A Love Letter to Newer Residents of McDonough
To my fellow newer residents,
I’ve seen the jokes, “Do you say McDunna or MacDonna?”and even the labels like “outsider.”
Let me say this as clearly as I can: you belong here.
It is not amusing to mock new residents. It’s unkind. Every person who has chosen to make McDonough their home should feel respected, valued, and included. No one owns this city, we are all taxpayers, neighbors, and contributors. Some were born and raised here, and others, like us, made the choice to plant roots here. Both matter.
Since moving here in 2021, I’ve listened to the stories, stories of people who still don’t feel welcome in the City Square, of neighborhoods long neglected, of voices that haven’t been heard. Yet, what has kept me here are the friendships I’ve built with many of you, the new residents who bring your talents, backgrounds, and perspectives to strengthen McDonough. You are the reason I decided to step up and run for office.
That’s why I’ve invested in learning and serving through:
- Creating and leading Citizens 101 to educate and empower residents.
- Joining the Henry County Citizens Academy.
- Training with the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).
- Participating in leadership programs like the Henry County Leadership Academy.
- Attending countless City Council, Commissioner, and Board meetings.
Now I’m running for McDonough City Council At-Large because I care deeply about the future of this city we all call home. My priorities are clear: public safety, infrastructure and transportation, and the L.I.V.E. Initiative, a people-first plan that centers connection, care, and community in everything we do.
As the wife of a 21-year retired Army veteran and the mother of an active-duty U.S. soldier, I believe in service, sacrifice, and community. I believe in building a city where people who live, work, play, pray, and vote can all thrive, whether they are new residents or longtime residents.
To every newer resident who has ever felt unwelcome: this is your home, too.
Let’s build a better McDonough, together!🌺
Montina Young Fraiser
Candidate McDonough City Council At-Large