The most significant difference between Paula Hastings and her opponent is that Hastings has done it, her opponent “is gonna”. There is certainly nothing wrong with coming late to public service, but considering that good intentions are reputed to pave roads to a wide variety of locations, (not all of them desirable) when the choice is between a candidate who has served in an exemplary manner, and one who hasn’t served at all, the best choice is obvious. Whereas some people view political campaigns as popularity contests, we view them as an opportunity to review candidates and select the one who shows the greatest potential to serve the best interests of constituents. That’s something Hastings has done for over a decade and in so doing she has established a reputation and relationships, two vital factors in being a successful legislator.
For over 9 years, Hastings has served on the Gwinnett County Planning Commission and has also served on the Development Advisory Committee, the GR8 Exchange on Transportation, and the Planning Advisory Committee. Her additional service includes being a member of the Engage Gwinnett Steering Committee and the Partnership Gwinnett Steering Committee. She also serves on the SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) Citizen’s Review Committee. Consequently, it’s not surprising that she has been endorsed by Gwinnett County sheriff Butch Conway, Gwinnett County Planning Commission Chairman Chuck Warbington,Sugar Hill mayor Steve Edwards, Suwanee mayor Jimmy Burnette, a majority of the city council members serving the cities within the district and throughout Gwinnett County.
Hastings’ broad area of experience, combined with the relationships she has developed are invaluable for someone who will represent the interests of Gwinnett County residents. Although this race is for the District 102 seat, whoever represents the district becomes part of the Gwinnett delegation in the House, a group that holds a good deal of influence in determining the path of proposed legislation.
Paula Hastings has our vote. She is the only candidate in this race who has a history of getting the job done.