How a Thriving Downtown Can Ease the Burden on Homeowners

When we talk about revitalizing Tallapoosa’s historic downtown, it’s not just about beautification or filling empty storefronts — it’s about strengthening our entire community. A healthy downtown is the foundation of a strong local economy, and when it thrives, the benefits extend to every corner of the city.

The current administration has made some visible improvements — adding new streetlights and signage to freshen the look of downtown. While those steps are appreciated, they haven’t been matched with the real change we need: bringing in businesses to fill the empty buildings and create opportunity. Lights and signs may make things look brighter, but without businesses and activity, they don’t ease the tax burden on families or grow our economy.

Right now, too much of Tallapoosa’s financial weight rests on the shoulders of homeowners. Families are feeling the squeeze from property taxes while wages remain flat and costs keep climbing. It doesn’t have to be this way. By focusing not just on appearances but on economic growth, we can build a thriving downtown that generates new revenue and reduces the reliance on homeowners — without cutting essential services.

The Connection Between Downtown and Revenue

A vibrant downtown isn’t just good for businesses; it’s good for taxpayers. When businesses succeed, they:

• Increase sales tax collections. Every dollar spent locally adds to the city’s revenue stream.

• Grow property values. Occupied and well-maintained buildings bring in higher commercial property taxes, spreading the tax base more fairly.

• Attract new visitors. Festivals, tourism, and events draw in outside dollars that boost restaurants, shops, and services.

• Encourage reinvestment. Strong downtown momentum motivates property owners to improve their spaces, which raises values and benefits the whole community.

Beautification alone doesn’t achieve these results — thriving businesses do.

Where the Current Leadership Has Fallen Short

When Brett Jones first ran for Mayor, he promised transparency, downtown development, recreation opportunities, law enforcement support, and youth and senior programs. He leaned heavily on his decades of experience in construction and project management as proof that he could guide Tallapoosa into the future.

But those promises have not materialized in meaningful ways. Yes, there are new signs and lights, but downtown development has stalled. Storefronts remain empty, residents see little improvement in recreational opportunities or programs for our youth and seniors, and many feel their concerns still go unheard.

Tallapoosa deserves leadership that delivers more than surface-level changes. What was promised in the past has not been carried through — and our community is still waiting for real results.

Why This Matters for Homeowners

When a larger share of revenue comes from businesses, visitors, and reinvestment, the city doesn’t need to lean so heavily on property taxes to balance the budget. Over time, this shift allows us to:

• Keep property taxes stable — or even reduce them.

• Invest more in services like public safety, parks, and infrastructure without raising taxes on families.

• Make Tallapoosa a more attractive place to buy and keep a home, which builds even more strength into the tax base.

This is what I mean by responsible, family-focused growth: everyone contributes, everyone benefits, and no one is left carrying the weight alone.

My Vision for a Balanced Tax Base

If elected Mayor, I will push for a city government that prioritizes balance and fairness. That means:

1. Championing Downtown Growth — Supporting property owners and entrepreneurs who are ready to invest in our historic district.

2. Promoting Local Shopping & Dining — Encouraging residents to “shop Tallapoosa first,” keeping money circulating here at home.

3. Expanding Community Events — Creating opportunities that bring both residents and visitors downtown, boosting local spending.

4. Ensuring Accountability — Maintaining a transparent budget that clearly shows how increased revenue is being used to ease the load on homeowners.

This approach strengthens both our economy and our community spirit.

Building a Future Where Everyone Wins

Streetlights and signs may brighten downtown, but real progress means filling those storefronts with thriving businesses. Tallapoosa’s homeowners shouldn’t have to shoulder the city’s financial needs alone. By revitalizing downtown with real growth, we expand our tax base. By expanding our tax base, we relieve the pressure on families while still building the services, infrastructure, and opportunities our community deserves.

A thriving downtown is more than an economic strategy — it’s about fairness, opportunity, and pride. It’s about building a Tallapoosa where families feel secure in their homes, businesses see value in investing, and visitors see us as a destination worth experiencing.

Together, we can create a future where every resident benefits from growth, and where the heart of Tallapoosa beats strong for generations to come.

Joe Glass

Candidate for Mayor, City of Tallapoosa

“The Clear Choice for Responsible, Family-Focused Growth.”