Press Release: Maurice Carter announced today he will qualify on August 26 to run for the East Ward Post 1 City Council seat held currently by Chris Smith.
“I’ve criticized my East Ward representatives lately for a lack of vision and thoughtful leadership,” Carter said. “As a citizen, I have that right to speak out when results are not meeting expectations. But, I also have an obligation to
accept the responsibility of stewardship myself. That’s why I am stepping forward to serve.”
With 31 years as a business and information technology consultant in the banking and computing fields, Carter has been employed for the last 17 years by IBM. He leads globally integrated service delivery functions across Asia, Europe,
and the Americas. He has managed teams of up to 270 people and annual budgets in excess of $120 million.
Carter is an active volunteer in the Newton County community, serving currently on the boards of Newton Trails (past Chairman), Smart Growth Newton County, and the Tourism Committee of the Covington-Newton County Chamber of
Commerce. He previously spent four years as a board member for the Washington Street Community Center and is past president of the Covington Conyers Cycling Club.
In 2009 and 2010, Carter was recognized for his community service with The President’s Volunteer Service Award from the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation. The Covington News designated him as one of ten “Men of
Newton County” in the 2009 edition of its annual section recognizing those who “make significant contributions to the community.”
Explaining his motivations for seeking a council seat, Carter said he feels too little is being done by current council members to grow the city’s economic base, improve quality of life opportunities for residents, and ensure a sustainable future.
“Reactive decisions and inconsistent actions without a clear plan are undermining progress and causing uncertainty about our future, he said. “We deserve better, and these times demand more.”
He pointed to recent sign ordinance changes he called “ill-conceived” and the “poorly managed” process to replace retiring City Manager Steve Horton as examples.
Describing his platform, Carter said he will “get back to the basics of responsible leadership.” He said he will actively listen to all viewpoints and make informed choices by seeking information and building professional relationships. “Good decisions flow from understanding our shared community vision, having clear strategies for achieving that vision, and making timely, thoughtful choices with clear intent,” he said.
A native of DeKalb County, Carter has been married for 31 years to his wife Kim, who previously served as Covington’s mayor from 2008-2011. When not working, writing, or attending board meetings, Maurice relaxes by bicycling, playing the guitar, cooking, gardening, walking the dog, and sharing quality time with family and friends.
For more information, visit http://www.electmaurice.com.
