“Our city is centrally located here in the state, along US 40, which gives us quite a few advantages,” Owen said.“We’re experiencing positive growth, and it’s important to manage that growth.” Through partnerships with the Burlington Housing Authority, federal house loans and a private developer, Owen wants to work toward creating more affordable housing in accordance with federal guidelines and funding the improvement of private property in the city. Owen said he believes increasing public knowledge of government operations will help in this area. He mentioned how the risks of hacking are increasing, and that Burlington needs some better ways to defend against such threats. “When I say public safety, I include fire, because our fire department are first responders to any medical calls, in addition to fire calls, it’s just vital that we have a competent and a near capacity staff to provide those services,” Owen said. He said he plans to address public safety in Burlington by increasing employment in local police, fire and IT positions within city jurisdiction. In addition to economic growth, Owen voiced his concerns about public safety and cybersecurity. Also in his plans is continued investing in making Burlington’s sewer and water lines more environmentally friendly. Owen plans to continue ongoing partnerships with private groups like LabCorp and various local businesses to help the city’s economy flourish. “It’s really a rare opportunity where all low levels of government can work hand in hand, attempting to reduce the impact that COVID saddles on so many of our citizens, and also many of our local businesses,” Owen said. Owen’s plans for his next term, if reelected, are first to help Burlington pull itself back out of the post-COVID-19 economic hardships by working with the county and state governments as well as local private businesses. Owen said he believes his 46 years of working for public groups in Burlington provide him with ample experience for working on the city council. In addition to his work as councilman and Burlington city manager for 13 years, Owen also worked in the City Parks and Recreation Department and as a consultant with the North Carolina League of Municipalities. Seeking reelection in the fall municipal elections in Alamance County, Owen’s platform is focused primarily on Burlington’s economic growth and development, housing issues, safety and communication between the city and the public. Harold Owen, incumbent first-term Burlington city council member and former Burlington city manager, has always felt drawn to public service.
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