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Lowndes County
oters GuideA GUIDE TO THE AUGUST 4 PRIMARY ELECTION
Precinct Polling PlaceCaledoniaCommunity Center, 205 South
Street, Caledonia
Columbus High SchoolCHS Suspension Room, 215 Hemlock St.,
Columbus
Columbus Christian AcademyColumbus Christian Academy, 6405
Military Rd., Steens
SteensCommunity Center, 118 Steens Vernon Rd., Steens
AirbaseAntioch Baptist Church, 1288 Jess Lyons Rd., Columbus
BrandonCentral School Office, 2630 McArthur Dr., Columbus
First AssemblyActivities Building, 2201 Military Rd.,
Columbus
New HopeCommunity Center, 281 Stadium Rd., Columbus
Rural HillCommunity Center, 61 Miller Dr., Columbus
ColemanCol. Housing Auth. Building, 2201 8th Ave. S.,
Columbus
CrawfordPark & Rec Building, 783 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr.,
Crawford
National Guard ArmoryNational Guard Armory, 111 Fabritek Dr.,
Columbus
Plum GrovePark & Rec. Building, 54 Minnie Vaughn Rd,
Columbus
Townsend ParkRec. Building, 826 15th St. So., Columbus
ArtesiaCommunity Center, 46 S. Front St., Artesia
HuntHunt School Cafetorium, 920 20th St. N., Columbus
Propst Park Community HutCommunity Hut, 2535 Main St.,
Columbus
TrinityTrinity Retirement Home, 300 Airline Rd., Columbus
Union AcademyUnion Academy Cafetorium, 1425 10th Ave. N.,
Columbus
UniversityCarrier Lodge, 802 1st St. S., Columbus
West LowndesLowndes County Schools Central Office, 664 S.
Frontage Rd., Columbus
INSIDEChancery Clerk ........................6
Circuit Clerk .............................2
Constable ................................7
District Attorney .......................2
District Supervisors..................4
House of Representatives ........8
Sample Ballots ........................10
Sheriff .....................................3
Superintendent of Education .....7
Senators .................................10
The CommerCial DispaTChSunday, July 26, 2015
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The DispaTch www.cdispatch.com2 Sunday, July 26, 2015
Scott ColomAge: 32Occupation: Lawyer; City ProsecutorEducation:
Columbus High School; B.A. in English and History-Millsaps College;
Cum Laude graduate of Wisconsin Law School Political party:
DemocratPolitical experience: Prosecutor-City of Columbus; Former
municipal judge-City of AberdeenResidence: Lowndes CountyFamily:
MarriedEmail: [email protected]: 662-368-2015
I think we need to reduce violent crime and property crime in
our district. A major part of my platform is the need to prioritize
the prosecution of violent crime. Over the last few years, several
close friends and family members have been victims of violent crime
and Ive seen the emotional and physical turmoil they experienced
because of it. This is why I want to set up a violent crime unit
that has the best and most experienced attorneys focus on
prosecuting violent crimes such as Murder, Rape, Sexual Assault,
Armed Robbery, Domestic Violence, and Burglary. I will also ask
local law enforcement agencies to assign investigators to this unit
so they will have access to the best resourced for investigating
violent crimes.
As District Attorney, my first priority will be justice for
victims of crimes. I will keep victims updated on the status of
prosecutions and give them a voice in recommendations for plea
deals and sentencing. For victims of property crimes, I will
prioritize restitution. But victims can never have true justice
unless the right person is convicted. Prosecuting an innocent
person has four horrible outcomes:
1. An innocent person wrongfully goes to jail.2. A guilty person
remains free and able to cause further harm.3. The victim and his
or her family are denied true closure.4. The public loses
confidence in the criminal justice system.
Drug addiction destroys the lives of too many young people,
which is why I will aggressively prosecute people who bring drugs
into our communities and prey on our children. However, most people
convicted of drug possession are drug addicts with high recidivism
rates. The fewer people who are addicted to drugs, the fewer drug
addicts there are to arrest or re-arrest. Because of this, as
District Attorney, when appropriate and after careful review, I
will consider rehabilitation for non-violent drug offenders,
especially young first time offenders. This rehabilitation will
include strong monitoring and drug testing by our Circuit Court
Judges through the Drug Court in our District.In sum, I believe
rehabilitation for drug addiction is the best method at
stoppingcontinued drug use and the crime associated with it.
Forrest Allgood (I)Age: 61Occupation: District
AttorneyEducation: B.S. & Law Degree-University of
MississippiPolitical party: Independent Political experience:
Residence: ColumbusFamily: MarriedEmail:
[email protected]: N/A
There is a list of the most dangerous cities in Mississippi. No
city in my district is on it. A citys ranking on that list was not
related to size, but rather your likelihood of being a victim while
living there. E.g.: The number one most dangerous city in
Mississippi is Indianola, population 10,641. Jackson, Greenville,
Greenwood, Cleveland, Vicksburg, Pascagoula, and McComb are all on
the list. One of my cities, Starkville, made the list of 10 Safest
Cities in the State. While there is certainly more crime than I
would like to see, we must be doing something right.
Most victims are quite reasonable. Every once in a while you
find one who wants the defendant hung on the courthouse lawn for
stealing a lawnmower, but theyre rare. We have an adversarial
system and the defendants lawyer is there to take care of his
interests. The judge is there to protect his rights. Nobody is
looking out for the victim. Consequently, I believe in victim
centered prosecution. If everybody does their job, then a fair
balance is struck. Insofar as chances to remain productive, I know
lots of convicted felons who have gone on to lead productive and
successful lives. Im friends with some of them. That being said, we
have a Pre-trial Intervention Program. All first offenders of most
felonies where the maximum sentence is 5 years or less are
eligible.
The U. S. Department of Justice says that 80% of all crime in
America has a drug component. 80% is a lot. It stands to reason
that if you reduce the flow of drugs into your community, you will
reduce crime. Consequently, if youre charged with SELLING it, we
are going to try to put you in jail. Those who are possessors are
getting probation or pre-trial unless they are prior felons,
habitual offenders, or they are possessing large quantities.
1. How would you characterize crime in this district?
2. Where is the balance, for you, between getting justice for
victims and offering chances for offenders to remain productive in
society?
3. Where do you stand on incarceration for drug offenses?Q
A&
District Attorney Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $95,796
I = incumbent
Circuit Clerk Term: 4 years, Annual salary: Varies fee based,
capped at approx. $90,000
Democrat
Independent
Democrat
Republican
1. What qualities make you the best candidate for this
position?
2. How well do you believe you can work with law enforcement,
justice system officials, local party leaders and the public in
effectively executing the circuit clerks responsibilities?
Haley Salazar had this position for years. Do you anticipate
making any changes to the way this office is run?
Joseph W. Mickens Sr.Age: 57Occupation: Owner/Independent
Contractor of the Floor SpecialistEducation: Graduate of Noxubee
High School; Completed course work in Business Management at EMCC
and Alcorn State UniversityPolitical party: DemocratPolitical
experience: Currently serving as City Councilman Residence:
ColumbusFamily: Married; 7 children; 2 grandchildrenEmail:
[email protected]: 662-251-0724
I have learned a lot through my experience as Councilman for
Ward 2 over the past 4 years. During this time, I have been
involved in positive changes affecting the City and County, such as
implementing the City-Wide No Smoking Ban; construction o the New
Columbus/Lowndes Soccer Complex; renovation of the Old River
Bridge, etc. I am an active and compassionate listener, a
hard-worker, a man who believe in walking the talk. As a business
owner and independent contractor, I have to be accountable for the
quality of service to customers. If there is an issue or complaint,
there is no passing the buck. The buck stops with me. I will
approach the duties and responsibilities of the circuit clerks
office with the same level of accountability and commitment.
I am a team player and my track record as a member of the
Columbus City Council shows that I have worked diligently with
colleagues, law enforcement and citizens for the common good.
Communication is crucial when working with others. Likewise, I will
effectively communicate with law enforcement, justice system
officials, local party leaders and everyone who enters the circuit
clerks office in need of assistance. I will always give 100%, and I
will not stop until I have learned everything to ensure I can serve
Lowndes County efficiently.
I believe Haley Salazar ran one the best circuit clerks office
in the State of Mississippi. She surrounded herself with quality
dedicated personnel, some of whom have worked in that office for
decades. I dont anticipate making any changes, especially since
2016 is an election year. I plan to learn, observe, and evaluate. I
will be hands-on and approachable. My goal is to make the office
more citizen-centered. Once elected, my focus will be
customer-service accessibility, technology and timeliness.
Teresa BarksdaleAge: 52Occupation: Deputy ClerkEducation:
Graduate of New Hope High SchoolPolitical party: Republican
Political experience: 20 years experience in Circuit Clerks
officeResidence: ColumbusFamily: Married; 2 children; 1
grandchildEmail: [email protected]: 662-241-1920
Being employed in the office for 20 years.
I believe I can work well with all of these you have listed. I
currently work very closely with our local law enforcement and all
of the court and judicial system. I can and will work with all of
our local leaders and the public to carry out the duties of this
office.
At this time, no major changes to the office as for as
personnel. I feel we have a good staff. All do their respected jobs
and do them very well.
Q A&
Margie CanonAge: 55Occupation: Retired TeacherEducation: B.S.
Special Education and Social Science-Blue Mountain College; M.S.
Special Education- Mississippi University for WomenPolitical party:
RepublicanPolitical experience: N/AResidence: ColumbusFamily:
N/AEmail: [email protected]: 662-328-3018
I am a retired teacher who wants to be your public servant and I
care deeply about you, your children and their children. You, your
children and your grandchildren are my reasons for running for
public office. I first became a member of Lowndes County Republican
Women in my early twenties. I belong to Brillian Bridge Builders,
the MUW Alumni Association and Lowndes County Republican Women,
organizations that support our children. My career as a teacher
allowed me to hone my skills as a communicator. My ability to
communicate effectively will serve the people of Lowndes County
well. Just as importantly, my listening skills are excellent.
Taking time to listen to people is imperative for a public servant
to be effective. As a Christian, I believe the power of prayer is
paramount.
As a veteran Special Education Teacher, I was put to the test in
the classroom under enormous pressure daily. When it comes to
managing money, I am frugal and responsible. I possess
well-developed and tested skills, quickly mastering new and complex
information. I have an ability to discern right from wrong, an
ability that will serve you well. My relentless nature to make sure
all people are treated fairly is one of my greatest strengths. I
love all people. Working with people is my specialty, one for which
I have trained many years. Juvenile court is a particular interest
to me, and much can be done to help children who are in crisis. I
will allow no one to get by with actions that are not in the best
interest of your office. I will handle your important public
business affairs with utmost respect and courtesy.
I look forward to making the exciting change from a school
teacher to your circuit clerk. The polling places for our elections
should be moved out of schools. I will ask employees in the circuit
clerks office if changes are needed. I will seek wisdom from
citizens. As custodian of the jury wheel, I will see that voter
rolls are cleaned up and purged of deceased and non-current
residents to the best of my ability. I will work relentlessly with
the legislature so you can vote when hospitalized on election days.
I will take steps to apply strategies to polling and other
procedures in the Circuit Clerks office to make sure systems are in
place for the inevitable occasion when new, hi-tech systems crash.
Mrs. Salazar held the office 24 years and her uncle, Mr. Wiggins,
held the office 36 years. I can build on what they
accomplished.
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The DispaTch www.cdispatch.com Sunday, July 26, 2015 3
I = incumbent
1. What qualities make you the best candidate for this
position?
2. How well do you believe you can work with law enforcement,
justice system officials, local party leaders and the public in
effectively executing the circuit clerks responsibilities?
3. Haley Salazar had this position for years. Do you anticipate
making any changes to the way this office is run?
Circuit Clerk (continued) Term: 4 years, Annual salary: Varies
fee based, capped at approx. $90,000
Jackie LeachAge: Occupation: Education: Political party:
Political experience: Residence: Family: Email: Phone:
Declined to participate.
Independent
Republican
Justin SheltonAge: 40Occupation: BusinessmanEducation: Columbus
public and private schools; EMCC; University of
MississippiPolitical party: Republican Political experience:
N/AResidence: ColumbusFamily: Married; 2 childrenEmail:
[email protected]: N/A
I feel that in government people tend to get caught up in doing
work in the same manner that it has always been done, even though
it may not always be the most efficient or the best way. I believe
that my business experience in the private sector will provide the
people of Lowndes County a new business model for their public
office.
The short answer is very well. Access is the key to all these
officials. These days we have the technology to access data in a
timely manner. As a clerk I will have to ensure that all these
officials have access to accurate warrants in a timely manner, and
that there are no weak links in the grand jury process. There is
also no reason the information they need should not be available
through the clerks office on a 24-hour basis.
I believe that changes are inevitable in every business. We have
to constantly change and evolve and get better. So yes, I plan on
changing the office and improving it every way I am able, and that
will benefit the people of Lowndes County.
Tim HeardAge: 53Occupation: Systems Computer AnalystEducation:
B.S. Computer Information Systems- Alabama State University; M.Ed.
Computer Technology- Mississippi State UniversityPolitical party:
IndependentPolitical experience: N/AResidence: ColumbusFamily:
Married; 2 children; 1 grandchildEmail: [email protected]:
662-361-2005
I feel that my 15 years on the EMCC Board of Trustees and
current position as secretary on the MUW Federal Credit Union Board
has shown that I have the ability to manage a governmental business
and also record and keep accurate records for an organization. For
the past 22 years, in my current capacity with the GTPDD, I am
responsible in supporting governmental agencies with their
technology, and have worked closely with the circuit clerks office
not only in Lowndes county, but all other GTPDD counties. I have
worked with the software and hardware vendors that support the
circuit clerks office (SEMS, Delta, and IBM).
I served my country as a Military Police in the National Guard
for 6 years and was on the Columbus Auxiliary Police force for 8
years. This gave me an opportunity to work very closely with law
enforcement. In my position with the GTPDD, I provide computer
technology support to the Sheriffs Office, DAs Office, Justice
Court, Chancery Clerk, Supervisors, Department Heads and others in
county government in most of the GTPDD counties. I also have my own
business (Heard Computer Services) where I provide computer
services to many businesses in the area.
I feel that Haley has done an outstanding job at this position.
I was impressed from day one at how that office was ran and have
said many times that the position of Circuit Clerk would be the
only county government position I would ever consider. I do feel
though that no business can stay the same and thrive. I do not
anticipate any personnel changes but would push for electronic poll
books and electronic contacting of jurors and prospective jurors. I
would like for the court records to become more mobile friendly for
searches. My other goal would be to make sure that all people that
come to the office would be treated with respect and courtesy,
whether they are coming to pay fines, register, obtain marriage
license, search records or whatever.
Q A&
Sheri BedwellAge: 54Occupation: Banking; Human
ResourcesEducation: Caledonia High School; Attended MUWPolitical
party: LibertarianPolitical experience: N/AResidence:
ColumbusFamily: Married; 1 daughterEmail:
[email protected]: 662-549-1987
As a human resources professional, Im proficient in strategic
planning, budgeting, record keeping, compliance, hiring and
termination.My experience would enable me to fulfill the
expectations of a Circuit Clerk in serving the court, filing cases,
scheduling juries, record keeping and handling elections. I would
carry out the duties with honest, enthusiasm and accountability. My
involvement in the community includes: President of Golden Triangle
Human Resources Association, former Treasurer for seven years. Im
also a member of The Columbus Lowndes Chamber of Commerce, and the
American Legion.
Working with others and facilitating communication between
departments is one of my greatest strengths. As a graduate of
Leadership Lowndes County, I have a broader understanding of the
roles of law enforcement, city and local government.
As Circuit Court Clerk I would begin by examining the processes
already in place and maximizing the efficiency and service to the
public as well as court staff. A professional work environment with
open lines of communication will ensure a more efficient office.
Expanding online services would add efficiency.
Libertarian
1. What makes you most qualified to be sheriff?
2. As the chief law enforcement official in the county, how
would you address crime in the area?
3. What steps can the sheriffs department take toward stronger
community-oriented policing?
Selvain McQueenAge: 52Occupation: Retired Police Chief; CEO of
McQueens Investigative and Security Services, Inc.Education:
Attended Jackson State University; Mississippi Law Enforcement
Officers Training Academy; The Mississippi Law Enforcement Command
College (FBI)- University of MississippiPolitical party: Democrat
Political experience: 26 years law enforcement experienceResidence:
ColumbusFamily: 4 childrenEmail: [email protected]:
662-364-1907
In addition to being mentally and physically fit, I have the
knowledge, experience and training to reduce the crime rate,
thereby improving quality of life issues for everyone. Every step
of my life has prepared me for the next level. I bring to the
community my analytical, administrative and organizational skills.
I am the only candidate qualified to address the expansions and
necessary changes required for our county to flourish. An agency
the size of Lowndes County needs hands-on leadership seven days a
week. I will be a full-time sheriff. Lowndes County change begins
with Selvain McQueen, and the time for change is now. So remember,
when the election comes around this August and November, vote for
Selvain McQueen!
Quite simply put
Criminals will have one of three choices:
1. Stop committing crimes
2. Move to another jurisdiction
3. Go to jail!
I plan to have quarterly town hall meetings to allow the
citizens to voice their concerns and influence the direction of the
sheriffs department. I will also enhance relationships with local
school officials, city and county government, sister law
enforcement agencies, civic, and social organizations to ensure
citizen confidence. I also plan to implement a program in which
citizens can call or access our web page to ask questions. In
response, I or a member of my staff will hopefully appear on WCBI
and/or other media outlets to answer those questions and offer
helpful tips to Hot Topics.
Sheriff Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $90,000
Democrat
Q A&
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The DispaTch www.cdispatch.com4 Sunday, July 26, 2015
I = incumbent
1. What makes you most qualified to be sheriff?
2. As the chief law enforcement official in the county, how
would you address crime in the area?
3. What steps can the sheriffs department take toward stronger
community-oriented policing?
Anthony NelsonAge: 54Occupation: Director of Lowndes County
Juvenile Detention CenterEducation: Bachelor degree in Criminal
Justice Saint Leo University; Associate of Arts degree in Criminal
Justice-EMCCPolitical party: Democrat Political experience: 27
years law enforcement experienceResidence: ColumbusFamily: Married;
4 childrenEmail: [email protected]: 662-242-5321
My educational and law enforcement background has prepared me
for the upcoming challenges the next Sheriff of Lowndes County will
have to face. I am an honor graduate of Saint Leo University with a
Bachelor Degree in Criminal Justice. I also earned my Associates of
Arts Degree in Criminal Justice from East Mississippi Community
College. Over my 27 years of law enforcement, I have gained over
2000 hours of specialized law enforcement training ranging from
forensic crime scene techniques to county wide terrorism response.
In addition, I am a state certified law enforcement instructor and
a state certified corrections instructor.
I have a strategic vision for the Lowndes County Sheriffs Office
rather than a platform. My strategic vision involves the concept of
community oriented policing, professionalism and the implementation
of innovative training techniques that will keep the Lowndes County
Sheriffs Office in tune with the evolving technology around us. I
would also pursue developing a better working relationship with the
city police and our neighboring law enforcement jurisdictions, as
well as other emergency response agencies. I am also committed to
serving the youth of the county by developing programs to both
safeguard our youth and to offer them mentoring, educational and
recreational opportunities.
This requires the Sheriff himself becoming more involved with
the community. This is to include attending community meetings and
attending area functions within each area of the county.There
should also be plans in place to effectively communicate with the
citizens of the county. I would require that each officer speak
with a certain number of individuals within their respective patrol
areas during their shifts. These interactions will serve the dual
purpose of the citizens building a rapport with the department and
the department building a rapport with the community. It can also
serve as a catalyst for receiving information about concerns and
problems within each community. The citizens that live in these
areas know more about what goes on there than law enforcement
does.
Sheriff Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $90,000
Democrat
Bobby WebberAge: 46Occupation: Law enforcementEducation: High
school graduate; Attended college; Military trainingPolitical
party: Democratic Political experience: Former Chief of Police;
Military and Law enforcement trainingResidence: Lowndes
CountyFamily: MarriedEmail: [email protected]:
662-352-6225
Gulf War vet, and a former chief of police in Brooksville, with
two decades as a servant in the capacity as a law enforcer both
federal and local capacity.
Interjecting corrective measures, 21st century training of the
officers and more community policing through public
communication.
By getting one to buy-in and involving communities, Lowndes
County Board of Supervisors, along with other agencies that are
located in county. I believe it should be an all out effect on
behalf of the whole Lowndes countys communities to know that were
safe and free of nonsensical activities, and violence that plagued
our communities for far too long.
Q A&
Republican
Mike Arledge (I)Age: 59Occupation: Sheriff of Lowndes
CountyEducation: MS Law Enforcement Training AcademyPolitical
party: Republican Political experience: Serving 1st term-Sheriff;
Served 2 terms as Justice Court Judge; 3 decades of law enforcement
experienceResidence: ColumbusFamily: Married; 1 childEmail:
[email protected]: 662-328-6788
I have served almost four years as sheriff. As sheriff I have
managed 110 full-time and over 30 part-time employees as well as
managing and caring for approximately 288 inmates on a daily basis.
The sheriff has responsibility of four major divisions and several
smaller divisions operating with a $7 million budget. The sheriff
has many duties and serving as your sheriff has given me valuable
experience. I have been a dedicated public servant for over 30
years. I graduated from the Mississippi Highway Patrol Training
Academy and have worked in every major division of law enforcement.
Some of these include The Mississippi bureau of Investigation and
the Bureau of Narcotics. I served 2 terms as Justice Court Judge
and received over 300 hours of training at the University of
Mississippi Judicial College.
This general question is one that is very vague and difficult to
cover with limited space. There are many types of crime and
different types of crimes are addressed with different strategies.
Each month the sheriffs office investigates about 30 different
categories of crimes. Some of these are aggravated assaults, sexual
assaults, burglaries, robberies, cyberstalking, fraud, grand
larceny, drug trafficking, death investigations and many
more.Obviously there are different strategies, but first you need
to identify the type and the best strategy based on the facts that
you have. You must also identify if there is a pattern of crimes or
hot spots in particular geographical area. You must be aggressive,
have good intelligence gathering with as much manpower and
resources as possible.
I believe that the sheriffs department has strong community
oriented policing but there are areas that need improvement. There
are areas that appear to be unaccepting to strengthening
relationships between citizens and any police presence. The concept
of community policing is often misunderstood but in short it is the
police working with individual citizens, groups of citizens and
organizations to resolve problems. It is building relationships
with citizens, schools, businesses and community organizations. The
Sheriffs department is involved in a majority of major community
events interacting with the citizens of the community. Some of
these events are Caledonia Day, Artesia Day, Crawford Day, Market
Street Festival, Relay for Life, Camp Rising Sun, school events and
many more.
Pauline RedmondAge: 56Occupation: Retired paramedicEducation:
Background in emergency servicesPolitical party:
RepublicanPolitical experience: I have always worked as a public
servant and established community programs where ever I have
resided in South Carolina and Columbus.Residence: ColumbusFamily:
Married, two children, four grandchildrenEmail:
[email protected]: 662-364-3185
I will work closely with the LINK as needed to support those who
have diligently worked to bring these industries to our community
while reviewing those industries to ensure that they have the best
interest for the community and our taxpayers so that our funding is
not lost in a lopsided venture.
Develop a real community council committee that meets with both
the county board and city council and reports its progress, and
review regularly these opportunities to better serve our taxpayer
and return customer service to the communities.
Give county residents an updates service and better customer
service by being accountable for a budget that is used to better
the whole county. Stop the use of funds to pad the resume of the
supervisors each election year spending like $250,000 dollars to
buy a building for 12 parking spaces and speeding through equipment
contracts to make purchases prior to the June 30 deadline for
resume building during the election year.
1. How would you promote future industrial/commercial
development in the county?
2. How would you seek to enhance the relationship and
partnership opportunities between the county and city
governments?
3. What is the biggest challenge facing Lowndes County?
District 1 Supervisor Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $45,700
Republican
Q A&
Harry Sanders (I)Age: 70Occupation: Lowndes County Supervisor,
District 1Education: B.S.- Mississippi State UniversityPolitical
party: Republican Political experience: 15 1/2 years-Lowndes County
Board of Supervisors, District 1; 11 1/2 years- President of Board
of Supervisors Residence: ColumbusFamily: Married; 3 childrenEmail:
[email protected]: 662-242-0550
I would continue to promote future industrial and commercial
development in the county by establishing and keeping a
well-trained and educated workforce through partnerships with our
local school districts, as well as EMCC Workforce Development and
all other stakeholders within our county. I would work in tandem
with the LINK and the Columbus-Lowndes Visitation and Tourism
Bureau to develop new and attractive marketing policies to
encourage more industries to locate in our county. I would persist
in my efforts to be fiscally responsible, just as I have with the
countys money from the hospital sale. I would continue working in
our efforts to keep our countys taxes low and use our tax
incentives, where applicable, in a responsible manner.
I would like to continue to partner with the city in the
following areas:
Columbus-Lowndes Parks and Recreation GTR airport Lowndes County
Airport (Hwy. 69) LINK Columbus-Lowndes Visitation and Tourism
Columbus-Lowndes Public Library Tax office Lowndes Detention Center
Columbus Air Force Base Animal control office Different paving
projects in the city
If any other worthy opportunities should present themselves, I
would be more than happy to partner with the city.
Creating a trained and skilled workforce to fill the jobs that
have been and will be created by our planning and investments in
infrastructure is the biggest challenge facing Lowndes County. When
we have a suitable workforce, industry will invest in our county.
These investments will create the jobs and revenue that will be
needed to sustain our momentum of growth.
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The DispaTch www.cdispatch.com Sunday, July 26, 2015 5
I = incumbent
District 2 Supervisor Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $45,700Bill
Brigham (Republican) - Unopposed
Phillip AtkinsAge: Occupation: Education: Political party:
Political experience: Residence: Family: Email: Phone:
Did not return questionnaire to The Dispatch.
Independent
1. How would you promote future industrial/commercial
development in the county?
2. How would you seek to enhance the relationship and
partnership opportunities between the county and city
governments?
3. What is the biggest challenge facing Lowndes County?
District 1 Supervisor (continued) Term: 4 years, Annual salary:
$45,700
Q A&
District 3 Supervisor Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $45,700
Patrick P.J. HughesAge: 33Occupation: System Analyst/ Network
AdministratorEducation: N/APolitical party: Republican Political
experience: N/AResidence: ColumbusFamily: Married; 1 childEmail:
[email protected]: 662-364-1630
Lowndes County has seen economic growth over the past several
years. However, there is no time to relax. We must continue to move
forward. I will work closely with local economic development teams
and State Legislatures to continually bring stable, high paying
jobs into our county. I will work to increase small business growth
by offering incentives at the county level; and I will push the
state Legislature to remove red tape and other restrictions that
hinder small business growth. This will mean more revenue and
stability for our county. I will work with other county board
members to develop and improve our county infrastructure. We must
continue to make and keep our county attractive to prospective
industries and small businesses.
First and foremost, government officials are elected to serve of
the people, nothing more, and nothing less. Most have forgotten
this fact. Its no secret that there are power struggles between the
county and city. However, while the two entities fight and argue,
the people are the ones who suffer. Since there is a large
crossover of constituents within the two entities, there is no need
for power struggles. The solution is simple, start caring more for
the needs of the people, and stop caring about power and greed. The
simplest solution is usually the best solution. Its time to
increase government accountability. Everyone, including government
officials, must be held accountable for all actions.
The biggest issue is what we are facing as a nation. We are at a
moral, ethical, and political crossroads. We are facing an ever
growing government that supports immoral and unethical actions, as
well as unlimited expansion. Our freedoms are being taken away
one-by-one, day-by-day. While some are fighting this fight, many
are not; and thats the problem. Our constitution empowers the
people, not the government. The constitution does still matter; but
only if we stand and fight for it. Individually we are weak, but
together we are strong. Its time to step out of the shadows. Its
time for the silent majority to stand up, stand as one, and take
back our nation. The rebuilding of our nation can begin right here
in Lowndes County. Do not yield! Do not concede!
Republican
John Holliman (I)Age: 67Occupation: Lowndes County Supervisor
District 3Education: High school graduate; Attended EMCCPolitical
party: RepublicanPolitical experience: 7 1/2 years as Lowndes
County Board of Supervisors; 3 1/2 years as vice-president of
LCBOS; President of John Holliman Construction-42 yearsResidence:
SteensFamily: MarriedEmail: [email protected]: N/A
I would continue to work with the LINK and make sure there is
land, sewer, water available for future development to entice
future Industry as I have for the past 7 1/2 years. Work with EMCC
and our local school districts to make sure we have a well trained
workforce for future industry. I would work to keep the tax base
low. I would consistently work with the Columbus Air Force Base
Officials to make sure we keep our Base open.
Have joint meetings with the Mayor and city Council on up coming
projects.
Having trained and skilled workforce to fill the jobs being
created by the industry that is here in Lowndes County and the
industry that is to come. Being able to budget enough to keep our
roads paved and maintained.
Joe BrooksAge: 63Occupation: Business Owner; PastorEducation:
Graduate of the University of MS Police Academy at Long Beach;
Graduate of Geyname Ministerial SchoolPolitical party: Democratic
Political experience: Lowndes County Constable- 8 years; Lowndes
County Supervisor- 8 years; Lowndes County Board of Supervisors
President- 4 yearsResidence: ColumbusFamily: Married; 1 childEmail:
[email protected]: 662-386-5692
I would use our available resources such as our two state
colleges, the Port Authority, the Columbus Air Force Base, our two
commercial airports, the Tombigbee River for water transports, our
four-lane highways for truck traffic, our natural gas, use our
Vo-Tech to train employees and our available railroads.
By working with the city government as closely as possible.
Education and unemployment.
District 4 Supervisor Term: 4 years, Annual salary:
$45,700Democrat
Jeff Smith (I)Age: 52Occupation: County SupervisorEducation:
Caldwell High SchoolPolitical party: Democratic Political
experience: County Supervisor- 7 1/2 years; County employee- 20
yearsResidence: ColumbusFamily: Married; 3 childrenEmail:
[email protected]: 662-386-6923
By supporting the LINK and other agencies involved in economic
development.
As I am presently doing: By serving on Columbus and Lowndes
County Boards, such as Columbus Lowndes Airport Board with city and
county leaders. Have regular meetings to discuss improvements for
the city and county services in the community for quality of life
for all citizens. Continue maintaining improvements for county and
city projects such as the Riverwalk, Soccer Complex, Law
Enforcement, City and County developments of hotels, industries,
restaurants, educational facilities, etc.
Working hard to protect CAFB from closing, and keeping the
millions of dollars flowing in economic development in this
community.
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The DispaTch www.cdispatch.com6 Sunday, July 26, 2015
I = incumbent
Leroy Brooks (I)Age: 61Occupation: Elected OfficialEducation:
B.A. Political Science; Master of Social Studies, Concentration
Public AdministrationPolitical party: Democratic Political
experience: 32 years-Lowndes County Board of SupervisorsResidence:
ColumbusFamily: Married; 2 children; 2 grandchildrenEmail:
[email protected]: 662-329-5871
Lowndes County has one of the most successful industrial
development programs in the state. The relationship between the
LINK and the Board of Supervisors has proven to be an effective
partnership. As the next supervisor in District 5, I would continue
the partnerships that exist. As for commercial development, I would
strongly encourage developers to play a major role in such
development. When provided for by law, I would be willing to offer
incentives to encourage commercial development, especially an
effort to help develop a mall or greater retail center.
Several years ago, based on my recommendation, we established a
committee composed of city and county official to meet and discuss
projects and issues of similar interest. I think the committee
needs to become active and do the job it was established to do. It
is imperative that the county an city maintain a viable working
relationship.
Our challenge is to work collectively to insure that our
citizens are educated. Hopefully this will lead to future
generations being gainfully employed with the resources to take
care of their family and provide a viable quality of life,
therefore enhancing the quality of life for the entire
community.
1. How would you promote future industrial/commercial
development in the county?
2. How would you seek to enhance the relationship and
partnership opportunities between the county and city
governments?
3. What is the biggest challenge facing Lowndes County?
District 5 Supervisor Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $45,700
Q A&Democrat
Marty TurnerAge: 37Occupation: City CouncilmanEducation:
Columbus High School; Jones Community College; University of
Southern MississippiPolitical party: Democratic Political
experience: Currently serving on city council; U.S. Marine
CorpResidence: ColumbusFamily: N/AEmail:
[email protected]: 662-251-5588
I would make sure we have the proper acreage so factories
relocate here. Most industries coming in now need at least 90
acres. I would make sure we have those lots mapped out. I would
work with the LINK, who has brought in lots of industries. I would
make sure they have all the resources they need.
We have to go back and see why we have the rift. I dont
understand where the rift came from between the city council and
county supervisors. So first we need to identify the cause.
.
Poverty and infrastructure. They go hand in hand. If we have the
infrastructure, we can bring industry, we can fight poverty.
Industry will bring in new taxes and that cycle will help us reduce
poverty.]
Ricky Hill Sr.Age: 55Occupation: Teacher; Coach; Owner of West
Lowndes AutomotiveEducation: B.A. in Human Resources-Troy
University; A.A. in Automotive Technology-Bessemer Technical
College; A.A. in Administrative Management-Community College of the
Air ForcePolitical party: DemocraticPolitical experience:
N/AResidence: ColumbusFamily: Married; 3 childrenEmail:
[email protected]: 662-251-4569
I would promote future industrial/commercial development in the
county by working closely with the LINK, the school districts,
colleges and universities.
I would seek to enhance the relationship and partnership
opportunities between the county and the city governments by being
able to cooperate and be willing to listen to the needs and goals
of all the citizens of Lowndes County.
The biggest challenge facing Lowndes County is corruption of
city and county governments.
1. What makes you the best candidate?
Andre Deforrest RobertsAge: 41Occupation: Bed Zzz
ExpressEducation: High school graduate, studied psychologyPolitical
party: DemocraticPolitical experience: I have worked with people
all my life and I know being a politician is about serving your
citizens.Residence: ColumbusFamily: n/aEmail:
[email protected]: 662-574-7598
I once saw a 12-year sheriff read off an index card of his
duties. I am a man of integrity, morals and values. I am a fair man
and I do not base my actions or decisions on race, color or creed.
I truly know that being elected by the people means that you are a
servant of the people. I have lived on Northside, Southside,
Sandfield, East Columbus and also out in the county. I see the
needs of the people. I know how it feels to be jobless. I know how
it feels to be without utilities or food. We need people in
position that truly have a heart for the people.
Chancery Clerk Term: 4 years, Annual salary: Varies fee
based
Democrat
Q A&
Lisa Younger Neese (I)Age: 57Occupation: Chancery
clerkEducation: High school graduate, attended Mississippi
University for WomenPolitical party: RepublicanPolitical
experience: Chancery deputy clerk for 20 years, Chancery Clerk for
12 yearsResidence: West Plymouth RoadFamily: MarriedEmail:
[email protected]: 662-251-6202
My 32 years of experience combined continuous judicial training,
as well as the progression of technology in the Chancery Clerks
office. I am a dedicated public servant to the citizens of Lowndes
County, my support for my community is and will remain my top
priority.
Republican
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The DispaTch www.cdispatch.com Sunday, July 26, 2015 7
I = incumbent
1.Other than improvements funded by the upcoming bond issue,
what other long term needs do you see for the district?
2. How would you rate the countys public education system and
what would your administration do to improve it?
3. What long-term impact do you see the bond issue for
facilities having for the school district?
Lynn Wright (I)Age: 63Occupation: Superintendent of Lowndes
County School DistrictEducation: BS in Business Administration,
Minors in Economics and Physical Education; Masters in Education
and Administration-UWA; Currently in PHD program (K-12 Ed.
Leadership- MSUPolitical party: RepublicanPolitical experience: 40
years education experienceResidence: ColumbusFamily: Married; 3
childrenEmail: [email protected]: 662-798-4214
Improved test scores, graduation rates, college and career
readiness, are all goals identified by our State Superintendent and
common to every school in the state. Our goal is to help every
student reach their fullest potential. We plan to do this by
preparing our students to be college and career ready. This
involves the continuous evaluation and supervision of all programs,
personnel, and facilities, including but not limited to: safety and
security, curriculum and instruction, technology, federal programs,
special education, career-tech, transportation, maintenance, child
nutrition and extra-curricular programs. Our long-term goal will be
to effectively assess and address the ever changing needs of our
students and the Lowndes County community.
The Lowndes County School District is recognized throughout the
state as one of the lead districts in achievement and innovations.
The LCSD received the Lantern award last year for academic
achievement. The district had and has an overall B rating with no
individual schools below a C. This was our districts first time to
have every school rated a C or better. Caledonia Elementary School
was the only Blue Ribbon Public School in the state last year, and
ranked as one of the top 50 elementary schools in the nation. West
Lowndes won the Distinguished school award ($25,000 grant) for
highest achievement of a Title I, school. The WLHS Jr. ROTC program
as been nationally recognized the past three years as one of the
top units in the nation.
The passing of the bond issue will allow us to address the major
building needs of our district. Over 2000 of the 5100 students in
Lowndes County are presently in buildings over 50 years old. With
the construction projects funded through our fund balance, lease
purchase, and the bond issue we will be able to have our students
in safer more secure energy efficient buildings. The career-tech
building will provide a setting for state of the art training for
21st century jobs. Many of these jobs are available in industry in
our area. Our students will be afforded opportunities to obtain
skills for the work force or for more advanced training at EMCC,
MSU, or MUW. Better schools attract more industry resulting in more
opportunities and better jobs. Better jobs build better
communities.
Sammy SullivanAge: 49Occupation: Assistant Principal/ MSU
LecturerEducation: Educational Specialist-Curriculum and
Instruction; M.S.-Educational Leadership; B.S.-Secondary Education;
A.A.-Secondary Education; A.S.-Secondary EducationPolitical party:
Republican Political experience: Residence: ColumbusFamily:
Married; 1 childEmail: [email protected]:
662-415-1269
A long term need would be a single facility that would house all
of the elementary students (pre-K5th grade) on the New Hope campus,
this would help with security and safety of the children. With the
new 1:1 initiative, a continuous upgrading of the facilities
technology infrastructure will be mandatory across the district in
order to meet the growing demands on the program. In addition to
these, each of the schools within the district have a laundry list
of long term needs. A major part of my administrative plan will be
to listen to the needs of these schools and design a plan that will
best resolve these and have the greatest impact on the students of
Lowndes County. Again using communication and transparency to unify
the district and continuously evolve and change to meet the needs
for our students.
The districts accountability score is a B and I feel that is a
fair assessment; however, the last evaluation concluded that
Lowndes County is poised to launch. During my administration it
will be vital for the district to work toward one common goal,
which is to fire the engines of progress and launch our students
and their education into the 21st century. Todays students have
opportunities that no other generation has had, thanks to
technology, they will be able to work globally and never leave
their homes.
The proposed new high school will house 850 students, the same
as the current high school, making the real benefit be a newer and
bigger facility for the middle school. Of course there will be some
logistical conveniences that will be improved as a result of this
new facility (i.e. traffic, busing, student parking, and etc.) but
the projected facility does not provide room for growth beyond our
current population, making future expenses necessary even with
minimally sustained growth in the community. However, the Career
Technical Center, if properly and adequately staffed, will have the
potential to create tremendous value for the school district.
Tim WilcoxAge: 50Occupation: Principal at Joe Cook Elementary
Fine Arts Magnet SchoolEducation: AA; BA; MSIT; PhDPolitical party:
RepublicanPolitical experience: 23 years in educationResidence:
CaledoniaFamily: Married; 3 childrenEmail:
[email protected]: 662-574-3775
A long term plan for facilities maintenance and upgrade must be
developed. Future facility plans may include a performing arts
center as well as athletic facility improvements to accommodate
additional programs like track and tennis at each campus. These
programs should be available to both middle and high school
students. The vocational center should include resource for
internships and externships with business and industry as well as
partnerships with CMTE and EMCC. A technology and curriculum center
is needed to facilitate professional development for teachers and
provide resources to families.
I think the county has a strong program built by quality
employees and dedicated students. Parents and students need to be
in drivers seat. Opportunities for student and parent choice must
be expanded. Student programs of study should be formal documents
that begin in Kindergarten and continue through graduation. The
program should be monitored by the student, parents and teachers
and should be adjusted based on the needs and interests of the
student. Chosen learning opportunities should provide and avenue
from Kindergarten to 12th grade. If a student has an interest in
visual art, learning experiences should be available in elementary
and should continue building the skills and talents of the student
to graduation.
The bond was needed for capital improvement. The district is
well positioned to support the bond and could potentially offer a
decrease in millage starting in 2017. This means that the district
can repay the bond and possibly lower taxes without cutting
services to students and their families. Again, a long term plan
for facilities maintenance and upgrade should drive the decision
process.
Superintendent of Education Term: 4 years, Annual salary:
$100,000
Republican
Q A&
1. What makes you the best candidate?
Constable District 1 Term: 4 years, Annual salary: Varies fee
based
Q A&Willie Hoot West (I)Age: Occupation: Education:
Political party: Political experience: Residence: Family: Email:
Phone:
Did not return questionnaire to The Dispatch.
Democrat
Chris GriffinAge: 50Occupation: Law enforcement;
ConstructionEducation: Graduate of Caledonia High SchoolPolitical
party: RepublicanPolitical experience: 11 years-deputy sheriff; 14
years-Caledonia town MarshallResidence: CaledoniaFamily: Married; 3
childrenEmail: [email protected]: 662-386-4160
My years of dealing with the public in the entire Lowndes County
area.
Republican
-
The DispaTch www.cdispatch.com8 Sunday, July 26, 2015
I = incumbent
1. What are the biggest challenges facing your district?
2. What should the legislatures role be in creating jobs and
recruiting economic development?
3. How would you address improving the states public education
system?
House District 39 Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $10,000
Tax Assessor/Collector Term: 4 years, Annual salary:
$103,000
County Attorney Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $45,700
Coroner Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $10,000 plus fees
District 1 Justice Court Judge Term: 4 years, Annual salary:
$45,700
District 2 Justice Court Judge Term: 4 years, Annual salary:
45,700
District 3 Justice Court Judge Term: 4 years, Annual salary:
$45,700
District 2 Constable Term: 4 years, Annual salary: Varies fee
based
District 3 Constable Term: 4 years, Annual salary: Varies fee
based
Greg Andrews (Democrat) - Unopposed incumbent
Allison Kizer (Republican) - Unopposed incumbent
Greg Merchant (Republican) - Unopposed incumbent
Chris Hemphill (Republican) - Unopposed incumbent
Ron Cooke (Republican) - Unopposed incumbent
Peggy Phillips (Democrat) - Unopposed incumbent
Joe F. Ables Sr. (Democrat) - Unopposed incumbent
Willie Sanders (Democrat) - Unopposed incumbent
Q A&James E. Samuel Sr.Age: N/AOccupation: Baptist Minister;
Retired VeteranEducation: High school graduate; Attended college;
ITC Theological Seminary-Atlanta, GeorgiaPolitical party:
DemocraticPolitical experience: N/AResidence: ColumbusFamily:
Married; 1 child; 3 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildrenEmail:
[email protected]: 662-574-8747
The greatest challenges facing this community are the exceeding
disparity between the rich and the poor, and the perception of a
lack of attentiveness to community needs by incumbent
politicians.1. Crumbling infrastructure, with a tendency of
incumbents to only answer to campaign donors.2. The need to fully
fund public education, so that the next generations of our young
will be prepared to compete in the national job markets.3. Moving
away from seeking funding of frivolous Legislative Expenditures,
and the need to seek state and federal funding for Works
projects.4. The need to elevate Mississippi from the almost last
place measurement in the Healthcare industry ratings. We need to
support a State Healthcare Exchange in this state!
The state Legislature already works with local municipalities to
establish local infrastructural requirements. However, there should
be an effort on the part of the Legislature to address whether our
municipal schools and other educational institutions can make the
proper preparations. Mississippi taxpayers cannot enter an economic
recovery if the only jobs available are Temporary Hire. This
inequity needs to be addressed.
I would support any effort to fully fund K-12, and find a path
to curtailing the increasing costs associated with Institutions of
Higher Learning.
Jeff Smith (I)Age: 64Occupation: AttorneyEducation: B.S.-MSU;
J.D.-Ole MissPolitical party: RepublicanPolitical experience: 24
years-MS House of Representatives; 9 years- County
ProsecutorResidence: ColumbusFamily: Married; 4 childrenEmail:
[email protected]: 662-328-2911
Continued funding without taxes being raised.
Encourage jobs and businesses tax incentives.
Make more accounting.
Democrat
Republican
House District 41 Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $10,000
Nicole ClinkscalesAge: 40Occupation: LawyerEducation: Juris
Doctor, University of Mississippi School of Law; Bachelor of
Business Administration, Finance, Magna Cum Laude, Jackson State
UniversityPolitical party: Democratic Political experience: Former
Municipal Judge; Attorney-Clinkscales Law FirmResidence:
ColumbusFamily: 1 childEmail: [email protected]:
662-327-7949
The challenges we face are also our greatest opportunities to
bring us up from the lower ranks in most major social and economic
indicators. We suffer from an underperforming education system,
high rates of incarceration, broken families, low homeownership,
insufficient infrastructure and inadequate employment. Our first
priority is to restore hope in the hearts and minds of our
constituents, then give them the resources and tools they need to
rebuild their own community.
The most effective role that we can play is to create a healthy
environment for economic growth and the market will flourish
organically. One of many steps we can employ is to properly fund
our education system to provide citizens the best opportunity to
prepare themselves for employment, professional careers or business
ownership. In this global society, our sights must be on making
Mississippi competitive by capitalizing on our most precious
resource - people. When we invest in raising the quality of life in
our state (i.e., recreation, entertainment, spirit, arts,
education, neighborhood sustainability), we will see that the
people will be inspired to rise to their highest potential.
Naturally proper funding is priority number one. However,
coupled with that we must also look to:
1. Deconstruct traditional education and move to innovative
self/peer learning models
2. Eliminate wasteful unreliable testing
3. Infuse advanced technology in instruction and assessment
4. Increase teacher pay and incentives, especially for
high-level specialty teachers in order to invite them away from
tech and research firms and into teaching
Democrat
-
The DispaTch www.cdispatch.com Sunday, July 26, 2015 9
I = incumbent
1. What are the biggest challenges facing your district?
2. What should the legislatures role be in creating jobs and
recruiting economic development?
3. How would you address improving the states public education
system?
House District 41 Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $10,000
Q A&Kabir KarriemAge: 42Occupation: Business Owner; Columbus
City CouncilmanEducation: Columbus Municipal School District; Hinds
Community College; B.S.-Mississippi State UniversityPolitical
party: Democratic Political experience: Serving 2nd term as City
CouncilmanResidence: ColumbusFamily: Married; 5 childrenEmail:
[email protected]: 662-328-3063
There are several challenges in the district, but the biggest
challenges facing District 41 are Jobs, Crime, and Infrastructure.
Also, affordable healthcare/Medicaid expansion is a challenge for
our district and the state of Mississippi. Our Senior Citizens in
the twilight of their lives should not have to choose between
paying high utility bills or purchasing medication and seeking
medical care.
As a former member of the Lowndes County Development Authority,
I am very familiar with the importance of the legislatures role in
creating jobs and recruiting economic development. The local
legislative delegation works closely with the Mississippi
Development Authority, and the countys economic development team,
sponsoring critical legislation that ensures districts have the
available tools and resources needed to seek different industries
that would make the districts and the state attractive.
I am a strong supporter of Initiative 42 which fully funds
education. I, however, dont think money is the answer to all of our
educational problems in Mississippi. In education, there is no
cookie cutter approach and each school district is different with
different challenges. We must support our educators. We also have
to create an environment inside the classroom, as well as outside
of the classroom that is conducive to learning. What aids all
public authority, particularly in education, are involved parents,
as well as an involved community.
Tiffany SturdivantAge: 27Occupation: NurseEducation: Columbus
High School; East Mississippi Community College; Mississippi
University for WomenPolitical party: DemocraticPolitical
experience: N/AResidence: ColumbusFamily: N/AEmail:
[email protected]: 662-609-4976
Poverty, education, healthcare and infrastructure are all great
challenges facing our district. The most important and the most
pressing challenge for this district is to include the community in
dialog about changes they have seen in the past and changes theyd
like to see in the future. Create a point of contact with the
collective of the community and have an ongoing, open line of
communication to make needs known and brainstorm new ideas. No one
knows the district better than the people who live here.
A legislatures role in creating jobs and recruiting economic
development should be to obtain the highest quality of life for the
community without sacrificing safety and health of the community.
As legislators, we should first research the prospects and their
history for benefits, pay rate and environmental safety. Next, find
out the available educational programs offered in the community
that are needed to obtain employment at the potential business.
Then, determine if this opportunity is something that will benefit
this district. Legislature should be well informed and aware of the
pros and cons of prospects and make discoveries know within the
community.
What I feel needs to happen to improve the states education
system is to have an open dialog that involves students, teachers,
parents, mentors, along with legislators. We need to talk with our
students to find out what they would like to focus on learning.
Determine are they more hands on or do they prefer technical based
learning. Offer our educators an incentive for innovative ideas
that work! Parents and mentors help us explore new avenues to
progressively bridge the educational process from school to home.
Bring innovative thinking back within the program and rely less on
standardize testing. Use our past years as references and
brainstorm new ideas to improve the system together.
Democrat
Paul MillsapsAge: 63Occupation: AttorneyEducation: Graduate of
Starkville High School; B.S.-Mississippi State University;
J.D.-University of Mississippi School of LawPolitical party:
Democratic Political experience: N/AResidence: StarkvilleFamily:
Married; 3 children; 4 grandchildrenEmail:
[email protected]: 662-323-7001
Providing a great education for the children of my district is
my highest priority and the biggest challenge the state faces. In
fact, a great education for the children of our district and our
state is the answer to almost every challenge Mississippi faces.
Starkville and Oktibbeha County have a new, consolidated school
district. Ill be the champion in the Legislature for the new
consolidated school district every day that I serve. We must ensure
that the consolidated Starkville/ Oktibbeha County school district
has the support and resources it needs to achieve great
success.Also, support for Mississippi State University will be at
the top of my agenda. We must see that MSU gets the resources it
needs to continue the great success that it has experienced.
The Mississippi Legislature should be supportive of our local
leaders efforts to grow existing businesses and to recruit new
economic development to our district. Government can create a
climate and an attitude where economic development is encouraged
and where businesses can thrive. Ill work to reduce the burden of
unneeded regulation on the businesses and industries in our area.
Ill work to create a state government that provides certainty to
our businesses in their interaction with state agencies so
businesses can plan for the future. Ill work with our local
industrial development leaders to provide specific state support
for businesses and industries that are considering locating in our
area.
Improving public education will be my top priority if Im
elected. And by public education, I mean from Pre-K all the way
through to our community colleges and universities.We must fully
fund our Pre-K through 12th grade public education system. Ill be
the champion in the Legislature for the new Starkville_Oktibbeha
Consolidated School District to ensure that the new school district
has the resources and support it needs to succeed. Part of having a
great public school system that provides a world-class education
for our children is having outstanding teachers who are well paid,
so Ill work hard to have competitive pay for our teachers. We have
a terrific community college system in Mississippi. Ill be an
advocate for EMCC and all the community colleges.
Loyd B. Rob Roberson IIAge: 47Occupation: AttorneyEducation:
Graduate of Starkville High School; Bachelors of Business
Administration-MSU; Juris Doctorate-Mississippi CollegePolitical
party: RepublicanPolitical experience: Starkville Board of
Alderman-5 years; House of Representatives, Dist. 37- 5 years;
Residence: StarkvilleFamily: Married; 4 childrenEmail:
[email protected]: 662-418-2914
The biggest challenge facing District 43 is to take advantage of
our unique position our community has with Mississippi State
University. So that I am not misunderstood, it is not the role of
government to create jobs, however government can do an awful lot
to help promote or obstruct job creation. Job creation is as much
an art as it is a skill but to bring this community together for a
common goal is time consuming and can take a lot of human as well
as financial capitol. Leadership to bridge state and local
officials together with entrepreneurs will take communication and
negotiation skills that I have honed for well over a decade. One of
the best ways the legislature promotes business in this or any
other community is to make certain our highways are properly
maintained, widened or built where needed.
Without the infrastructure to support business we will not have
the tax base to support our other commitments like education or
Medicaid programs. Another way that the legislature can promote
economic development is to continue to encourage public / private
partnerships using Mississippi State University as the catalyst for
development. We are blessed with many natural resources but our
most valuable resource is our people and there wiliness to work and
do what it takes to get the job done. As a leader in this community
my commitment is to make certain that the most valuable resource we
have has a path way to success whether that be a path to a
vocational skill, junior college or university.
Education is the most important issue facing our state as a
whole. Every option needs to be put on the table when discussing
education. Funding increases may very well be part of the answer
but it is certainly not the only part of a complicated problem.
Teachers must be treated with respect in and out side the class
room. Students must be challenged and disciplined by their teachers
as well as their parents. Administrations must back up teachers
when issues arise. Teachers must be allowed to teach according to
their training and not to a test. The past school year students
were tested three months because of state and federal testing
requirements, which took valuable class work time away.
Democrat
Republican
House District 43 Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $10,000
Mac SmithAge: 54Occupation: Employed at Little Dooey,
StarkvilleEducation: Graduate of Starkville High School; Attended
Wood Jr. College and Mississippi State UniversityPolitical party:
Republican Political experience: N/AResidence: StarkvilleFamily:
Married; 1 childEmail: [email protected]: N/A
School consolidation. Create an environment that encourages
companies to want come to an area like Starkville and Winston
county. One way to do this is to get big government out of the way.
Having a good infrastructure in place with a good highway system
and a good workforce in place so that when they do come there are
people ready to go to work. The legislature needs to make things
easier, not burden with so many rules and regulations.
Let teachers teach. Lets not force common core on people who
know how to do their job. Lets take a real hard look at budgets and
lets see where the waste is and get money where it does each school
the most good.
-
The DispaTch www.cdispatch.com10 Sunday, July 26, 2015
I = incumbent
1. What are the biggest challenges facing your district?
2. What should the legislatures role be in creating jobs and
recruiting economic development?
3. How would you address improving the states public education
system?
Senate District 17 Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $10,000
Q A&Republican
Robert A. Patrick Jr.Age: 68Occupation: Retired State Farm
Insurance Agency OwnerEducation: B.A. in political
science-Mississippi State UniversityPolitical party: Republican
Political experience: N/AResidence: ColumbusFamily: Married; 3
children; 9 grandchildrenEmail: [email protected]:
662-327-3992
(1) Reduction of our entitlement programs for those that are
able to work, but choose not to do so. Instituting a drug screening
test to those currently receiving welfare or seeking to apply for
welfare benefits would be a good place to begin our task of only
paying benefits to the truly worthy. The State of Florida has
already adopted and begun such a program as this. (2) Continued
economic growth in Lowndes and Monroe County in order that everyone
who wants a ob has an opportunity to find one. (3) Adequate
education funding and the abolishment of Common Core, now renamed
Mississippi College and Career Readiness Standards. (4) True
conservative leadership that will be totally responsible and
accountable to our constituency and vote the needs and the will of
our district accordingly.
Jobs refuel growth. The legislature should be comprised of men
and women with good common sense and a keen and thorough business
sound enough to be able to start their business and grow their
business during the slow period of every business cycle. Startup
costs almost always requires some financing and our state must
recognize that to attract companies to our state, we have to work
through the process of helping with loans, tax incentives,
location, and the infrastructure all businesses require. Then too,
sometimes waivers must be obtained from the EPA and other
governmental bureaucracies and we must be fully committed to help
our businesses overcome such hurdles they may face as long as there
is no endangerment to the population.
We should begin to fully fund our education budget. Our teachers
are in need of a pay raises, yet we continue to pay our teachers
much less than we pay our superintendents and we have more school
superintendents that we do counties. Obviously we have to have
qualified administrators running our school systems, but it is time
we focus on our teachers because they are the ones that control the
educational destiny of our children. Our childrens skill levels
must be brought up to the point where we can compete with every
state and country on planet Earth. That requires an uptick in our
language, arts, science and math skills. It is my thought that if
we empower our teachers to teach what they have been trained to
teach and if we discipline the unruly students that interrupt the
teaching experience, our student would be more well educated.
Charles Chuck Younger (I)Age: 54Occupation:
Farmer/RancherEducation: Heritage Academy; EMCC; MSUPolitical
party: Republican Political experience: Served in Senate, 1
sessionResidence: Lowndes CountyFamily: Married; 3 childrenEmail:
[email protected]: 662-251-3432
Creating jobs and protecting the ones we already have. We are so
lucky to have our universities close by teaching high tech, high
skilled jobs, and we are also very blessed to have Joe Max Higgins
and his LINK team, they have put the Golden Triangle on the map,
not only in our great state, but in our country.
This world we live in is very small, since we have all this
technology at our fingertips. Were not just competing with our
surrounding states anymore. Through workforce training and
infrastructure programs we can and will compete. If we are asked
for help, I believe the state should invest in its people and
communities. (Incentives are must!)
Republican leadership has increased education by more than $400
million dollars. Thats more than has ever been invested.
Legislature has passed reforms to increase administrative
accountability, improve literacy skills and give teachers a pay
raise. All of our education from kindergarten to college is
critical to our economic success. I believe if our revenue grows we
will be able to continue increased funding for the schools.
LOWNDES COUNTY
for STATE of MISSISSIPPI GoVErNor(Vote for one)
O Robert Gray O Valerie Adream Smartt Short O Vickie SlaterO
______________________________ Write-in
for STATE of MISSISSIPPILIEuTENANT GoVErNor
(Vote for one)O Jelani Barr O Tim JohnsonO
______________________________ Write-in
for STATE HouSE of rEP 41dISTrIcT 41(Vote for one)
O Kabir KarriemO ______________________________ Write-in
for STATE HouSE of rEP 42dISTrIcT 42(Vote for one)
O Eugene Crosby O Reecy Lathan DicksonO Carl L. MickensO
______________________________ Write-in
for LowNdES SHErIff(Vote for one)
O Selvain McQueen O Anthony C. NelsonO Bobby Lee WebberO
______________________________ Write-in
for SuPErVISor dISTrIcT 4(Vote for one)
O Joe BrooksO Jeff A. SmithO ______________________________
Write-in
for SuPErVISor dISTrIcT 5(Vote for one)
O Leroy Brooks O Rickie L. Hill, Sr.O Marty TurnerO
______________________________ Write-in
for STATE of MISSISSIPPI GoVErNor(Vote for one)
O Phil Bryant O Mitch YoungO ______________________________
Write-in
for STATE of MISSISSIPPILIEuTENANT GoVErNor
(Vote for one)O Alisha Nelson McElhenney O Tate ReevesO
______________________________ Write-in
for STATE of MISSISSIPPISTATE AudITor
(Vote for one)O Mary Hawkins ButlerO Stacey E. PickeringO
______________________________ Write-in
for STATE of MISSISSIPPISTATE TrEASurEr
(Vote for one)O Lynn Fitch O David McRaeO
______________________________ Write-in
for STATE of MISSISSIPPIcoMMISSIoNEr of INSurANcE
(Vote for one)O Mike ChaneyO John MosleyO
______________________________ Write-in
for TrANSPorTATIoN coMMISSIoNErNorTHErN dISTrIcT
(Vote for one)O Jimmie D. MillsO Mike TagertO
______________________________ Write-in
for STATE SENATE 17dISTrIcT 17(Vote for one)
O Robert A. Bobby Patrick, Jr.O Charles Chuck YoungerO
______________________________ Write-in
for LowNdES cIrcuIT cLErk(Vote for one)
O Teresa C. BarksdaleO Margie CanonO Chuck EasleyO Justin
SheltonO ______________________________ Write-in
for SuPErVISor dISTrIcT 1(Vote for one)
O Pauline E. RedmondO Harry SandersO
______________________________ Write-in
for SuPErVISor dISTrIcT 3(Vote for one)
O John HollimanO Patrick PJ HughesO
______________________________ Write-in
for ScHooL dISTrIcT coSuPErINTENdENT of EducATIoN
(Vote for one)O Sammy SullivanO Tim WilcoxO Lynn WrightO
______________________________ Write-in
(Composite ballot for the Aug. 4 primary election actual
listings will vary by districts and precincts.)
DEmOCraT
rEpUbLiCaN
rEpUbLiCaN
CLaY COUNTY
for STATE of MISSISSIPPI GoVErNor(Vote for one)
O Robert Gray O Valerie Adream Smartt Short O Vickie SlaterO
______________________________ Write-in
for STATE of MISSISSIPPILIEuTENANT GoVErNor
(Vote for one)O Jelani Barr O Tim JohnsonO
______________________________ Write-in
for STATE HouSE of rEP 36dISTrIcT 36(Vote for one)
O Jimmy DavidsonO Karl Malinski GibbsO Edward N. Houston, Jr.O
______________________________ Write-in
for cLAy couNTycHANcEry cLErk
(Vote for one)O Amy Gray BerryO Melissa BoboO Brandi Randle
RylandO ______________________________ Write-in
for cLAy couNTyProSEcuTING ATTorNEy
(Vote for one)O Michelle EasterlingO Monique MontgomeryO
______________________________ Write-in
for cLAy couNTy SHErIff(Vote for one)
O Eddie ScottO Cedric SykesO ______________________________
Write-in
for cLAy couNTyTAx ASSESSor/coLLEcTor
(Vote for one)O Diane Tallie Jack O Paige Dendy LamkinO
______________________________ Write-in
for SuPErVISor dISTrIcT 2(Vote for one)
O Phillip CollinsO Luke LummusO ______________________________
Write-in
for SuPErVISor dISTrIcT 5(Vote for one)
O Joe D. Chandler O James Rock CrawfordO Floyd T. McKeeO
______________________________ Write-in
for JuSTIcE courT JudGE 2dISTrIcT 2(Vote for one)
O Mae W. Brewer
O Cathylean R. Darby
O Dorothy Bell-Hamilton
O Jeff Pedro Henry
O Eddie Longstreet
O Chris McBrayer
O James Jimmy Taggert
O ______________________________ Write-in
for coNSTAbLE 2dISTrIcT 2(Vote for one)
O Johnnie Collins
O Lewis Stafford
O ______________________________ Write-in
for STATE of MISSISSIPPI GoVErNor(Vote for one)
O Phil Bryant
O Mitch Young
O ______________________________ Write-in
for STATE of MISSISSIPPILIEuTENANT GoVErNor
(Vote for one)O Alisha Nelson McElhenney
O Tate Reeves
O ______________________________ Write-in
for STATE of MISSISSIPPISTATE AudITor
(Vote for one)O Mary Hawkins Butler
O Stacey E. Pickering
O ______________________________ Write-in
for STATE of MISSISSIPPISTATE TrEASurEr
(Vote for one)O Lynn Fitch
O David McRae
O ______________________________ Write-in
for STATE of MISSISSIPPIcoMMISSIoNEr of INSurANcE
(Vote for one)O Mike Chaney
O John Mosley
O ______________________________ Write-in
for TrANSPorTATIoN coMMISSIoNErNorTHErN dISTrIcT
(Vote for one)O Jimmie D. Mills
O Mike Tagert
O ______________________________ Write-in
(Composite ballot for the Aug. 4 primary election actual
listings will vary by districts and precincts.)
DEmOCraT
rEpUbLiCaN
DEmOCraT
Primary election August 4, 2015. Dont forget to vote.
Sample ballots