Diamond, Horton Endorse Willsey in Roswell Special Election

ROSWELL, GA -- Two more Roswell elected officials have formally announced their endorsements of the candidate they hope will join them on the City Council.

City Council members Donald Horton and Nancy Diamond have endorsed Marie Willsey in her bid to win the runoff for the Post 4 race. Willsey and Lori Henry are vying for the seat, which was vacated when Kent Igleheart resigned after he was charged with child sex crimes.

Diamond said it appears both candidates in Tuesday's runoff are passionate about the city's parks, neighborhoods, history and redevelopment. However, she feels that Willsey is the best choice for the role, as she has a long history of volunteering on the city's Planning Commission, local school governing council and was active in helping launch the Roswell Arts Fund.

"None of those jobs are small or paid or fun or easy, but they make a positive difference for all of us," she added. "It's important that we elect someone who talks about what they can do, rather than trashing others. We get enough of that in national politics. This is our Roswell, and we deserve better."

In light of Igleheart's arrest and resignation, Diamond said the next person elected to seat needs to have integrity, work well with people and represent the city in a positive manner.

For Horton, he wants someone who "listens to all sides of an issue before making a decision." That person also has to be rational and an independent critical thinker who will represent all of Roswell. That candidate, he added, is Willsey.

"I also want someone who has been involved in the community and has a real understanding of the issues this community faces," he added. "I want someone who is committed to protecting the Historic District and our established neighborhoods. Finally, I want someone who understands economic development and will work to move this community forward. I believe that person is Marie Willsey."

Horton and Diamond's announcements come just days after fellow Roswell council members Marcelo Zapata and Michael Palermo announced their endorsement of Lori Henry. Mayor Jere Wood has also expressed his support for Willsey.

Patch has reached out to Jerry Orlans to see if he will weigh in on the race.

Voters will cast ballots from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. April 18.

Image via Marie Willsey