Warner Robins Councilman Derek Mack running for reelection

WARNER ROBINS — As the election season begins in Houston County, several positions on the Warner Robins City Council will be on the ballot this year. One current council member, Councilman Derek Mack, has announced his candidacy for reelection.

Mack originally hails from Port Chester, New York, but moved to Warner Robins in 1977 and graduated from Northside High School in 1987. He is an Army veteran and currently works as the Human Resources Flight Chief for the 558th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron at Robins Air Force Base.

Mack emphasized his commitment to servitude, both in his professional role and towards his community. Before joining the council, he was actively involved in community outreach projects, including back-to-school drives and initiatives to support people experiencing homelessness.

In March 2021, Mack was elected to the council following the resignation of his predecessor, Daron Lee, who encouraged him to run. In both the special election and the general election held in November 2021, Mack won with over 60% of the vote.

“He saw something in me that I didn’t. I had thought about it, but he gave me the confidence to push me off the ledge to do it,” Mack said.

Mack described his four years of experience on the council as focused on “organization, reorganization, and implementation.” He highlighted that the city was lacking permanent positions for several key roles, including a city manager, building inspection manager, transportation manager, and finance manager. Additionally, the city needed to appoint new fire and police chiefs due to the retirement of the previous chiefs.

“We had to find personnel that were qualified and do a great job for us and we have done that,” he said. “So now it’s time to implement and standardize our processes that streamline City Hall and empower our citizens.”

Mack highlighted the collaborative spirit at City Hall, ensuring his council votes reflect the positive impact they can have on the community’s future.

“I always try to make sure that my intentions and my vote are in alignment with the impact that they make. I always try to strive for alternative dispute resolutions to mitigate any unforeseen issues by doing a look ahead to see how my vote is going to impact the citizens every time I vote. I thoroughly think it out, and we discuss it and respect each other’s opinion,” he said.

He expressed that, as a whole, the city is proud to have secured federal grants aimed at promoting development around Commercial Circle and addressing lawsuits. Mack also highlighted the establishment of Engage Warner Robins, which serves as a catalyst for economic development, along with utility upgrades that support growth and create alternative income streams. 

With a commitment to residents, Mack believes that affordable workforce housing should be prioritized alongside commercial development.

“I’m focused on the people, affordable workforce housing and removal of blight. The challenging thing is convincing people to sweep around their front door to invite entrepreneurship to blighted areas,” he said.”

As far as Commercial Circle is concerned, Mack said the city has a few more parcels to acquire and is excited to see the city’s renderings come to fruition with bids from private developers. He praised economic development for its negotiating work.

In utilities, Mack mentioned water leaks, which were exacerbated due to COVID-19 supply chain issues. He said that since then, the utilities department has done a fantastic job implementing and expanding infrastructure.

Additionally, Mack expressed a desire for further expansion of natural gas services.

“Warner Robins is one of the few cities in the state that owns their own natural gas. So that’s a great cash flow for us if we can manage it properly,” he said.

Mack believes that the north side of town should see more housing development. He mentioned that a project led by Councilman Larry Curtis will introduce apartments to the area, which will attract more residents and boost local shopping plazas, encouraging entrepreneurship. Additionally, Mack would like to see the establishment of a park on Tabor Drive, as well as further development in the area to deter illegal dumping.

“If we get constant business going there, the rest of the plaza will grow … I have vivid memories of it thriving, and I would like to see that come back,” Mack said.

Mack believes code enforcement’s recent classification under the police department will enhance its ability to address illegal dumping, improving public safety. Increased recruitment within the police department and a fully staffed fire department are also significant highlights.

Mack believes in the importance of transparency and believes in making the city’s agenda user-friendly and standardized. He emphasized the use of the city’s updated website as a key channel for effectively communicating with citizens. 

Mack views the citizens as his primary focus and is committed to being their voice at City Hall.

“I’m the all-access candidate, and my initiative is not to be a politician, but to be a public servant. All I am is a liaison of the people to City Hall,” he said. “It’s not about Derek, it’s about them, and that’s why they should choose me, because I’ll be their voice. I consider the streets of Warner Robins to be the veins, with the people being the blood, City Hall being the heart.”

The municipal election is set for November 4.