//Frequently Asked Questions\\

 

Why are you running for office? 

I am running for the office of District Heights Commissioner Ward 1 because I recognize that my experience and skills can be a benefit to the place I call home. I am ready to lend my time, my resources and my energy to ensuring the advancement of all District Heights residents.

 

How will my donation be used?

In order to serve the people of District Heights, I must conduct an aggressive campaign. For this campaign to be successful, it will require a strong and organized grassroots approach with flyers, yard signs, advertising and more. I cannot do it alone. Your early contribution made online ensures that we have the necessary resources to run a successful campaign.

 

How long have you lived in District Heights?

I purchased my home in District Heights in 2009.  I saw it as a great place to raise a family. It was and still is a vibrant community full of culture, history and possibilities.

 

What changes do you plan to make to public education?

Public education is a very important part of our community. It is not only about sending kids to school, but also about making a deposit in our future. Public education is exactly what it says. The public aka community must educate, not just some of the children, but all children. I want to work with the Department of Education on reforming areas in need of change. I want to foster business-school partnerships to ensure that teachers have everything they need to equip our children. I want to hear from area teachers and parents on how to bridge the divide that contributes to low PTA turnouts and low Maryland School Assessment (MSA) scores. I also want to create opportunities to ensure that students have all resources necessary to be successful. I want to return the "public" to the education system.

 

What ideas do you have for creating jobs in District Heights?

Small business has been proven to be the backbone of our society. To ensure economic sustainability, we must give incentives to small businesses with the same frequency as we give incentives to larger corporations. Then, as a community, when the small businesses are established, we must support them. The more money that we can keep in District Heights, the better it will be for our local businesses and the community at large. Additionally, I will establish training opportunities for our residents to secure higher paying jobs and incentivize small business owners with tax breaks and grants. I will host budgeting and wellness seminars as well as home ownership programs.

 

What ideas do you have for increasing property values?

Increasing property values requires a multifaceted approach. Jobs must be in place for residents to earn the income necessary to make home improvements. Crime reduction is imperative to make our neighborhoods attractive to new residents. Our school system must be one where parents are comfortable enrolling their children. Some streets must be repaved and street lights installed at much needed intersections.

 

Describe your first 100 days in office.

The campaign has afforded me the opportunity to meet many residents, and to better understand some of the challenges as well as the opportunities facing our community.  This vital information will serve as the foundation of my candidacy, and will help to ensure that I hit the ground running on day one. Among my first priorities will be to meet with the Mayor and Commission to address ways of increasing community involvement. Additionally, in my first 100 days of office, I will continue to meet my residents, students, teachers, business owners and law enforcement. I will be a Commissioner that is seen and accessible.

 

What sets you apart from the incumbent?

The incumbent has done an outstanding job of bringing District Heights to this point. My past leadership, budgetary experience and passion for the residents of District Heights make me confident that I can advance this community to next levels of collective success.

 

How does your job contribute to your role as commissioner?

My current position in the Federal government will only serve to enhance my efficiency as Commissioner. In my current position, I work to ensure the safety of this nation, and I ensure that financial resources are spent appropriately. I work for the nation’s employees, and ensure that they have the necessary tools to be successful. These are all transferable skills that I will bring to the office of Commissioner.

 

What ideas do you have for fostering community?

I love community. I was raised in a town where new residents received fresh baked pies when they settled into their homes. Children played outside without fear of harm. Every resident was a part of the unspoken neighborhood watch because they valued the safety and peace of mind that being their “brother’s keeper” afforded them. I will continue the District Heights community days and support neighborhood block parties. I will work to foster projects with local businesses that encourage residents to shop local, and ultimately keep more money in the community.

 

What are your thoughts on gentrification?

Gentrification occurs when an urban community is displaced, and wealthier residents and businesses are allowed to move in. I am not in favor of any District Heights resident being displaced. I want our urban community to be the ones becoming wealthier. Moving people out of their homes for special interest agendas, must stop. The District Heights community welcomes all residents that share our values.

 

Who is Johnathan Medlock?

Johnathan Medlock is a man with a heart for people, not politics. I desire for people to thrive, to have access, and to be equipped with the necessary resources to obtain their share of the community. There is work to be done. I am ready to get to work, and I am starting with my home, District Heights.