The following op-ed is written by Gordon Henry, candidate for Newport city commission
I am running for Newport City Commission because I believe it is now time for me to take the next step in service to my community. The city has undergone a lot of transformation since I graduated high school, which is quite tremendous considering that was only 16 years ago. I have the skills and experience for the role. I will bring a fresh perspective and diversity to the board of Commissioners, which is needed in any capacity.
I was a member of the Boys & Girls Club in Newport until I was 18, I am a proud graduate of Newport High School and have been involved in the community for many years now. Most of that involvement has come as being an Executive Member of the ReNewport board where I am currently the Vice President. I have always been passionate about improving communities and working to create a better quality of life for residents. My track record speaks for itself when it comes to these ideas. I was in AmeriCorps for two years where I traveled the country rebuilding homes for Hurricane Katrina victims in New Orleans, tutoring children in Denver, rebuilding park & bike trails in St. Louis and working in Cave Systems in New Mexico.
Seeing the impact I could make nationwide, I wanted to now be of service to my home. My local impact began as a Property Manager for 7 years in Over-the-Rhine for a Non-profit organization that specializes in affordable housing and I am currently the Executive Director of the Housing Authority in Dayton, Ky.
The areas that I want to focus on are affordable housing, transportation, small businesses, beautification, diversity, equity and inclusion. While not a comprehensive list of city concerns these are all areas that affect Newport daily and will go a long way to helping the city flourish for everyone that lives here. Creating a city that is equitable for all residents is vital and only makes our city stronger. I go into more of these ideas and issues on my website www.henryfornewportky.com
Newport is home. I want to create a city that everyone feels welcome and takes pride in. Continuing to promote and celebrate the diversity and different lived experiences for community members. I am ready to take the torch and keep the city moving forward. I want to give hope to others that may look like me or have a similar background to know that it is possible to become local leaders and to have their voice heard. This is bigger than me and I have always kept that in mind every step of the way. I would not be here if others did not believe in me or thought I had a shot at winning. Newport will continue to change and I want to be a part of that change. I hope that you consider using your vote for me on May 17th. This will take me one step closer to having the ability to become the first person of color in the history of Newport to sit on City Commission.