By Liz Bailey
The city of Buford’s newest City Commissioner (Post 3) is Bradley W. “Brad” Weeks. He is a lifelong resident of Buford and an active participant of the City and County’s public service roles. He also has a rich family history of public service in our area.
His great grandfather Harvey Beard served on the Buford City Council in the 1920’s. His great Uncle Duge Pruitt served as Gwinnett County Chairman during the 1960’s. His uncle, current Chairman for the City of Buford Phillip Beard, has served as City Commissioner for over 42 years. In fact, Brad Weeks counts these men as an important part of his inspiration to become involved in public service.
Weeks has held a position on the City of Buford Zoning Board of Appeals for the last five years and a seat on the Gwinnett County Housing Authority for the last six years. Mr. Weeks is a Real Estate Broker and Property Manager. With his history in Buford, he knows his territory well. He is a Buford High School graduate and played for the always-notable Buford Wolves football team. The renowned Coach Dexter Wood coached him. Brad Weeks completed his degree in Political Science — with emphasis on State and Local Government — from North Georgia College and State University. He is 36 years old and is married. His wife Shannon is a fourth grade teacher at Buford Academy. The couple attends the First Baptist Church of Buford. In his personal time Brad is an avid outdoorsman and likes to travel.
When asked what his immediate goals are for his new Commissioner position, Weeks said, “Buford has been doing great things and been very successful — my goal is to help maintain this successful path and look after what has been achieved.” He added, “In my time with the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Housing Authority, I developed an appreciation and enjoyment for helping the citizens of our area. I intend to do my best for the people of Buford.”
How does Weeks feel about filling the chair of long-serving Commissioner Mrs. Michael Y. Smith? Brad smiles and says, “Mrs. Smith was my seventh grade teacher. She’s a great person and has clearly done more than her share for Buford. I am honored to be on the Commission and will strive to meet and exceed the expectations Buford has for me.”
