Chattanooga City Council Race Sees New Candidate

News Summary

Mariah Franklin Doll Sandridge, an insurance broker, announces her candidacy for the City Council District 8 seat in Chattanooga. With a focus on advocating for youth and elderly residents, Sandridge aims to engage the community and bridge gaps in local governance. As the elections approach on March 5, she will compete against current council member Marvene Noel and other candidates. Sandridge seeks to create senior centers and training opportunities for youth, emphasizing accountability in assistance programs to foster personal responsibility.

Chattanooga’s City Council Race Heats Up with New Candidacy Announcement

Chattanooga is buzzing with excitement as Mariah Franklin Doll Sandridge, a dedicated insurance broker, has thrown her hat into the ring for the City Council District 8 seat. With a strong commitment to the community, especially vulnerable groups like youth and the elderly, Sandridge is ready to make her mark. Residents of District 8 can expect an enthusiastic campaign as the March 5 elections draw near.

A Community-Focused Vision

Sandridge is passionate about representing the Amnicola and Avondale voting precincts, as well as the Bushtown neighborhood. Currently, Marvene Noel holds the District 8 seat and is also vying for reelection. Sandridge will face other candidates, including Anna Golladay and Kelvin Scott, adding a dynamic twist to the upcoming elections.

Advocacy at Heart

At the core of Sandridge’s campaign is a genuine desire for advocacy. She believes that every citizen deserves to be heard and understood, which she describes as being a “translator” for government policies. By ensuring that constituents are engaged and informed, she hopes to bridge the gap between the community and local governance. Sandridge’s experience running a company called Covered by Doll exemplifies her hands-on approach—helping elderly and disabled individuals navigate the often-complex Medicare and Medicaid applications.

Personal Touch and Background

Having been raised by her grandparents, Sandridge has a unique perspective on issues that matter to older adults, and she’s even a kidney donor. This personal connection drives her mission to advocate for senior citizens in the community. She is determined to create freestanding senior centers in the area, providing much-needed resources and social opportunities for older residents.

Youth Empowerment

But her vision doesn’t end with senior citizens. Sandridge is also focused on creating training opportunities for the youth in District 8. Understanding that the future lies in the hands of today’s young people, she aims to equip them with skills that will prepare them for success in the workforce. This focus on youth development showcases her holistic approach to community improvement.

Accountability and Support Programs

In addition to her advocacy for the elderly and youth, Sandridge is vocal about the necessity of accountability measures for assistance programs. She argues that opportunities provided to community members should come with certain conditions, encouraging personal responsibility while ensuring that support structures are in place.

A Local with Roots

Sandridge’s background is a testament to her commitment to Chattanooga. She’s a proud alumna of the Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences and later pursued education at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Her local roots and educational journey have solidified her bond with the community she hopes to serve.

Get ready to vote!

As the campaign ramps up, it’s important for residents of District 8 to engage with the candidates and make their voices heard. Voter registration for the March elections remains open until February 3, 2024. Now is the time to be proactive and ensure that your opinions count in shaping the future of Chattanooga.

With Mariah Franklin Doll Sandridge stepping into the race, District 8 is set for a vibrant political season that promises representation, advocacy, and a commitment to addressing the needs of all community members. Will she secure the seat, or will another candidate take the lead? It’s a contest to watch!