Richmond Hill mayor begins new initiative aimed at boosting community engagement

BRYAN COUNTY, Ga. (WTOC) - Richmond Hill’s newly elected mayor, Kristi Cox, just wrapped up a meeting with the community to hear people’s concerns about the city.

The new community engagement initiative is called “The Mayor’s Table.” It will take place once a month with two sessions.

“It’s exciting, but it’s a lot of work,” said Cox.

Richmond Hill’s first female mayor, Kristi Cox, is settling into her new role — and she wants to hear directly from residents about their concerns and ideas for improving the city’s quality of life.

She’s doing that through a new community engagement initiative called “The Mayor’s Table.” The meetings began Monday.

They’ll take place once a month with two sessions held at the Wetlands Education Center.

“We were able to share some policies and procedures with people who may not have been aware of everything that we do,” said Cox. “We also talked about open records requests and how that process works.”

Each month will feature a special guest who plays a significant role in the city or county.

This month’s guest was Bryan County Commission Chairman Carter Infinger.

He discussed county funding and how the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America in Ellabell is attracting more people to Bryan County — especially to Richmond Hill.

One resident told me they’re glad Cox hosted the meeting because as Richmond Hill grows — that growth can bring new concerns.

While Mayor Cox knows she’s making history in the city, she says she still considers herself an ordinary citizen and wants people to know she’s ready to listen.

“I’ll never be a politician — I’ll always be a servant," said Cox. “It’s important for people to reach out so I can hear their input and suggestions. I’m also open to critiques. The only way I can grow as a leader is by listening to what people think and improving from there.”

Cox says she and other city leaders are also working on upcoming projects, including a City 101 program where people can learn more about departments like planning and zoning, police, and fire — and how they serve residents.

The program will run for several weeks.