Candidates for mayor and alderman seats in the city of Newton pledged to prioritize job creation, crime prevention, and government transparency during a public political forum hosted by the New Hope District Association, the NAACP, and the Political Action League.
The event, held at a local church and moderated by Kenny Harris and Andre Towner, gave residents the opportunity to hear directly from those vying for leadership roles in the upcoming municipal elections. Candidates offered opening statements, responded to policy questions, and delivered closing remarks in a two-hour session that highlighted both the challenges and hopes for Newton’s future.
“We as a people need to go back and tell others what's going on in Newton,” said Eva Norman McDonald, a candidate for Ward 3. “Charity starts at home and spreads abroad. I believe in doing what's right. I believe in our young people, and I want them to succeed.”
Community investment was a recurring theme throughout the evening, as nearly every candidate emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for youth and providing support for senior citizens.
The city’s economy was another major point of discussion. Candidates agreed that Newton needs more high-paying, stable jobs to support residents and reduce the number of young people leaving the area.
“When people have income, a lot of times crime goes away,” Arthur Nelson Jr., candidate for Ward 1, said. “We need jobs that will keep our children here — not just fast-food jobs or part-time positions, but real careers that lead to prosperity.”
Mayoral candidate Demarius Evans focused on modernizing city government and bringing business into Newton through targeted incentives and increased accountability.
“The mayor’s role is to enforce the law, oversee day-to-day operations, and hold department heads accountable,” Evans said. “We need strong leadership and a realistic, transparent budget. We can’t keep budgeting $75,000 in services and only bringing in $55,000.”
Evans also called for better use of economic tools such as business development districts and tax incentives to revitalize Newton’s downtown and attract new investment. Incumbent Ward 3 candidate Eric McCalphia brought this up as well, saying, “We need to move forward with continuing to use those people that help write grants like East Central Planning and Development, but also looking to getting an independent grant writer that can help us. Just hundreds of millions of dollars of grants that are out there.”
When it came to transparency, Ward 4 candidate Niceta Hester pledged to promote transparency and said, “One of my goals is to just be honest. I'm not going to make promises to the people and the citizens of Ward 4 on something that I can’t come through with.”
Concerns about public safety and gun violence also took center stage.
“Constantly, someone is saying something to me about crime,” said Harvey Curry, candidate for Ward 3. “Nobody wants to hear gunshots in their neighborhood. We need to work closely with our police department and make our citizens feel safe.”
Other speakers echoed similar calls for a more visible police presence and community-focused policing, particularly in underserved neighborhoods.
Candidates repeatedly returned to the idea of accountability — both for city leaders and city employees.
“We need department heads to give regular reports,” Michael Hillie, incumbent candidate for Ward 1, said. “I want to know what work was done each week, not just during an election year.”
Others criticized the condition of local roads and the lack of maintenance around street signs and public spaces.
“There's no reason brush should be covering stop signs,” Harvey Curry said. “We’re paying people to do these jobs. If they’re not doing it, they need to be replaced.”
Several candidates called for routine ward-by-ward inspections and more systematic planning for maintenance and beautification.
“We’ve got to stop being reactive and start being proactive,” Arthur Nelson. Jr. said. “Accountability and a plan — that’s what it takes.”
Despite the tough talk on issues, the atmosphere at the forum remained respectful and hopeful. Candidates encouraged residents to engage in the process by staying informed and casting their ballots.
“You have a voice,” Eddie Pugh, candidate for Ward 5, said. “We work for you. Y’all are our boss.”
NAACP President Henry Wilson reminded attendees that civic duty extends beyond election day.
“Together we stand, divided we fall,” Wilson said, echoing words said earlier by Eva McDonald. “Let’s support our candidates, hold them accountable, and stop being the first to criticize. It’s not an easy job they’re signing up for.”
Dan Moncrief, incumbent candidate for Ward 4, said he plans to continue making rounds around his ward and the city. “I continue to go around every day and talk to people and ask them do they need any help? I’m on it.”
The forum ended in prayer, with a final reminder from the moderators: real change requires continued involvement from both elected officials and the community they serve.
The municipal election primary is scheduled for April 1, with general and runoff elections to follow.
