Monroe in Motion
Monroe City Council outside of City Hall to celebrate the Monroe High School Football teams, undefeated season and State 2A Championship.
Leadership, Growth & Accountability
As spring approaches, Monroe continues to embrace the momentum of transformation and leadership. Under Mayor Robert Burns’ administration, recent City Council meetings have spotlighted both bold actions and moments of necessary reflection—each playing a role in shaping the city’s future. Here’s a look at what’s been happening:
Redirecting Resources for Real Impact
In a move that stirred both conversation and conviction, the City Council reviewed the dissolution of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee. While some questioned the timing, the Mayor made the case clear: Monroe must comply with Executive Order 14173, which impacts federal funding eligibility—especially for infrastructure priorities like the Monroe Regional Airport.
But beyond compliance, Mayor Burns emphasized the importance of results. “If a committee isn’t delivering outcomes,” he stated, “it’s our duty to redirect resources to something that will.” The reallocation of $25,000 from the DEI Committee to the Winchester Revitalization Committee marks a shift toward neighborhood transformation, job creation, and tangible community benefits.
Child Protection & Defining Public Standards
Another key issue raised was the lack of legal clarity around adult entertainment. Mayor Burns introduced a request for Council to direct legal staff to define “adult entertainment” and create safeguards that protect minors. His goal: balance constitutional protections with local values and enforcement capabilities.
However, Council chose not to act—prompting a strong response from the Mayor: “Doing nothing leaves others to define Monroe’s standards. That’s not leadership.” His statement underscores an urgent call for proactive governance.
Downtown and Airport: Twin Engines of Growth
Recent events like the Groundhog Day Economic Development Launch brought renewed energy to Monroe’s economic vision. With a projected 50–60% population boom, downtown revitalization and airport development remain central pillars.
The introduction of Interim Economic Development Director Walter “Buddy” Sprouse was a highlight—his reputation for transformative growth in Augusta, GA sets the tone for Monroe’s economic push. “We’re not here to repeat the past,” Burns said. “We’re here to build on momentum and lead the region in growth, infrastructure, and investment”.
The airport—already contributing $90 million in economic impact—continues to be reimagined as a business aviation and cargo hub, with visions of expanding traffic and revenue for the city.
Staying the Course: Values, Vision, and Responsibility
Mayor Burns closed a recent meeting with a strong affirmation of leadership rooted in faith and responsibility: “Government doesn’t work by accident. It requires courage, conviction, and action—especially when decisions are hard.”
He reminded residents that Monroe’s path forward is not just about today’s debates but the legacy left for generations. “This is not about personal gain. It’s about building trust, ensuring accountability, and making Monroe the most desirable city to raise a family, start a business, and leave a legacy”.
