Property taxes, groceries and the cost of filling a gas tank are among the financial pressures Georgia Rep. Al Williams says residents face as he seeks re-election to House District 168 against Kevin Remillard. The district includes Liberty County.
Williams, 79, has represented the district since 2003. He said lawmakers should look for ways to ease household costs, noting that while fuel is a federal issue, local residents still have to pay to fill their tanks.
For housing relief, Williams called for state-subsidized programs that include working-poor households, not only people with the lowest incomes. He also proposed state grants or subsidies to help reduce home costs and make housing more affordable.
Williams said coastal communities need clearer communication and more public involvement in decisions about growth, particularly warehouses and logistics. He also emphasized that the region needs jobs and economic development.
Literacy is a priority for Williams this year. He cited a figure of 70% for Georgia students who are not reading at grade level by third grade, and argued that weak reading skills can limit the state’s economic development.
Asked how his committee assignments, including Appropriations and Rules, have benefited District 168, Williams pointed to his role on Appropriations and said state efforts have helped Liberty County. He did not identify a specific funding amount or project in that response.
Williams, who has served since 2003, was also asked how he would answer constituents seeking new leadership. He argued that his experience and record are reasons to keep him in office, while acknowledging that voters can decide whether those qualifications are enough.
Yolonda Harris
News Now Georgia
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