stakeholders.
  • Communication and Transparency:
    • Maintain open communication channels with the public, regularly updating the community on progress, challenges, and changes in the strategy.
    • Ensure transparency in decision-making processes and the use of funds.
  • Sustaining Improvement:
    • Focus on long-term sustainability of educational improvements by building capacity within local education systems.
    • Encourage ongoing professional development for educators and invest in continuous improvements in teaching methods and resources.

This comprehensive approach, which combines data-driven analysis, community involvement, collaborative planning, and transparent execution, would be key to achieving and sustaining educational goals in these North Carolina counties.

Economic Development

Economic Development

Economic Development

  •  Assessment of Current Economic Landscape:
    • Conduct thorough research to understand the current economic situation in each county, including key industries, employment rates, and income levels.
    • Identify the strengths and weaknesses of each county's economy, including infrastructure, workforce skills, and business environment.
  • Community Engagement and Stakeholder Meetings:
    • Organize town hall meetings and discussion forums in Wayne, Wilson, and Greene counties to gather input from residents, business owners, and local leaders.
    • Engage with local Chambers of Commerce, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations to understand their perspectives and suggestions.
  • Focus on Education and Workforce Development:
    • Develop programs to improve the quality of education and vocational training to meet the needs of local industries.
    • Partner with local colleges and trade schools to create training programs aligned with the skills required by existing and potential businesses.
  • Infrastructure Improvement:
    • Propose investments in infrastructure, such as transportation, broadband internet, and utilities, to make the counties more attractive for business investments.
    • Explore state and federal funding opportunities for infrastructure projects.
  • Support for Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs:
    • Create incentives for small businesses and start-ups, including tax breaks, grants, and low-interest loans.
    • Establish business incubators and mentorship programs to assist new entrepreneurs.
  • Attracting and Retaining Businesses:
    • Develop a marketing strategy to attract new businesses to the region, highlighting the unique assets of each county.
    • Work on retaining existing businesses by addressing their challenges and providing support for expansion and growth.
  • Sustainable Development and Environmental Conservation:
    • Ensure that economic development plans incorporate sustainability and environmental conservation measures.
    • Promote green industries and practices that can provide economic growth while protecting natural resources.
  • Legislative Advocacy and Policy Development:
    • Advocate for state policies that support economic growth in Wayne, Wilson, and Greene counties.
    • Work on developing legislation that provides financial incentives, regulatory relief, and support for targeted industries.
  • Monitoring and Evaluation:
    • Establish metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of the economic development strategies.
    • Regularly review and adjust plans based on outcomes and feedback from the community.
  • Long-term Vision and Planning:
    • Develop a long-term strategic plan for sustainable economic growth, taking into account future trends and potential challenges.
    • Foster partnerships with regional and state organizations to ensure a coordinated approach to economic development.

Each step will be tailored to the specific needs and opportunities of Wayne, Wilson, and Greene counties, with a focus on inclusive growth that benefits all residents.

Crime Reduction

Economic Development

Employment Opportunities

  •  Assessment and Data Analysis:
    • Collect and analyze crime data for each county to identify patterns and hotspots.
    • Understand the types of crimes that are most prevalent in each area (e.g., property crimes, violent crimes, drug-related offenses).
    • Evaluate the effectiveness of current law enforcement strategies and community programs.
  • Community Engagement and Collaboration:
    • Host town hall meetings to gather input and concerns from residents in each county.
    • Work with local law enforcement, community leaders, and social service agencies to build strong relationships and promote collaborative efforts.
    • Encourage community policing initiatives to foster trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
  • Resource Allocation:
    • Advocate for appropriate funding for law enforcement and social services.
    • Ensure that law enforcement agencies have the necessary equipment, training, and personnel to effectively combat crime.
    • Support programs that address underlying social issues contributing to crime, such as poverty, education, and drug addiction.
  • Crime Prevention Programs:
    • Implement or support educational programs in schools to teach youth about the consequences of crime and to promote positive alternatives.
    • Develop and fund community-based programs that provide mentorship, job training, and recreational activities.
    • Support rehabilitation and reentry programs for offenders to reduce recidivism.
  • Legislative Initiatives:
    • Propose or support state legislation that targets the root causes of crime.
    • Advocate for fair and effective criminal justice policies.
    • Work towards laws that enhance public safety while respecting individual rights and promoting rehabilitation.
  • Technology and Innovation:
    • Promote the use of modern technology in crime fighting, such as improved surveillance and data analysis tools.
    • Encourage innovation in policing strategies and crime prevention methods.
  • Monitoring and Evaluation:
    • Regularly review crime statistics and program outcomes to assess the effectiveness of implemented strategies.
    • Be willing to adapt and modify approaches based on what is working and what is not.
  • Communication and Transparency:
    • Keep the public informed about crime trends and the measures being taken to address them.
    • Ensure transparency in law enforcement activities and crime reduction efforts.
  • Partnerships with State and Federal Agencies:
    • Collaborate with state and federal law enforcement agencies for resources, expertise, and support.
    • Leverage federal grants and programs to supplement local efforts.
  • Long-Term Vision and Sustainability:
    • Develop a long-term vision for crime reduction that includes sustainable practices and policies.
    • Engage with young people and community groups to ensure ongoing community involvement and support.

By following these steps, I will develop a robust and multi-faceted approach to reducing crime in Wayne, Wilson, and Greene counties, addressing both immediate safety concerns and the underlying causes of criminal behavior.

Employment Opportunities

Employment Opportunities

Employment Opportunities

  •  Assessment of Current Employment Landscape:
    • Conduct thorough research to understand the current employment situation in Wayne, Wilson, and Greene counties.
    • Identify the key industries, unemployment rates, skill gaps, and demographic specifics of the workforce.
  • Community and Business Engagement:
    • Host town hall meetings and forums to gather input from local residents, business owners, and community leaders.
    • Form partnerships with local chambers of commerce and business associations to understand their needs and challenges.
  • Education and Skill Development:
    • Work with local educational institutions, including high schools, community colleges, and trade schools, to align their curriculum with the needs of the local job market.
    • Develop and support vocational training programs and apprenticeships in high-demand sectors.
  • Economic Development Initiatives:
    • Advocate for state and federal grants to support local business growth and attract new businesses to the area.
    • Encourage the development of small businesses and startups through tax incentives and support services.
  • Infrastructure Improvements:
    • Propose investments in infrastructure improvements that can attract businesses, such as better roads, public transportation, and internet connectivity.
    • Support renewable energy projects and green initiatives that can create new job opportunities.
  • Workforce Diversity and Inclusion:
    • Ensure workforce development programs are inclusive and accessible to all community members, including underrepresented groups.
    • Develop targeted initiatives to support the employment of veterans, disabled individuals, and other minority groups.
  • Legislative Actions:
    • Draft and support legislation that encourages job growth and business development in the region.
    • Advocate for policies that provide tax breaks or incentives to companies offering high-paying, stable jobs.
  • Regular Monitoring and Adjustment:
    • Establish a system for regularly monitoring the effectiveness of the implemented strategies.
    • Be open to feedback and ready to adjust policies and initiatives as needed based on their performance and community needs.
  • Collaboration with State Agencies:
    • Collaborate with state agencies like the North Carolina Department of Commerce to align local efforts with state-wide economic development plans.
    • Leverage state resources and programs to support local employment initiatives.
  • Promotion and Marketing:
    • Actively promote the counties as great places to work and do business, highlighting their unique strengths and opportunities.
    • Utilize digital platforms and traditional media to reach potential investors and job seekers.

These steps are part of a comprehensive campaign platform focusing on job creation and economic development, tailored to the specific needs and opportunities of Wayne, Wilson, and Greene counties in Eastern North Carolina.

Sustainable Growth

Employment Opportunities

Sustainable Growth

 

  • Assessment and Understanding Local Needs
  • Conduct Surveys and Research: Gather data on the current economic, environmental, and social status of the counties.
  • Engage with Community Leaders and Residents: Understand the unique needs and challenges faced by each county.
  • Economic Development and Job Creation
  • Promote Green Industries: Encourage investment in renewable energy and sustainable agriculture.
  • Support Small Businesses: Provide incentives and support for local businesses, focusing on sustainability.
  • Environmental Protection and Conservation
  • Implement Conservation Programs: Promote land and water conservation initiatives to protect natural resources.
  • Promote Sustainable Practices: Encourage recycling, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and support green building practices.
  • Education and Public Awareness
  • Environmental Education: Incorporate sustainability education in schools and community programs.
  • Public Workshops and Seminars: Educate the public about sustainable practices and their benefits.
  • Infrastructure and Transportation
  • Improve Public Transportation: Develop efficient and eco-friendly public transportation systems.
  • Sustainable Infrastructure Development: Ensure new infrastructure projects are environmentally friendly and sustainable.
  • Agriculture and Food Security
  • Support Sustainable Agriculture: Assist local farmers in adopting sustainable farming methods.
  • Promote Local Food Systems: Encourage the consumption of locally produced food to reduce carbon footprint.
  • Healthcare and Community Wellness
  • Access to Healthcare: Improve healthcare facilities with a focus on preventive care.
  • Community Wellness Programs: Develop programs that promote healthy living and wellness.
  • Collaboration and Partnerships
  • Foster Partnerships: Work with local businesses, non-profits, and educational institutions for sustainable initiatives.
  • Statewide Collaboration: Collaborate with other regions and state officials to align local goals with statewide sustainability objectives.
  • Policy Development and Implementation
  • Develop Sustainable Policies: Create policies that support sustainable growth and environmental protection.
  • Regular Review and Update of Policies: Ensure policies are up-to-date and effectively address current challenges.
  • Monitoring and Evaluation
  • Establish Metrics for Success: Set clear goals and metrics to measure the progress of sustainability initiatives.
  • Regular Reporting and Adjustment: Monitor the effectiveness of strategies and make adjustments as needed.

Achieving sustainable growth in Wayne, Wilson, and Greene counties requires a balanced approach that addresses economic, environmental, and social aspects. As a candidate for state senator, it's important to ensure that these steps are practical, community-focused, and adaptable to the evolving needs of the region.

Affordable Housing

Employment Opportunities

Sustainable Growth

 

  • Research and Understand Local Needs:
    • Conduct comprehensive studies to understand the specific housing needs in Wayne, Wilson, and Greene counties.
    • Engage with local communities, housing authorities, and stakeholders to gather input.
  • Policy Development:
    • Propose policies that encourage the development of affordable housing units.
    • Advocate for state-level incentives for developers to build affordable housing.
    • Develop a framework for rent control measures to prevent excessive rent increases.
  • Funding and Resources:
    • Seek state and federal funding for affordable housing projects.
    • Explore partnerships with private investors and non-profit organizations.
  • Zoning and Land Use Regulations:
    • Work with local governments to revise zoning laws to allow for higher density housing where appropriate.
    • Encourage the development of mixed-use properties to maximize land use efficiency.
  • Supportive Services and Infrastructure:
    • Ensure that affordable housing developments are supported by adequate infrastructure, such as transportation and public services.
    • Integrate social services like job training and education to support residents in low-income housing.
  • Sustainability and Community Development:
    • Promote the construction of energy-efficient and sustainable housing to reduce long-term costs.
    • Encourage the development of community amenities to enhance livability.
  • Legislative Action:
    • Draft and propose state legislation to support these initiatives.
    • Build coalitions with other lawmakers to gain support for affordable housing initiatives.
  • Monitoring and Evaluation:
    • Establish a system to monitor the progress of affordable housing initiatives.
    • Regularly review and adjust strategies based on outcomes and community feedback.
  • Public Awareness and Advocacy:
    • Launch public awareness campaigns to highlight the importance of affordable housing.
    • Engage with the media and use social platforms to advocate for housing policies.
  • Continuous Improvement:
    • Stay informed about new developments and best practices in affordable housing.
    • Be open to innovative solutions and partnerships that can enhance housing affordability.

This plan will be dynamic, responding to changing needs and opportunities, and will prioritize collaboration between various stakeholders to ensure its effectiveness.

Long Range Planning

Long Range Planning

Long Range Planning

  • Community Engagement and Needs Assessment:
    • Conduct town hall meetings and surveys in each county to understand the specific needs and priorities of residents.
    • Work with local leaders, businesses, and community groups to identify key issues and opportunities.
  • Economic Development and Job Creation:
    • Develop initiatives to attract new businesses and industries to the region, particularly those that offer sustainable and high-paying jobs.
    • Support local entrepreneurs and small businesses through grants, tax incentives, and access to resources.
  • Infrastructure Improvement:
    • Prioritize the upgrade of transportation infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and public transit, to improve connectivity and spur economic growth.
    • Invest in broadband internet expansion to enhance digital access for all residents.
  • Education and Workforce Development:
    • Collaborate with local schools, community colleges, and universities to align education with the needs of the local job market.
    • Promote vocational training and apprenticeship programs, especially in high-demand sectors.
  • Healthcare Accessibility:
    • Advocate for increased funding and resources for local healthcare facilities, especially in rural areas.
    • Support initiatives to attract healthcare professionals to underserved areas and improve access to quality care.
  • Environmental Sustainability:
    • Implement policies to protect and preserve natural resources, including waterways, forests, and wildlife habitats.
    • Promote clean energy projects and sustainable agricultural practices.
  • Housing and Community Development:
    • Address affordable housing shortages by encouraging the development of cost-effective housing solutions.
    • Enhance community amenities such as parks, recreational facilities, and cultural centers.
  • Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness:
    • Strengthen local law enforcement and emergency services through better funding and training.
    • Develop comprehensive disaster preparedness and response plans, particularly for weather-related emergencies common in the region.
  • Fiscal Responsibility and Transparency:
    • Ensure responsible budgeting and spending, prioritizing projects with the greatest impact.
    • Maintain transparency in governmental operations, fostering trust and participation from the community.
  • Collaboration with State and Federal Entities:
    • Work with state and federal governments to secure funding and support for regional projects.
    • Advocate for policies and legislation that benefit the counties at the state and national levels.

By focusing on these steps, I will develop a comprehensive, long-term plan that addresses the unique challenges and opportunities in Wayne, Wilson, and Greene counties, fostering a thriving, resilient, and inclusive community.

Military Support

Long Range Planning

Long Range Planning

  •  Understand Local Military Assets and Needs:
    • Conduct research to understand the military installations, units, and assets in Wayne, Wilson, and Greene counties.
    • Identify the specific needs and challenges of these military communities, including infrastructure, veteran services, and family support.
  • Engage with Military and Veteran Communities:
    • Arrange visits to local military bases and facilities to meet with service members and leadership.
    • Host town hall meetings and discussion forums specifically for veterans and military families to listen to their concerns and suggestions.
  • Develop a Military Support Policy Platform:
    • Create a detailed policy platform that addresses key issues such as veteran employment, healthcare, education benefits, and military infrastructure.
    • Ensure the platform includes specific initiatives tailored to the needs of the military communities in Wayne, Wilson, and Greene counties.
  • Build Collaborative Relationships:
    • Establish connections with local veteran organizations, military advocacy groups, and community leaders.
    • Collaborate with local businesses and educational institutions to support military families and veterans.
  • Advocate for State-Level Military Support:
    • Develop proposals for state legislation that supports the military, such as tax benefits, funding for local military infrastructure, and educational opportunities for military children.
    • Work to secure funding and resources at the state level to support military-related projects in the district.
  • Communicate Your Vision and Goals:
    • Utilize various communication channels, including social media, local media, and community events, to share your vision and goals for military support.
    • Ensure consistent messaging that highlights your commitment to the military and veteran communities.
  • Engage in Continuous Feedback and Improvement:
    • Regularly seek feedback from the military and veteran communities to assess the impact of your initiatives.
    • Be prepared to adjust your strategies based on the evolving needs and feedback of these communities.
  • Establish a Military Advisory Council:
    • Form a council comprising military leaders, veterans, and community stakeholders to provide ongoing advice and insights.
    • Use this council to stay informed about the latest developments and needs within the military community.
  • Campaign and Fundraising:
    • Incorporate your military support goals into your overall campaign strategy.
    • Consider organizing fundraising events specifically aimed at supporting military-related initiatives.
  • Partnerships with Other Government Entities:
    • Work towards partnerships with federal and other state entities to enhance military support.
    • Coordinate with neighboring districts and states for broader military support initiatives.

Building trust and a genuine relationship with the military and veteran communities is crucial. Our actions and policies should reflect a deep understanding and commitment to their well-being and needs.

BALANCE IS BETTER

VOTE LIKE OUR LIVES DEPEND ON IT!

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