Until recently, Ashley Lay worked behind the scenes within the City of Milton. Now, she’s vying for City Council Ward 1 Seat 1.
“I’ve managed campaigns in the past, worked as president of Santa Rosa Young Professionals, and I’ve been content working behind the scenes. Now, I’m ready to take the next step,” she said.
Lay said she’s ready to serve city residents by taking a seat on the city council. She said she’s confident.
“Yes, we need to bring family events to downtown on the weekend, but we need their investment in the community more,” she said. “It’s not about campaign promises. I’ve worked in the community. We need city councilmen to get their hands dirty and do the work. We can paint pretty pictures but it’s about implementing them and getting the job done. I’m a hard worker,” she said.
Lay said she’s organized and managed major fundraisers for the Andy Mac Foundation and raised $9,000 over three years time. She said she’s worked with the city manager to plan and develop the fundraisers. Lay said she’s organized political functions to bring clarity to voters and managed a small business for 8 years, focusing on customer service and excellent quality.
“I want positive leadership, growing the community, creating a buzz. We need to put this into action,” she said.
Lay said she’s more than qualified for the job because she understands how a budget works.
“Money in the city comes from many avenues, not just tax payer dollars. It comes from grants, city enterprise and tax dollars. What most people don’t understand is not every project in the city is funded by tax dollars,” she said. Lay said the city council represents city dwellers. The issues are not just about downtown. She said it’s about the people in the city, their needs and wants being represented.
“I’m taking every opportunity given to learn about the community and how to serve them,” she said.
Lay said she’s lived and worked in the city for all of her 30 years.
“I love working and living here. It gives me an opportunity to be available to serve and help current businesses to flourish and make it easier for mom and pop,” she said.
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Ashley Lay vying for Milton City Council Ward 1 Seat 1