Dear Friends and Neighbors,
After much consideration and encouragement from many of you, I am excited to announce my candidacy for the position of Alderman for Ward 2 in the City of Winona. I have decided to step forward and seek the opportunity to earn your support and vote in the 2025 Municipal Election to serve and represent Ward 2 and our community in this important role. As a first-time candidate for public office in the City of Winona, I believe I would be the right choice based on my experience in the private sector.
My wife, Mary, and I chose to make Winona our home in 2021. We have enjoyed being a part of the charm of this historic small-town community. Our children and grandchildren love visiting and enjoy the warmth and friendliness of Winona. Whether it's a stroll through downtown, or simply enjoying family time, there's always something special to experience here.
In my professional life, I currently serve in a dual company role as Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer for Bellamare Development and Certified Hospitality Management, both family-owned Mississippi based companies with property and asset locations throughout Mississippi and Alabama. In addition, I own and operate Fairground Street Consulting based in Winona- specializing in management investment services for Hospitality, Real Estate Development and Construction industries.
I have served 4 terms as President of the Mississippi Hotel & Lodging Association and have served the Ridgeland Tourism Commission as a two-term president, vice president of the Metro Jackson Hotel Association, Board member - Ridgeland Chamber of Commerce, and currently serve on the Board of Directors for the Mississippi Hospitality and Restaurant Association. I am an active member of the IHG Owner's Association- Holiday Inn Brand Committee, and an active member of the US Financial Executives Group and the Winona Rotary Club.
There are similarities between serving the public in the Real Estate Development & Hospitality industry and serving constituents in an elected government capacity. Both roles involve a strong commitment to public service, leadership, communication, collaboration, problem-solving and a commitment to service.
I strongly believe Winona is well positioned for future growth. Being the Crossroads of north Mississippi- It’s location I-55, US 51 and Highway 82, are postured for future growth. We have existing community assets that can help us leverage rebuilding a vibrant economy. Our Downtown area has the opportunity to be restored and revitalized as a viable economic anchor and catalyst for local businesses to thrive and become a destination for our city. I will work to repair relationships to return sports tourism as a strength to restore its economic impact to our community. I will help to build quality-of-life offerings for our residents including more recreational opportunities for our youth. I will seek outside funding sources, grants and other aid to foster growth opportunities.
Our Tourism Funds generated by the 2% Winona Tourism Tax need to be utilized as its intended purpose for marketing and promotion of our tourism industry, parks and recreational activities within the city. I will ensure that these allocated funds are utilized to regenerate additional dollars for the city. Our city is at a pivotal moment, and I believe that with the right leadership, we can achieve great things. I am motivated by my desire to use my professional and leadership experience so that I can have a positive impact on the City of Winona.
My vision for our community includes:
1. Improving Public Services: Ensuring that our public services are business friendly, efficient, accessible, and responsive to the needs of Ward 2 residents and businesses. Our residents are our customers, and our visitors are our guests. Both contribute and have a financial impact on our city.
2. Economic Development: Promoting local businesses and attracting new investments to create jobs and boost our local economy. We need to be innovative to address the current and future infrastructure needs.
3. Community Improvement & Engagement: Fostering a sense of community by encouraging active participation and open communication between residents, city officials, and local business leaders, Including building a proud sense of community.
4. Policy & Advocacy: By Implementing policies that are innovative, including supporting sustainable growth. Fostering a vision for success to aid further in developing our city back to prosperous times. I will work to restore consistency in how the business of the city is carried out.
My goal is to be a part of a strong board with a vision to lead and accomplish the issues that are ahead of us. I am committed to being a transparent, accountable, and a dedicated servant for the residents and businesses of Ward 2. I will work tirelessly to address your concerns, advocate for your needs, and ensure that our city continues to thrive in the right direction.
Together, we can make a positive difference in our community. I am respectfully asking for your support, and I look forward to working with you and other city leaders to build a better future for our city. Thank You for allowing me an opportunity to introduce myself and share my vision for Ward 2 and the future of Winona.
Scott Sledge
