Meet the Candidates: Rory Johnson

Name: Rory S. Johnson

How long have you lived in Lawrenceville? In what part(s) of town?:

I’ve lived in Lawrenceville since 1995 and in the Five Forks corridor area the entire time.

What is your occupation?: Sr. Executive Director of the Lawrenceville Boys & Girls Club for the past 15 years.

What is your educational background?: I attended Illinois Benedictine College for four years where I majored in Psychology, Theology and Business Education. I also graduated from Victory World Ministry Training School in Missions & Pastoral Studies.

Tell us about your family: I’ve been married to my wife Gwen for 26 years. We dated for seven year.  We have two sons, Brandon the eldest is currently serving in the Army and currently in Kuwait. Renoldo, my second son currently resides in Lawrenceville with his wife and our first grandson.

Have you ever held or ran for any other elected office? If so what and when?: This is my very first time running for an elected office.

How have you been involved in Lawrenceville politics and the community?: I’ve been involved with the community for over 15 years and I’ve participated in various community organizations along with local school activities. As for politics I’ve not been greatly involved.

What inspired you to run for city council?: The major reason I’m running for city council is we need to have true representation of our community. We need to have a voice for all people at the table and I feel that I’m that voice. 

What do you think is the most pressing issue Lawrenceville faces and needs to address?:

• Embracing Diversity, total inclusion, we really need to look at who really lives in this city and make sure that we are addressing their concerns, issues and needs.
• Improvements that Ensure Clean & Safe Neighborhoods.
• Accountability of Tax Payers’ Investments.
• Preserve & Develop Parks & Green Space in our City.

What are your long-term goals for the city?: Making sure that Lawrenceville is accessible and attractive to local & outside businesses as well as to the citizens of Lawrenceville. 

Watch video of candidates Renita Hamilton, Keith Roche, Larry Troutman and Rory Johnson's introductions at a candidates' forum and how they feel about SPLOST.

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