EDITOR'S NOTE: This story was corrected from an earlier version to reflect the submitted answer by Cody Sumners.
Chelsea voters will choose their next mayor and city council on Aug. 26. Candidates Cody Sumners and Mike Rochester are vying to be the next mayor. The only contested race for City Council is Place 4 where voters will choose between incumbent Arthur Fisher, Jr., Ryan Adams or Dr. Jeff Honea II.
The candidates shared their views on key issues with 280 Living.
Q: What do you believe is the most important issue facing Chelsea today — and why?
MAYORAL CANDIDATES
Cody Sumners: It is obvious that the most important issue facing our city is growth. Whether that be commercial, residential or city services. We must have responsible growth that stays true to the values of our citizens. The city recently completed a strategic plan that will be used as a guide for what our citizens want, moving forward. At the government level, we need to address growth by providing professional city services that our citizens expect.
Mike Rochester: Lack of managed growth and transparency. Academic improvements in our schools, utilizing proven programs to reduce bullying. These programs start at the administration level, down through the classrooms for individual training. Traffic issues may be the toughest obstacle to overcome. Need immediate resolutions for the safety of our citizens. With the mayor's new role as executive/administrator, I would take a comprehensive look at the budget to make sure our tax revenue is being allocated in the most efficient way.
PLACE 4 CANDIDATES
Arthur Fisher, Jr.: Managing growth. Chelsea isn’t the first city to face this, but how we respond now will shape our future. Our roads, schools, and public safety must keep pace, and that takes leadership. The real challenge is getting multiple agencies to respond to our needs while balancing priorities across other communities. We need leaders who can advocate effectively, hold developers accountable, and ensure growth doesn’t outpace our infrastructure or quality of life.
Ryan Adams: Chelsea has not enjoyed its exponential growth over the last twenty years only because of its geographical location. There is a reason why people have chosen to stay, and those things are difficult to measure objectively. I never want to lose sight of our slogan, “It’s All About Family.” These words matter.
Dr. Jeff Honea II: Chelsea’s biggest challenge is managing traffic and calculated growth while ensuring true transparency from city leadership. As our community grows, we must have a clear plan to support infrastructure, preserve our quality of life, and avoid short-sighted decisions. Just as important, residents deserve open communication and accountability at every step. With thoughtful planning and honest leadership, we can grow in a way that protects what makes Chelsea a great place to live.
Be sure to check 280Living.com daily for more election coverage ahead of the Aug. 26 voting.
