AMERICUS — Editor’s Note: The Americus Times-Recorder asked each candidate who will be on Tuesday’s General Primary Election ballot to submit a statement of 125 words or less, saying why they are the best candidate for the job. The responses can be found on Page 5A.
Al Hurley (incumbent)
Sumter BOC District 1
“I know Sumter County because I have had the privilege to live in all five districts. I have been a Commissioner for nine years, serving three years as vice chairman. I am an advanced-certified commissioner through ACCG (Association County Commissioners Georgia) and UGA, and I serve on several community-based organizations and boards, such as board of health and airport authority, and I am also chairman of the deacon board of my church, Mitchell Grove Baptist Church. But I also realize that I must work cohesively with my fellow commissioners. We respect each other and we believe in teamwork. I truly know and care about the people of Sumter County. I want to continue to work for the betterment of Sumter County.”
Harvey Claiborne
(challenger)
Sumter BOC
District 1
“I am a man with a vision and purpose, and I just feel it is time for a change. Even the president of the United States only gets eight years in office and Al has served nine; once again, it is just time for a change. I deeply believe in integrity and honor and I am the director of several faith-based organizations. I am a family man that has been married 23 years, and I have been a church pastor 22 years. I feel I have the knowledge, skills and qualifications to serve Sumter County well.”
Betty Story
(incumbent)
Tax Commissioner
“I am the most qualified candidate for the position of Tax Commissioner because of my dedication to the taxpayer to provide the best customer service, pledge to run the office efficiently and devotion to maintaining the highest collection rates of 99 percent as possible.
My experience is centered around 24 years working for the tax office and six of those years, as your current Tax Commissioner. In this world of constant changing laws and procedures, I continue to provide uninterrupted, organized service to the customer while operating within new mandates imposed upon the tax office. I will continue to work hard for a pleasant and courteous experience for all taxpayers, while continuously looking for new technologies and procedures to improve the tax office.”
Bill McGowan
(challenger)
Tax Commissioner
“I believe my education and years of experience in government have prepared me well. My duty will be to give an accurate accounting of the people’s money, to work with and cooperate with my fellow elected officials and the many dedicated hardworking employees of Sumter County, and of the highest importance, give our people the good service they deserve and expect.
Improvement is needed in the Tax Commissioner’s Office, and I have the ability to implement the needed changes. I have listened to what people have to say. They believe their Tax Commissioner should be friendly, courteous and qualified. I believe and offer the same. My door will always be open and I will always remember the Tax Commissioner’s chair belongs to the people.”
Rick Davis
(candidate)
Sumter BOC District 3
“1. Sumter County needs strong leadership for the future. We need leadership that understands accountability to the citizens and is sympathetic to the tax burden that has strapped so many of us in this county. I can provide that leadership.
2. Sumter County needs a breath of fresh air and a new point of view on the future. If we continue to do the same old things we will receive the same fruitless results. I can provide that new direction.
3. Sumter County needs efficiency from all levels of government. We need to cut waste and provide services to the citizens at the most economical cost possible. I can provide that business knowledge.
I am the most qualified candidate for District 3 County Commissioner.”
Amy Wise
(candidate)
Sumter BOC
District 3
“The citizens of Sumter County share a kindred spirit — we work hard, raise our families and help our neighbors. It would be an honor to serve as Sumter County’s Commissioner from the 3rd District.
I can bring experience in local government to the table and take pride in making positive decisions for our citizens. I’m friendly and have time to listen to others.
Sumter County will attract new industries that will offer good jobs. The enrollment in our university and college will increase and we will see more and more retirees move to the area.
Sumter County has sustained itself for a very long time and with everyone working together, it will continue to do so.
Your vote in the Republican Primary on July 15 will be appreciated.”
