Editor’s Note: Tucker residents will soon decide who will lead District 1 and District 2. District 1 incumbent Roger Orlando has public safety at the top of mind if he’s re-elected. District 2 incumbent Cara Schroeder sees increased safety and redevelopment as key issues to tackle for District 2. Her opponent Patrice Cosby said that voters have encouraged her to prioritize property tax relief if she is elected.
Rough Draft sent all District 1 and 2 candidates a list of three questions about their backgrounds and the topics that Tucker residents are most concerned about as they travel the campaign trail.
Below, Cara Schroeder, Patrice Cosby and Roger Orlando share their answers, which have been edited for length. District 1 candidate Karen Peters Rivers did not submit answers to our questions.
Reminder: Early voting ends at 7 p.m. Friday. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 4.
Cara Schroeder
Email: cara@carafortuckerga.com
Website: carafortuckerga.com/
1. What led you to run for office?
I first ran for City Council in 2021 to continue the positive momentum that has defined Tucker since incorporation and to help keep our city on track for the future. After living, working, and volunteering here for more than 25 years, I felt called to serve the community that has given so much to me and my family. When our first District 2 council member termed out, many neighbors encouraged me to run.
My service has always been community-driven. From leading park cleanups and organizing the city’s first Rivers Alive event to engaging residents on long-term projects, I have focused on teamwork and problem-solving.
During my first term, I helped guide the Public Works Referendum, advance key transportation projects, and support the Capital Improvement Plan. I also championed Safe Routes to School and proudly voted for the city’s nondiscrimination ordinance. Each of these efforts reflects my commitment to a safer, stronger, and more connected Tucker.
2. What concerns are you hearing most from Tucker residents right now?
The number one issue I hear about is public safety. Residents want to feel secure and confident that Tucker’s neighborhoods will remain welcoming and well cared for. The recent Tucker-Northlake CID public safety feasibility study has raised important questions about future options. I will continue working with DeKalb County Police and city leaders to review all findings carefully before any decisions are made.
Residents also ask about parks and recreation. Pickleball, Tucker Town Green, and the future of Johns Homestead Park are frequent topics. I am proud of how much our recreation programs have grown, serving hundreds of participants each quarter and helping make Tucker a healthier, more connected community.
Transportation and infrastructure are also key concerns. Projects like the Idlewood roundabouts and the Fellowship Road left-turn lane are improving safety and traffic flow.
Residents also have questions about how taxes work and how their dollars are spent. I believe all elected officials should understand and explain this process clearly.
As Tucker enters a new chapter with a new mayor, residents are focused on leadership, collaboration, diversity, and long-term planning, especially around redevelopment in the Northlake Mall area. I remain committed to leading with openness and accountability.
3. What are your plans for the campaign over the next few days?
The final weeks of this campaign are about connection. I plan to be present and engaged at community events across Tucker, listening to residents and continuing to show my commitment to those I serve.
I encourage everyone to make a plan to vote. Please take the time to cast your ballot and have your voice heard.
Patrice Cosby
Email: votepatrice@gmail.com
Website: https://votepatrice.wixsite.com/
1. What led you to run for office?
Tucker is more than just a city—it’s a community of families, small business owners, seniors, and dreamers. Every voice matters, and every neighborhood deserves leadership that listens, acts, and delivers results. I’m running for City Council because I believe in putting people first – always. My goal is to bring transparency, fairness, and accountability to city government while making sure decisions reflect what’s best for the people not special interests.
2. What concerns are you hearing most from Tucker residents right now?
The biggest concerns I hear are property taxes, development, and transparency. Residents want to understand where their tax dollars go, how growth will affect their neighborhoods, and how to keep Tucker’s unique character intact. I’m committed to pursuing property tax relief for working families and seniors, safer streets, and open communication between residents and city leaders.
3. What are your plans for the campaign over the next few days?
My focus is on continuing to connect directly with residents knocking on doors, attending community events, and listening to every concern and idea. This campaign is about people, not politics. Together, we can keep Tucker strong, thriving, and welcoming for generations to come. Every voice, every neighborhood Tucker strong!
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Roger Orlando
Email: roger@orlandofirm.com
Website: orlandofortucker.com
1. What led you to run for office?
Initially, I was recruited to run for this seat by a number of concerned citizens. Having built a successful personal injury trial practice, I could ensure the free time to devote quality time and effort into the position. Over the past four years, I have proven this to be correct. I still see my service as a District 1 council man as a labor of community service and a manner in which to give back to my community for the many blessings in my life.
2. What concerns are you hearing most from Tucker residents right now?
I cannot count the number of questions and inquiries. I have received over the past four years as a Tucker city councilman. These have given me a vast opportunity to meet neighbors, constituents, and new friends across the city. The more salient issues which have a risen recently concern, public safety, sports within the parks and recreation facilities, public information and transparency and a continued eye to maintain reasonable and affordable property taxes.
3. What are your plans for the campaign over the next few days?
I am blessed to have so many supporters across the district and city that have hosted meet and greets and I have more coming up. I am always anxious to discuss current issues with members of the public and to show off the city that Tucker continuously is becoming. I made myself available to anyone who wishes to have a discussion with me or to meet me such that they can be assured that they can vote in good conscience and with the knowledge that between us we are making a difference in the Tucker experience, both for residents and visitors alike.