Reggie Hall

Reggie Hall was born in Memphis, Tennessee. Hall's professional experience includes working as a small business owner.[1]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Reggie Hall is a leader with a proven track record of community service, leadership and a strong dedication to his native city of Memphis. As a resident of South Memphis and a graduate of Hamilton High School, Reggie’s values were instilled by his mother, who dedicated her life to service. Reggie has continued this family tradition of service by working in the fields of mental health, rehabilitation and transportation.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Running for mayor is the one government office that allows someone to more acutely feel the results of his or her decisions; to see the fruits of their efforts, or the need to change them. When the mayor makes a decision that impacts sanitation services, for instance, he or she is going to hear from the people regarding whatever is proposed or put in place. The constituents are friends, family members, neighbors, residents- they are in the next car; they are standing in front and behind you in line at the grocery store. Not to diminish the impact of any office, but when holding the position of a larger constituency like a governor or U.S. Member of Congress, you are further removed from feeling the impact of your actions.I had to grow up in a “tighten up the boot strap” type of upbringing. But o saw my mother work hard in a community that was shared with other hard-working people. And they all had a happy vibe. I want to bring that happy, hard-working vibe back to Memphis. I want all of our communities, to leave the table with something good. I want Memphians to realize that we can successfully work together for the greater good. As mayor, I plan to place liaisons in every community and have them work directly with their district’s council person. I want to hear from the residents of Memphis- and foresee monthly meetings.I want companies who are interested in setting up business here to visit and those already here to be glad they came and plan to stay. I want individual, business and social investing for our city. I’ve seen it work. I want to create new literacy programs and strengthen those programs already in place. I know when we shift our mindset and simply decide we want something better, decide that we can and will work together for the greater good, then it can create change. I am seeking the help of Memphis residents, council members, and community leaders to create the Memphis I believe we can have.Community Question Featured local question

Did the COVID-19 pandemic change your approach to local policy issues? If so, please give us an example. If not, why?

The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably shaped policy decisions and practices across the country. In times of crisis, the majority of leaders bear the responsibility of swiftly adapting to address safety concerns. Besides the measures that were already implemented during the pandemic, two key areas I would prioritize are eviction prevention and mental health services. I will put in place measures to prevent evictions and the looming threat of homelessness during a crisis, especially in the event of financial collapse or hardship. Additionally, I will implement policies aimed at addressing mental health issues directly resulting from the pandemic.

Community Question Featured local question

Do you believe crime rates are changing? Where do you get your crime rate data from? Would you make any changes to existing public safety policy?

According to Property Club, Memphis has a crime rate that is 237% higher than the national average, with 7,913 crimes per 100,000 people and an exceptionally high violent crime rate. Unfortunately, our city has been listed as one of the ‘poorest cities in America for 2023.’ A 2019 ‘Memphis Poverty Fact Sheet’ (which is regrettable in itself) reveals that 27.8% of our residents live in poverty, and alarmingly, 44.9% of them are under the age of 18. A more recent 2021 state map indicates that the poverty rate in Memphis, Tennessee, is 89.06% higher than the U.S. average. In Memphis, an estimated 24.2% of our 619,045 residents live in poverty.

There is a clear link between poverty and education, just as there is a connection between crime and education. Without proper education and equipping our residents with the tools they need to provide for themselves, we are letting our community down.

As your mayor, I will prioritize education and literacy. This will set off a positive domino effect, but only after we invest in more comprehensive education in our city and foster a shared community mindset rooted in pride, respect, hard work, and a thirst for learning and growth. Additionally, I will address conflict resolution skills and emphasize the importance of effective communication within the community, all while promoting respect for one another.

Community Question Featured local question

Do you think the downtown area is healthy? What is your definition of a healthy downtown? What changes, if any, would you like to make?

In my opinion, a healthy downtown is one that prioritizes safety, cleanliness, and the absence of blight. This includes well-lit streets, a visible police presence, and a bustling atmosphere. Memphis’s rich culture should shine through with a variety of high-quality restaurants, galleries, and bars that showcase our unique identity. A thriving downtown should also host a diverse range of businesses to stimulate economic growth. Ensuring affordable housing and affordable spaces for small business owners is crucial. Lastly, accessibility and ample parking spaces are important considerations.

To bring about these changes, I would propose the construction of more skyscrapers, the development of pedestrian walkways, and the creation of a modern skyline that reflects a futuristic aesthetic.

Community Question Featured local question

How important is it to involve residents in the government’s decision-making process? What plans do you have regarding resident involvement in this process?

It is extremely important for the residents of Memphis to be involved in the decision making process of the city.

Social investing or community investing is something Memphis can work into and in doing so, gain the benefits. Localinvesting.org says that “Starting a local investment fund…takes time, planning, and a committed team of forward-thinking community builders.” We have those here in Memphis and I will work with those leaders for the greater good.

As mayor, me and my administration will act as the liaison within this community. We will will reach out to the financial institutions, the hospitals and other health-care-providers, the churches, non-profits and others who have a stake in this community. We need more companies like Ford, with longevity and a reason to improve the community. Partnering with these companies and developing a community investment fund will prevent us from having to wait on government funding to get things done. It’s a win-win-win.

My motto is, “Everyone leaves the table with something good. Everyone wins!”

Community Question Featured local question

How should record requests from the public be handled? Do you have any policies around transparency and accountability you want to enact?

Handling records requests from the public is crucial for government transparency and accountability. In my administration, we will maintain oversight over departments that have access to information, ensuring that their staff is properly trained and knowledgeable about the laws and procedures governing their activities. We will also work to make information readily available and accessible on the city’s website. Additionally, we will establish comprehensive guidelines for processing these requests.

To facilitate the submission process, we will offer multiple methods, including online forms, postal processing, and email delivery, to ensure a thorough and timely response. After reviewing these requests, we will seek consultations with legal experts as needed. Any applicable fees will be clearly communicated, and we will provide detailed written responses to the relevant parties.”

Community Question Featured local question

How would you address crime and public safety? Do you have a different stance than current city council policy?

Memphis spends approximately 38% of its budget on Crime. A January 2022 Commercial Appeal article describes the issues driving the violence seen in Memphis. “Lack of conflict resolution skills’ is one of those items, as is easier access to guns.’ Conflict resolution skills are something that must be taught.

The rate of crime in high-education states is lower than the rate of crime in low-education states. It’s also been found that “a large proportion of prisoners, or 68%, do not graduate from high school.” Lack of education therefore, can lead to higher crime rates.

As your mayor, I will lead a comprehensive effort to address crime in our city. This involves removing constraints from our officers to effectively enforce the law, enhancing police patrols and allocating resources for additional Detectives. These measures will enable the District Attorney to prosecute and remove criminals from our streets.

Community Question Featured local question

How would you set priorities and develop plans in a way that will reflect community values and goals?

My administration would prioritize accountability and transparency above all else. Inclusiveness would be a top priority, ensuring that every member of the community has a fair chance. Fostering collaborative efforts and maintaining regular communication between the community and the mayor’s office will enhance understanding during the implementation process. Allocating the necessary resources will be crucial to support the development of these plans.

Community Question Featured local question

What do you think about the city's current approach to public safety? Would you take any different positions?

I would create a strategy that involves engaging community members to build trust with law enforcement. We need to develop a system that helps residents understand conflict resolution to prevent violence. Addressing blight and improving the environment, along with other revitalization efforts, would be a priority. Utilizing technology, we would provide citizens with apps for emergencies and reporting safety issues. After-school programs for youth would be available to all age groups, offering parents a safe place for their children until they finish work.

Community Question Featured local question

What do you think about the city's environmental health? Would you make any changes to current policy?

We will facilitate collaboration among government agencies, nonprofits, the private sector, and city residents. These groups will assume pivotal roles in monitoring, reporting information, collecting data, and shaping policies aimed at ensuring the city’s long-term environmental sustainability. Our foremost priority will involve implementing waste management strategies to reduce blight and combat pollution. Additionally, enhancing transportation infrastructure is crucial for environmental improvement, as the reduction of traffic emissions through increased use of public transit, biking, and walking will accommodate a growing population. The expansion of green spaces and parks will contribute significantly to mitigating the impacts of climate change. Addressing air and water quality issues, while simultaneously promoting biodiversity, will further augment our endeavors to cultivate a sustainable environment.

Community Question Featured local question

What plans do you have regarding infrastructure?

It shouldn’t take a near natural- disaster to improve our infrastructure, as it did with the Hernando de Soto Bridge! Visible cracks were showing before a 2021 Arkansas state inspection revealed the urgency to repair the bridge that acts as a key transport of I-40 over the river. This is just one example of the critical improvements needed for our city. Furthermore, the water pipe infrastructure is over 100 years old. Very often when Memphis experiences a black- out there are necessary “boil advisories.” The infrastructure of Memphis requires a well thought- out investment. The key is making these items a priority and getting the work completed to keep our residents, our travelers and our bustling industries healthy and safe. The safety of Memphis residents is a priority. I realize we have many priorities, but clean water, sustenance and a safe place to reside are most definitely lost toppers.

Community Question Featured local question

What plans do you have regarding the police department? Would you make any changes from current policy?

I plan to hire a police chief with extensive experience within the Memphis Police Department. We need someone who has years of experience and commands respect from both long-serving officers and recently recruited ones. Leadership has been lacking in the current administration, causing significant issues for our officers and, consequently, the public.

To enhance the police force, I intend to hire several hundred additional officers and promote existing officers to detective roles, which will aid in solving crimes. This will, in turn, support the district attorney in prosecuting cases and keeping criminals off our streets. Additionally, I have plans to establish an intelligence unit to proactively address areas and prevent criminals from gaining a stronghold in our neighborhoods.

Community Question Featured local question

What policies would you have implemented in reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic? Why did you select those policies?

The dedicated individuals of the city of Memphis did an exceptional job during the 2020 pandemic. They acted swiftly to inform the public about crucial safety measures that greatly benefited the city’s health. These measures included the implementation of mask mandates, bolstering hospital capacity, and securing vital medical supplies to support our healthcare workers. Additionally, providing economic relief and facilitating remote work and education were pivotal to our success. Overall, I was deeply impressed and appreciative of the efforts made, despite the formidable challenges.

Moving forward, I would continue to prioritize public education and messaging campaigns to enhance communication effectiveness.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am committed to addressing the major issues facing Memphis, including blight, infrastructure, education, and poverty. Memphis currently spends 38% of its budget on crime, but I believe that if poverty and education can be conquered, crime will begin to decrease. My plan to address poverty includes a focus on behavior first and a willingness to be educated. He believes that a shift in people’s mindset needs to occur, and people need to become self- sufficient and not solely depend on government. When you earn what you have, it instills pride and a desire to accomplish even greater things.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

I was raised with a strong sense of leadership and care for family and community, due to those same qualities often being modeled by my mother Gwendolyn Bell in her constant service to others.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

Successful officeholders should have the ability to lead their constituents, helping them to achieve their objectives. They must maintain honor, integrity, respect, and discipline to uphold the highest ethical standards. Effective communication and active listening to the public are essential skills. Additionally, resiliency is a valuable quality that enables officeholders to assist those in need in their daily lives.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

My first historical event was when Willie Herenton became the first African-American mayor of Memphis in 1991 when I was fourteen years old.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My first job was bussing tables at Shoney’s during my junior and senior years of high school.

What is your favorite book? Why?

My favorite book is ‘Man’s Search for Meaning’ by Dr. Viktor Frankl.

A mayor is a leader in his or her city. What does that mean to you?

For a mayor to be a leader, it is essential for him or her to possess strong leadership skills. Responsibility and accountability are of paramount importance for a mayor leading a successful city. A mayor must have a clear vision for the future to make informed decisions. A competent leader can effectively communicate and inspire through their words and actions. They must demonstrate the ability to make tough decisions while upholding integrity, dignity, and moral principles.

What do you love most about your city?

So often, Memphis receives a bad rap for its current state of affairs, causing many to forget its impressive history and vibrant culture that has thrived since the end of the yellow fever outbreak. Memphis is a blue-collar city with resilient people who fearlessly fight for their rights and beliefs. The food industry is a significant part of our culture, but we must be cautious not to overindulge regularly. Then there are the captivating and intoxicating sunsets, especially when viewed from the downtown riverfront. Memphis is an amazing place to live and visit, and we must work to restore and preserve it so that we can all continue to enjoy its many treasures together.

What do you perceive to be your city's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Decreasing poverty and increasing literacy will be the greatest challenges facing Memphis over the next decade. With 25% of the population currently living in poverty and 42 schools ranked in the bottom 5% in Tennessee, the city faces an overwhelming challenge, particularly regarding lower graduation rates. Access to quality education is a globally recognized solution to poverty. Education serves as a remedy for many of the other issues that can perpetuate vulnerability to the cycle of poverty for individuals, families, and entire communities.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

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