Behind the Decision: My Story and the Need for Change

The final days of the election are here, and so many people have asked me why I decided to run.

It really started when my maternal grandmother (pictured below) was visiting. I had already attended at least a dozen City Council meetings, but after one particular community gathering, I walked away frustrated — not just by the outcome, but by the lack of organization and the limited information shared with residents.

As a citizen, I wanted better. I wanted transparency, preparation, and respect for the people who take time out of their day to show up.

When the incumbent heard I was running, she confronted me at City Hall and said she planned on keeping her seat. My response was simple:
“Your seat is the only one open.”

That moment changed everything for me. No one owns these seats — the people do. You don’t get to claim a start or finish line. The people decide, every time.

I’m running because leadership belongs to the community — not to titles, not to tenure, and not to any one person. I’m running to make sure voices are heard, information is shared, and decisions are made with all citizens in mind, not a select few.

My campaign is about accountability, transparency, and service — not politics.

Let’s build a better McDonough, together. 🌺

Montina Young Fraiser
Candidate McDonough City Council At-Large