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A church that raised leaders now fuels a mayor who leads with neighbors at the center. We sat down with Mayor Lithonia Barnes to unpack a people-first blueprint for Florence: from fireside chats that turn feedback into action, to a citywide march that pairs civic pride with hot grits and a clear call to show up. She shares how honoring Dr. Iola Jones’ legacy became the backbone of a neighborhood plan—an empowerment center, a mental oasis to counter nightly gunfire stress, and housing that restores dignity with quality finishes and resident input.
We go deep on the Oakland Project and beyond: tearing down blight at the gateway to Historic North Florence, investing over $11 million in storm drainage, and partnering with churches and developers to build affordable homes on city land with $25,000 down payment assistance. Barnes outlines how this approach resists gentrification by returning locals to ownership and giving families the tools—credit classes, banking support, and community services—to stay and thrive. The work spreads across all four quadrants with parks, infill, and a “to be continued” promise that no corner is overlooked.
Hard truths meet concrete steps on infrastructure, safety, and mobility. Florence is tackling a $200 million surface-water problem with grants, staged borrowing, and SCADA technology that detects issues early while crews flush lines fast. On crime, drones that launch in under 90 seconds and a growing Flock camera network have helped clear more than 170 cases, complemented by youth programs, officer housing incentives, and accountability for businesses that fuel violence. Transit is now free on county buses, while the airport pursues cargo and international capability to leverage Florence’s rail and highway advantages.
If you care about how cities rebuild trust, honor history, and choose people over ego, this conversation offers a roadmap you can borrow. Subscribe, share with a neighbor who loves their city, and leave a review telling us the first step your community should take next.

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