Dear Friends and Neighbors,
My name is Mitch Miller. I'm a native of Loudon, and I’m excited to announce my candidacy for Loudon City Council!
I have witnessed firsthand the tremendous opportunities and unique challenges our city faces. I am running for City Council because I believe in our collective ability to make Loudon an even better place to live, work, and raise families.
When I graduated from Loudon High School in 1990, I entered the world looking for education and economic opportunities. I departed my hometown for the University of Tennessee looking to take on the world and quickly moved into a long career in Information Technology. Over the years, I have lived and worked in many places, but I have always called Loudon home, returning many times a year to visit family and friends and always feeling part of this community.
Returning to Loudon as a full resident 3 years ago after 30 years living away, allows me to have a unique perspective on our challenges as a city. These experiences have deepened my appreciation for our community's spirit and resilience. My work in larger communities during my career has increased my understanding of where we can improve and innovate. I will bring my experience, knowledge and skills to the City Council to benefit all the citizens of Loudon. Together, we can work for a better future!
Since my return, I’ve worked to integrate back into my hometown and learned all I can about our city government. I have attended almost every Loudon Utility Board and Loudon City Council meeting since the last election of council members, and I have recorded every meeting since February of 2023. My attendance at past meetings makes me incredibly well informed about the current business of the City of Loudon. I’ll absolutely be able to hit the ground running. I take the opportunity to serve our community very seriously and approach it with great respect.
If elected, my priorities will include:
1. Improving Infrastructure: Our roads and utilities are the backbone of our city. I will advocate for smart investments in our infrastructure to support growth and enhance our quality of life. Rapid growth is forcing utility improvements that will greatly impact the future rates that we will pay. Issuing and managing public debt responsibly is a growing concern for tax and utility bills that we will pay in the future. Introducing policies to improve access to newer fiber optic and broadband technologies will bring innovation and opportunities.
2. Supporting Local Businesses: Small businesses are the heart of our economy. I will champion policies that help local entrepreneurs thrive and contribute to a vibrant and diverse local economy. The revitalization of the Historic Loudon Downtown and Courthouse Square areas are key to keeping our small town feel while still bringing commerce into the city.
3. Promoting Sustainable Development: As Loudon grows, it’s crucial that we do so in a way that respects our history, as well as preserves our environment and green spaces. I will push for sustainable development practices that balance conservation with growth. Policies should prevent uncontrolled expansion, as well as encourage proper planning and zoning to take us into a better future.
4. Fostering Community Engagement: I believe in transparent and inclusive governance. I will work to ensure that all voices in our community are heard and that our city council meetings are accessible and responsive to the needs of our residents. I would like to improve the communications with our citizens so that all residents have access to the most up to date information about the plans and activities happening in Loudon.
5. Supporting Public Safety: Ensuring our neighborhoods are safe and secure is a concern for everyone. I will work to support our police and emergency services, while promoting community-based initiatives that foster trust and collaboration between residents and law enforcement.
This campaign is about more than just one person; it is about all of us coming together to create a brighter future for Loudon. I am committed to listening to your concerns, understanding your needs, and working tirelessly on your behalf.
Together, we can make a meaningful difference in our community. Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions, ideas, or concerns. Your input is invaluable, and I am eager to hear from you.
I humbly ask for your vote on November 5, 2024. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you on the Loudon City Council.
Warm regards,
Mitch Miller