Athens-Clarke County Commission District 3 candidate Melissa just launched a website, melissalinkathens.com.

The site has a detailed platform, including Link's views on protecting neighborhoods, jobs, smart growth, transportation, the environment, culture and communicating with constituents. There's a lot of stuff, so click on the link above to take a look. Here's a taste:

Most of you already know my dedication to this community. Over the more than 20 years I’ve lived in Athens, many of us have worked side-by-side to strive to make Athens the best possible community. We’ve had many, many conversations over these years, and it’s no secret that I am very unhappy with the direction our government is heading as of late. I feel we’ve sacrificed our progressive principles for a nod-and-smile, go-along-to-get-along form of government that favors outside interests and the whims of a wealthy few over the needs and wants of the diverse, everyday people who define our community. Compromise too often becomes capitulation and too many of our elected officials are content to sit back rather than move forward.  

I am dedicated to moving forward, embracing our diversity, and considering the needs and desires of our entire community first and foremost. I have proven over, and over again through my actions and through my writings and my comments in public forums that I am not afraid to speak out and stand up to the powers-that-be and I am more than willing to dive head first into in-depth research to learn all the facts about any issue to present creative solutions to our problems.

I hope that you will support my campaign, both financially and by reaching out to your friends and neighbors and urging their support. This is currently a 3-way race and as much as we hate to admit it, money matters in politics. Both of my opponents will be strongly supported by a handful of particularly wealthy individuals. While I am dedicated to a positive, issues-focused campaign focused on support from the masses and good old fashioned door-to-door outreach, it’s clear that I will need to raise a minimum of $5000 to run a viable campaign. I hope you are able to help me reach that goal.

Link will host a fundraiser Sunday, Jan. 26 from 4–7 p.m. at The World Famous featuring Old Smokey and kids' activities, if you're so inclined.