Erik Coleman

As a full-time Health Scientist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), I dedicate my expertise to preventing environmental health hazards and advancing health equity through applied public health science and practice. In this role, I have contributed to emergency responses for major public health crises—including COVID-19, Hurricanes Maria and Irma, the Ebola outbreak, and earthquakes in Puerto Rico—using environmental health practices to support timely, data-driven decision-making and interventions.

Before my current role, I served as an Environmental Health Specialist in the Food Safety Section of the Fairfax County (VA) Health Department. From 2005 to 2008, I conducted more than 900 field inspections to prevent foodborne illness outbreaks, educated and consulted with food service professionals and diverse communities, led outbreak investigations, and enforced FDA, state, and county food safety regulations. I also provided expert testimony in legal proceedings and supported emergency environmental health responses at the local level.

My work has been supported by several peer-reviewed publications and presentations, with contributions focused on advancing environmental health practice, improving reporting during foodborne illness outbreaks, and strengthening public health through applied science and research. Selected publications include articles in the Journal of Environmental Health and MMWR Surveillance Summaries, reflecting my commitment to translating research into practice to protect communities.

Service:

Since moving to East Point in 2018, I’ve served on the Lakeside Preserve Homeowners Association Board and chaired the Beautification Committee, leading projects that promote community pride, safety, and an improved quality of life. I also serve on the Architectural Changes Committee in Lakeside Preserve, where we work to maintain the aesthetics and standards of our community.

I’m honored to serve on the East Point Building Authority and have completed the East Point Citizens Police Academy—experiences that have deepened my commitment to public safety, transparency, and building trust between the community and city leadership.

I regularly volunteer at the Food Distribution Program at Jefferson Park Recreation Center, supporting neighbors in need and strengthening the bonds that hold our community together.

Additionally, I’m a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.—a brotherhood rooted in achievement and service—and a devoted member of Elizabeth Baptist Church, where my faith continues to inspire my passion for community empowerment and service.

Servant leadership, to me, means putting the needs of the community first and leading with humility, empathy, and a genuine commitment to service. In this role, it means listening closely to residents—especially those whose voices are often overlooked—so I can represent their interests effectively and advocate for solutions that improve their daily lives.

It also means being accessible and accountable, working collaboratively with diverse partners, and prioritizing the well-being and empowerment of all East Point residents above personal or political gain. By leading with integrity and respect, I can help build trust, strengthen unity, and create lasting positive change.

I’m the strongest choice for East Point City Council Ward D At-Large because I combine a proven record of public service with a deep connection to this community. I am not beholden to the political will of sitting members, nor am I driven by political ambition. My life’s work—built on service—is a testament to my earnest desire to work for and on behalf of the people.

This role requires grit, consistency, intention, focus, and yes, a little dreaming. By dreaming, I mean a people-centered vision: an East Point that supports single parents on public assistance, ensures our seniors can age with grace and dignity, and uplifts our children, schools, families, businesses, and infrastructure. How we present ourselves to the world matters—it reflects our values.

I intend to be one among many spokes in the wheel of change. I recognize that this work, to which few are called, is far more than a position. That’s why I have been showing up consistently, long before seeking office. I know my neighbors, and my neighbors know me. This commitment extends beyond episodic appearances to score political points or curry favor with the “who’s who.” It requires visionary leadership—the kind of leadership that creates an environment where every family can thrive, and where our highest ambitions are within reach.

With over 15 years at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), specializing in environmental health, I bring a data-driven approach to problem-solving and a passion for protecting residents’ health, safety, and quality of life.

I’m not just running for office—I’m your neighbor, a dedicated public servant, and a proven community advocate. My career and my life have been devoted to service, transparency, and results—exactly what East Point needs to move forward.

My campaign platform focuses on three key priorities that reflect the voices and needs of East Point residents:

1. Economic Empowerment for All — Working with City Council to attract businesses, create good-paying jobs, support entrepreneurs, and develop Downtown Commons into a vibrant mixed-use space for business, retail, and residential living, so opportunity is within reach for every resident.
2. Healthy, Educated, and Connected Communities — Championing access to quality healthcare, strong schools, and community programs that uplift residents of all ages, because healthy and engaged neighbors make a stronger East Point.
3. Safe and Livable Neighborhoods — Investing in public safety, fostering community relationships, increasing housing options, and improving walkability, parks, and public spaces so families thrive and seniors age with dignity.

These priorities are shaped by the real concerns I’ve heard throughout our community, and I’m committed to turning them into action.

To learn more, visit erikcolemanforeastpoint.com.

Police Department (Public Safety)

The Public Safety Department requires focused improvement to address the recent rise in violent crime and to continue rebuilding trust within our community. This is especially critical given the city’s significant investment in public safety. I believe the East Point Police Department has the expertise, capacity, and resources to reduce crime effectively and deliver real results.

In partnership with City Council, I will advocate for increased resources for community policing and expanded officer training that prioritizes de-escalation and cultural competency. I am committed to transparency and to fostering open, ongoing communication between law enforcement and residents to strengthen accountability and mutual respect.

At the same time, I recognize that crime is deeply connected to poverty. That is why I will champion economic development initiatives that create quality jobs, support small businesses, and expand opportunities for all residents. Strengthening our local economy is essential to breaking the cycle of crime and building safer neighborhoods.

By combining effective, community-centered policing with strong economic empowerment, we can create a safer, more prosperous East Point where every resident can thrive.

The most pressing issue facing East Point today is economic disparity and poverty, which significantly impact residents’ quality of life and contribute to challenges such as crime and housing insecurity. East Point’s poverty rate is estimated at around 23%—nearly double the national average—and the city continues to face persistent unemployment and underemployment. Many residents struggle to access affordable housing and living-wage jobs, limiting both economic mobility and community well-being.

In partnership with City Council, I will prioritize equitable economic growth by attracting new businesses, creating good-paying jobs, and supporting local entrepreneurs so that opportunity is within reach for all East Point residents. Addressing housing shortages and expanding access to education, job training, and healthcare will also be critical to strengthening our community. By tackling poverty and economic inequality directly, we can reduce their ripple effects—such as crime and health disparities—and build a safer, more prosperous East Point for everyone.

Looking ahead 5 to 10 years, a thriving and inclusive East Point under my leadership will be a city where opportunity, safety, and community pride are accessible to all residents. We will see a vibrant downtown with mixed-use developments like Downtown Commons—featuring thriving businesses, housing options, and welcoming public spaces where neighbors can connect and grow together.

Economic development will be thoughtfully balanced with preserving the dignity and legacy of long-time residents and seniors. Growth must benefit everyone—especially those who have called East Point home for decades—so they can live their remaining years with respect and comfort. To support this, I will advocate for increased tax relief and expanded home maintenance programs that help seniors and long-time homeowners preserve both their properties and quality of life.

Recognizing the critical need for community resources, I will prioritize establishing public swimming pools throughout East Point. Swimming is a vital life-saving skill, yet many communities—particularly Black residents—face disproportionate drowning risks due to lack of access. Providing safe and accessible swimming facilities will promote health, safety, and equity across our city.

Building and maintaining community trust will also remain central, with transparent government, responsive public safety rooted in engagement, and inclusive decision-making. By addressing historical inequities and ensuring equitable investment, we can guarantee that East Point’s progress uplifts every neighborhood and honors our shared heritage.

Together, we will create a safer, stronger, and more prosperous East Point—one that every resident is proud to call home.

East Point’s city government did well in leveraging key resources to drive economic growth and strengthen community engagement. The Camp Creek Marketplace Tax Allocation District (TAD) was one of the top-performing in Georgia and was often cited as the highest in revenue generation. This funding supported infrastructure improvements and revitalization projects that attracted new businesses and enhanced our city’s appeal.

The city’s vibrant festivals and community events also fostered a strong sense of community spirit and connection among residents, celebrating East Point’s culture and diversity while supporting local businesses and tourism.

Together, these efforts reflected the city’s commitment to economic development and to building a united, engaged community.

Thank you for the opportunity to share my vision and priorities for East Point. Meaningful community engagement and transparent leadership are essential to our city’s future. I am committed to being a councilmember who listens actively, leads with integrity, and collaborates across all sectors to ensure every resident’s voice is heard and valued.

East Point has incredible potential—a rich history, a diverse population, and untapped opportunities for growth. By working together with residents, businesses, and city leaders, we can build a safer, more prosperous, and inclusive community where everyone has the chance to thrive.

I look forward to the opportunity to serve—and to make a positive, lasting difference for all who call East Point home.