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oter’s Guide
A GUIDE TO AREA MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS
PRIMARY: APRIL 6 | GENERAL: JUNE 8
West Point
Caledonia
Starkville Columbus
INSIDE
City of Columbus:
Mayor...............................................2
Councilman Ward 1............................2
Councilman Ward 2............................3
Councilman Ward 3............................3
Councilman Ward 4............................4
Councilman Ward 5............................4
Councilman Ward 6............................5
Ballot/Precincts.................................5
Town of Caledonia:
Mayor...............................................6
Alderman..........................................6
Ballot/Precinct..................................5
City of Starkville:
Mayor...............................................8
Alderman Ward 1...............................8
Alderman Ward 2...............................8
Alderman Ward 3...............................9
Alderman Ward 4...............................9
Alderman Ward 5.............................10
Alderman Ward 6.............................10
Alderman Ward 7.............................11
Ballot/Precincts...............................11
City of West Point:
Mayor.............................................12
Selectman Ward 1...........................13
Selectman Ward 2...........................13
Selectman Ward 3...........................13
Selectman Ward 4...........................14
Selectman Ward 5...........................14
Ballot/Precincts...............................14
City of Macon:
Ballot..............................................11
L
eading up to this year’s city elections, The
Dispatch sent questionnaires to all candidates
in the Golden Triangle. Candidates were
asked to provide basic information such as age,
political experience and contact information. They
were also asked to answer three questions, limiting
their responses to a set word count.
The answers provided to us are printed in this guide.
We only edited the answers for length; we didn’t make
any grammatical corrections.
Questionnaires were sent to all candidates, and our
The Dispatch
staff followed up with phone calls and emails in an
effort to get responses from every candidate.
Sample ballots for Lowndes, Oktibbeha, Clay and
Noxubee counties are included in this special section. Sunday, March 21, 2021
2 SUNDAY, MARCH 21, 2021 The Dispatch • www.cdispatch.com
City of Columbus
Mayor Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $81,161
Q&A
1. What is the biggest 2. How can city government 3. What is the importance
challenge facing Columbus work to help citizens and of a healthy city/county
and how would you address businesses emerge from the relationship and what actions
it? pandemic? could be taken to improve that
relationship?
Democrat
Robert Smith (I)
Occupation:
Education:
Political experience:
Residence:
Family:
Email:
Phone:
Independent
Montrell Coburn To get citizens to think outside of the We have to be able to paint/ show Look throughout history and every
Occupation: Security (MSU) norm and not resort to whats known to a vision so simple and clear to the great nation crumbled from the inside.
Education: Two years Meridian make them feel comfortable. citizens thats fool proof that they can Its vital that the city & council move
Community College follow; (Strength in numbers) allowing and behave like one: to the point
Political experience: 20 years businesses to bounce back as if nothing that citizens don’t know who’s who
of studying Human Government happened. (pertaining to titles or who’s over a
Residence: 613 14th St. N., certain ward).
Columbus
Family: Single
Email: Montrell@
MontrellforMayor.com
Phone: 662-549-4433
Keith Gaskin Columbus faces a multitude of The COVID-19 pandemic has been The City and County leadership have
Occupation: Executive challenges now and in the days ahead uniquely destructive to all our lives and a responsibility to the people to work
Director Mississippi School for from gun violence and pandemic to livelihoods in ways most of us never together as partners, not competitors.
Mathematics and potholes and population decline. At imagined. Open communication, fact As mayor, I will focus on building open
the root of all of them, like most things, based policies, and clear messaging communication lines and a professional
Science Foundation
is money. Our city’s finances are not are key. Once we’ve reached the relationship with all county elected
Education: Ph.D. and Master where they should be. Many of you have CDC’s and Dr. Dobbs benchmarks officials and administrators. Both bodies
of Public Policy Administration, asked serious questions concerning our for immunization, we should continue should collaborate with each other
Mississippi; State University; financial stability that you feel have not our reopening with commonsense at every opportunity. Some actions
Bachelor of Science, University been completely answered. If elected, I guidelines in place. We should use we can take to improve and foster
of Southern Mississippi will commission a city-wide review of all infrastructure grants and creative the relationship obviously concern
Political experience: First time government systems, including a state- solutions to make opening a small law enforcement. Jurisdictions aside,
candidate led audit in segments by department, business or staying open more feasible the Sheriff’s department and CPD
Residence: 216 3rd Ave. S., as well as overall, to identify precisely and allow business owners to use must work together in meaningful and
Columbus the areas of concern and peculiarity. their own creativity and ingenuity to effective ways to help curb the growing
Family: Wife Gaines Bateman I guarantee total transparency in this do business the best they can. As the issues of gang violence and drug
Gaskin, daughter Anna Gaines process, with public briefings scheduled weather warms up, we should utilize our trafficking. In my opinion, the City and
Johnson (Hunter) son, Edmund for each segment upon completion. outdoor spaces, sidewalks, parks, and County are obligated by interest, ethics,
Gaskin Once we’ve addressed the source of venues to hold small business shopping economy, and neighborly values to help
Email: keith@ the problems at hand, we can begin the days and encourage outdoor dining. and strengthen the other for the benefit
keithgaskinformayor.com hard work of overcoming the challenges It will take mutual cooperation and of all of us.
Phone: 901-238-8238 cell it has wrought. We’ll meet them head- patience, kindness and communication,
on, together, with clear eyes toward the and it will require us to continue to be
future. the best of neighbors. We can do this,
Columbus, and I’m confident that our
future is bright.
Q&A
1. What is the biggest 2. How would you promote 3. How would you work
challenge facing your ward? future industrial/commercial to improve Columbus’
development in Columbus? infrastructure?
Democrat
Tommy Jackson
Occupation:
Education:
Political experience:
Residence:
Family:
Email:
Phone:
I = incumbent
The Dispatch • www.cdispatch.com SUNDAY, MARCH 21, 2021 3
City of Columbus
City Councilman Ward 1 (continued) Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $17,500
Q&A
1. What is the biggest 2. How would you promote 3. How would you work
challenge facing your ward? future industrial/commercial to improve Columbus’
development in Columbus? infrastructure?
Democrat
Ethel Taylor Stewart (I)
Occupation:
Education:
Political experience:
Residence:
Family:
Email:
Phone:
Independent
Kallie Stacy Phillips What Ward 1 residents tell me First impressions matter. Our Assess, plan, and implement are
Occupation: Certified Public is they worry about crime. They are gateways must be attractive to those the steps needed to address the City’s
Accountant frustrated with all the shootings and lack potential investors, with appropriate infrastructure of streets, drainage,
Education: Bachelor of of police presence. Some are scared signage, lighting, and landscaping. sewer, water, and electricity. Crumbling
to be outside of their homes after dark. Ensuring that our gateways are infrastructure is a challenge in a city
Accountancy – University of
Residences no longer believe it’s safe attractive increases our city’s with scarce fiscal resources.
Mississippi; Master of Taxation – for their children and grandchildren to marketability. Columbus is a family- The city should keep its focus on
Mississippi State University paly outside at times. Abandoned and oriented city with a diversity of maintaining the current infrastructure
Political experience: dilapidated property, blight, and trash resources-nature, cultural, and historic before it uses the scarce funds to
Refreshingly new to politics are challenges as well. assets that are not being promoted to add more things that require more
Residence: Ward 1 Many feel that Ward 1 has been their full potential. maintenance, e.g. roundabouts and
Family: Husband Stuart Phillips; the forgotten ward. They don’t see Ward 1 would especially benefit amphitheaters. Paving a street only
3 children Arthur, Axel and the city spending resources in their from the revitalization of industry in to tear it up to make repairs to the
Senah neighborhoods. They don’t think Columbus. Several former industrial infrastructure below the street makes
Email: KalliePhillips.ward1@ their voices are heard, many have sites are in the city limits that could no sense. A bottom-up approach would
gmail.com complained that they never receive be marketed to bring re-development ensure the under-street utilities were
Phone: 662.769.8854 a call back when they try to reach and jobs. Some of those sites include addressed and allow the new paving
out. I hope to change that feeling by the former Seminole Manufacturing, to last longer. I don’t support borrowing
hosting quarterly town halls, and allow Johnston Tombigbee, General Tire, for a longer period than the paving will
citizens to engage with the person who and Kior. Because the tax millage in the last. I think the city should be in such
represents them in city hall. city is so high, enticing redevelopment a good financial condition as to afford
of these industrial sites will likely only the annual maintenance of the streets
be achieved through tax incentives. without borrowing.
Bringing jobs to the neighborhoods
will help with the lack of public
transportation issue while also putting
vacant buildings back in use.
Republican
Rusty Greene One of the major concerns I hear Columbus would benefit greatly Infrastructure and road conditions
Occupation: when talking with the residents of from additional commercial/industrial are a big concern for many residents
Education: Ward 3 is that our tax dollars are not development. Attracting in new business of Columbus. With the sheer number
Political experience: being spent wisely. Many people feel would increase tax revenue while of roads to be maintained, we need to
Residence: that there is too much waste and improving the quality of life for our budget for paving and repairs yearly.
Family: commitment to unnecessary projects. citizens. Many of our current vacant We cannot delay maintenance for
Email: Ward 3, as in other wards in the city, buildings are in highly visible areas years and expect to keep ahead. The
Phone: has many ditches that have not been which gives the appearance of our city addition of the internet sales tax and
maintained on a frequent basis which being unable to support businesses. lottery funds, which will be available for
leads to premature road erosion. The city should explore hiring a retail improving infrastructure, will certainly
Currently, the City Works Department developer who has an expertise in help with future planning. The most
provides services among each ward on recruiting companies to move into our frequently traveled streets will obviously
a rotating schedule which means they region. Tax incentives have also proven need to be repaired more often than
will work in our ward every 6 weeks. to promote attracting new businesses. less-used thoroughfares. Currently
Implementing a revised ward system The Revitalization Authority offers equal monies are allocated to each
in which each ward had a dedicated Columbus the unique opportunity to ward for street repairs. The problem
smaller group of workers would allow transform under-utilized areas into with this is that some wards have
for more accountability and production. thriving spaces. There are several more heavily traveled streets and will
Crime and all-too-frequent shootings are projects the Authority has in process need more frequent repair. I feel when
always a concern not only in Ward 3 but that will not only improve blighted areas it comes to repairs, we should think
in all of Columbus. but also increase needed revenue for of Columbus as one town instead of
the city. That is a win-win situation for individual wards.
Columbus and Lowndes County.
I = incumbent
4 SUNDAY, MARCH 21, 2021 The Dispatch • www.cdispatch.com
City of Columbus
City Councilman Ward 3 (continued) Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $17,500
Q&A
1. What is the biggest 2. How would you promote 3. How would you work
challenge facing your ward? future industrial/commercial to improve Columbus’
development in Columbus? infrastructure?
Independent
Kori Bridges
Occupation:
Education:
Political experience:
Residence:
Family:
Email:
Phone:
Marty Turner The biggest challenge of Ward 4 is I will promote industry by making Improving our infrastructure will be
Occupation: Consultant neglect which lead to distrust in the local sure the city partnership with the LINK challenging because our city is old so
Education: Associates of government to solve public problems. stays strong and make sure the our we have to try and find grants and work
business I will work hard to restore hope in our neighbors be prepared for the the with CL&W to make this happen. The
Political experience: Former community by being tangible, accessible jobs by highlighting workforce training good news is the covid relief bill past
councilman and transparent. programs at EMCC. and there are monies allocates for
Residence: 1504 23rd St. N. , infrastructure so it all won’t come from
Columbus local taxpayers.
Family: Tiffany Turner wife,
Coco Turner dog
Email: Martyturner3989@gmail.
com
Phone: 662-242-8682
Independent
Pierre D. Beard Sr. (I) The biggest problem facing my ward I think that we need to strengthen Infrastructure and code enforcement
Occupation: City Councilman is believing we have opportunity. Often our relationship with our county in regards to dilapidated building
Ward 4 times, Ward 4 seems to be viewed as government, chamber of commerce, have been the majority of the calls
Education: Business the forgotten ward. The virus derailed Columbus AFB, and also the Link. To I’ve received in my two years as
Administration some of the community action items I bring more jobs into this area is going to councilman. We recently just awarded
Political experience: Current had planned but not that we’re getting take a unified approach and that’s what a contract for some road paving that
Councilman since 2019 close to beating the virus, people I attend to spearhead. Its important for should start within the next weeks.
Residence: will start seeing a lot more events everyone to know that the council runs However, going forward, I think we eed
Family: Wife Lasaundra Beard geared towards Unity and Action. We the city, and we as a whole need to be to have a complete and impartial audit
Myah (15) Pierre Jr (5) Nala and need more workshops and forums so out front working alongside our partners of our finances, and then work towards
Simba people will have basic knowledge and to bring in more industrial jobs. One balancing the budget. -I think painting
Email: pierredbeard@gmail.com resources to help them accomplish factor that impacts us is the amount a clearer picture of where we were,
Phone: 662-418-7329 basic goals. I also feel we have to start of land most large businesses would where we are now, and what the future
taking advantage of the local talent require to come here, and we just don’t looks like would go a long way with the
we have in Columbus so that we can have an abundance of that available in citizens of Columbus.
become more progressive and become the city.
more proactive to issues that have been
plaguing for years.
I = incumbent
The Dispatch • www.cdispatch.com SUNDAY, MARCH 21, 2021 5
City of Columbus
City Councilman Ward 6 Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $17,500
Q&A
1. What is the biggest 2. How would you promote 3. How would you work
challenge facing your ward? future industrial/commercial to improve Columbus’
development in Columbus? infrastructure?
Republican
Jacqueline DiCicco It could be argued that my ward We have to develop a plan for the We need a comprehensive plan to
Occupation: Business owner- is the cash register of the City of re-development of Leigh Mall. That 30- pay as we go and focus on the areas
Skin Care Center; clinical Columbus. City wide benefit will happen acre site is the most valuable and the of highest need, that are prioritized
esthetician if we develop and maintain a clean, most visible piece of real estate in not by professionals, not politicians. What
Education: Caledonia safe area for families to shop, eat and only the city, but the entire county. As I would not do is continue to borrow
High School; MUW-B.S. play. This will help Columbus reverse for industrial, the Lowndes county port money for 10 to 20 ears for street
General Business; MSU- decades of population loss and put us owns almost 100 acres of developed paving that will last 5 years.
Master technology Ed.; back in our rightful place of leadership in industrial land, it has water access,
Regent University-Advanced the Golden Triangle Region. development there is out first and
Graduate Studies Certification easiest location. Then we should focus
Organizational Leadership on the empty older industrial properties
Political experience: No prior and their re-development.
Residence: Timber Cove,
Columbus
Family: Husband was
Paul DiCicco (died in 2006,
married 39 years), son Phillip
DiCicco, grandchildren, great-
grandchildren
Email: jackiefor6@gmail.com
Phone: 662-240-0001 office
662-386-4888 campaign
Bill Gavin (I) Crime is the largest issue for ward I believe Columbus industrial A main problem for all of Columbus
Occupation: Retired/ Columbus 6. We must reduce crime such as thief. growth must come by retail rather than is drainage. When the city receives a
City Councilman Other issues are speeding, drainage, manufacturing. Lowndes County has major hard rain, ditches overflow and
Education: Masters Degree ditch cleaning, trash pick-up and street done a great job with the industrial the overflow water block the streets.
Political experience: 12 years paving. park and recruiting industry. I would The water runs into citizens yards and
Columbus City Councilman - 8 be difficult for the city to try and recruit houses. The city must do a better job
years Vice Mayor that type of industry. The city should of keeping the ditches clean and free
Residence: 112 Steeplechase concentrate on smaller manufacturing of debris. We must also keep the storm
Drive, Columbus companies and work too recruit new drains clean, this would mean the
Family: Wife Tammy Manners retail for our city. Retail would add purchase of additional equipment.
Gavin - Daughter Cori Gavin valuable sales tax and enhance our
Email: Bgavin@cableone.net city from many standpoints. I have
Phone: 662-574-0295 worked over the years recruiting many
retail outlets to our city and making
visual changes in the Highway 45
corridor to help attract these business to
Columbus.
I = incumbent
Town of Caledonia
Mayor Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $12,000
Q&A
1. What is the biggest 2. How can the town continue 3. In what ways should
challenge facing Caledonia? to enhance its relationship Caledonia manage its growth?
with the county?
Independent
Betty Darnell Caledonia has grown faster than It is imperative to keep lines It is necessary to have a vision for
Occupation: Retired / Credit the infrastructure. Facilities require of communication open with our our town. Where do we want to be
Manager in the Manufacturing continuous upgrades to manage growth. Supervisors and County Government. in specific time frames of one, two,
Industry Grants are available in varying degrees Having a transparent, honest and three years? It takes planning,
Education: John C. to provide necessary improvements and relationship allows for cooperation evaluating, and being honest with
Calhoun, Associates Degree, expansions. It takes time to apply and and proactive measures instead of ourselves. What are the strengths
Accounting and Finance; receive grants. We must pursue funding reactive. The Caledonia Schools are and weaknesses of Caledonia? To
Multiple Continuing Education to stay ahead of projected growth. It a tremendous asset. Many facets of provide services, we must have income
Units in Finance, Management, is also necessary to be cognizant of county government provide services for sources. How do we structure those
and Human Resources budgeting and spending in preparation our town. We depend on their expertise sources to provide services? We
Political experience: This is my for unexpected expenditures and in many areas and specifically the take action once the plans are made.
first time to pursue an elected emergencies. function of the Road Department. A Keeping retail spaces filled creates an
position. town of our size does not readily have atmosphere where other businesses
Residence: I have been a funds available for road equipment want to locate. We showcase what we
resident of Lowndes County and other high dollar inventory items to have and build on it. What land does the
since 1977 and Caledonia since provide services for our citizens. town own that is underutilized? Do we
1984. annex, do we zone, do we strive to be
Family: Married to Bill Darnell a destination for specialty items, niche
with two adult daughters, restaurants, enhance our Main Street
grandchildren area? Answers to these questions
Email: badarnell53@gmail.com provide a roadmap going forward.
Phone: 662-402-7901
Quinn Parham
Occupation:
Education:
Political experience:
Residence:
Family:
Email:
Phone:
Q&A
1. What is the biggest 2. How can the town continue 3. In what ways should
challenge facing Caledonia? to enhance its relationship Caledonia manage its growth?
with the county?
Independent
Amanda Boltwood Infrastructure is the current biggest When I read this question the first On the matters of growth, I am
Occupation: Graphic Designer challenge that Caledonia is facing. If thing that came to mind was the old 100% pro annexation. I truly believe
Education: Class of 2009 I were elected, I would love nothing saying “don’t fix what’s not broken”. that annexation is vital to broadening
Caledonia High School more than to work with my fellow board The Town of Caledonia has been truly our town budget and is a project that is
Political experience: members on creating a vision for blessed with the support we receive way overdue. With a larger budget the
Appointed to the Caledonia Park projects that need the most attention from The Board of Supervisors & possibilities are endless, and I would
Commission by the Board of for each department. Concentrating on County Road Department. Both are say cosmetic updates is a topic that
Alderman (Oct. 2019-Present) developing an infrastructure plan that always willing to help us in any way that stands out to me the most. Making
Residence: 150 Ora Lane, continuously looks at improving our they can. From working with Ronnie these appealing adjustments in our town
Caledonia streets & sidewalks, water & sewage, Burns when I was the Caledonia Days will set the tone for our community and
Family: Married to Brandon and an overall better quality of life it Chairman to currently working with in turn have businesses willing to invest
Boltwood for 5-1/2 years, vital. After attending board meetings Harry Sanders as I serve on The Park here.
daughter to Ronnie and Debra regularly over the past four years, I’ve Commission; I think I can truly say that
Jones seen how easy it can be to push a topic/ the relationship that these departments
Email: mrandmrsboltwood@ project off to another meeting and then hold with the town is stronger than ever.
icloud.com another and before you know it the
Phone: 662-251-2875 clock has run out. Setting goals right
from the start that the board wants to
accomplish during their term is key. I’m
a true believer in setting my sights high
to get things done as well as setting a
sound budget to stay on task.
Jason Chrest Infrastructure! Caledonia is nearing Having been to several town I’m a big fan of the term “appropriate
Occupation: Energy a critical juncture with infrastructure meetings and being a member of the spending.” With that I mean doing due
Management Supervisor at issues. One of the most well known park commission, I understand the diligence when looking at spending
CAFB issues continues to be the sewage importance of this relationship. We needs and determining the best
Education: Bachelors in lagoon, but other infrastructure worked with the County to help fund approach. There are times when
Business Management concerns are looming on the horizon. various projects at the park. Some of spending should be increased to ensure
Political experience: Yes - Residents are concerned with the those included the lights for the soccer we provide the best to the residents
Appointed to Caledonia Park state of our sidewalks and street complex, capitol improvement funds of the town and other times when
Commission for 2 years lights. Additionally our aging water and that helped to renovate the concession spending should be decreased. I work in
Residence: Caledonia, MS sewage lines through town have to be stand at the park that was in disrepair, a field focused on efficiency. Sometimes
Family: Gail Chrest (Wife), addressed in the coming years. and at recent board meetings I heard a cheap valve actuator helps with the
Jakob (19), Brandon (18), and The new management at the water the county is helping to fund an effort for budget during install but ends up costing
Eliza (5) department has helped to identify a splash pad at the park. more in the long run between energy
Email: JasonDChrest@gmail. and address some of those concerns Right now there is an enormous waste and labor to maintain it.
com that have been perpetuated by poor amount of support from the County This appropriate spending approach
Phone: 662-251-9312 planning and spending in the past. and a great relationship between these also translates to physical growth as
Residents have been hurt and are two entities. The best way to commit to well. As the surrounding community
greatly concerned with the recent rate continuing to enhance the relationship grows there are opportunities for
increases. As a board we need to with the County is ensuring the annexation that should be considered
be able to ensure we are focused on newcomers on the Town Board, such and a determination made to expand
“appropriate spending” to limit future as myself, understand how essential our town limits to be more inclusive of
burdens on the residents of Caledonia. this amazing relationship between us the growing Caledonia community or
and the County is to the residents of to retain our town limits to preserve the
Caledonia. town we all know and love.
William Darnell
Occupation:
Education:
Political experience:
Residence:
Family:
Email:
Phone:
I = incumbent
The Dispatch • www.cdispatch.com SUNDAY, MARCH 21, 2021 7
Town of Caledonia
Alderman (continued) Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $4,800
Q&A
1. What is the biggest 2. How can the town continue 3. In what ways should
challenge facing Caledonia? to enhance its relationship Caledonia manage its growth?
with the county?
Independent
Matt Furnari Caledonia is a wonderful town and
has several great quality’s that can
Caledonia has a great relationship
with Lowndes County and its Board
This is always a hot topic, I love
Caledonia the way it is. That being said
Occupation: Owner of
Integrated Waste Services and ensure it stays that way. Our biggest of Supervisors. That has happened nothing stays the same, if you are not
Rabbit Track Development challenge is maintaining the assets that through mutual respect and working progressing forward you are moving
Education: Bachelor’s Degree attract people to Caledonia, while at the together to improve not only backwards. So growth is vital for the
in Business Administration from same time improving upon them. Our Caledonia, but giving support to our future of Caledonia, but it has to be
Mississippi State (1999) park is a wonderful facility that has gone neighbors in surrounding areas. Open good growth, sustainable growth. At the
Political experience: 4 years, 1 through many improvements over the communication and staying informed on top of the list to manage this growth is
Term as Alderman for the Town last few years. In conjunction with the the decisions the Board of Supervisors zoning, this must get accomplished in
of Caledonia park board Caledonia needs to continue make and how they affect Caledonia is the next boards term. Adopting building
Residence: 9856 Wolfe Rd., to find funding opportunities to improve important as well. Also keeping it a two codes were a first step, but although
Caledonia and grow the park through both facility way street, not just how the county can zoning is an in depth process, it must
Family: Wife - Jacque Furnari, improvement and child participation. help us, but what Caledonia can do to get completed. With growth also comes
Son - Mark Furnari, Son – Jack A second part of maintaining/ help them. management of a different kind as
Furnari maximizing your assets is getting your well. We must continue to develop
Email: matt@iwsequipment.com empty commercial property filled with our Marshall presence which will help
Phone: 662-574-2591 businesses that can thrive. That needs ensure safety for our residents as
to be a focus of the new board. Lastly we grow. Many positive strides have
continuing to build upon an improved been made in regards to our Marshall
infrastructure to help attract people and operations and coverage, and efforts
businesses to Caledonia. must be made to build on this including
full time Marshall presence.
Robert Linn Jacobs In my opinion, the biggest challenge Caledonia currently has a good Caledonia should have open eyes,
Occupation: Registered Nurse that Caledonia faces is the lack of working relationship with the Board of ears and minds. The peoples’ voices
and Nursing Supervisor at North infrastructure. We have a great town Supervisors and the Lowndes County need to be heard. Everyone has
Mississippi Medical Center. and a safe community with a highly School District. They both have been different opinions and one’s opinion
Owner and Operator of Late rated school system. Here in Caledonia, very supportive of Caledonia and could be changed by hearing someone
Linn’s Apartments, LLC. we have an easy commute to great its growth. If elected as Alderman, else’s point of view. In the end, what
Education: Caledonia High jobs located within the Golden Triangle. I would like to continue to build on matters is what is best for the greater
School Graduate Class of 2008. People are seeing how amazing this the relationships that are already in good of the town and the residents.
EMCC Associate Degree in community is and are wanting to call place. I look forward to continuing the We live in a society now where people
Nursing (ADN) - Class of 2014. it home. With growth comes change dialogue for upcoming projects that will want convenience and quick solutions.
Political experience: This and with change comes unforeseen benefit the residents and businesses of With so much growth, a “quick fix” may
will be my first time to run for obstacles. We all know that most Caledonia for years to come. We owe not always be the answer. Changes
Alderman or any town office individuals cringe when they hear of the safety of our town and community that will affect the entire town will take
position. change. With the growth that we have to the Caledonia Marshal Department, much consideration. We as a town need
Residence: 960 Main St., already seen, we notice that we have Lowndes County Sheriff’s Department, to utilize the resources that we have
Caledonia become outdated and our infrastructure and the Lowndes County District One available to us to bring jobs and better
Family: Married on March 24th, cannot keep up with the supply and Fire and Rescue Department. I would infrastructure into the town that will
2018 to Amber Cheezum Jacobs demand. All I ask is to keep an open like to see us continue to work with allow us to prosper.
Email: Robertjacobs15@ mindset as we talk about or bring forth and support them to ensure a safe
hotmail.com ideas of change or growth. If elected, all community.
Phone: 662-574-2704 I want is what is best for the town as a
whole for the years to come.
Tammy McCool Infrastructure is our biggest The Town of Caledonia has always Caledonia can manage growth by
Occupation: Caledonia challenge. Improvements needs to had a wonderful working relationship annexation and zoning. These changes
Package Store, Family-owned continue on the water/sewer system, with the Lowndes County Board of would be important to help our town
business since 1982 sidewalks and streets. Also, Town Supervisors and Lowndes County Road grow and be more successful. This
Education: Graduate Caledonia Hall needs roof repairs to stop current Department. It is important to keep all would help new businesses come to
High School 1986; Graduate leaking and exterior repairs. lines of communications open with all of town and would provide more tax base
Bevell Community College 1993 Lowndes County. The Town has been for our town budget.
Associate Degree in Nursing fortunate to have received extra funding
Political experience: for our Park and Recreation over the
Alderwoman for 4 years years from the Lowndes County Board
Residence: 1100 Main St., of Supervisors. Lowndes County Road
Caledonia Department has always graciously
Family: helped us maintain our streets and
Email: mtb_mccool@bellsouth. sidewalks. This help has been greatly
net appreciated by our Town and citizens.
Phone: (662) 574-3744 Caledonia Schools is very important to
the Town of Caledonia and would like to
continue to support Caledonia Schools
and Lowndes County School Board.
Joey Pounders I believe it’s capitalizing on the Coordinating future plans with the I love the “small town feel” here.
Occupation: Operator at growth around Caledonia. There is county goes hand and hand with our That’s what most of our area loves
NexGen Crane a lot of houses being built in a five growth. Caledonia has done a good job about this place. I believe it’s important
Education: Mississippi State mile radius of this town. We need to helping maintain the facilities and other to keep Caledonia busy but I wouldn’t
University/ Criminal Justice figure out how to keep these potential projects that the county has donated or want to see it get to busy with industrial
Political experience: Ran for spenders in Caledonia instead of helped with. Hopefully that shows we traffic. It’s no secret that the school
Supervisor in 2011 somewhere else. This could not only appreciate any help their willing to give. and the park are huge attractions to
Residence: Cal Kolola Rd., help retain our current businesses but our town. How can we utilize that?
Caledonia also attract new businesses as well. We Managing the growth could mean
Family: Wife Lindsey Pounders have plenty of vacant buildings so this bringing in new businesses, potentially
and two boys Laef 4 and Pax 2 would certainly be the goal. expanding town limits, or just how to
Email: poundersjoey@yahoo. manage avoiding that 3 mile drop off
com loop in the morning. Regardless growth
Phone: 662-251-5088 for our town is inevitable and I just
want to make sure we go in the right
direction.
Mitchell “Mitch” Caledonia’s biggest challenge, Lowndes County and the Town of As Caledonia continues to grow we
Wiggins like many other Mississippi towns our
size, is our aging infrastructure. The
Caledonia enjoy a mutually beneficial
working relationship. Caledonia relies
must plan ahead to make sure that we
can continue to provide all our citizens
Occupation: Current Mayor of
Caledonia / Paramedic challenge going forward is looking heavily on the County Road Department with exceptional utilities and services
Education: Bachelors degree in outside the box for creative new ways to for maintenance and repairs of our to include high speed internet access.
Business Management - MUW; finance these needed upgrades to our city streets and assistance with work We must also take a serious look at
Associate of Applied Science - water and sewer system. We cannot in our park. As Mayor, I am deeply annexation, zoning and planning.
Itawamba Community College; continue our current rate of growth appreciative of all our county officials,
Completed all levels of Municipal without addressing these issues with a in all of the different offices and
training through the MS. long term plan. departments for their assistance to
Municipal League ; Graduate of Caledonia.
Caledonia Schools
Political experience: Previously
served as alderman, currently
serving as mayor
Residence:
Family: Married for 21 years
with 2 children
Email: wiggins3573@gmail.com
Phone: 662-549-2132
I = incumbent
8 SUNDAY, MARCH 21, 2021 The Dispatch • www.cdispatch.com
City of Starkville
Mayor Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $75,000
Q&A
1. What is the biggest 2. How can city government 3. What does Starkville need to
challenge facing Starkville? work to help citizens and do to attract future economic
businesses emerge from the development?
pandemic?
Q&A
1. What is the biggest 2. How would you promote 3. How would you work
challenge facing your ward? future industrial/commercial to improve Starkville’s
development in Starkville? infrastructure?
Democrat
L. Christine Williams While Ward 1 has several areas As I stated on my website, www. Flooding is a problem, and we need
Occupation: Lecturer at MSU that need attention and improvement, williamsforward1.com, “We must to address the source and tackle that
Education: Bachelor of Arts - I would focus on the current lack continue to work with the Greater head on, rather than simply continuing
Criminal Justice and Sociology of representation. Inadequate Starkville Development Partnership, to repair the damaged areas. We must
representation is no better than no the Starkville Chamber of Commerce, be proactive rather than reactive with
from the University of Georgia
representation. We need someone to Starkville Main Street Association, regards to our streets and roadways.
earned 1996. Master of Public represent all the people in Ward 1 and Starkville Convention and Visitors I will work to ensure that we set up
Policy and Administration from throughout the Starkville community. Bureau, Oktibbeha County Economic and maintain a regular schedule to
MSU earned 2012. Doctoral Elected officials must listen to and Development Authority, and Mississippi improve our streets so we can avoid
Candidate in Public Policy respond on behalf of ALL the people State University. While many cities and major issues and repairs. Preventative
and Administration at MSU in the community. Once we have a towns in Mississippi have seen declining maintenance is critical for long term
(dissertation in progress) someone in place who can actively population numbers, our city is growing. program success. Looking ahead
Political experience: Narrowly represent the members of Ward 1 in an As that continues, we must focus on job can minimize getting caught behind.
missed winning the Alderman for active and legitimate fashion, we can creation and growth, a well-educated We need an alderman who has the
Ward 1 in 2017 (19 votes) focus on the other large issues facing and highly employable workforce, foresight to see how all these issues
Residence: 23 Lakes the ward, such as sewer and drainage and revitalization of areas currently are interconnected. Crumbling sewer
Boulevard, Starkville problems, brown water coming into the not being used in our city as well as and water lines lead to road and street
Family: Kevin D. Williams, houses, pedestrian safety via sidewalks, new construction and developments.” issues. Refusing to support measures
husband since June 22, 1996; roads in need of repair, and safety and Revitalization efforts are key. I am that pay for those repairs while not
Alexandra L. Williams, daughter, security within the neighborhoods. reminded of the efforts of former offering concrete alternative funding
age 17; Knox C. Williams, son, Mayor Dan Camp, who decades ago, mechanisms is simply kicking the can
age 13. began pursuing his vision for a better down the road, which will cost all of us
Email: uga2msu@gmail.com Starkville. He re-energized dilapidated more money in the long run.
Phone: 662-617-4476 buildings in a then no longer thriving
area of the city which over time resulted
in the Cotton District that we enjoy so
much today.
Republican
Ben Carver (I)
Occupation:
Education:
Political experience:
Residence:
Family:
Email:
Phone:
Democrat
Jimmy Joe Buckley
Occupation:
Education:
Political experience:
Residence:
Family:
Email:
Phone:
I = incumbent
The Dispatch • www.cdispatch.com SUNDAY, MARCH 21, 2021 9
City of Starkville
Alderman Ward 2 (continued) Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $20,000
Q&A
1. What is the biggest 2. How would you promote 3. How would you work
challenge facing your ward? future industrial/commercial to improve Starkville’s
development in Starkville? infrastructure?
Democrat
Sandra Sistruck (I) There are several big challenges I would continue to work with our The current Board made a significant
Occupation: Retired facing my ward and Starkville right now: professional partners, the LINK and commitment to improving infrastructure.
(accountant) economic and community development, Retail Strategies, to ensure we have the We implemented a plan to repave
Education: B.S., M.Ed., B.S., balancing the city’s financial needs, infrastructure, e.g., Northstar Industrial about 5 miles of streets each year, and
Mississippi State University repairing our aging infrastructure, and Park, and also the kind of community we constructed 4 miles of sidewalks.
Political experience: Starkville ensuring we have a comprehensive that they can promote to potential We built a new electric substation in
Board of Aldermen, 2009-2013, COVID recovery plan. I have been business partners. I would encourage southwest Starkville, began a 5-year
2017-current instrumental in prioritizing needs and working even more closely with MSU plan to replace aging water and sewer
Residence: 522 Chestnut Drive, ensuring funding was in place to meet and our other partners to identify ways lines, and built a sustainable wastewater
Starkville our current needs and to take on future like incubator spaces or coworking treatment facility that should serve
Family: G. Wayne Wilkerson, projects. I want to work with small spaces to keep their graduates and Starkville for the next 75 years. We
husband business owners and the community to other entrepreneurs in town to start identified revenue streams to continue
Email: sandra4ward2@gmail. develop a COVID recovery plan that will businesses and hire people. The Glo those improvements. If re-elected, I will
com help Starkville rebuild while we continue success story is an example of growing continue those plans and advocate for a
Phone: 662-418-4574 to prioritize the health of each of our our own businesses. Lastly, I would 10-year infrastructure plan to implement
citizens. focus on how Covid has changed the findings of the joint Starkville,
how businesses operate and ensure MSU, Oktibbeha County, and MDOT
we have infrastructure (particularly transportation study that is underway.
broadband), policies, and public-private We would need to make funding that
partnerships in place to maximize our 10-year plan a priority in budgeting.
support of those new business models.
Republican
Brice Stubbs The biggest problem facing Ward I look forward to joining existing Let’s create a plan that repairs
Occupation: Retail Sales 2 is lack of general maintenance. efforts to utilize the empty spaces we known issues before they become long-
Manager for Triangle Drywall We also have large empty industrial have. We have empty factories ready term problems. Some neighborhoods
Education: Some college buildings in our ward competing with the to be utilized by companies that will have flooding, brown water, and sewage
Political experience: None new industrial park. hire our unemployed people. Our issues, many of these problems lasting
Residence: Ward 2, community has proven time and time over a decade. These situations are
Longmeadow Subdivision again that we can create and educate unacceptable. We need to return to the
Family: Married for 15 years the necessary workforce these facilities quality of life that caused us to choose
with a 9 year old daughter and 3 need. With regard to commercial Starkville as our home. I will support a
year old son development, we need to accommodate plan that prioritizes the greatest needs
Email: stubbsforstarkville@ the utility and infrastructure needs of and enables future growth. As it is
gmail.com future growth and market trends by amended, this plan should be shared
Phone: 662-617-3933 using our tax dollars as they were so our citizens can hold Alderman
intended and not give those dollars accountable for the services they
back to developers in the form of tax have paid for. I would also steer our
incentives. focus onto maintaining our current
infrastructure ahead of any annexation
plans.
City of Starkville
Alderman Ward 4 (continued) Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $20,000
Q&A
1. What is the biggest 2. How would you promote 3. How would you work
challenge facing your ward? future industrial/commercial to improve Starkville’s
development in Starkville? infrastructure?
Republican
Kevin Daniels Ward 4 in Starkville is a diverse area Promoting industrial and commercial The city must first understand where
Occupation: Material Manager- filled with residents from many different development is an issue that is problems exist, and then formulate
Motus Integrated Technologies stages of life. The district includes personally important to me and will a plan to fix them. The best way to
Education: Starkville Academy several single-family homes that house be a focal point if I am elected to the identify where problem areas exist is to
2003; Mississippi State young families up to members of the Starkville Board of Aldermen. Over listen to feedback from the community.
2008- Industrial & Systems retirement community, condos and the last several years, the Golden It is extremely helpful to have the
Engineering; Mississippi State apartments that serve as housing for Triangle has seen tremendous growth eyes and ears of residents to identify
2016- MBA students as well as second homes in the industrial sector. Both Lowndes faulty infrastructure. Improvements
Political experience: for out-of-town visitors, and upcoming and Clay Counties have welcomed in communication have made this
Residence: 117 Grand Ridge commercial and entertainment areas in several world-class industries to the task much easier. When someone
Rd. the Cotton District, and Russell Street. area while Oktibbeha County and encounters a problem and decides
Family: Bob & Diane- Parents; With such an assorted collection of Starkville have been somewhat left to voice a concern, it is as easy as
Greg- Brother; Emily-Spouse; residents with different needs and behind. With several vacant facilities snapping a photo and sharing that
Eliie- Dog wants, I feel like the ward faces a in town and construction of the North concern with a city official via their
Email: KevinDaniels84@gmail. challenge in selecting an Alderman that Star Industrial Park, Starkville should be smart phone. Dangerous intersections,
com has a clear understanding of area’s working with excellent local resources, drainage issues, and a variety of other
Phone: 662-312-7270 constraints and concerns and can and aggressively seeking to attract issues can quickly be identified and
implement a plan in order to resolve new industry to the area. New industry corrected with this approach. It might
issues. As a 10-year resident of will boost the local economy while even make sense to have an application
Timbercove subdivision, I understand establishing new opportunities for built for Starkville residents to voice
the concerns of neighborhood residents commercial business creation in the concerns that would go directly to their
regarding good roads, proper drainage, city. Lastly, high paying sustainable respective ward’s Alderman. I also
and utilities, and as a lifelong resident of jobs brought by new industry will attract would like the city to develop possible
Starkville I can identify opportunities for new residents to the city and create an solutions to improve parking in the
improvement in the Ward 4 commercial opportunity to retain graduates from Cotton District.
districts. Mississippi State.
Brady Hindman
Occupation:
Education:
Political experience:
Residence:
Family:
Email:
Phone: Did not submit answers to the questionnaire.
City of Starkville
Alderman Ward 6 (continued) Term: 4 years, Annual salary: $20,000
Q&A
1. What is the biggest 2. How would you promote 3. How would you work
challenge facing your ward? future industrial/commercial to improve Starkville’s
development in Starkville? infrastructure?
Democrat
Roy A. Perkins (I)
Occupation:
Education:
Political experience:
Residence:
Family:
Email:
Phone:
I = incumbent
Q&A
1. What’s the biggest challenge 2. How can city government 3. What does West Point
facing West Point? work to help citizens and need to do to attract future
businesses emerge from the economic development?
pandemic?
Democrat
Rod Bobo In my estimation the biggest I feel that the best thing West Point West Point needs to continue
Occupation: State Farm challenge facing West Point is it’s can do to emerge from the pandemic with the agreement that’s currently in
Insurance Agent diminishing population and tax base. is to follow the advice of the CDC place with the Link. We also need to
Education: Bachelor of We also have some socioeconomic and Dr. Thomas Dobbs. We can also make sure that we maintain a climate
Business Administration, challenges. use common sense tactics to protect locally thats conducive to economic
Mississippi State University ourselves and others. development and substantive growth.
Political experience: City of
West Point Selectman Ward 1
Residence: West Point, MS
Family: 2 beautiful daughters
Email: rodbobo4mayor@gmail.
com
Phone: 662-574-5080
Cole Bryan Enhancing the quality of life for The Pandemic has only increased The joint efforts headed by Joe
Occupation: Addiction all residents is our biggest challenge. the existing problems our city has Higgins for West Point, Columbus and
Recovery Maintaining the quality of our schools, experienced since Bryan Foods and Starkville is doing a great job attracting
Education: Hebron Christian, creating more things for kids to do, other industries closed or moved from industry to our area. We will continue to
Mississippi State providing support for our police officers, West Point. We are fortunate to be a support their efforts and be a part of it.
Political experience: No improving our streets and public areas, part of Joe Higgins organization, which I spent 10 years working in larger cities
elected office, active in and keeping West Point clean, safe, and has been successful creating good jobs and I recognize the quality of life in a
organizations to serve people attractive are focal. We will achieve all in recent years by bringing Yokohama smaller city.
Residence: West Point of this with budget controls and fiscal and Peco to West Point. We are fortunate to have
Family: Wife Neely Bryan responsibility. I will continue to strengthen West homegrown industries like Mossy Oak,
Email: cole@votecolebryan.com Our absolute biggest challenge is Point’s image so that we are favorably and recreation like Old Waverly, Mossy
Phone: 662-701-985 to foster growth and prosperity in our viewed by visitors. Companies and new Oak Golf, and Prairie Wildlife, all of
local business. We must create more businesses will see the good quality of which provide good jobs and are assets
jobs for our young people because, life available for their employees and for our quality of life. I will promote these
unfortunately, many of them are moving want to relocate here. We will continue assets as well as recruit new business
away. to encourage our residents to live safely to provide jobs for all of our residents.
The City has had a shrinking tax as we emerge from the Pandemic. For We are also blessed to have EMCC,
base and I would like to help restore two years now, I have worked with my Mississippi State University and The W
the jobs and opportunity for our people. grandfather, Reverend Dickie Bryan, at to educate our young people. We will
West Point is already a wonderful place the Mission helping people in their time continue to support these institutions so
to live and work, and it is time for our of need. This work at the Mission has that our young people will be trained to
city and its residents to thrive in all helped me to learn how to respond to support new jobs.
areas. the needs of people.
Tammy Parkerson West Point needs economic growth, I believe as more and more people I believe that in order to attract future
Occupation: Owner of Image i.e. jobs, and nice sit down restaurants are receiving their immunization for the economic growth we need to clean up
Makers Hair Salon for 34 years added to our community and a handle preventive care against COVID we will our city and take pride in our area as a
Education: West Point city on crime. Our streets and roads need be able to begin emerging from this community, make sure our children are
schools, Vaughns Beauty to be kept up along with drainage and pandemic. getting the best education as they are
College, EMCC flooding issues in areas. our future leaders, and that our police
Political experience: department has what it needs to serve
Residence: and protect West Point keeping all of
Family: Husband Jamie us safe and where everyone is treated
Parkerson, sons Chris Freeman equal and fair.
and Bailey Ross, three
grandchildren
Email: votetammyparkerson@
gmail.com
Phone:
Independent
Homer Ryland Jr.
Occupation: Steel Dynamics
Education: West Point high
school, Carson Newman
University
Political experience: Campaign
manager for his father Homer
Ryland Sr.
Residence: West Point
Family: Wife Brandi Ryland, son
Jaylin, daughters Jakarta and
Jasmine Did not fully complete the questionnaire.
Email: homerryland@gmail.com
Phone:
Constitution
Jennifer Harper One of the biggest challenges is that As we emerge from this pandemic Our leadership must join with city
Occupation: Human Resources the citizens are not truly being heard together, the city government must and county boards from across this
Education: Bachelor Degree on significant issues which impact them continue to step aside. The worst thing state to stand up to Jackson, demanding
Political experience: None daily. At times the city will get a ditch that could happen is for a Board and bottom-up governance: We decide how
Residence: West Point cleaned out for someone after a couple Mayor to be elected which operates out much revenue we will keep within our
Family: of complaints, but where is the evidence of fear, and then creates regulations borders, and how much is taxed. In
Email: of the efforts being made to listen that present unforeseen consequences. FY2020, because of the way the state
Phone: 662-312-4341 respectfully and act accordingly toward We know our controllables: Our sales tax was established in 1930, our
the expressed needs of the citizens? citizens are intelligent and know what’s city was ‘allowed’ to keep $2.35 million
West Point has been crying out for right for them and their situation. of the $13.8 million collected. When
noticeable development, innovation, Leadership in the city must continue our city is in a position to decide how
and change; but what they continue to to keep the decision making in the much money it will keep, will spend,
receive instead is a lick and a promise. hands of the business owners and and how much Jackson should be
It is beyond time for leadership to steer customers. Compared to surrounding allowed to have, we will witness a spur
our city towards substantial change. We cities, West Point has come out on of economic development; better roads,
need to be free to make our own future top economically. Let’s continue to jobs created, and an increase in the
instead of the one Jackson has decided be a shining example to the rest of quality of education. I will lead the fight
for us. We aren’t Jackson’s piggy bank. the Golden Triangle. Also, efforts of to take back control of our cities. We
organizations such as, and not limited live here, we know what is best for us,
to, the MS Crisis Foundation should unlike the 172 officials who rarely, if
be formally acknowledged when they ever, set foot in our city.
serve those who are suffering due to the
pandemic and other circumstances.
I = incumbent
The Dispatch • www.cdispatch.com SUNDAY, MARCH 21, 2021 13
Q&A
1. What’s the biggest challenge 2. How can city government 3. What does West Point
facing West Point? work to help citizens and need to do to attract future
businesses emerge from the economic development?
pandemic?
Democrat
Linda Hannah
Occupation:
Education:
Political experience:
Residence:
Family:
Email:
Phone:
Jonas Robinson West Point is a community with a We need to keep communication It begins with leadership and
Occupation: Contractor, Project wide age range of residents, and we flowing in regard to health guidelines teamwork. The board of supervisors,
Manager must be sure we’re reaching them and vaccinations. It’s important to mayor, and city selectman must work
Education: College 2 years where they are, whether that’s the focus on the local community and how together to create a climate that
Political experience: none newspaper, social media or distributing sickness is affecting us at a local level. produces new industry and existing
Residence: West Point communication in a more personal We want the community to enjoy life industry expansion. The Prairie Belt
Family: Married with 3 children way. We need to continue to grow and our great businesses in a way that Power site is a big piece to our growth.
Email: jbrockrob@yahoo.com industries and jobs to improve economic they are comfortable, wearing masks, The city and the county need to work
Phone: 662-295-1194 conditions and the overall well-being providing hand sanitizers and wipes, together to continue maximizing
of our residents. We also need to take and options for the more vulnerable to opportunities in that area to provide
advantage of opportunities nearby that get what they need to avoid exposure. needed infrastructure to support
could bring people to our community We want people to be careful and industry. Our continued support of the
to stay, eat and shop. Our schools comfortable but not unnecessarily Golden Triangle Development LINK
have seen a year of great change, and fearful. for industry retention and growth and
we need to support our teachers and working with local industries to assist
students as they adjust to a more typical them wherever we can is vital. And
learning experience. Concern for the beautification is certainly beneficial
future generations of West Pointians is to making our community inviting for
priority. residents, visitors and new business.
I = incumbent
14 SUNDAY, MARCH 21, 2021 The Dispatch • www.cdispatch.com
Q&A
1. What’s the biggest challenge 2. How can city government 3. What does West Point
facing West Point? work to help citizens and need to do to attract future
businesses emerge from the economic development?
pandemic?
Jasper “Peicy”
Pittman (I)
Occupation:
Education:
Political experience:
Residence:X
Family:
Email:
Phone:
I = incumbent
community
O Cole Bryan
O Tammy Parkerson
O ______________________________
Write-in
O Linda Hannah
O Leta Turner
SELECTMAN WARD 1
(Vote for one)
a better place.
O ______________________________
Write-in