Villa Rica Mayor Leslie McPherson addressed the city’s staff and business leaders as the keynote speaker for Villa Rica’s Leadership Luncheon Wednesday, thanking them for their hard work and dedication in making downtown Villa Rica a more vibrant area this past year. She cited that even though businesses had closed, others had opened, and Villa Rica was growing and growing well.
The mayor also referenced the city’s need to improve some of its infrastructure to accommodate its growing population, citing especially the need for water independence. This is so that Villa Rica can not only provide for its own residents but also help others in need in times of crisis.
“You never know what they’re gonna do,” McPherson stated, referring to this year’s Hurricane Helene. “What just happened in the western Carolinas and eastern Tennessee – I didn’t know a hurricane could do that.”
McPherson then told about a recent fire incident that happened in downtown Villa Rica, in which the blaze that was stopped by locals. These citizens, she stated, were “the helpers” – borrowing the phrase Mr. Rogers used to describe first responders. These everyday people were able to help because they cared, hinting that Villa Rica has the heart to serve others when needed.
Among all the announcements, including updates on the new fire house on Highway 78 and the outdoor fitness court at Gold Dust Park, the general atmosphere was hopeful. Those in attendance enjoyed a pasta meal with salad and tea and chatted over cookies after McPherson’s speech.
One attendee, Kara Lewis, sat in the front enjoying her first business luncheon. Her business, Bark Place Dog Spa, will be opening next week in Villa Rica.