STOCKBRIDGE’S FIRST BLACK MAYOR

STOCKBRIDGE’S FIRST BLACK MAYOR: A Leader & Visionary

Anthony Ford is a retired U.S. Army full colonel he is also the city of Stockbridge GA’s first Black Mayor. His story is as intricate as it is involved. However being “the first” was not his motivating reason to become Mayor. He’s been involved in some form of politics his entire life from High School and College student government to servicing as interim mayor of Stockbridge before he becoming its elected Mayor.

He felt that his father who was a WWII and Korean War veteran inspired him to join the army and serve his country and community. Mayor Ford’s firm belief that helping others is the key to ultimately helping oneself was also instilled in him by his mother.

Stockbridge is growing. As it stands right now its either the largest or second largest city in Henry County. The county is continuing to grow. More and more people move to Henry county because of the economic opportunities and the warm weather. As the old saying goes “No one retires and says they are moving up North!” Mayor Ford is acutely aware of this and looks to position the city of Stockbridge to take advantage of this population and economic boom.

Recently the city built a 3,400 seat, state of the art amphitheater that has already hosted its premiere event, a concert with Patti Label and Gladys Knight. The Mayor’s next plan is to revitalize the downtown area of Stockbridge to capitalize on the new Amphitheater.

“The Amphitheater is a game changer. I like that word game changer and the catalyst for the re-development for the city of Stockbridge itself!”

The 2022 season will be a full season of concerts and shows that will take up the entire year with quality entertainment with over 500 parking spaces with no charge, free. All within 150 yard of the venue. Despite Stockbridge’s City Councils notorious reputation for infighting and inability to work together Mayor Ford was capable of bringing the different personalities together to serve the common good of the people of Stockbridge in particular, Henry County in general. “It can be difficult from time to time. But in a sense trying to have a good positive attitude about the fact that we have to work together for the betterment of the community.”

Mayor Ford believes in teamwork and creates a positive atmosphere that fosters a sense of togetherness. Everyone who works for and with him is called a “teammate” a further demonstration to that point. Mayor Ford is a positive man who looks to spread cheer and community in everything he does. During this interview he ended almost every sentence with “bettering the community” The Mayor’s “team” has a vision for the city to grow and thrive in South GA.

Despite the concert featuring Gladys Knight and Patti Label the Mayor is adamant about making sure they venue follows CDC guidelines and avoids a “super spreader event” Says the Mayor “It would be more helpful if people got a vaccination but we have to be smart about what we do and how we manage these up coming activities.”

This isn’t just a caution from a politician. Mayor Anthony Ford is also the Chair of the Henry County Board of Health. However he says that position is based on Stockbridge being the largest city in Henry County and not any medical qualifications.

When it is all said and done the City Of Stockbridge has a remarkable leader. A man who serves God, family, country and community. With leadership like this the city of Stockbridge is sure to grow and thrive who could ask for anything more?