ROSSVILLE MAYOR
Two candidates are running in a heated race for mayor of Rossville. Bill Eaves is the former fire chief for the city of Rossville, and Teddy Harris is a current Rossville City Council member.
Bill Eaves
How long have you lived in Rossville? all my life
Occupation: retired fire chief for the city of Rossville
Highest level of education: Rossville High School class of 1960. Attended the University of Chattanooga and completed courses in government and code enforcement at other colleges.
Military service:
Clubs/organizations (including churches) and any offices held: My wife and I are members of the First Centenary United Methodist Church, where we work in the television ministry.
Professional / business experience: Served as the fire chief for the City of Rossville for 15 years, retiring in 2007 with credit for more than 30 years of volunteer and salaried time. During the time I was fire chief, the city went from a Class V rating to a Class IV rating, lacking only 2.54 points from receiving a Class III fire rating. Lower fire ratings resulted in lower insurance premiums for the citizens of Rossville. In addition to serving as fire chief, I operated Southeast Fire and Safety Supply, Inc., located on East Lake Ave. in Rossville, for 25 years. I also attended the National Fire Academy in Emmetsburg, Maryland – a program which taught ways to help businesses recovery after a disaster – and served as a task force leader in Savannah, Georgia during the G-8 Conference in June of 2004.
Family and pets: wife of 43 years, Martha Cole Eaves.
Additional comment(s): I feel that my years of experience in business, working for the city and with different mayors, and my background in public safety and leadership will serve me well in being mayor of Rossville. I have profound concern and optimism that the city of Rossville can be revitalized and pledge to work toward that goal.
How can voters contact you? email: eaves180@yahoo.com
Teddy Harris
How long have you lived in Rossville? 45+ years
Occupation: self-employed at family furniture business
Highest level of education: Rossville High School class of 1981
Clubs/organizations (including churches) and any offices held: board member of the Rossville Downtown Development Authority, board member of Southern Cross Ministries, chairman of the Georgia Citizens Advisory Committee for Long Range Transportation with the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Regional Planning Agency, member of the Rossville High School Alumni Association, member of the Rossville Lion’s Club and trustee for Elizabeth Terrace Baptist Church
What are your goals for the office you are seeking, other than “serving the public”? 1.) Plan for quality growth. Be forward-thinking. 2.) Keep the current Rossville Downtown Development Authority in place. Work to secure a revenue stream for the DDA. 3.) Continue to use and update technology assets in the recruiting of businesses and organizations. 4.) Focus on current businesses while reaching out to recruit new businesses from the technology sector. 5.) Continue to work closely with the economic development department of the Walker County government. 6.) Continue to work closely with our elected state officials.
What potential obstacles do you foresee for achieving those goals? The current economic climate is the biggest obstacle now facing our city.
About what issue(s) would you most like to inform voters? That we currently have a Downtown Development A uthority in place with volunteers that are ready to change our city. Over 40 people and businesses are involved with our DDA. This election will decide the course of our city for the next 10 years. The DDA will either lead in the city's revitalization or the city will stagnate.
What issue do you see as most pressing or important to Rossville at the moment? Recruiting businesses and revitalizing our downtown.
Other than the above, which are the next top three issues or causes which you will prioritize if elected to office? Lowering property taxes, removing the water administration fee and working to correct storm water infiltration into our sewer.
Favorite author(s) / book(s): Bible, history, biographies, political biographies, Isaac Asimov, science books, non-fiction spy stories, modern Jewish history, JRR Tolkien books, science fiction, political non-fiction, investment.
Favorite movie(s): The Patriot
Hobbies: technology, computers, science, history, politics, NASCAR, traveling, visiting historical sites, visiting museums, investing
Family and pets: married to Karen Klemann Harris, son Benjamin Harris
ROSSVILLE CITY COUNCIL
Current Rossville mayor Johnny Baker is stepping down from his post to run for a less demanding position as city council member. He is running against three other candidates, Cindy Bradshaw, Jessee Harrell and Charles Wilson, none of whom are incumbents, and none of whom were able to be reached for our questionnaire.
LAFAYETTE CITY COUNCIL
Three seats are being contested this election for the LaFayette City Council. Wards 3 and 4, currently occupied by Bill Craig and Eric Tallent, respectively, are running as a general election, while Ward 2, more recently vacated by Norm Hodge’s resignation, is listed as a special election, though it will be featured on the same ballot as the general election. The council member at-large race is running incumbent Wayne Swanson unopposed. Ward 2 candidate Keith Talley and Ward 3 candidates Chris Hollis and Jerry Rogers did not respond to our questionnaire.
WARD 2 Ben Bradford
How long have you lived in LaFayette? I have lived in Walker County my entire life. I grew up in Kensington and graduated from LaFayette High School. I have lived inside the city limits for almost 10 years.
Occupation: assistant public defender with the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit
Highest level of education: I graduated from LaFayette High School in 1997. I received a bachelor of science in Chemistry with a minor in mathematics from the University of the Cumberlands in Williamsburg, Kentucky, in 2002. In 2010, I graduated cum laude from Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School and began the practice of law.
Military service: none
Clubs / organizations (including churches) and any offices held: I am a member of Naomi Baptist Church, where I have attended with my family since 2002. I am also a member of the Georgia Bar Association and the Georgia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.
Professional / business experience: I was a high school science teacher for eight and a half years. I am currently a criminal defense attorney at the Office of the Public Defender in LaFayette.
Current / past political offices: none
What are your goals for the office you are seeking, other than “serving the public”? I attended school in LaFayette from kindergarten until graduation. All of my childhood friends are from LaFayette. This city is where I have chosen to raise my family and make my home. Now, I want a chance to be a part of helping the city that has given me so much over the years. The world is ever-changing, and I want to see LaFayette change in positive ways without losing its unique personality. We can do this by first taking care of what we already have and then by making responsible decisions about our growth.
What potential obstacles do you foresee for achieving those goals?: The most glaring problem in the near-foreseeable future is the economy. People are struggling with money issues in our city and throughout our nation. People want their government to spend responsibly. Now, more than ever, the council must be creative to solve our problems without making irresponsible spending decisions.
About what issue(s) would you most like to inform voters? Much of what makes LaFayette unique and gives our city character is found in and around our downtown area - such as the square, our historic courthouse, the depot, and Joe Stock Park. With major commercial centers, like Wal-Mart, located much further north, and with the High School on the other side of the bypass, many people in the surrounding community are not visiting the heart of our town. On two different occassions, delivery trucks heading for my home have passed by LaFayette on the bypass and not realized it until they saw the Trion City Limits sign.
We can attack this problem by starting as simply as funding some well-placed signs along the bypass to advertise what our city has to offer. In the long-term, I would like to see a focus on buildings that will give people a reason to drive downtown again - such as renovating the old high school stadium and turning it into a venue that can be enjoyed by the community as a whole on a regular basis.
What issue do you see as most pressing or important to LaFayette at the moment? The most glaring problem is the need for more jobs. The city needs to do everything in its power to make the now-empty BlueBird building as attractive as possible to potential businesses - from being open to changing zoning policies to potential tax-incentives.
Also, there are things we should do to help our current businesses keep their doors open. There are a lot of local businesses that are owned by city and county residents, and they represent the “little man” that built our nation. Along with our desire to bring in larger industries, we need to make sure that we nurture and not neglect the small businesses that have contributed to our community for so long.
Other than the above, which are the next top three issues or causes which you will prioritize if elected to office? People are continually asking me about our roads and sidewalks. I believe that the city has already taken a few good steps to improve the look of our streets around the courthouse. I hope that this will branch out from there into the rest of the city.
Our Recreation department already provides so many things for our children - all of the traditional sports, parks, playgrounds. It would be nice to see more family activities that would get people out of their homes. I would like to see things such as a place to ride bikes, perhaps a lawn for showing outdoor movies, and a venue for local bands and performers. These could all be explored by taking a second look at the old football stadium.
Our depot area along the railroad tracks has a lot of history and character. It is also neglected and in poor condition. I would like to examine what the city can do to rejuvenate an area of town that could see a lot of foot-traffic from residents in west LaFayette.
Once again, these and other issues would have to be attacked with a mind to our limited budget and duty to spend tax money wisely.
What is your philosophy or words to live by, if any? All we can do is make responsible decisions, stand by our word, and trust that God will handle the future. When I am weary of responsibility I read “Stopping By Woods on a Snowy Evening” by Robert Frost, and when I am worried about tomorrow, I am encouraged by Romans 8:28, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him...”
Favorite author(s) / book(s): I am a huge fan of the Wheel of Time series by Robert Jordan.
Favorite movie(s): original Star Wars trilogy
Favorite quote: “A ship does not sail with yesterday’s wind.” - Louis L’Amour, The Walking Drum
Hobbies: Reading, hunting, and anything my children are involved with - including coaching little league baseball at the LaFayette Recreation Department
Family and pets: My wife, Lindsay, and I have been married for 10 years. We have three little boys named Ryan, Jesse, and Max. We also have a brittany spaniel named Button.
How can voters contact you? my number is in the phone book, my email address is bbradford31@gmail.com, and you can friend me on Facebook.
Dell Montgomery
How long have you lived in LaFayette? 39 years
Occupation: store manager at Sonic Drive In
Highest level of education: graduated from LaFayette High School, some tech school experience
Military service: none
Clubs / organizations (including churches) and any offices held: Member of First United Methodist Church and a member of Elks Lodge of LaFayette.
Professional / business experience: I have been a manager for 20+ year in fast food, retails stores, and rent-to-own.
Current / past political offices: none
What are your goals for the office you are seeking, other than “serving the public”? For everyone to come together as a team and help the city grow. We need to get our youth something to do in our city.
What potential obstacles do you foresee for achieving those goals? Money will be the problem for the most part.
About what issue(s) would you most like to inform voters? The youth not having anything to do and the road in our city are bad.
What issue do you see as most pressing or important to LaFayette at the moment? Getting revenue for the city so we can take care of these issues.
Other than the above, which are the next top three issues or causes which you will prioritize if elected to office? Getting roads fixed, getting something for youth, and try to bring in new businesses for more jobs.
What is your philosophy or words to live by, if any? Do unto others as you will have then do unto you.
Hobbies: volleyball, golf, and hanging out with family
Family and pets: married for 18 years and have 2 daughters and 1 son
How can voters contact you? Email: dellmonty1972@hotmail.com, Dell4council@gmail.com
WARD 3 Judy Meeks
How long have you lived in LaFayette? 42 years
Occupation: Retired from Mount Vernon Mills
Highest level of education: high school
Military service: none
Clubs / organizations (including churches) and any offices held: Past member of the LaFayette Historic Preservation Committee. Marsh House volunteer. Baptist by faith.
Professional / business experience: Completed the University of Georgia leadership development training program for council members and mayor. Have been in a management position at Mount Vernon mills for the past 35 years.
Current / past political offices: Was a member of the LaFayette City Council from 2003-2007.
What are your goals for the office you are seeking, other than “serving the public”? 1). My goal is to hold local government accountable for its spending, cut out wasteful spending. 2). To improve the road and sidewalk conditions. 3). Help gain new businesses in our city and help local business to thrive and stay in business.
What potential obstacles do you foresee for achieving those goals? 1). Work with the Mayor and council to ensure that tax payer money is placed where it can do our city the most good. 2). Road conditions around our city are poor to say the least, we need to secure the funding to repair our roads and sidewalks through grants or other means. 3). As a council member I plan to offer our current small businesses and our new businesses an incentive of low tax ates and lower utilities rates.
About what issue(s) would you most like to inform voters? Wasteful spending and infrastructure improvements
What issue do you see as most pressing or important to LaFayette at the moment? Sidewalk and street improvements.
Other than the above, which are the next top three issues or causes which you will prioritize if elected to office? 1). Better communications between the people and the council. 2). Keeping people better informed of what is going on. 3). Take pride in keeping the appearance of our city.
What is your philosophy or words to live by, if any? I want to see LaFayette bounce back not only for our generation but for my children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren as well. A city we can all be proud to say we live here.
Favorite author(s) / book(s): The Bible and Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren
Favorite movie(s): Titanic
Favorite quote: “Focused on the Future”
Hobbies: traveling and grandchildren
Family and pets: husband Wallace Meeks, sons and daughter-in-laws Wally & Myrtle Meeks, Stacey and Jennifer. Four grandchildren and one great-grandson. Pet dog Bella.
How can voters contact you? Home phone: 706-638-4844, Cell phone: 423-667-4319, Email: judymeeks1@windstream.net
Stacey Suttle
How long have you lived in LaFayette? I have lived the majority of my life in LaFayette, but I have lived in Atlanta and Opelika, AL for over 20 years together.
Occupation: General population counselor at Hays State Prison
Highest level of education: LaFayette High School class of 1980, B.S. in Marketing and a minor in Management from Jacksonville State University class of 1984.
Military service: none
Clubs / organizations (including churches) and any offices held: current member at New Bethel Christian Fellowship, Happy Home Baptist Church
Professional / business experience: assistant manager at K-Mart, driver and supervisor with UPS, management consultant with DeWolf, Boberg and Associates, quality control analyst with InterCal, office manager with Suttle and Associates law firm, substance abuse counselor at Walker State Prison, counselor at Hays State Prison, DUI instructor
Current / past political offices: None
What are your goals for the office you are seeking, other than “serving the public”?
One particular goal if I’m elected is to research opportunites and be proactive in providing growth to the city of LaFayette. I believe the city is bursting with opportunities for business to come in. Promoting LaFayette with advertising and showing other companies/businesses that our city is eager for job opportunities and challenges can help us to move forward and grow.
Another major goal is to reach out for a grant writer. I believe opportunites have been missed here in LaFayette due to the lack of a grant writer. The city needs someone that can identify, define and develop funding sources to support existing and planned programs. I want to have all the necessary tools available and seek the best possible solutions to see the city move forward.
If elected as a city councilman for LaFayette, one of my first priorities would be to work with our city manager and the mayor to see what opportunities we as the city of LaFayette can offer to other businesses/companies in incentives to come to LaFayette, such as reducting taxes and/or utilities in exchange for employment for the citizens of LaFayette and the surrounding areas. LaFayette has several facilities such as the Blue Bird plant and many other vacant buildings that can be explored for business opportunities.
Another area of concern is the city’s roads and drainage problems. Improvement has been made, but there is still much to be done.
I’ve also noticed for a long time that our youth has absolutely nothing to do; with the exception of the skating rink going toward Naomi, there is nothing else for the youth to do. I’d like to bring in some other entertainment for our youth and senior citizens, such as a movie theatre and/or a bowling alley. Let’s think about opportunities and ways to spend our money in LaFayette instead of going out of town for entertainment.
Speaking of youth, I have gone to our local recreations facilities and found them all closed except municipal. You have the Max Stoker and Lowell Green centers that need to be open. These facilities were made for our youth to excel in various forms and develop skills. We should do everything in our power to make sure these facilities are open and available. Kids develop skills at an early age. As a matter of fact, I developed some of my own skills during my youth at the recreational department. Learning how to play ping pong, basketball and shotting pool without any instructors. Thes types of skills I’ll never forget and I’m proud to have learned them at an early age. Thse facilitiesa re valuable tools that will help our children develop mentally and physically.
I would also take a look at our recycling program. I would promote recycling to the fullest extent. The environment is one of our most important resources and we have to do all we can to help others understand its value to our society.
Take a look at restoring the old LaFayette High School football field to a functioning stadium for entertainment and other outdoor functions.
LaFayette Enrichment Center – a place for youth and elderly to better enhance their learning and other studies and activities.
One additional goal is to have town hall meetings with concerned citizens, business and neighborhood groups. This will allow me an opportunity to address concerns directly and for citizens to express their desires first hand.
What potential obstacles do you foresee for achieving those goals? The first obstacle I foresee is funding. I know that this is everybody’s concern. We’ll have to take a look to see if funding already exists or where we can cut waste and possibly shift funds that promote and enhance our city to its fullest extent. I will be trying to make relevance to the importance of giving companies incentives to bring their business to LaFayette.
About what issue(s) would you most like to inform voters? The most important fact about all things is simple – if we stay the same, nothing will change. My question to the LaFayette citizens is this: Are you content and satisfied now? We can continue on the same path we are in and stand by and watch our surrounding cities and communities grow, or we can open up the doors of opportunities and “Promote LaFayette and let it grow” and invite potential growth. Do you want more of the same or the possibility for growth, more employment, more entertainment and more fun? Do you want to have opportunities for our youth and provide them a chance to develop their own skills? The choice is yours.
What issue do you see as most pressing or important to LaFayette at the moment? There are three. 1). Employment. We recently had a major employer leave the city of LaFayette. We want to be open-minded and increase opportunities for employment, not diminish them. 2). Youth development. We need to open recreational centers, so that they can develop the necessary youth skills needed for success. 3). Entertainment. Have fun in LaFayette versus going to Ft. Oglethorpe, Rossville or Chattanooga.
Other than the above, which are the next top three issues or causes which you will prioritize if elected to office? 1). “Promote LaFayette and let it grow.” 2). Making sure that the elderly are taken care of in their later years in life. 3). Enrichment center for LaFayette.
What is your philosophy or words to live by, if any? “Where there is a will, there’s a way.”
Favorite author(s) / book(s): The Power of the Subconscious Mind, by Joseph Murphy; Rich Dad, Poor Dad, by Robert T. Kiyosaki
Favorite movie(s): A Soldier’s Story
Favorite quote: “You’ve got to be tough.”
Hobbies: reading, playing chess, playing golf, and watching movies.
Family and pets: two teenage children, Saxon and Shantis, ages 18 and 16.
How can voters contact you? Email: stsuttle@yahoo.com
WARD 4
Five candidates are running for the LaFayette City Council Ward 4 seat currently occupied by Eric Tallent.
Melvin Bridges
How long have you lived in LaFayette? 55 years
Occupation: Current pastor of the Gospel Light Christian Fellowship Church in LaFayette.
Highest level of education: One year at Ringgold High School, GED, some technical college
Military service: Served in the Army Reserves National Guard
Professional / business experience: Retired from 22 years of service as a bus driver with the Walker County Board of Education;
Current / past political offices: Former mayor of Linwood for one term – ran on campaign to get proper sewers in Linwood, obtained that goal with grants and a very small budget. Served on LaFayette city council for 3 terms after Linwood incorporation (from 1995 to 2007). Also served on the Regional Development Commission in Rome for 3 terms and was the council’s liason for Barwick airport for 12 years.
What are your goals for the office you are seeking, other than “serving the public”? There’s going to be a lot of changes because of the new city manager and three new councilmen, so I would like to get on there and try to get some things done and try to get the city back stable again. It’s needing some help.
What issue do you see as most pressing or important to LaFayette at the moment? Get the city back stable, get the people talking about the city to where they would be proud of our city and not be down on it and all that. When I was on there we had a good council and we all worked together and we accomplished a lot.
Other than the above, which are the next top three issues or causes which you will prioritize if elected to office? Get some plants in and get some businesses in and get some of these doors that are closed opened up and see if we can get things more stable and get these businesses more stable. I would like to see something go in down at Bluebird.
Favorite quote: “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice, but when the wicked are in authority, the people mourn.”
Family and pets: Married 57 years with three children, several grandchildren and one Yorkie.
How can voters contact you? Home phone: (706) 638-3265 Mailing address: PO Box 793 LaFayette, GA 30728
Chris Davis
How long have you lived in LaFayette? 36 years
Occupation: Realtor
Highest level of education: Graduated Lafayette High School 1993
Military service: None
Clubs / organizations (including churches) and any offices held: President for two years of the Northwest Georgia Council of Realtors, Board of Directors of the Greater Chattanooga Association of Realtors, Board of Directors of the Walker County Chamber of Commerce.
Professional / business experience: Worked as grocery manager and assistant manager for Food Lion in the 1990’s; was the area manager for Realty Center GMAC until it was sold to Prudential, then opened my own RE/MAX Real Estate company in 2007.
Current / past political offices: None
What are your goals for the office you are seeking, other than “serving the public”? To help improve our streets and to make sure the people’s money is spent in the direction that is needed.
What potential obstacles do you foresee for achieving those goals? Money being available for the streets at the present time.
About what issue(s) would you most like to inform voters? About where their money is spent and why.
What issue do you see as most pressing or important to LaFayette at the moment? Its city streets.
Other than the above, which are the next top three issues or causes which you will prioritize if elected to office? Working with a new city manger to look over the entire budget and make sure it is accurate and what is best for the people of the city; in addition to have a better working relationship with our county.
Hobbies: Boating, hunting, snow skiing
Family and pets: Wife Dana and 3 year old son Avery.
How can voters contact you? Email: nwgarealtors@yahoo.com
Daniel DeBord
How long have you lived in LaFayette? 40 years, all my life.
Occupation: Fire Protection Engineering and Sales at ASA Fire Protection out of Cartersville, GA.
Highest level of education: Graduated LaFayete High in 1989. In 2008 I attained a level III engineering certification in fire protection engineering technology automatic sprinkler system layout from the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies.
Military service: None
Clubs / organizations (including churches) and any offices held: Member of the LaFayette Elks Lodge for 6 Years.
Professional / business experience: I have served as the project manager for fire sprinkler protection in many multi-million dollar construction projects throughout the south, power plants, hospitals, sporting venues, automobile manufacturing plants, hotels and casinos.
Current / past political offices: None
What are your goals for the office you are seeking, other than “serving the public”? I would like to see that the voters in the city of LaFayette get what they vote for and that voters are represented in the way they deserve.
What potential obstacles do you foresee for achieving those goals? Convincing others in politics to spend the city revenue in a smarter manner where all the citizens of LaFayette can benefit.
About what issue(s) would you most like to inform voters? We need to improve roads and we need to clean up and beautify this great city.
What issue do you see as most pressing or important to LaFayette at the moment? We need to get rid of big city politics and get back to small town values.
Other than the above, which are the next top three issues or causes which you will prioritize if elected to office? We need to use any means necessary to bring new jobs to the city of LaFayette and make sure we keep the employers that we currently have.
What is your philosophy or words to live by, if any? Measure twice and cut once! (Do the job right the first time.)
Favorite author(s) / book(s): Where the Red Fern Grows, by Wilson Rawls
Favorite movie(s): Smokey and the Bandit (the first one)
Favorite quote: “If you aint first, you’re last!” (Will Ferrell as Ricky Bobby in the film Talladega Nights)
Hobbies: Riding my Harley-Davidson, fishing and hunting
Family and pets: Daughter Karlie DeBoard, a junior at LaFayette High School and parents Ross and Connie DeBoard, both of whom were born, lived and retired in LaFayette.
How can voters contact you? Email: danieldeboard@comcast.net
Donnie McGaha
How long have you lived in LaFayette? 55 years
Occupation: Retired from Blue Bird North Georgia.
Highest level of education: LaFayette High School class of 1969, two year degree from Walker Technical School class of 1971
Military service: None
Clubs / organizations (including churches) and any offices held: Was involved with the Historical Committee for two years
Professional / business experience: Two years as a supervisor with E.T. Barwick Carpet Company, six years as a superintendent of dyeing at Sweetwater Carpet in Ringgold and now retired after working up through Blue Bird from a hyster driver to a supervisor and then a buyer/planner for six years. In this last job I managed 75 vendors that accounted to millions of dollars of inventory.
Current / past political offices: None
What are your goals for the office you are seeking, other than “serving the public”? To promote new industry and business for our area. To have imput to help direct our dollar for the good of the community at large.
What potential obstacles do you foresee for achieving those goals? The biggest obstacle will be decreased revenue in the near future.
About what issue(s) would you most like to inform voters? Our roads are in terrible shape. We need to have a general clean-up for our city streets as well, and we need to do something about the burned-out buildings and properties that have been neglected by their owners.
What issue do you see as most pressing or important to LaFayette at the moment? Job growth has to be the big issue as well as diversification of our job base.
Other than the above, which are the next top three issues or causes which you will prioritize if elected to office? More recreation opportunities for the young people. A general accounting of city employees and their jobs so we can get the best bang for the city bucks!
What is your philosophy or words to live by, if any? Live, love and be happy.
Favorite author(s) / book(s): Stephen King
Favorite movie(s): Avatar
Favorite quote: “Don’t worry, be happy.”
Hobbies: gardening
Family and pets: my dog, UGA.
How can voters contact you? Phone: (423) 413-3544
Kevin Robinson
How long have you lived in LaFayette? 21 years
Occupation: Network Analyst
Highest level of education: high school diploma and some college
Military service: None
Clubs / organizations (including churches) and any offices held: member of Life Gate Church for 21 years and Elder, youth leader and life group leader
Professional / business experience: Have been general manager of a number of fast food stores in the area. Have had up to 50 people under me with over 1 million in sales.
Current / past political offices: None
What are your goals for the office you are seeking, other than “serving the public”? First and hardest will be to create jobs in this area. I would also prioritize being open and honest to the people, and spending the citizens money as if it was my own.
What potential obstacles do you foresee for achieving those goals? Getting people to see the big picture.
About what issue(s) would you most like to inform voters? That the council will be open and honest and answer every question.
What issue do you see as most pressing or important to LaFayette at the moment? Getting manufactures to relocate to LaFayette.
Other than the above, which are the next top three issues or causes which you will prioritize if elected to office? creating jobs, fixing roads and lowering taxes/fees
What is your philosophy or words to live by, if any? I try to live by the Golden Rule: one should treat others as one would like others to treat oneself.
Favorite author(s) / book(s): The Bible, Quitter by Jon Acuff, Son Stand Still by Steven Furtick, and Decision Points by George W Bush.
Favorite movie(s): 300, The Patriot
Favorite quote: “You can never go wrong doing the right thing. NEVER!” – author unknown.
Hobbies: computers and electronics, coins, reading
Family and pets: Married to Gailynn Robinson for 29 years; 5 children and 2 grandchildren, one dog Layla, one cat Dilyla and a goldfish.
How can voters contact you? Home phone: 706-638-9668, Email: kevin@robinsonbytes.com
CHICKAMAUGA CITY COUNCIL
The Chickamauga city council race is running three candidates, two of whom are incumbents, plus Al Graham. Daymon Garrett is a current council member and head of the water and sewer department; likewise Robert Robertson is a current council member and the head of the office of finance and recreation. Neither incumbent responded to our questionnaire.
Al Graham
How long have you lived in Chickamauga? 28 years
Occupation: Retired
Highest level of education: Gordon Lee High School, Walker County Technical School, Chattanooga State Technical School
Military service: none
Clubs / organizations (including churches) and any offices held: I have been involved in civic service starting in early 1990’s with Chickamauga Recreation Association as girl’s softball commissioner and coach for several years. I was a member of Chickamauga Lions Club for 10 years where I served as President and Treasurer. Beginning 2000 until 2010, I served as member of the Chickamauga Planning Commission, the last 3 years as chairman. Charter member and first vice president of the Friends of the Gordon Lee Mansion.
Current / past professional/business experience: Chattanooga Glass Company – manager: data processing; Provident Life and Accident/Unum – systems programmer and network engineer
Current / past political offices: none
What are your goals for the office you are seeking, other than “serving the public”? Recently, two friends were speaking about Chickamauga, one stated that they wanted to move to Chickamauga, the other asked why. The reply was “if you have to ask why I want to live in Chickamauga, you have never been there”. That pretty well sums up how I feel about our city. We have a beautiful, historic town, full of character, where it is safe to walk down the street and meet your friends and neighbors. It was a great place to raise my own children and I want to help keep it great for current and future generations.
How can voters contact you? email: algraham@comcast.net
CHICKAMAUGA CITY SCHOOLS
The Chickamauga City School Board is running three candidates, two of whom are school board incumbents. David Askew is a current member, while Grant Parrish currently serves as vice chairman of the board. Jim Powell was a member of the Chickamauga School Board from 1998 to 2004 and currently serves as the office manager and zoning administrator for the city of Chickamauga.
David Askew
How long have you lived in Chickamauga? 42 years
Clubs/organizations (including churches) and any offices held: I was a member of the Gordon Lee Memorial Alumni Association for six years and served as the vice president and president. I was also the chairman of the annual alumni golf tournament for five years. This tournament is the primary fund raiser for the alumni association. I’ve been a member of Elizabeth Lee United Methodist Church for the past sixteen years. I’ve served as the past chairman of the van committee for several years and have assisted with the distribution of Angel Food boxes, various fund raisers and children and youth activities.
Professional / business experience: I’ve been employed with Propex Holding Company, LLC, of Chattanooga (previously Synthetic Industries, Inc.) for the past sixteen years. While employed with Propex, I’ve worked in several positions at the Chickamauga and Chattanooga locations. Currently, I serve as the customer care team leader across all of our international and domestic divisions which include Geosolutions, Fibermesh and Furnishings. I also own a small rental property business in Chickamauga.
Current / past political offices: I was appointed to the Chickamauga School Board in August 2011.
What are your goals for the office you are seeking, other than “serving the public”? My primary goal is to ensure a quality education for the students in the Chickamauga City School System. I also want to work with the faculty and staff to ensure they have the resources they need. We have a very experienced school board and my appointment in August of this year has given me the perfect opportunity to learn from and work with our current board.
Family and pets: I’m a 1986 graduate of Gordon Lee, my wife Melinda is a 1988 graduate and my son Penn is currently in the second grade at Chickamauga Elementary School
Additional comment(s): Several people have asked why I feel that I am a good candidate for this position. Although I do not have a background in education, I have a genuine love for our school system. My profession requires that I resolve issues with customers every day, so I have significant experience just working with people. I’m a fair and honest person which I feel are a few of the more important qualities of a school board member. I know a considerable number of faculty, staff and students and the families that they represent. I want to be an advocate for them and make a difference! Since being appointed to the Board in August of this year I have gained a good rapport with several of the current members of the Board and feel that we have a very good working relationship. I look forward to the challenge and would appreciate Chickamauga’s support and vote.
How can voters contact you? via email: votefordavid@comcast.net, phone: (706) 375-8502, or Facebook
Grant Parrish
How long have you lived in Chickamauga? 32 years
Occupation: sr. Manufacturing Engineer
Highest level of education: Gordon Lee High School; Technical Degree in Electronics, Dalton College
Military service: Air Force / 4 Years (1966 – 1970), Honorably discharged
Clubs / organizations (including churches) and any offices held: Served as president of Pine Forest Pool in Chickamauga for 9 years; attend Elizabeth Lee United Methodist Church, where I served on finance committees, out reach committee and church council
Professional / business experience: I have held several supervisor and management positions during my career: general foreman of maintenance and facilities, supervisor of facilities engineering, plant modernization team member and, currently, senior manufacturing engineer. Each of these positions requires establishing budgets, managing costs and working with all departments to meet production objectives.
Current / past political offices: Chickamauga City School Board
What are your goals for the office you are seeking, other than “serving the public”? Continue working with our board, superintendent and administrator to meet our strategic goals for the system and to continue working as a team member for educational improvements. During my last re-election campaign in 2007 the paper quoted me on the following that continues to hold for me: “...continue to improve the state ranking and strive for continuous education improvement for each student and school. The superintendent, principals, teachers and board are a team working together to provide a safe environment to learn and provide the best education possible for the students. Other goals include our system’s strategic plan which is based on two categories: higher student achievement and efficient facility operations.”
What potential obstacles do you foresee for achieving those goals? As the economy continues to slow everything down, the state requires more local funding than ever before in the past.
About what issue(s) would you most like to inform voters? I would like to thank the voters of Chickamauga for continuing the SPLOST. The SPLOST money allows the Board and Superintendent to continue improving the facilities and upgrading our buildings.
What issue do you see as most pressing or important to Chickamauga at the moment? State budget cuts that will affect our educational goals.
Other than the above, which are the next top three issues or causeswhich you will prioritize if elected to office? Graduation Rate, AYP ( Adequate Yearly Progress), NCLB (No Child Left Behind)
What is your philosophy or words to live by, if any? Help others to achieve their goals
Hobbies: Golf, attending sports games and enjoy being with the family.
Family and pets: I am married to Wanda Wallace Parrish. We have two daughters, Stacey Blaylock and Rhonda “Roni” Willerson. We have six grandchildren: Grant, Hannah, Maribeth, Grace, Will and Kate. One attends Gordon Lee Middle, three attend Chickamauga Elementary and two are future Trojans.
How can voters contact you? Phone: (706) 375-2593
Jim Powell
How long have you lived in Chickamauga? born in Chickamauga, lived here 62 years, which is most of my life
Occupation: City of Chickamauga Office Manager & Zoning Administrator
Highest level of education 1965 graduate of Gordon Lee High School, attended Prince Georges Community College, 1967 graduate of Walker Technical School
Military service: none
Clubs / organizations (including churches) and any offices held: past president of the Chickamauga Elementary & Middle School PTSA, past president of the Gordon Lee Alumni Association, past chairman of the Chickamauga Planning Committee, past officer of Gordon Lee Band Boosters, Member of Kensington Church of God, Member of Sons of Confederate Veterans – Pvt. John Ingraham Camp.
Professional / business experience: voucher statistician for Federal Bureau of Investigation, I.T. & accounting manager for Crystal Springs Print Works, past member & chairman of the Chickamauga Planning Commission, current office manager & zoning administrator for the city of Chickamauga, current member of the city of Chickamauga Malt Beverage Board
Current / past political offices: Member of the Chickamauga School Board from 1998 – 2004
What are your goals for the office you are seeking, other than “serving
the public”? My goal is to be a voice of “fiscal responsibility” for the taxpayers of Chickamauga, and to see that every tax dollar is spent to provide the best education possible for our students.
What potential obstacles do you foresee for achieving those goals? I think that we must stay focused on the fact that we have a responsibility to our students to see that they a provided the best education possible, while being ever aware of the serious financial hardships that many are going through.
About what issue(s) would you most like to inform voters? I think as elected board members, that we must weigh the needs of our students against the severe economic conditions.
What issue do you see as most pressing or important to Chickamauga at the moment? Ensuring that our students are receiving the best education possible, and making sure that no student is left by the wayside.
Other than the above, which are the next top three issues or causes which you will prioritize if elected to office? keeping the Chickamauga School System at the top of the educational ladder, ensuring that students from all economic backgrounds are given equal opportunities, and making sure that property taxes are only raised as a last resort
What is your philosophy or words to live by, if any? To treat everyone as I would like to be treated.
Favorite author(s) / book(s): favorite author: Mark Twain, favorite book: the Bible
Favorite movie(s): Gone With The Wind
Favorite quote: “To thine own self be true”
Hobbies: my 9 grandchildren
Family and pets: Married to Dellaphyne L. Powell; 3 grown children: James Dale Powell, Charles Andrew Powell, and Lori Elizabeth Salmon; 9 grandchildren: Cynthia, Cortlan, Braxton, Conner, Parker, & Brooklyn Salmon, Madisyne, Douglas, & Lucas Powell; mother: Florence Powell.
How can voters contact you? Email: jwpiww@yahoo.com
LOOKOUT MOUNTAIN CITY COUNCIL
Lookout Mountain is running three new candidates for vacant city council seats. James Campbell and Jim Sabourin are new to the political atmosphere, while Taylor Watson currently serves as the vice chairman of the municipal planning commission for the city of Lookout Mountain.
James Campbell
How long have you lived in Lookout Mountain? Over 50 years
Occupation: Retired
Highest level of education: College degree
Military service: None
Clubs/organizations (including churches) and any offices held: I am a member of the Church of the Good Shepherd and a former member of the Rotary Club of Chattanooga and Goodwill Industries International, where I served as a board member and chairman.
Professional / business experience: 25 years as the executive vice president of Arcade Painting Co., the inventors of Scentstrip.
Current / past political offices: none
What are your goals for the office you are seeking, other than “serving the public”? 1). Identify waste in the budget and save a minimum of $50,000. 2). Use reserve funds to purchase modern and efficient equipment to provide our services at a lower cost. 3). Create a recycling program for all brush, grass and leaves
What potential obstacles do you foresee for achieving these goals? Voter apathy
About what issue(s) would you most like to inform voters? Our sewer and the problems with it, and the need to balance the budget.
What issue do you see as most pressing or important to Lookout Mountain at the moment? Solving our sewer issues and the creation of a sewer board and turning the operations over to them.
Other than the above, which are the next top three issues or causes which you will prioritize if elected to office? 1). Selecting a new police chief 2). Better cost control and management 3). Developing a long-range plan
What is your philosophy or words to live by, if any? You learn a lot more by listening than talking.
Favorite authors/books: Ken Follett
Favorite movies: Any old Alfred Hitchcock movies
Favorite quote: “Don’t get the hay up so high that the jackasses can’t reach it.”
Hobbies: Gardening, cooking
Family and pets: Three children, five grandchildren, four rescue dogs and one very significant lady friend.
How can voters contact you? Cell: (423) 903-4522 Email: jimmy@clelandtrau.com
James William (Jim) Sabourin
How long have you lived in Lookout Mountain? 8 ½ years (moved here from Scottsdale, Arizona)
Occupation: Vice President and Chief Communications Officer for Unum
Highest level of education: Bachelors in Journalism and Political Science from Florida State University
Military service: None, but my father was a Marine Corps Drill Instructor during the Vietnam War so I grew up on a Marine Corps base!
Clubs / organizations (including churches) and any offices held: Our Lady of the Mount Church (finance committee), Junior Achievement (former board member), Creative Discovery Museum (former board member), Chattanooga Christian School (advancement committee), PRSA - national corporate section chairman, PRSA - Lookout chapter president-elect
Professional / business experience: 20+ years of corporate communications experience in Fortune 500 companies including: vice president of Corporate Communications for America West Airlines (now US Airways); general director of corporate relations, BNSF Railway
Current / past political offices: none
What are your goals for the office you are seeking, other than “serving the public”? I would like to play a role in the long-range planning and success of Lookout Mountain, and to do so by making sure the City is following an agenda that is set by the citizens of Lookout Mountain.
What potential obstacles do you foresee for achieving those goals? If they are communicated accurately and efficiently, there should be no obstacles.
About what issue(s) would you most like to inform voters? I’d like to make sure voters understand the importance of adopting and adhering to a long-range plan and the unique perspective I would bring to the city council.
What issue do you see as most pressing or important to Lookout Mountain at the moment? The most pressing issue facing Lookout Mountain is effectively managing long-term growth
Other than the above, which are the next top three issues or causes which you will prioritize if elected to office? Maintaining academic excellence and vitality of Fairyland School, ensuring the city adheres to a long-range plan, and enhancing communications between city government and citiizens of Lookout Mountain.
What is your philosophy or words to live by, if any? I believe in keeping things simple and straightforward. Say what you mean and mean what you say.
Favorite author(s) / book(s): author: James Patterson, books: Death Be Not Proud; The Killer Angels
Favorite movies: Saving Private Ryan, Schindler’s List, Shawshank Redemption
Favorite quote: "If you don't know where you are going, you will wind up somewhere else." -- Yogi Berra
Hobbies: all sports, hiking (have hiked the Grand Canyon rim-to-rim), exercising, reading, watching college football
Family and pets: wife of 22 years, Kat (teacher at Chattanooga Christian School), three daughters (16, 17 and 18) and a son (12), three dogs (German Shepherd and two Shepherd mixes)
How can voters contact you? Email: jimsabourin@comcast.net, phone: (706) 820-8362
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