Politics & Government

Council Candidates Talk About Personal Histories

The first in a series of talks with the candidates.

Norcross Patch asked the two candidates for Norcross City Council, Craig Newton and Greg McFarland, to answer five questions about themselves and their positions. We'll publish their answers without editing in the next days. 

Patch: Tell us about your personal history. How does that impact how you would serve on the Norcross City Council?

Craig Newton: 
As a native of Norcross, I have an appreciation for the city’s past, present, and future. 

Find out what's happening in Norcrosswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

As a married father of four, I believe that parental and community involvement in education is very important. I have served on the Summerour Middle, Stripling, and Norcross Elementary committees for school improvement.    

I have served as president of the Gwinnett Municipal Association, Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors  and Norcross DDA. As a manager in a thriving High Tech firm, I understand what is required to make a business successful. I am currently a Norcross City Councilman, Leadership Gwinnett Alumni, and the Gwinnett Transit Advisory Board Chairman.    

Find out what's happening in Norcrosswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Greg McFarland: 
Norcross born and raised, I have watch and questioned the entire development of this region and city. I have volunteered in many areas of the community through the years for many different endeavors related to the city and its promotion. I was nominated and participated in a community empowering program created by the Gwinnett Health and Human Services called GNLI, which operates with the motive to train and equip individuals. Having been personally affected by the current economy I am completing a criminal justice degree with a specialty in community affairs. All this helps to show my unique ability to understand and serve. 

The election for this Council seat will take place on Nov. 8 at City Hall. A town hall meeting and debate will take place at the Community Center on Tues., Oct. 18 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. 


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