2022 1 ELECTION YEAR CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022
Created and Brought to you by: The Equity Alliance P.O. Box 331821, Nashville, TN 37203 615-492-0061 • [email protected] • www.theequityalliance.org @theequityalliance @EquityAlliance1 @theequityalliance
Graphic Design Community Partners Thank you to our Media Sponsors: CivicTN Chattanooga Business Elite Chattanooga Times Free Press Communities United Serving People (CUSP) Olivet Baptist Church Deez Fine Cuts The Edney Innovation Center Grace Pointe Church Haven's Herman's Restaurant Knoxville City Council Movement Knoxville College / Knox County Commissioner Knoxville Area Urban League Young Professionals Masonic Lodge Roots Beauty Supply Brainerd/Hwy58 UUNIK Academy Special Thanks The Equity Alliance Board, Staff, and Volunteers About The Guide As part of our voter education, outreach and advocacy programs, our goal is to expand the electorate by creating new and informed voters. The Tennessee Voter Guide is a free, nonpartisan, public resource to help Hamilton County voters make an informed decision in the voting booth on Election Day. The widely popular publication is produced by The Equity Alliance in partnership with Tell Publishing, Civic Hacker, and is distributed by a host of community partners. Porufbinlaisnhceiarlsly Nsuoptpeo: rTthcias nisdaidafrteees,. nonpartisan publication. The Equity Alliance does not endorse Every effort was made to contact each candidate who qualified with the local county election commission to obtain their profile information. In the event we couldn't reach a candidate, readily available information was captured from online sources. Due to the large number of candidates, candidates' campaign platforms may be edited; community affiliations were limited to five; and those who did not return a profile were only listed by name. Profiles were printed as-is from questionnaire responses and were only edited for word count, grammar or clarity.
GUIDEINSIDE THE Introduction From The Equity Alliance 1 Voter Registration Requirements & Deadlines 2 Voter ID Requirements 2 Absentee New Law 4 Tips for Voting in the midst of COVID-19 5 What Does Election Day Voter Suppression Look Like? 6 2022 Election Calendar 7 What’s on the Ballot 7 Candidate Profile & Elected Office Definitions 8 Early Voting Times & Locations 49 Election Day Polling Location & Hours 49 Getting Your Voter Rights Restored 50 Voting as a College Student 51 Poll Watch: Being Turned Away 51 Contacting the Election Commission 52 About The Equity Alliance 52
DCeoaurnHtyaVmoitlteorn: It is important now more than ever to be civically engaged. There is so much at stake and the decisions being made in local government and the state of Tennessee politics will set the trajectory for all our futures. From the fight for voting and women's reproductive rights and the one-month long mortarium for sales taxes on groceries, supplemental teaching materials and critical race theory and gerrymandering and redistricting. This matters because where you reside determines your politician, which determines your political power, which determines how you get resources for your community, i.e. school funding, sidewalks, stimulus checks, grants for social programs, covid testing/ vaccines etc. Regardless of where you live in Tennessee, you should have a say in who represents you. Voters should pick their representatives and not the other way around. These upcoming elected positions should be vetted carefully even beyond what you read in our Tennessee Voter Guides. We include contact information for some candidates if they submitted it and/or if we found it, so you can reach out to them to ask specific questions. Make it a priority to attend in-person or tune-in virtually to events they are on program to speak at. Are you hearing your priorities being discussed? Your community's priorities? Outside has opened with the availability of COVID-19 vaccines and boosters and we've adjusted to living within the COVID-19 virus as it continues to generate new strains. Be sure to check out how to continue to stay safe and vote in the midst of the virus on page 5. We know that voter suppression is a big deal, and we want you to be diligent in identifying what that looks like so be sure to check how what does Election Day voter suppression look like on page 6. This upcoming May 3 election will be your opportunity to choose an Attorney General, Public Defender, Hamilton County Mayor, Sheriff, County Commissioners, County Trustee, County School Board Members and several open judge and clerk seats. We need you to make sure the people in your circle are registered and ready to vote with confidence on May 3. Be sure to complete your absentee ballot application by April 26. The Equity Alliance equips Black Tennesseans and other communities of color with the proper information in the civic process so we all can show up informed on Election Day. The Equity Alliance is proud to provide you with our 2022 Tennessee Voter Guide, a free, nonpartisan, public resource for Chattanooga voters to be informed. In this guide, you'll find unbiased candidate profiles, a description of what each elected office does, polling locations and hours, voter ID requirements, etc. Our goal is to empower you to exercise your right to vote as a means to bring a balance of power to these public offices. Thank you to our community partners, the TEA team, 529 Graphics, Tell Publishing, and our volunteers and distribution partners for their contributions to the 2022 Tennessee Voter Guide. Be sure to share the guide with your family, neighbors, friends, customers and on social media. Visit www.TNvoterguides.com to access our mobile-friendly site and obtain your free copy. Stay vigilant, Charlane Oliver & Tequila Johnson 1 Co-Founder and Co-Executive Director The Equity Alliance CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022
VOTER REGISTRATION Voter Registration Requirements Register in Person: Paper Registration: You may complete a paper form at the To be Eligible to Register to Vote in Hamilton County, Hamilton County Election commission office, Department Tennessee all of the following qualifications must be of Safety (motor vehicles division), Department of Health met: (WIC program), public libraries, and many other designated government agencies. • You must be a United States citizen Once you complete the form, you may either mail-in or hand- • You must be a legal resident of Hamilton County when deliver the application to: Hamilton County Election Commission: submitting a voter registration application 700 River Terminal Rd • You must be 18 years of age or older by the date of the Chattanooga, TN 37406 next election Voter Registration Deadlines • You must not have been convicted of a felony or, if you This election's voter registration deadline is Monday, April 4 have such a conviction, have your voting rights restored by close of business. Deadlines can creep up quickly. Make sure as required by state law, and you're registered to vote! New registrations must be postmarked • You must submit a properly completed voter registration or delivered to the Hamilton County Election Commission no application at least 30 days before an upcoming election later than thirty (30) days before an election, in order to vote in that election; that is state law. Voter ID Requirements DID YOU All voters must present a federal or Tennessee state ID KNOW: containing the voter's name and photograph when voting at the polls, whether voting early or on Election Day unless an These photo IDs may be expired, unless exemption applies. Acceptable forms of ID include, even if you are voting in Hamilton County for the expired: first time. Student IDs, library cards and photo IDs issued by cities, counties and • Tennessee driver's license with your photo other states may not be used. • United States passport • Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security photo ID • Photo ID* issued by the federal or Tennessee state government • United States Military photo ID (active or retired) • Tennessee handgun carry permit with your photo *These photo IDs may be expired, unless you are voting in Hamilton County for the first time. Student IDs, library cards and photo IDs issued by cities, counties and other states may not be used. Ways to Register To Vote Online Voter Registration: bit.ly/teavote. You must have a Tennessee driver's license or identification issued by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security in order to submit this application online. If you do not have a Tennessee driver's license or Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security ID, you will be able to print the voter registration form and submit by mail. Location of Mail-in Voter Registration Applications: The Hamilton County Election Office has placed mail-in application forms at each U.S. Post Office in the county. Additionally, forms can be found at any City Hall or Public Library. The Department of Safety, Department of Human Services, Military Recruiting Offices, Hamilton County Health Department and the County Clerk's Office also have forms available during normal business hours. CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 2
New Absentee Ballot Law Tips For Voting In The Midst Of COVID-19 CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 3
ABSENTEE 1. Name of the registered voter BALLOTS: 2. Address of the voter's residence 3. Voter's social security number Tennessee law allows for absentee voting 4. Voter's date of birth only under certain circumstances. You must 5. Address to mail the ballot submit a written request containing the 6. The election in which the voter wishes to participate. If the information to the right to your local county election commission office by the seventh election involves a primary, the political party in which the voter day before Election Day. You can use the wishes to participate. absentee ballot request form to make sure 7. Reason the voter wishes to vote absentee. If applicable, a copy all required information is provided. of the CDL containing the CDL number or the TWIC card must be included in the voter's request. You can submit your written request for an 8. Voter's signature absentee ballot by mail, fax, or e-mail. If e-mailing your request, be sure the attached Email: [email protected] document contains the information to the Phone: 423-209-8683 right and your scanned signature. Fax: 423-209-8686 Mail: Hamilton County Election Commission Attn: Absentee Department 700 River Terminal Road Chattanooga, TN 37406-1736 A request that contains this information will be processed and a ballot will be mailed to the voter. NOTICE: A person who is not an employee of an election commission commits a Class E felony if such person gives an application for an absentee ballot to any person or commits a Class A misdemeanor if such person gives an unsolicited request for application for absentee ballot to any person. T.C.A. § 2-6-202(c)(3) and (4). COVID-19 IS There are several categories you would need to fall under in order STILL A REASON to request an absentee ballot but below is the wording specifically TO REQUEST about COVID-19 from the Tennessee Secretary of State AN ABSENTEE website: BALLOT: You are hospitalized, ill or physically disabled and unable to appear at your polling place to vote (this includes persons who have underlying medical or health conditions which in their determination render them more susceptible to contracting COVID-19 or at greater risk should they contract it). For a list of underlying health conditions that makes a person more susceptible, see the [CDC Guidelines]. A physician's statement is not required to check this box. You are the caretaker of a hospitalized, ill or physically disabled person (this includes voters who care for or reside with persons who have underlying medical or health conditions which in their determination render them more susceptible to contracting COVID-19 or at greater risk should they contract it). For a list of underlying health conditions that makes a person more susceptible, see the [CDC Guidelines]. A physician's statement is not required to check this box. CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 4
COVID-19TIPS FOR VOTING IN THE MIDST OF While voting is important, voting safely is more important while COVID-19 is still a part of our lives whether you are fully or partially vaccinated or not vaccinated at all. So, as you decide which method of voting is suitable for you, keep these tips in mind for the upcoming May 3 State and County Primary Election. If you're going to do in-person voting, make sure your address is updated to limit the amount of time you have to be in the polling station. Use this link to update your address: bit.ly/teavote Consider early voting during times when there aren't huge crowds and you have the option to choose which polling location to vote. Visit page 49 of this guide for early voting locations and times. T o minimize the amount of time at the polling station, review the Chattanooga Voter Guide so you'll know who you're voting for before you get there. F ollow guidelines issued by public health officials, including safe practices when in a public setting like wearing a mask and gloves and practicing social distancing - staying 6 feet apart from everyone. B ring your own disposable gloves and stylus pen to use on the touchscreen while using the voting machine. D o not take additional people with you who are unable to vote. Use hand sanitizer before and after you use the voting machine. If you are sick or test positive for COVID-19, please stay home! DID YOU The Center for Disease Control (CDC) KNOW: says for COVID-19, a close contact is anyone who was less than 6 feet away from an infected person for a total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period (for example, three individual 5-minute exposures for a total of 15 minutes) – excluding K-12 school settings. CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 5
WHAT DOES ELECTION DAY VOTER SUPPRESSION LOOK LIKE? The Black and brown vote has increasingly shown its power to energize and disrupt elections. No matter who you vote for, voter suppression manipulates and toxifies the voting process by placing undue barriers and burdens on voters. That is why we want you to know what voter suppression looks like and how you can call it out, share it with others, and combat it with correct information and appropriate actions. Voter Intimidation and Misinformation Threats, physical acts of intimidation and misinformation are tactics used to sway voters from voting. People have threatened that the police or immigration authorities will be at the election polls lingering and looking for a reason to arrest voters. Rumors may be spread that voters will be stopped at the door and election officials will overly question voters' eligibility. Since Tennessee law prohibits poll workers from campaigning within 100 feet of the polling locations, campaign workers will likely be on the sidewalk, in the parking lot and in adjacent areas to attempt to give you candidate materials. You are free to accept or decline the materials. Please do not allow the presence of campaign workers, volunteers or media representatives to deter you from voting. Long Lines It's easy to see a long line and be compelled to turn away, but voting is important. A way to minimize election day long lines is to take advantage of early voting, which lasts two weeks prior to Election Day. For the May 3, 2022, election, the Early Voting dates are APRIL 13 - APRIL 28. If you choose to vote on Election Day, be prepared for the long lines. This includes consideration for comfortable clothing and shoes, bringing snacks, bottled water, medication as needed, portable cell phone charging device and cord, and something to hold your attention such as a book or magazine. Provisional Voting If you claim to be registered to vote but are not on the list, you can receive a provisional ballot for later verification. Ballots are eligible for verification if votes are cast in the correct precinct. Tennessee does not provide a limited provisional ballot. Provisional ballots are counted within FOUR business days after Election Day. Unofficial Poll Watchers Tennessee law allows for official poll watchers, who must submit paperwork to the election committee, to sit in and watch. If they have questions about any irregularities they see, they are to bring it to the attention of the manager on-site and not directly to a voter. Sometimes unofficial poll watchers may be there, but the election officials should handle them. Make sure you view the POLL WATCH: IF YOU ARE BEING TURNED AWAY on page 51 in this voter guide to report any voter suppression. CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 6
2022 April 4 Voter Registration Deadline April 13 Early Voting Begins ELECTION YEAR April 26 Last Day to Request an Absentee Ballot April 28 Early Voting Ends May 3 Election Day May 3rd Ballot CHATTANOOGA-HAMILTON COUNTY ELECTIONS Local Primary Election District Attorney General Public Defender Hamilton County Mayor Hamilton County Commission District t 1 • 2 • 3 • 4 • 5 • 6 • 7 • 8 • 9 • 10 • 11 Hamilton County Trustee Sheriff Circuit Court Judge Division 1 • 2 • 3 • 4 Criminal Court Judge Division 1 • 2 • 3 • Juvenile Court Judge Chattanooga Judge Division 1 Chancellor Part 1, 2 Circuit Court Clerk Criminal Court Clerk Juvenile Court Clerk Hamilton County Clerk Register of Deeds County School Board District 3 • 5 • 6 • 8 • 9 • 10 • 11 Lookout Mountain School Board CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 7
DISTRICT ATTORNEY GENERAL PROFILES DISTRICT ATTORNEY GENERAL They prosecute all misdemeanor and felony charges brought in Juvenile Court, the General Sessions Courts, the Grand Jury and the Criminal Courts of the District. COTY Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] WAMP Republican Website: cotywamp.com Candidate Status: Facebook: Committee to Elect Coty Wamp Challenger Elected office you're seeking: District Attorney General Previous elected offices held: N/A Current Employment/Occupation: General Counsel, Hamilton County Sheriff's Office Education: University of Tennessee, BS Political Science 2011; University of Tennessee, Juris Doctor 2014 Community Affiliation: Member, Chattanooga Bar Association; Member, Hamilton County Pachyderm Club Top Three Issues: • Focusing more prosecutorial resources on gang and violent crime and cracking down on offenders who are caught selling heroin or fentanyl. We should not negotiate plea deals on our most serious cases. • 2. Supporting law enforcement. I will be accessible to law enforcement across the county, and they will know that if they treat people well and respect constitutional rights, their District Attorney has their back. • 3. Prioritizing child abuse cases including child sex abuse-- importantly, restoring the Child Sex Abuse Prosecutor position in the office. CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 8
NEAL Party Affiliation: Website: chattanoogada.com/meet-general-pinkston.html PINKSTON Republican Candidate Status: Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: District Attorney Previous elected offices held: District Attorney Current Employment/Occupation: District Attorney Education: Undergrad at Middle Tennessee State; law degree from the University of Tennessee College of Law Community Affiliation: Member of Chattanooga and Tennessee Bar Associations; past board president of the Orange Grove Center Top Three Issues: • In early 2016, District Attorney General Neal Pinkston responded to citizen complaints about gun violence, gang activity, and crime-ridden businesses by forming a multi- jurisdictional team to combat the problems plaguing Chattanooga. JOHN ALLEN Party Affiliation: BROOKS Democratic Candidate Status: Challenger Elected office you're seeking: District Attorney CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 9
PUBLIC DEFENDER PROFILES PUBLIC DEFENDER They represent clients who cannot pay for private counsel and who are at risk of losing their liberty if convicted. The Sixth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees the rights of criminal defendants, including the right to a public trial without unnecessary delay, the right to a lawyer, the right to an impartial jury, the right to know who your accusers are, and the nature of the charges and evidence against you. STEVEN Party Affiliation: Facebook: steve.smith.tn SMITH Republican Candidate Status: Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Public Defender Previous elected offices held: Assistant District Attorney Education: Undergrad University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, BS Geology; Juris Doctor University of Memphis School of Law Community Affiliation: eTnnessee District Public Defenders Conference; Tennessee Bar Association; Chattanooga Bar Association, board member Bachmann Community Center; Big Brother Big Sisters of Greater Chattanooga CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 10
HAMILTON COUNTY MAYOR PROFILES HAMILTON COUNTY MAYOR The County Mayor is elected to a four-year term by the citizens of Hamilton County to head the executive branch of Hamilton County Government. As the Chief Fiscal Officer for the County, it is the mayor's responsibility to oversee the preparation and administration of official budgets and financial reports. MATT Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] HULLANDER Republican Website: Matt4Mayor.com Open Seat Facebook: Matt4Mayor Instagram: Matt4Mayor Twitter: Matt4Mayor Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Mayor Previous elected offices held: None Current Employment/Occupation: I own V-2 Strategies which is a commercial development company and am a co-founder with my wife Jenny of the Hullander Family Foundation. Education: I am a graduate of Ooltewah High School and Chattanooga State Community College. Community Affiliation: First Horizon Bank Advisory Board; Scenic Land Company Board; Chair, Hamilton County Zoning and Appeals Board (10 years); The Jason Foundation Board and the Hunter Worley Foundation Top Three Issues: • He top concern from across the county is safety. We can't learn, work or have a full life if we aren't safe! Other priorities include infrastructure to support present and future growth opportunities; and, education. We must provide a path with many directions for our students to be successful. CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 11
SABRENA D. Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] SMEDLEY Republican Website: sabrenaformayor.com Open Seat Facebook: sabrenaformayor Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Mayor Previous elected offices held: Served two terms as the County Commissioner for Hamilton County District 7. Current Employment/Occupation: Owner/Broker of Sabrena Realty Associates, LLC; owner of Pure Barre fitness Education: Bryan College, master's in Business Administration Community Affiliation: Board members: Tourism Company Board; Children Advisory Board; Railroad Authority Board; Leadership Hamilton County Schools Top Three Issues: • Advocate for property rights • A strong supporter of public education • A fighter for infrastructure such as roads, proponent of public safety WESTON Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] WAMP Republican Website: westonwamp.com Open Seat Facebook: westonwamp Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Mayor Email: [email protected] Previous elected offices held: N/A Website: mattadamsformayor.com Facebook: adamsformayor Current Employment/Occupation: Leads the Millennial Debt Foundation Instagram: adamsformayor/ Education: Twitter: adamsformayor University of Tennessee Community Affiliation: Tennessee Board of Regents; Ministry Young Life Top Three Issues: We’ve laid out a vision and a plan that would: • Bring new accountability and transparency to county government • Refocus public education on training our students for careers • Protect our values for a generation to come. MATT Party Affiliation: ADAMS Democratic Opem Seat Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Mayor Previous elected offices held: None Current Employment/Occupation: Army Veteran Top Three Issues: • Quality Education - adequate facilities with modern technology • Equitable & thriving Hamilton County • Collaboration with government and the citizens of Hamilton County CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 12
RICHARD D. Party Affiliation: FORD Independent Open Seat Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Mayor DAVID Party Affiliation: Website: tntrafficticket.us TULIS Independent Open Seat Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Mayor Current Employment/Occupation: Job Education: Undergrad University of Virginia; master's degree in English University of Tennessee. Community Affiliation: Deacon at Brainerd Hills Presbyterian Church CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 13
HAMILTON COUNTY COMMISSION PROFILES HAMILTION COUNTY COMMISSIONS In a county commission form of government, a body of elected commissioners serves both the executive and the legislative duties, meaning they enact local ordinances and administer them. They approve budgets, oversee spending and hire county employees. The commission usually consists of three to five officials. There are five Lookout Mountain Commission seats and they serve a two-year term. DISTRICT 1 RANDY Party Affiliation: Website: fairbanks2022.com FAIRBANKS Republican Facebook: randy.fairbanks.37 Candidate Status: Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Commissioner District 1 Previous elected offices held: Hamilton County Commissioner District 1 Current Employment/Occupation: Owner of Fairbanks Bookkeeping & Tax Services - CPA Education: University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Community Affiliation: Give away scholarships to seniors at Soddy Daisy & Sale Creek students; member of Ministry Center; Soddy Daisy’s Kids Club as a coach and referee; Hamilton County Health & Education Development Board Top Three Issues: • Supporting Law Enforcement • Keeping Taxes Low • Protecting Senior Citizens CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 14
GENE-O Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] SHIPLEY Republican Facebook: profile.php?id=100076185699880 Candidate Status: Challenger Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Commissioner District 1 Previous elected offices held: Soddy Daisy Commissioner Community Affiliation: Member of the Alhambra Shriners, the Soddy Masonic Lodge #418, WWTA Board of Directors and Plumbers and Steamfitters Local #43; Soddy Daisy Kid’s Club Hall of Fame, and the Soddy Daisy High School Hall of Fame. Top Three Issues: • Advocate for the need of a middle school in Soddy Daisy STACY FARRELL Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] SWALLOWS Republican Facebook: Stacy Swallows For Hamilton County Commissioner District 1 Candidate Status: Challenger Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Commissioner District 1 Previous elected offices held: None Current Employment/Occupation: Tennessee College of Applied Technology - Senior Instructor Education: A.S. Degree Business Management Community Affiliation: Sale Creek Volunteer Fire Department - Board Member Top Three Issues: • 1. The purchase of McDonald Farm with intent of an industrial park should be developed with an equitable amount of purpose for educational programs and recreational use. • 2. Infrastructure to include a new sewage treatment plant, new or better developed land fill, and prioritized road building/maintenance. These necessities need to be aligned with the future urban growth in all areas of Hamilton County and have a long term plan put in place. • 3. Public safety needs to be addressed in the area of recruitment and retention for both police and EMS due to high risks they encounter. The volunteer fire departments which do receive financial support from tax dollars also need continued upgrading and should work toward a county standardization of equipment and buildings. DISTRICT 2 CHIP Party Affiliation: Website: hamiltontn.gov/District2.aspx BAKER Republican Facebook: chipbakercommission Candidate Status: Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Commissioner District 2 Previous elected offices held: Hamilton County Commissioner District 2 Community Affiliation: Mountain Education Foundation; Mountain Arts Community Center; Walden's Ridge Emergency Services; and the Chattanooga Breakfast Rotary Club Top Three Issues: • Committees he sits on diversity and equity; education; finance and insurance. CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 15
DISTRICT 4 WARREN Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] MACKEY Democratic Website: warrenmackey.com Candidate Status: Facebook: CommissionerWarrenMackey Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Commissioner District 4 Previous elected offices held: Hamilton County Commissioner District 4 Current Employment/Occupation: Adjunct Professor at Chattanooga State Education: Undergrad Tennessee State University, a doctorate in History from MTSU and a post-doctoral study from the University of Texas Community Affiliation: President of the Statewide Tennessee County Commission Association; National County Commission Association Top Three Issues: • Equity in Schools • Economic Recovery • Criminal Justice Reform DISTRICT 5 GREG Party Affiliation: Facebook: gregory.beck.35 BECK Democratic Open Seat Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Commissioner District 5 Previous elected offices held: Hamilton County Commissioner District 5 Current Employment/Occupation: Court Office Education: Zion College and Chattanooga State Community College, where he studied political science and computer science; Grace Baptist Bible School, where he studied systematic theology and world history Community Affiliation: Saturday morning radio host of the “Discovery Hour” on WNOO-1260, a community information program sponsored by the Heritage Memorial Christian Center, which he founded and directs. PHYLICIA Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] BLACKMON Democratic Website: BlackmonforCountyCommision.com Open Seat Facebook: Phylicia Blackmon For County Commission Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Commission District 5 Previous elected offices held: N/A Current Employment/Occupation: Hamilton County Registrar Education: Phylicia is a graduate of Aiken College and Career High School in Cincinnati, Ohio and studied at Chattanooga State Community College with a focus in Mass Communications. Phylicia also has a Bachelor of Science degree pending in Integrated Studies with a focus in Applied Leadership. Community Affiliation: Teen Builders; Learning the Essential Strategies of Being a Young Lady; Young Professionals of Chattanooga; Divine Elite Top Three Issues: As county commissioner, Phylicia’s goal is “Breaking Barriers, Building Futures” with a plan to focus on the following: • Hamilton County’s $1B in deferred maintenance for the Hamilton County School System • Small business resources by providing training opportunities • Increase financial literacy within single income households and increase affordable housing options throughout District 5 CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 16
NATHANIEL Party Affiliation: Facebook: NateDossCountyD5 DOSS III Democratic Open Seat Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Commission District 5 Current Employment/Occupation: United States Marine Corps Veteran Top Three Issues: • Building up families as the foundation to revitalize, reenergize & reimage MIKE Party Affiliation: Website: electmikegreer.com GREER Democratic Facebook: michaeljgreer Open Seat Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Commission District 5 Previous elected offices held: N/A Current Employment/Occupation: Licensed Financial Advisor Education: Graduate of Brainerd High School and Bethel University, holding a degree in Business Management and is currently studying for his CFP credential. Community Affiliation: Vice President for the Chattanooga chapter of the National Association of Black Accountants, serves as a deacon at Westside Baptist Church, and has previously served as the President of Lakeside Youth Association. Top Three Issues: • Investing in our youth. • Creating opportunities. • Strengthening our neighborhoods DISTRICT 6 RUTH JENO Party Affiliation: Facebook: profile.php?id=100077771917146 Republican Candidate Status: Challenger Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Commission District 6 Previous elected offices held: Red Bank Commission; Mayor of Red Bank Current Employment/Occupation: Artist/Seamstres Community Affiliation: Board of directors for the Red Bank Food Pantry and Red Bank Seniors on the Go, a program she founded more than a decade ago that offers services to local senior citizens; the Awana Club Ministry; the American Red Cross. Top Three Issues: • Public education • Economic development • Safety for families in all neighborhoods CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 17
DAVID Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] SHARPE Democratic Website: votesharpe.com Candidate Status: Facebook: votesharpe Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Commission District 6 Previous elected offices held: Hamilton County Commission District 6 Current Employment/Occupation: Hamilton County Commission District 6 Community Affiliation: Co-chair of the Southern Brewers Festival, an event that has raised millions of dollars for local charities and brought thousands of visitors to Chattanooga. Top Three Issues: • Stronger schools • Stronger workforce • Stronger communities DISTRICT 7 LEE Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] HELTON Republican Website: Electleehelton.com Open Seat Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Commission District 7 Previous elected offices held: None Current Employment/Occupation: General contractor Education: BS Business Finance Community Affiliation: Benevolent and protective order of the Elks Lodge #91; Member of Silverdale Baptist Church Top Three Issues: I want to and work to: • Improve public safety • Make schools more effective and accountable to the families they serve • Ensure that we have strategic growth that improves community life and employment prospects for all citizens. DISTRICT 8 MIKE Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] CHAUNCEY Republican Facebook: mikechaunceycountycommission Open Seat Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Commission District 8 18 Previous elected offices held: East Ridge City Council Current Employment/Occupation: Realtor/Vice Mayor of East Ridge Top Three Issues: • Funding education • Responsible development CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022
TUCKER Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] MCCLENDON Republican Website: tuckermcclendon.com Open Seat Facebook: Tucker for County Commission Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Commission District 8 Previous elected offices held: Hamilton County School Board - District 8 Current Employment/Occupation: Director of Events - Millennial Debt Foundation Education: B.A. in Political Science Community Affiliation: Hamilton County School Board Top Three Issues: • 1. Strategic Vision for Growth • 2. Improve School Facilities • 3. Continue our Conservative Values and Conservative Leadership DISTRICT 9 DR. STEVE Party Affiliation: Facebook: profile.php?id=100071367783846 HIGHLANDER Republican Candidate Status: Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Commission District 9 Previous elected offices held: Hamilton County School Board Current Employment/Occupation: Educator Education: B.A. and master's degrees in educational administration from The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and his D.Min. degree from Covington Seminary. Community Affiliation: Sits on the education, The Legal and Legislative, and The Health, Human Services, Personnel, Arts, Recreation, and Public Relations Committees DR. STEVE Party Affiliation: Website: greatersecondmbc.org/pastor.html CAUDLE Democratic Candidate Status: Challenger Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Commission District 9 Previous elected offices held: N/A Current Employment/Occupation: Senior Pastor position at Greater Second Missionary Baptist Church Education: Lane College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business; Master’s of Theology Degree from Dallas Theological Seminary; Doctor of Ministry degree from the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary of New Orleans, LA, with a major in Leadership. Community Affiliation: AWANA; the Big-Hearted Angel’s Ministry Top Three Issues: • Standing up for the truth in government • Funding public education • Protect our democracy CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 19
DISTRICT 10 JEFFREY Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] EVERSOLE Republican Website: votejeffeversole.com Open Seat Facebook: VoteJeffEversole Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Commission District 10 Previous elected offices held: None Current Employment/Occupation: Market Manager at Walmart Stores Inc Education: Eastern Kentucky University Community Affiliation: Patrol Reservist; Children’s Outpatient Center; Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce; United Way; Chattanooga Area Food Bank Top Three Issues: • Schools • Job Creation • Public Safety DEAN Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] MOORHOUSE Republican Website: deanmoorhouse.com Open Seat Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Commission District 10 Education: Associates degree in Respiratory Therapy; bachelor's degree in Management Community Affiliation: Vice-Chairman of the Hamilton County GOP; Past President of the Nightside Pachyderm Club; Board of Trustees of the Harrison Ruritan Club; Founding Member of the Board of Directors of the Ooltewah Harrison Education Foundation; the Hamilton County Alcohol Board since 2012 Top Three Issues: • As a part of my infrastructure platform I will promote broadband access for not only home schoolers but the thousands of folks working from home who live in the rural part of District 10. DISTRICT 11 JOSEPH “JOE” Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] GRAHAM Republican Website: electjoegraham.com Open Seat Facebook: electjoegraham Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Commission District 11 Previous elected offices held: Hamilton County Commission, District 6, 2010-2018 Current Employment/Occupation: Owner/Operator Accent Printing Inc, Accent Car Wash Inc., Graham Properties Education: K-12, ChattState Community Affiliation: President of the Lookout Valley Neighborhood Association; Lookout Valley Lions Club Officer; Rebuild Together Chattanooga Board Member; Red Bank Food Pantry Board Member; Community Activist Top Three Issues: • 1. Safe and inclusive schools with open enrollment countywide. • 2. JOBS JOBS JOBS! Our district needs jobs for all that want them to improve the quality of life in the new District 11. • 3. Safe and vibrant neighborhoods with services to help people stay in their homes and not get run out because of new developments running the property values (and corresponding taxes) up. We need opportunities for our young people so they stay supported with positive activities and not left with no better choices than gang membership. CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 20
MONTRELL Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] BEASLEY Democratic Website: montrellbesley.com/ Open Seat Facebook: montrellbesley Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Commission District 11 Previous elected offices held: N/A Current Employment/Occupation: Director of Community Engagement, Chattanooga Preparatory School Education: Bachelor's in Health and Human Performance, Austin Peay State University; Master's in Public and Community Health, Austin Peay State University Community Affiliation: Co-Founder, Lighthouse Collective; Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.; Executive Board Member, Boys and Girls Club of Chattanooga Top Three Issues: • Education: Ensuring a quality education for every student in District 11 means paying our teachers more and investing in critical infrastructure of our public schools. • Public Safety: We must take a community-first approach to public safety and behavioral health to reduce our jail population and unnecessary arrests. Public safety also includes ensuring a clean environment and secure street infrastructure. • Economy: Improving our economy requires that we support local businesses by including them in our county contracts and utilizing homegrown workforce. It’s also essential that we increase access to affordable housing and livable wages for all in District 1 MOLLY Party Affiliation: Facebook: mollyblank1210 BLANKENSHIP Democratic Open Seat Elected office you're seeking: Text Previous elected offices held: None Current Employment/Occupation: U.S. Xpress Education: Studied Public Administration & Social Work at Middle Tennessee State University Top Three Issues: • Passionate about people, equity, and community progress SEAN Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] NIX Democratic Website: seannix2022.com Open Seat Facebook: SeanNixDistrict11 Instagram: allthingssean423 Twitter: SeanNixD11 Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Commission District 11 Previous elected offices held: None Current Employment/Occupation: Vice-Chairmen of the Hamilton County Democratic Party Education: B.S Criminal Justice UT-Chattanooga; Masters Public Administration Southern New Hampshire University Community Affiliation: Hamilton County Democratic Party; I Am Foundation; Sculpture Fields at Montague park; Hamilton County Voters Coalition Top Three Issues: • Access to Opportunity for all: We are rebuilding an economy that will need to work for everyone in Hamilton County, so we must continue to protect the dignity of work. I'm committed to supporting technical vocational training and apprenticeships to meet the needs of our ever-growing local economy. • Quality Education: Our communities are in the best shape when our workers are trained with knowledge and ingenuity. I'm dedicated to providing the next generation of Hamilton County with access to reliable, equitable education and the tools to make our local economy flourish. • Creating lasting Relationships: By championing new, improved relationships between Hamilton County Government and other municipalities, I will help find solutions to crucial, daily concerns such as homelessness, gun violence, and dilapidated infrastructure. CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 21
HAMILTON COUNTY TRUSTEE PROFILES HAMILTON COUNTY TRUSTEE The trustee acts as the legal owner of trust assets and is responsible for handling any of the assets held in trust, tax filings for the trust, and distributing the assets according to the terms of the trust. BILL Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] HULLANDER Republican Website: Candidate Status: Facebook: Incumbent Instagram: Twitter: Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Trustee Previous elected offices held: Hamilton County Commissioner Dist. 9, County Trustee Current Employment/Occupation: Hamilton County Trust Education: Ooltewah High School Community Affiliation: Board Member for Medal of Honor Museum; Gideon Intl.; Attends Ridgedale Baptist Church Top Three Issues: • Saving Taxpayers money • Government Transparency • Customer service making it easier for taxpayers to conduct business with the Trustee's Office CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 22
SHERIFF PROFILES SHERIFF The Sheriff is the keeper of the county jail, required to take charge and custody of the prisoners therein and to receive those lawfully committed and keep them until they are discharged by law. AUSTIN Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] GARRETT Republican Website: austingarrettsheriff.com Open Seat Facebook: austingarrettsheriff Elected office you're seeking: Sheriff Current Employment/Occupation: Retired Police Officer Lieutenant Education: Graduate of the FBI National Academy Session 273; graduate of the Southeastern Command and Leadership Academy, and holds a degree in criminal justice from Bethel University Community Affiliation: Active member of Shelter Church; board member for the Forgotten Child Fund; board member for YCAP CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 23
CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE PROFILES CIRCUIT COURT JUDGE They hear civil and criminal cases and appeals of decisions from Juvenile, Municipal, and General Sessions Courts. DIVISION 1 J.B. Party Affiliation: BENNETT Republican Candidate Status: Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Circuit Court Judge Division 1 Previous elected offices held: None Current Employment/Occupation: Circuit Court Judge Division 1 Education: University of Tennessee, B.A. - 1989; University of Tennessee, J.D. - 1993 Community Affiliation: Presiding Judge - 11th Judicial District 2017-2018 Chair - TJC Jury Instructions/Civil Committee Vice Chair - TJC Technology in the Courts Committee Member - TJC Legislative Committee Member - Domestic Relations Committee of the TJC CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 24
DIVISION 2 MIKE Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] DUMITRU Republican Website: mikeforjudge.com/about-mike Open Seat Facebook: MikeforJudge2022 Instagram: mikeforjudge Elected office you're seeking: Circuit Court Judge Division 2 Previous elected offices held: None Current Employment/Occupation: Partner at Miller & Martin Education: B.A. in Political Science from Fordham University, an M.S. in International Relations from New York University, and a J.D. from Vanderbilt University. Community Affiliation: The Rotary Club of Chattanooga; the Young Professionals Association of Chattanooga; the Chambliss Center for Children; St. Peter’s Episcopal School. Top Three Issues: • Decisive: Mike understands that decisions, hard as they may be, are necessary to ensure all disputes are resolved efficiently and timely. • Dedicated: Mike is fully dedicated to his family, his community, and maintaining the rule of law. • Disciplined: Mike will carry his disciplined approach to the bench to preserve and protect the integrity of the law and ensure it is applied as legislated by our elected representatives JIM Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] EXUM Republican Website: exumforjudge.com Open Seat Facebook: ExumforJudge2022 Instagram: Twitter: exumforjudge2022 Elected office you're seeking: Circuit Court Judge Division 2 Previous elected offices held: N/A Current Employment/Occupation: Judge Education: Graduate of UTC and the Cumberland School of Law at Samford University Community Affiliation: Member of Mount Carmel Baptist Church; Little League Coach for many years; mentor for high school students through the Tennessee Achieves program Top Three Issues: • He specializes in the defense of police officers, first responders, government officials, and private parties. • He’s ready on day one to hear all cases brought before the Circuit Court. • Involved in the community as a regular volunteer for Legal Aid of East Tennessee providing representation to those who can't afford legal services. DIVISION 3 MARIE Party Affiliation: WILLIAMS Republican Candidate Status: Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Circuit Court Judge Division 3 Previous elected offices held: Circuit Court Judge Division 3 Current Employment/Occupation: Circuit Court Judge Division 3 Education: University of Tennessee, Knoxville, 1976; University of Georgia, 1974 Community Affiliation: Rotary Club of Chattanooga; UT Law School Dean's Circle; Vice-Chancellor to the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of East Tennessee; Board of Trustees of the St. Nicholas School CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 25
DIVISION 4 KYLE E. Party Affiliation: Facebook: JudgeKyleHedrick HEDRICK Republican Candidate Status: Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Circuit Court Judge Division 3 Previous elected offices held: Circuit Court Judge Division 3 Current Employment/Occupation: Circuit Court Judge Division 3 CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 26
CRIMINAL COURT JUDGE PROFILES CRIMINAL COURT JUDGE Judges provide instructions to juries prior to their deliberations and in the case of bench trials, judges must decide the facts of the case and make a ruling. Additionally, judges are also responsible for sentencing convicted criminal defendants. DIVISION 1 BARRY Party Affiliation: STEELMAN Republican Candidate Status: Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Criminal Court Clerk Judge Division 1 Previous elected offices held: Criminal Court Clerk Judge Division 1 Current Employment/Occupation: Criminal Court Clerk Judge Division 1 Education: Carson Newman College, B.S. 1986; University of Tennessee College of Law, J.D. 1989 Community Affiliation: President of Chattanooga Bar Association; Carson Newman University Board of Trustees; Rotary Club CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 27
DIVISION 2 THOMAS Party Affiliation: Website: criminalcourt2.org GREENHOLTZ Republican LinkedIN tomgreenholtz Candidate Status: Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Criminal Court Clerk Judge Division 2 Previous elected offices held: None Current Employment/Occupation: Judge, Second Division, Hamilton County Criminal Court Education: JD, University of Tennessee College of Law (1999); BS, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (1996) Community Affiliation: Orange Grove Center; United Way of Greater Chattanooga, Chattanooga Area Leadership Prayer Breakfast Top Three Issues: • Protection and Community Safety; • Respect for Constitutional Rights of both Victims of Crime and Those Accused of Crime; • Focus on Mitigating Drug-Related Crimes through Use of Drug Recovery Court and Substance-Use Treatment DIVISION 3 AMANDA Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] DUNN Republican Website: amandadunnforjudge.com Open Seat Facebook: Amanda Dunn for Judge LinkedIN: Amanda Dunn for Judge Elected office you're seeking: Criminal Court Clerk Judge Division 3 Previous elected offices held: N/A Current Employment/Occupation: Criminal defense attorney with Houston & Alexander Education: Wake Forest University School of Law and University of Tennessee Community Affiliation: Legal Aid of East Tennessee, Chattanooga Bar Association Top Three Issues: • As Hamilton County Criminal Court Judge, I will expand mental health court to connect non-violent offenders with mental illness to treatment solutions, avoiding jail time; help create a lasting solution for those in crisis; reduce jail overcrowding and ease the burden on law enforcement; reduce repeat offenders; save major tax dollars and move cases quicker through the judicial process. BOYD Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] PATTERSON Republican Website: boydpatterson.com Open Seat Facebook: FriendsForBoydPatterson Instagram: Twitter: Elected office you're seeking: Criminal Court Clerk Judge Division 3 Previous elected offices held: None Current Employment/Occupation: Public Defender Top Three Issues: • As a counselor with two degrees in psychology, Boyd Patterson helped young offenders develop the coping skills needed to turn their lives around. Boyd also helped establish the Hamilton County Mental Health Court in 2015. CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 28
REBECCA Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] STERN Republican Website: stern judge.com Open Seat Facebook: Sternjudge2022 Elected office you're seeking: Criminal Court Clerk Judge Division 3 Previous elected offices held: Hamilton County Criminal Court Judge, Division II Current Employment/Occupation: Attorney Education: Doctor of Jurisprudence from UT Knoxville Law School Community Affiliation: Pachyderm Club, Hamilton County Republican Women, Chattanooga Bar Association Top Three Issues: • Experience, Fairness, Creativity CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 29
JUVENILE COURT JUDGE PROFILES JUVENILE COURT JUDGE They interpret and enforce juvenile criminal laws set by the local jurisdiction or state government. ROB Party Affiliation: Facebook: FriendsofJudgePhilyaw PHILYAW Republican Candidate Status: Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Juvenile Court Clerk Judge Division Previous elected offices held: Juvenile Court Clerk Judge Division Current Employment/Occupation: Juvenile Court Clerk Judge Division Education: BS in Business Administration & MBA from Christian Brothers University; JD from Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law at the University of Memphis Community Affiliation: Secretary/treasurer of the Tennessee Council of Juvenile and Family Law Judges and as president-elect of the Chattanooga Bar Association; Point Church at Signal, and serves on the board of Tennessee Youth Courts. Top Three Issues: • Judge Philyaw focuses on the basics of reducing the time children are in foster care, ensuring mandatory attendance laws are followed in our schools, getting teenagers off of the streets after midnight, and in identifying the underlying reasons for these situations in the first place. By doing so, many underlying factors are discovered and in many cases resolved to prevent recurrences. CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 30
CHATTANOOGA JUDGE PROFILES CHATTANOOGA JUDGE The City's Judges are elected to eight (8) year terms and form the third branch of City government. Although independent of the City Court Clerk's Office, they work closely with them to fairly enforce all City Codes and Ordinances. CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 31
DIVISION 1 BRIAN Candidate Status: Email: [email protected] BUSH Challenger Website: electbrianbush.com Facebook: electbrianbus Instagram: electbrianbush202 Elected office you're seeking: Chattanooga City Court Judge - Division I Previous elected offices held: None Current Employment/Occupation: Spears, Moore, Rebman & Williams, P.C./Attorney Education: Undergraduate: Maryville College (B.A. in Political Science); Law School: University of Tennessee College of Law (J.D.) Community Affiliation: (1)Tennessee Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, Access to Justice Coordinator; (2) Maryville College Alumni Board of Directors, Member; (3) Justices Brock-Cooper Chapter of the American Inns of Court, Member; (4) S.L.Hutchins Bar Association, Member; and (5) Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Incorporated, Member. Top Three Issues: • Crafting a City Court that steers Chattanoogans towards helpful, local resources, when appropriate, instead of burdening community members with fines and court costs; • Following the law to ensure that community members have the ability to pay fines and costs before such fines and costs are imposed, so that their licenses do not get suspended; and • Promoting the safety and well-being of Chattanoogans through the Chattanooga City Court. SHERRY Candidate Status: Facebook: profile.php?id=100073223782844 PATY Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Chattanooga City Court Judge - Division I Education: Graduate of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga where she obtained her Bachelor of Science in Business Administration; University of Tennessee at Knoxville where she obtained her law degree Community Affiliation: Management Board of the North River YMCA; members of Red Bank Baptist Church. CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 32
CHANCELLOR PROFILES CHANCELLOR Chancellors serve as the Judges for the Chancery Courts of each judicial district in Tennessee. CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 33
PART 1 PAMELA Party Affiliation: MCNUTT Republican FLEENOR Candidate Status: Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Chancellor Part I Current Employment/Occupation: Judge Education: Undergraduate degree from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and her J.D. from the University of Cincinnati College Of Law Community Affiliation: Board member of the Lookout Mountain School PTA and The Fairyland Club, while also volunteering regularly in the children’s ministry at Lookout Mountain Presbyterian Church PART 2 JEFFREY Party Affiliation: ATHERTON Republican Candidate Status: Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Chancellor Part II Previous elected offices held: Chancellor Current Employment/Occupation: Chancellor Education: University of Tennessee, Knoxville, 1984 & 1987 Community Affiliation: Oakwood Baptist Church Deacon, 20 years Coach of High School Mock Trial, 4 year Coach of High School Girls Soccer, Dixieland Leadership Camp (13 years) CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 34
CRIMINAL COURT JUDGE PROFILES CRIMINAL COURT JUDGE Judges provide instructions to juries prior to their deliberations and in the case of bench trials, judges must decide the facts of the case and make a ruling. Additionally, judges are also responsible for sentencing convicted criminal defendants. LARRY L. Party Affiliation: HENRY Republican Candidate Status: Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Circuit Court Clerk Previous elected offices held: None Current Employment/Occupation: Circuit Court Clerk Top Three Issues: • It has been an honor to serve the people of Hamilton County over the past seven years as Circuit Court clerk. During that time, the Circuit and General Sessions Court Clerks’ Offices have improved online access to court records, made it easier to handle court-related business, and worked closely with Circuit and General Sessions Court judges as they decide civil cases in Hamilton County. CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 35
CRIMINAL COURT CLERK PROFILES CRIMINAL COURT CLERK They interpret and enforce juvenile criminal laws set by the local jurisdiction or state government. VINCE Party Affiliation: DEAN Republican Candidate Status: Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Criminal Court Clerk Current Employment/Occupation: Criminal Court Clerk CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 36
JUVENILE COURT CLERK PROFILES JUVENILE COURT CLERK They process all legal documents filed in Juvenile Court, maintain docket and minute books, act as the keeper of the records, prepare hearing dockets, provide deputy clerks for all court hearings, maintain financial records, collect court costs, fines, child support, etc. GARY D. Party Affiliation: BEHLER Republican Candidate Status: Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Juvenile Court Clerk Previous elected offices held: Juvenile Court Clerk Current Employment/Occupation: Juvenile Court Clerk Education: University of Tennessee at Chattanooga - Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice and Corrections; Master’s in Criminal Justice CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 37
HAMILTON COUNTY CLERK PROFILES HAMILTON COUNTY CLERK The County Clerk is a constitutional officer and is elected by the people for a term of four years. The specific work of the office is prescribed by the Legislature. Duties of the office range from secretary to the County Commission to conducting a great deal of the State's taxation duties within the county. The Clerk also serves as Chairman of the County Records Commission. CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 38
W.F. (BILL) Party Affiliation: Website: countyclerkanytime.com/bio.aspx KNOWLES Republican Candidate Status: Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Clerk Previous elected offices held: Hamilton County Clerk GEORGE Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] RYAN Democratic Facebook: George Ryan Love for Hamilton County Clerk LOVE Candidate Status: Challenger Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Clerk Previous elected offices held: None Current Employment/Occupation: Night Auditor Education: Master of Education Community Affiliation: Hamilton County Democratic Party Top Three Issues: • Union for all lines of work. • Full paid FMLA for all. • Feed and house all homeless R. CHESTER Party Affiliation: HEATHINGTON, Independent JR. Candidate Status: Challenger Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Clerk NIVEK Party Affiliation: RUCKER Independent Candidate Status: Challenger Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County Clerk CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 39
REGISTER OF DEEDS PROFILES REGISTER OF DEEDS They make and preserve an accurate record of instruments required or allowed by law to be filed or recorded, including but not limited to deeds, powers of attorney, deeds of trust, mortgages, liens, contracts, plats, leases, judgments, wills, court orders, military discharges, etc. MARC Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] GRAVITT Republican Facebook: MGravittRegister Candidate Status: Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Register of Deeds Previous elected offices held: None Current Employment/Occupation: U.S. Army Veteran Community Affiliation: Signal Center Friends of Special Children CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 40
HAMILTON COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD PROFILES HAMILTON COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD The school board represents the public's voice in public education, providing oversight for what the public schools need and what the community wants. An effective school board plays an important watchdog role in keeping your local school on track and setting policies that affect your child and your school. Their job is three-fold: (1) Oversee and evaluate the Director of Schools, (2) Review and approve the school budget, and (3) Develop and update board policies. CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 41
DISTRICT 3 JOE Party Affiliation: Facebook: JoeSmithD3schoolboard SMITH Republican Candidate Status: Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County School Board District 3 JENN Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] PIROTH, MA Democratic Website: JennPirothServes.com Candidate Status: Facebook: JennPirothServes Challenger Instagram: JennPirothServes Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County School Board District 3 Previous elected offices held: None Current Employment/Occupation: ASL Interpreter Education: BA - Elementary Education, MA- Mental Health Counseling Community Affiliation: Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) Top Three Issues: • Teachers deserve more pay and less micromanaging. They need administration they can depend on and to be respected like the professionals they are by students, families, and community members. Our teachers are highly qualified and talented! • Families deserve level-headed leadership guided by expert research consensus. We, who value education, can trust people who have been educated! • Students deserve schools that start at a reasonable hour. Both the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine state that NO SCHOOL should start before 8:30am. This change is proven to decrease absenteeism and increase graduation rates! DISTRICT 5 KARITSA Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] MOSELY Democratic Facebook: ElectKaritsaMosleyforSchoolBoardDistrict5 JONES Candidate Status: Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County School Board District 5 Previous elected offices held: Hamilton County School Board District 5 Current Employment/Occupation: Licensed Master Social Worker3 Education: BA in Sociology & Criminal Justice and MSW in Social Work & Community Mental Health from Alabama A&M University Top Three Issues: In my first and second terms, I have been a strong advocate for greater community engagement in schools; closing achievement gaps; more equitable and transparent budgeting decisions; fought for fair and balanced educational experiences to improve the urban schools in her district; and have advocated for policies that attract and retain the most effective teachers for schools that need them most. My platform remains consistent to the folding focus areas as I work towards a more effective and efficient school system for all. These focus areas are: Action, Commitment and Transparency: • Diversity, Equity, Inclusion • Enhanced Whole Child/Whole Family Supports • Equitable Facilities and Improvements CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 42
CHARLES Party Affiliation: Facebook: Charles-Paty-for-School-Board-District-5-112317048052585 PATY Republican Candidate Status: Challenger Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County School Board District 5 Previous elected offices held: None Education: University of Chattanooga, Bachelor of Science; Cumberland School of Law, Samford University, Juris Doctorate JON DISTRICT 6 BAKER Party Affiliation: Republican Open Seat Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County School Board District 6 CINDY Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] FAIN Republican Website: electcindyf.wixsite.com/website Open Seat Facebook: profile.php?id=100076477989360 Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County School Board District 6 Previous elected offices held: None Current Employment/Occupation: Small Business Owner Education: East TN State University; Northeast Community College Top Three Issues: • Why can't Kids just be Kids? They need to learn and be taught the simple things in life, they need family, they need community, they need to love the country they live in.....and MOST of all they need to laugh and PLAY! DELORES Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] GROSS Republican Website: votevinsonschoolboard.org VINSON Open Seat Facebook: vote vinson, school board district 6 Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County School Board District 6 Previous elected offices held: President of Professional Educators of Tennessee; Chairman of Hamilton County Republican Party Current Employment/Occupation: Teacher Education: Master's degree in secondary education from UTC, ABD master's in journalism form University of Alabama Community Affiliation: HCGOP, HCCWR, Chattanooga Area Food Bank, CPCPA Top Three Issues: • VASTLY improved academic performance • School choice • Increased administrative support for faculty and staff CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 43
BEN Party Affiliation: Email: votebenconnor.com/ CONNOR Democratic Facebook: VoteBenConnor2022 Open Seat Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County School Board District 6 Previous elected offices held: N/A Current Employment/Occupation: Philanthropic Coordinator Education: King University Community Affiliation: Normal Park SPARK board; board of directors chair of Northside Learning Center Top Three Issues: • Bring parents’ perspective to the school board • Leadership starts with listening DISTRICT 8 LARRY Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] GROH Republican Website: JennPirothServes.com Open Seat Facebook: JennPirothServes Instagram: JennPirothServes Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County School Board District 8 Previous elected offices held: Chattanooga City Council Current Employment/Occupation: Social & Political Commentator Education: Kansas University (1987-1990); MS Education Curriculum and Instruction 1990; * The University of Texas, San Antonio (1985-1986); A History 1987 Community Affiliation: Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) Top Three Issues: • I will oppose anyone or any ideology which dismisses the great legacy of America! The Progressive Left, including the current admin of Hamilton County schools, has taken over our schools’ curriculums and libraries. I will stand against those who introduce relative morality, anti-American ideology and indecent materials into the classrooms of our children. KATIE Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] PERKINS Democratic Facebook: KatiePerkinsD8 Open Seat Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County School Board District 8 Previous elected offices held: N/A Top Three Issues: • I plan to serve the future of my community and I have a conviction that public education is of great significance. I hope to attain more money for the schools to hire more teachers and aides. I have heard from teachers and administrators that more counselors and social supports are needed. I also hope to improve facilities. SANDY Party Affiliation: NORRIS Democratic SMITH Open Seat Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County School Board District 8 Top Three Issues: 44 • Possess Experience & Vision; Committed to Excellence, & Determined to Achieve Equity CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022
DISTRICT 9 GARY Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] KUEHN Republican Website: gary-kuehn-schoolboard-d9.mailchimpsites.com Candidate Status: Facebook: Garykuehn, Schoolboard Candidate for District 9 Challenger Instagram: Garywkuehn Twitter: Kuehn Gary Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County School Board District 9 Previous elected offices held: None Current Employment/Occupation: Retired educator of 39 years Education: BS - UTC and Masters of administration - Tennessee Tech Community Affiliation: TEA/HCEA, CFC & Chattanooga Red Wolves, Silverdale Baptist Church Top Three Issues: • 1. Improvement and increased opportunities for Early Childhood Literacy. • 2. Increased Vocational Education programs and Vocational Education Schools • 3. Increased Parental Involvement in their child's Education. TATE Party Affiliation: Facebook: TateSmithDistrict9HamCo SMITH Republican Candidate Status: Challenger Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County School Board District 9 Top Three Issues: • I have always been called to help people in any way that I can. I love our schools and I want to do anything I can to make them better for students and teachers. JAMES B. Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] WALKER Republican Facebook: JamesWalkerForD9 Candidate Status: Incumbent Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County School Board District 9 DISTRICT 10 RODDEY Party Affiliation: Email: Email: [email protected] COE Republican Website: electroddey.com Candidate Status: Facebook: electroddey Challenger LinkedIn roddeycoe Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County School Board District 10 Previous elected offices held: None Current Employment/Occupation: IT Professional Education: Graduate, Leadership Hamilton County Schools; Graduate, Partners in Policymaking; Certificate, Volunteer Advocacy Project, Vanderbilt University Community Affiliation: Member, TN Council on Developmental Disabilities; Member, TN Council on Autism Spectrum Disorders. Education Advocate for Families Top Three Issues: • Parent and Student Choice - We must meet our students where they are and teach them how they learn. • Teachers' Voice - Teachers must be given a greater voice in educating our students, they are the ones interacting with them daily. • Responsible Budgets - More money needs to be in the schools, reduce the size of the central office. CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 45
PATRICK Party Affiliation: LEE Republican Open Seat Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County School Board District 10 FAYE Party Affiliation: ROBINSON Republican Open Seat Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County School Board District 10 FAYE Party Affiliation: ROBINSON Independent Open Seat Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County School Board District 10 JEFF P. Party Affiliation: Email: [email protected] CRIM Democratic Website: jeffcrim.com Open Seat Facebook: JPC4HD10 Elected office you're seeking: Hamilton County School Board District 10 Previous elected offices held: N/A Current Employment/Occupation: Staff Chaplain, CHI Memorial Hospital Education: Master of Divinity, School Of Religion at Earlham College; Bachelor of Arts, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Community Affiliation: District Commissioner, Boy Scouts of America; ACS Chaplain, United States Coast Guard Auxiliary; Board Member, United States Selective Service System Top Three Issues: • The purpose of serving on the school board is to ensure that students have access to an appropriate public education. • Schools should prepare students to become adults who embrace civic life and interact with their neighbors. • Standardized tests are a useful tool, but they are not the ultimate tool for evaluating school and teacher effectiveness or student achievement. CHATTANOOGA VOTER GUIDE • 2022 46
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