Mayor Timothy Ragland on Workforce Development, Decreasing Violent Crime, and Community Engagement

 

In this week’s episode, co-host Ryan Coonerty talks with Talladega, AL, Mayor Timothy Ragland, the first Black mayor of his hometown and the youngest in over a century. Ragland shares the inspiring story of overcoming challenges in his youth to reach the military and law school, and explains how he decided to return home to run for mayor. The conversation touches on how to attract new businesses and Ragland’s approach to improving job opportunities for residents, including by improving access to high-speed internet in a city where nearly half of residents lacks access. They also discuss keys to decreasing violent crime and how Talladega is leaning more on the community for help. Tune in for this insightful conversation about how thoughtful community engagement leads to innovative solutions.