Meet the Candidates: Andrea Blustein

Smyrna’s general election will be held Tuesday, Nov. 8, 2011 and a record 19 candidates are on the ballot. In their words, candidates will be introducing themselves here at Patch. Today, we have Ward 2 city council candidate Andrea Blustein, who is running unopposed to replace outgoing Councilman Ron Newcomb.

Andrea has lived in Smyrna’s Ward 2 since 1987. Originally, she was drawn to this area by the large older homes that lined Atlanta Road and created such a lovely entrance to the city. Another convenience of the area was the expressways being so easy to access and being able to get to the airport with relative ease.

Andrea was born in Pottstown, Pa. but spent most of her childhood in Memphis, Tenn. After joining Delta Air Lines, she was based in Chicago for twelve years and then Atlanta.

Andrea received her bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Kennesaw State University. She received her J.D. from John Marshall Law School.

Andrea retired from Delta in 2005 and since then has worked as an Associate Real Estate Broker. Currently, she is an independent contractor with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Metrobrokers.

Andrea has served as President of her homeowners association for many years. In addition, she served on the Downtown Development Task Force and has served about 10 years on the Smyrna Planning and Zoning Board, though not consecutively.

After being on the Planning and Zoning Board for such a long period, it seemed only natural to run for council. I care deeply about helping guide Smyrna through this difficult period we are in at present due to the economy. I want to make sure that Smyrna continues to have a balanced budget and to keep our taxes low. One of my main goals as the council member is to represent my neighbors’ voices in this city.

I want to see Jonquil Plaza and Belmont Hills completed as soon as possible. I think having these completed would be a huge boost to the city. Having looked at the unfinished lots for all this period of time has really driven home how fragile our economy is at present.

As for what Smyrna will look like in the in the years to come it is difficult to predict. But what I do want for the city is smart growth and for Smyrna to reach its full potential.

Should anyone wish to reach me with questions or concerns my email is AndreaBlustein@gmail.com or call me at 770-436-6521.