Patrick kicks off mayoral campaign

On Thursday, July 29, LaRhonda Patrick officially announced her run for Warner Robins Mayor at a kickoff event that took place at GG’s Southern Kitchen. As Patrick traveled from Fort Valley, where she currently works, supporters talked over a tasty meal of fried southern classics provided by the hosting restaurant. Once Patrick arrived at the restaurant, everyone showed their support with loud cheers. The audience’s excitement only grew stronger as she began to detail her plans for Warner Robins.

Patrick began her campaign speech with a personal story. She told those gathered about her experience moving to Warner Robins as a young girl in 1994. With her connection to the Air Force base and her status as a Northside High School graduate, Patrick proved her involvement in the Warner Robins community. She recalled feelings of uncertainty and fright.

“I went through all of that, which equipped me with the character and strength to do what I’m about to do today, which is announce my candidacy for the next mayor of Warner Robins,” she said to the audience’s delight.

Through noting her achievements and participation within the Warner Robins, Patrick established her ability to run a city. She showcased experience as a small business owner by creating “Williams Patrick Law.” Patrick stated one of her accomplishments: “I have managed contracts for worth over $100 million simultaneously.” Patrick also noted that she chose to move back to Warner Robins, seeking growth and development within the city. “The city of Warner Robins is a 100 million plus operation. I have experience to manage at that level, and I’ve already done it throughout my career.”

After giving props to current leadership and citizens for Warner Robins’ growth, Patrick stated her belief that the city still needs to evolve. “We still have a ways to go. Twenty-seven years later, many things look the same.”

Through a series of thought-provoking questions, Patrick made it clear to the audience where Warner Robins still needs work. She pointed out the lack of recycling, the current necessity for students to leave the city in order to build a career, and the out-production of smaller surrounding cities in economic growth.

Despite these issues, Patrick is hopeful. “Warner Robins has all the tools at its disposal to have innovation, industry and involvement within our community.” Patrick also offered tasks forces and focus groups as a solution for how constituents can be involved, heard and seen.

As her speech neared an end, Patrick wanted to make a statement on the lack of commitment to the people by those in power. “I will always see you and hear you. I will seek your advice, I will seek your ear; I will seek your comments.” She concluded by telling the audience she chooses people over power. The people, she emphasized, were her reason for standing there before them and announcing her candidacy for mayor.

“We have all of the tools, all the capabilities to be one of the best of the best in our state. And, until we take an intentional step in that direction, 27 years from now, we’ll still be singing our shoulda, coulda, wouldas.”

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