What is your name? *
Matt Westmoreland
What is your age? *
34
What is your occupation? *
Councilman, City of Atlanta
What is your city of residence? *
Atlanta
How many years in public service? *
3.5 on City Council, 4 before that on the Board of Education
List your Community/Civic Affiliations: *
Board of Directors, Hosea Feed the Hungry; Young Professional Board, Meals on Wheels Atlanta; Board of Advisors, Bearings Bike Shop Member, League of Women Voters of Atlanta-Fulton County. Member, Peachtree Road United Methodist Church.
Where can voters find you online? (social media links & website) *
@WestmorelandATL on social media and website: www.mattwestmoreland.com
What is the position you are running for? *
Atlanta City Council Post 2 At-Large
Why are you running for office? *
I was born and raised in Atlanta and am a proud product of our city’s public schools. After college, I came home and taught History at Carver High School in Southeast Atlanta. I ran for the Atlanta Board of Education and then for the Atlanta City Council to help move a vision where every child and family has opportunity and choice in life.
In what ways do you believe your experience will assist you in your position, if elected? *
My time in the classroom has continuously informed my time in elected office– just like my time on the Board of Education has made me a stronger City Councilman. My time on Council over the last four years has showed me all the ways I can more effectively develop and pass policy that helps residents in their daily lives.
Why are you the best candidate for this position? *
I’ve led efforts on Council to pass a $100 million housing affordability bond, create a middle-wage jobs fund, and significantly increase our investments in streets, sidewalks, and parks.
What do you think your constituents need the most? *
A city government that keeps them safe, provides effective and efficient basic city services, and is making meaningful investments in our human and physical infrastructure.
What would you do differently than the predecessor in the position/office you’re running for? *
I currently hold this seat.
What are the three (legislative) issues you will address, if elected? *
Creating a recurring local funding stream for affordable housing, adopting and implementing a plan for real investments in our public safety facilities, parks and trails, and our streets and sidewalks
If elected, what is your plan of action the first 100 days in office? *
To engage with residents from all over our City to lay out a vision and a plan for the next four years and beyond.
