Scott Smith

Taxes / Budget Albemarle families are being asked to do more with less, while local government continues to expand spending. It’s time to take a hard look at how tax dollars are being used, rein in unnecessary expenditures, and ensure that core services—not bureaucracy—are the priority. Let’s start by freezing tax rates for 2 years. Criminal Justice / Public Safety Albemarle is not immune to the national rise in crime. While other communities are rethinking public safety, we must double down on smart, effective policing that protects families and neighborhoods—while also addressing the root causes of crime. Criminal Justice / Public Safety Continuing our proactive strategies like youth engagement, mental health response, and neighborhood patrols can reduce crime before it happens. Economy Include Incentives and support for local entrepreneurs, family-run businesses as well as our medium and larger new businesses. Economy Accelerate conversion of long-vacant retail and commercial spaces into residential, mixed-use property.