City Councilwoman Lisa Clarke Hill speaks at the candidate forum on Oct. 12

MOULTRIE – On Oct. 12, the Women’s Federated Club in Moultrie hosted a public forum for the 2023 District 1 City Council candidates to answer questions directly from the citizens they would be serving.

Of the three candidates, only incumbent Lisa Clarke Hill was present. Both Eddie Warren and Jeron Bridges declined the invitation.

Stacey Jones, president of the Women’s Federated Club, introduced Hill as well as the moderator, Clovis King, and timer, Joyce Lewis.

“Before we jump into the questions, I want to thank everyone for coming out tonight,” said Hill. “When I was asked if I wanted to be here it was an immediate yes. I owe it to this community to put myself in the hot seat and answer your questions.”

The Colquitt County native answered 17 questions throughout the evening’s forum.

The first question Hill was presented with asked her to name the top things she has accomplished over her past 12 years as a city councilwoman.

“The new mental health facility is what instantly comes to mind,” said Hill. “It’s something that was very needed because it used to be that people had to drive out of the county to get help. Now, they don’t have to do that.”

Hill went on to explain that there is even a mental health co-responder who works with the Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office and Moultrie Police Department to assist with de-escalation on mental health cases.

In addition to answering questions about the city in general, Hill also listened to the ideas on how to specifically improve District 1, which is primarily Northwest Moultrie as well as parts of Northeast and Southwest.

Things like resurfacing roads, installing more street lights and gentrifying dilapidated homes were discussed as was adding more sidewalks to get children out of the road when walking to and from the bus stops for school.

“I grew up on these streets,” said Hill. “I had to do that coming home from school, so I know. I will put discussing sidewalks with the board of education on the top of my list.”

Though there aren’t funds readily available to be able to install sidewalks on every street in District 1, an idea was to coordinate with the board of education to know where the heaviest bus routes are and begin with sidewalks on those streets.

One other question Hill was presented with is what would she change about the zoning code if allowed to.

“I think a really good addition to the community would be tiny homes,” said Hill. “Not everyone is looking for, nor can afford, a 2,000-square-foot house and are just looking for a place to call home. When I travel I see these tiny home communities where the houses are 500-600 square feet and I think it provides another good option for housing.” As the forum drew to a close, Hill once again thanked everyone for coming out and presenting her with their questions and concerns.

“City Council is in my heart,” said Hill. “I’m not afraid to get a call and answer questions. If I don’t know something, I will figure it out for you. My personal cell phone number is on the City of Moultrie website. Please use it.”