About Upson beacon. (Thomaston, Ga.) 2008-current | View Entire Issue (April 24, 2024)
Page 2B UPSON MgL BEACON Wednesday, April 24,2024 UPSON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSION CHAIRMAN PROVEN * EXPERIENCED ‘ TRUSTED "Growing up in Upson County, I witnessed the strength of our community—the resilience of our people, the beauty of our rural landscape, and the rich cultural heritage that binds us. It was this very fabric of our county that Inspired me to return home after my 30 years active duty IU.5. Navy) and to step forward and contribute to its growth and prosperity. My desire was simple: to foster strong county and city relationships. I envisioned a future where collaboration would lead to progress—a brighter tomorrow for our children and grandchildren. I wanted to be part of building that legacy, ensuring that Upson County thrives for generations to come. 1 am honored to have served as your Chairman since 70)7 and together we have witnessed much of what I envisioned. Most accomplished during some of the most challenging of times. We weathered two significant tornadoes, suffered the health and economic devastation of the CGVID pandemic, and are experiencing the burdens resulting from today's inflation. Together we are persevering. 1 pledge to continue the work we have started. To continue to bring JOBS and INVESTMENTS to Thomaston a nd Upson, which will only strengthen our communities and bring much needed tax relief, especially for our senior citizens. As you consider each candidate. 1 hope you will consider the progress and achievements we have made in recent years. I think we all agree that results matter I humbly ask for your continued support, prayers and your vote on May 21st as early voting will begin on April 29th." Thank you, Norman WE'VE ACCOMPLISHED A LOT! • REDUCED COUNTY TAX RATE 35% & INCREASED HOMESTEAD EXEMPTIONS < CHAMPIONED BETTER PAY & BENEFITS FOR LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT DELIVERED NEW JOBS AND POSITIVE GROWTH * PROVIDED NEW AMBULANCE SERVICES > RESURFACED NEARLY 100 MILES OF ROADS * LAUNCHED HIGHSPEED INTERNET SERVICES TO RURAL AREAS IttprdVl** infrnjwu-eiuriji ■ Roads - resurfaced over 37 miles since 2017 * 2024 LRA Project 12.5 miles est. Si.2 million w/>$800 in state funds * TSPLOST 2024 - Bonding $9 million in resurfacing - ■ HM R Bridge - survey and environmental work in progress with state money -14 significant washouts over $1.2 million. Rapid response |$30QK stale reimbursement) APPA * invested in infrastructure rather than in operations - long term return > City sewer improvement via joint agreement to enhance city's capabilities for economic growth with focus on industrial park ($2.5 million) Rural Broadband ($2million) partnership with Highline and State for a $20 million project - Currently 218 miles of fiber with 432 customers (500 more waiting) Tamrc/Crowth 2017 digest est $630 million/today $930milHon mostly inflationary growth but last year saw almost 20% of growth as real growth ($19 million I * 2017 total (countywide, unincorporated, joint projects) 18 SI 2023 total 11 91 - reduced by 36% PUblk$*fvty * EMS (happened during COVID) $1.2 million annually supplement 2023- 5234 call/3417 transports/1154 refused/663 cancelled * Funded SROs and increased funding for VFD * Funded increases for (aw enforcement for retention Econamrc Dcvclopriu 1 nt - New industries; Golden Star. United Teleports Crown Tech, Ranew Industries - Retail growth spurred by CFA and downtown revitalization ftECOCNIZGDOV AC« AS A 'COUNTY *F CXCELLCNCE « fN PAST J VfiA« (NCAQT 4 SOUL) ffiSCft TO THE PREMISE LOCAL CANDIDATE! Raised & Educaled in Upson County/1977 graduate of R.E, Lee LOCALLY TRAINED! Worked for Thomasfon Mills while in high school and college, VETERAN. Served 30 years active-duty U.5. Navy. Retired as a Command Master Chief (E-9). TR AINED/EXPE RJEN CE LEADER BA degree the Management {American Military University), Graduate of US. Air Force Senior NCO Academy, Graduate of US. Navy Senior En listed Academy and Command Master Chief Capstone. PRIVATE SECTOR EXPERIENCED. Managed operations, budgets and profitability in car wash industry. EXPERIENCED AND TRAINED COMMISSIONER. -Certified C ounty Commissioner with specialty certification in Economic Development and County Operations (UGA Carl Vinson Institute of Government) -Graduate of Ga Dept, of Community Affair Economic Development Academy -Serves on Three Rivers Region Commission (10 counties), 2 years as Chair. PROUD FATHER/GRANDFATHER. Married to Liz For 40 years with two sons (both veterans). Welcoming Sth grandchild later this summer. ELECTION DAY: MAY 211 EARLY VOTING APR. 29 Pit.id Political Advertissutisnl
