Q1: What are you doing in your new role as Mayor of Fort Wayne? What are some of the first initiatives that you have begun to tackle?
I continue to get settled into my new role. It’s been a humbling and rewarding experience to this point, and I’m really enjoying the job and the many responsibilities that come with leading Indiana’s second largest city and the fastest growing city in the Midwest. I’ve been very focused on meeting city employees, developing and growing positive relationships with business and community leaders, and having open dialogue with other local elected officials and leaders throughout the state and country.
There are several initiatives that we’re tackling. The list includes a balanced budget with fiscal responsibility and discipline as a top priority. We’re working to address housing needs in our community, as well as how to get our arms around the complexities of homelessness and mental health challenges. The public and private sectors continue to come together to develop and implement new projects throughout the entire city. That’s been particularly enjoyable to see and be part of. We have a highly skilled and motivated business community that’s helping drive a lot of the positive projects and activities that local residents and visitors to Fort Wayne brag about.
Q2: What ongoing initiatives and programs are you interested in maintaining and, in fact, growing? Mayor Tom Henry was a tremendous leader. Many of his passions and interests will continue under my administration. Examples include an ongoing commitment to downtown revitalization efforts through public-private partnerships, investing in neighborhood infrastructure projects, maintaining our parks, developing our riverfront area, and making sure our police and fire departments are equipped to meet the public safety needs of a growing city. These are just a few of the areas that will be maintained and hopefully grow even more.
Q3: What does it mean to you to be fort wayne’s first Black female mayor?
I want people to know that the person I am, my heart, and my commitment to leading Fort Wayne are more important than skin color. Each person in Fort Wayne is unique with qualities that can help us achieve our goals and dreams. I’m proud to be a Black female and I’m very grateful for the trust that so many people have placed in me. The complexion of my skin doesn’t define my ability to think, reason or lead. It defines my historical experiences and lessons learned.
Q4: What new ideas do you bring to the mayor’s office?
Fort Wayne and many cities our size across the country face similar challenges that need to be addressed. I’m leading an effort to put together a mental health commission, along with a young adult council. Both initiatives are aimed at getting individuals and families the help they need, and getting younger people involved in local government to look for new ideas to help make Fort Wayne an even better place to call home with opportunities for growth and success. My commitment also extends to neighborhoods as we’ll be investing heavily in people-focused projects and initiatives.
Q5: Tell us a bit about yourself outside of working hours.
Faith and family are very important to me. Those two things provide my moral compass to do what’s right in a manner that glorifies God and reaches all segments of our community. I enjoy doing craft projects and mowing the lawn. They provide peace and quiet time that’s much needed.
Q6: Tom Henry was a moderate Democrat, fairly middle of the road. He reached out to both Liberals and Conservatives. What is your philosophy on those types of connections?
I’ve been able to work well with Democrats and Republicans when I served on Allen County Council and Fort Wayne City Council and now as Mayor. The public wants and deserves excellent services and results from local government. Working together in a bipartisan manner helps our community grow and succeed. I’ll continue to seek ways to collaborate to advance our city.
Q7: What else would you like to share with our readers?
I’m a people-focused Mayor. I truly want what’s best for our great city and all of our residents. Providing an enhanced quality of life for all in a community that’s fun, family friendly, affordable and safe drives me each day. I’m honored and blessed to be in this unique position to make a meaningful difference.
