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Name: Linwood W. Johnson III

Age: 69

Family:

Education: Franklin High School, Ferrum College and Virginia Union

Career: Financial Consultant 

Why do you want to be elected as the mayor of Franklin?

To bring economic growth and revenue so our citizens can have lower utility and real estate tax bills and a safer city by working with community leaders and police to reduce crime.

What would you list as your primary qualifications for being mayor?

My experience of being on City Council for six years dealing with issues that affect the city including bring in the Foodbank located at 618 South St., Drive-in Movie Theater and helping secure funds to rebuild the Armory. I am the only council member to receive Four Mayor Institute Certificates from the Mayor’s Institute of the Virginia Municipal League (VML). Attending Virginia Municipal League Meetings, which brought new ideas, to help our city to grow. I am currently Vice-Chairman of the City of Cities Committee (under 10,000 population) in VML.

What do you think are the city of Franklin’s greatest strengths?

First our people, Secondly, our location in Virginia is attractable to businesses relocating to Franklin. 

What do you think are the greatest challenges facing the city of Franklin?

The Cost of Living, for our citizens, including the utility bills and crime.

If elected, what will be your leading priorities as mayor?

Lowering the utility and real estate tax bills, Economic growth, improve public safety and support our local schools.

How would you support fostering a relationship between the City Council and the Franklin City School Board?  

Better communication and built more trust between the Council and Board.

What, if any, key improvements do you think need to be made to the city’s public education system, and if elected, what will you do to ensure those needed key improvements are made?

I believe we should continue to support the improvements the School Division has already made now and those in the future.