Mayor Walker excited about 2020

When he started 2019, then Perry Councilman Randall Walker had no idea he’d end the year as mayor. When former mayor James Faircloth abruptly resigned from his seat (with two years left in his term) in May, Walker took a risk when he too resigned from his District 3 Post 1 seat and announced his political campaign.

In September Walker won against opponent Robbin Jackson with an 84% lead. Asked about his feelings on the transition, Walker said he was excited to fulfill the remainder of Faircloth’s term, and to serve the residents of Perry. “As a councilmember I was very active throughout the city and worked very closely with the mayor,” said Walker. “Being elected mayor was a very special moment for me, and I really look forward to working very hard for all the citizens of the city of Perry”

This leaves two years for the newly elected mayor to prove himself as a solid choice the next go round. Walker confirmed he would seek re-election when the time comes. “I’m going to serve the citizens of Perry as best as I can and we’re going to try desperately to improve the quality of life for each, and every citizen in the city of Perry.”

Along with a new, but not so new, mayor, the Perry City Council sat a new councilman in 2019 and will seat a councilwoman come 2020. Following the November election and subsequent December runoff, Councilman Darryl Albritton and Councilwoman elect Joy Peterson will round out the council, which hadn’t operated at max capacity for some time. Walker says the city is looking forward to having a full council, along with new staff members, to push forward into the New Year. Perry hired a new special event coordinator, communications manager and director of leisure services, as well as other staffers.

Walker outlined the city’s quality of growth over time and expansion. He made sure to highlight the newest addition to Perry’s downtown: Orleans on Carroll. He reported 468 residential permits and 12 commercial permits as well. “We’re really excited with the way that the city is going and the things that are coming to the city,” said Walker.

Next year Walker says the focus will be on bringing new businesses and housing out to Perry Parkway as there’s already new businesses out along that area. While he had rave reviews about the Food Truck Friday, which will remain a staple event, Walker was excited about new events such as the International Festival.

Asked about police recruitment and safety, Walker says the Perry Police Department is at full capacity and that although there were two instances walker described as “unusual experiences.” Early this year, there were two shooting deaths within city limits. “That’s not typical here, we have a very safe environment.”

Walker was optimistic about the coming year and grateful for the growth and advancement of the city he’s served for 10 years.