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COLUMBIA COUNTY, Ga. () – In a spirited forum on Thursday, candidates vying for various roles in Columbia County presented their visions and priorities to the voters.
The Columbia County Chamber of Commerce organized this event, which took place at the Hardin Auditorium within the Evans Library on April 16. The forum was accessible to the public, inviting community engagement.
Here are some highlights from the candidates:
Gary Jones, Candidate for County Chairman: “With a 37-year tenure in law enforcement within our community and over a decade as the mayor of Grovetown, my goal is to lead Columbia County with empathy and attentiveness. I am committed to ensuring that every citizen feels empowered and genuinely heard.”
Cambry Wood, Candidate for County Chairman: “As a former United States Army engineer officer and company commander in Iraq, followed by a career with the Army Corps of Engineers, I have witnessed firsthand the neglect at the federal level affecting us locally. Seeing no one else stepping forward, I felt compelled to represent our community and advocate for change.”
Alison Couch, County Chairman Candidate: “It’s important for us all to be able to afford living here. One way local government can lower the cost of living is by lowering property taxes. As a member of the commission, and then talking with thousands of county residents in the last four years, I know this is important to the residents of Columbia County. “
Dr. Deborah Williams, Board of Education, District 2 Candidate: “I am committed to high quality instruction and academic excellence for every student and again, every student. Strong support for teachers, staff and school leaders. That we have safe, welcoming and nurturing schools.”
Michael Jordan, County Commission District 1 Candidate: “One thing we need to do is more research on data centers. Then we need to inform our residents on the consequences of increased more data centers.”
Alex Griffin, County Commission District 1 Candidate: “It’s going to be the job of the next commission to make sure two things happen. First, and the new commission, make sure those projects adhere to the data center zoning ordinance that was passed. And second thing is that next commission will be responsible, responsible for determining what to do with the additional tax revenue generated.”
NewsChannel 6’s very own Brad Means was the emcee for the event.
Photojournalist credit; Avery Van Dusen