Mayoral Priorities

These are the challenges Walter is ready to take on as Mayor—priorities rooted in community needs, long-term vision, and real solutions.

As your mayor, I’ll stay focused on the priorities that matter most to our community. These aren’t just talking points—they reflect real conversations I’ve had with neighbors, business owners, and local leaders across Milledgeville. From infrastructure and housing to economic development and public safety, I believe we can move our city forward by working together with purpose, transparency, and heart.

Transparency & Communication

Good governance depends on open, consistent communication. Walter believes that residents deserve to feel informed, included, and engaged in the work their city is doing—and that starts with improving how information is shared.
As Mayor, Walter will work alongside the City Manager and fellow council members to strengthen public communication across all channels. From timely updates on city projects to better tools for community engagement, he’s committed to promoting transparency, clarity, and trust at every level of local government. It’s not about pointing fingers—it’s about building a stronger connection between the city and the people it serves.

Infrastructure & Public Services

Reliable infrastructure is the foundation of a strong city. Walter understands how important it is for residents to have confidence in essential services—whether it’s clean water from the tap, safe roads to drive on, or stormwater systems that work the way they should. That’s why he’s already taken steps to support improvements to Milledgeville’s aging systems, including sponsoring key resolutions to move long-needed repairs forward. As Mayor, Walter will continue to prioritize the basics that matter most: modern, reliable infrastructure that supports quality of life today and makes room for smart growth tomorrow. He believes in thoughtful investment, clear communication, and a shared commitment to ensuring Milledgeville works—literally and figuratively—for everyone who calls it home.

Downtown Cleanliness & Beautification

Milledgeville’s historic downtown is a hub of culture, commerce, and community pride—and it should look the part. Walter has heard directly from local business owners and residents who want to see more attention paid to cleanliness, beautification and upkeep. From sidewalk debris to overgrown areas and neglected spaces, these aren’t just cosmetic issues—they affect quality of life and our local economy. Walter will work to promote consistent downtown maintenance, support beautification projects, and ensure that contractors and public services are held to high standards. He also believes in investing in the creative spirit of Milledgeville, which is why he championed a new public art ordinance designed to make our city more vibrant, welcoming, and reflective of the community.

Public Safety

Public safety is one of the most essential responsibilities of local government and strong, effective services start with supporting the people who provide them. That’s why Walter has consistently advocated for pay raises for our local police, fire, and rescue teams, and why he’ll continue to prioritize competitive funding that helps Milledgeville attract and retain high-quality public safety professionals. Safety, professionalism, and accountability must go hand in hand. Fair pay and proper training isn’t just about supporting first responders—they’re also essential safeguards for the community. When departments are understaffed or under-resourced, it becomes harder to recruit the right people for the job, and that opens the door to mistakes, misjudgments, and avoidable harm. Well-supported, well-trained teams are critical to building public trust, preventing excessive force, and protecting our residents and the city from unnecessary risk and liability.

Economic Development

A thriving local economy doesn’t just happen—it’s built with intention. Milledgeville’s future depends on our ability to attract new investment, retain local talent, and make it easier for entrepreneurs and businesses to succeed. That means showcasing Milledgeville as a great place to live, work, and build a future—without losing the charm and history that make our city unique. As Mayor, Walter will advocate for smarter, more efficient permitting and licensing processes that reduce barriers while still honoring our commitment to preservation. He’ll champion efforts to keep college graduates and young professionals in Milledgeville by supporting quality-of-life improvements and creating pathways for meaningful work. Walter knows many families in Milledgeville would love to see their children and grandchildren put down roots nearby—but too often, the opportunities just aren’t there. For Walter, economic development isn’t just about growth—it’s about building a city where the next generation wants to stay.

Community Collaboration

Milledgeville is at its best when we work together. Collaboration isn’t just good practice—it’s the key to lasting progress. As Mayor, Walter will draw on the strong partnerships he’s built with county leaders, local organizations, and institutions like Georgia College and Georgia Military College to align efforts and expand what’s possible when we pool our resources and ideas. For Walter, collaboration is also personal. He’s seen firsthand how much neighbors can accomplish when they step up for one another. He’s sat with families in homes that are falling apart—not because they don’t care, but because they don’t have the means to make repairs. He knows how many people in our community are doing their best with too little, and he believes the city has a role to play—not just with funding and grants, but by creating a culture where we look out for each other. Walter will advocate for programs that connect residents to resources, and he is committed to working toward a Milledgeville where no one gets left behind.

Affordability & Housing

Milledgeville should be a place where families can afford to live, grow, and thrive. Walter has consistently supported policies that keep costs down for residents—including voting to roll back the millage rate and helping pass the city’s first-ever floating homestead exemption. But affordability isn’t just about taxes—it’s also about access to housing that meets the needs of real families. As housing prices climb and more properties are converted to student rentals, many longtime residents are finding it harder to stay in the neighborhoods they’ve always called home. Walter is committed to encouraging responsible development, supporting affordable housing options, and streamlining permitting processes so that families aren’t priced out of their own community. A healthy city needs room for everyone.

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