MDJ 2025 Voter Guide: Acworth Board of Aldermen, Post 4

Kimberly Haase

Occupation: Owner, iLoveKare concierge service for active aging adults

Party: Non-Partisan

Age: (no answer given)

Residence: Acworth, GA

Hometown: Lansing, Michigan

Family: Three adult children

Education/military service: Bachelor’s in Political Science, Kennesaw State University

Have you served in elected office before: Not yet

Campaign website: www.Kimberly4Acworth.com, or calling me directly at 404-451-3779

Q: Why are you running for office?

A: Kimberly Haase isn’t just running for office; she’s running for the Acworth community, for our neighbors, and for our future. In 2021, I ran for Acworth city council and won 46 percent of the vote. Our goal was to empower citizens to vote in local elections. We believe we started a movement that shifted how community members view their role in local government, and we want to continue until we reach a #SharedWin. The City of Acworth was stagnant in previous municipal elections. Voters wanted – and still want – change, and Acworth residents are calling for thoughtful change, one that honors the city’s rich heritage while embracing a bold, inclusive vision for the future. They are getting a consecutive election in 2025. We developed our priorities with the support of community members, residents, local business owners, and supporters who shared their ideas with Kimberly Haase, focusing on Connecting Community, Controlled Growth, and Local Business.

Q: How do you plan to promote economic growth while preserving the city’s character?

A: I propose a multi-pronged strategy: Preservation with Purpose. I will champion the continued revitalization of our historic business district and neighborhoods, ensuring that preservation efforts remain central to our economic development. I believe we must expand beyond traditional brick-and-mortar models by embracing businesses that operate digitally or through non-traditional platforms. These ventures bring fresh perspectives, creativity, and sustainability – qualities that align with Acworth’s evolving identity. To support this growth, I advocate for tax strategies based on economic nexus rather than physical presence. For example, applying tax thresholds to businesses generating over $100,000 in retail sales – whether tangible goods or digital products – into Acworth, Ga This approach encourages innovation while ensuring fair contribution to our local economy. Future-Forward, Heritage-Rich. Our next generation values both historic architecture and modern solutions. By blending these priorities, we can foster a vibrant economy rooted in Acworth’s unique character.

Q: Given the economic pressures on municipal budgets, how would you balance the need for public services with the potential burden on taxpayers? What alternative revenue sources or cost-saving measures do you support beyond raising property taxes?

A: Our city slogan, "You Are Welcome," reflects our community's inclusive spirit. I strongly advocate for public-private partnerships to enhance service delivery. These collaborations can take various forms, such as revenue sharing or private investment in infrastructure. The city could focus on upgrading essential infrastructure like roads, stormwater systems, and utilities, while private companies could contribute by constructing green-certified facilities with areas accessible to the public. Furthermore, during community events such as concerts and public activities, partnerships, whether public or private, could support Acworth's city health outreach programs. 

I would support revenue sharing initiatives. For example, if a hospital expresses interest in establishing a facility within Acworth, I would propose that the hospital contribute a portion of its revenue to support city health outreach programs. This could include hosting quarterly town hall meetings and providing free health screenings at community events, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for our citizens.

Q: What’s one change you would make to the city’s zoning code?

A: One change I would make to Acworth’s zoning code is to require mandatory public notification and engagement protocols for all zoning changes and ordinance applications. This would include clear timelines, accessible summaries of proposed changes, and multilingual outreach tools, including digital platforms and in-person forums. As I’ve heard from residents and witnessed firsthand, the current process lacks transparency and consistency. I attended multiple city meetings about ordinance updates, but public attendance was low, and many residents felt left out. By embedding inclusive communication requirements directly into the zoning code, we can ensure that zoning decisions reflect community input and reduce selective enforcement. This change would transform how Acworth zones, making it more equitable, transparent, and aligned with our city’s promise: You Are Welcome.