Hickman County Mayor

Preserving our land and waters is essential for maintaining biodiversity, ensuring clean drinking water, and supporting local economies through recreation and agriculture. Healthy ecosystems act as natural filters, preventing soil erosion and absorbing pollutants before they reach rivers and streams. In Tennessee, the Duck River stands out as one of the most biologically diverse waterways in North America, home to over 50 species of mussels, 150 types of fish, and countless aquatic plants. Protecting its watershed from urban sprawl, agricultural runoff, and industrial pollution requires coordinated efforts like riparian buffer zones, sustainable farming practices, and stricter enforcement of water quality standards. By investing in conservation, we safeguard not just wildlife but also the resilience of communities that depend on these resources for their livelihoods and well-being. Lick Creek, a vital tributary flowing into the Duck River near Columbia, Tennessee, exemplifies the interconnectedness of local waterways and the urgent need for targeted preservation. This creek winds through farmland and forested areas, providing habitat for native species while recharging groundwater supplies. However, sedimentation from nearby development and nutrient loading from fertilizers threaten its clarity and ecological balance. Community-led initiatives, such as streambank restoration projects and volunteer cleanups organized by groups like the Duck River Watershed Association, have already removed tons of debris and planted thousands of native trees to stabilize soils. These grassroots actions demonstrate how individual stewardship can amplify broader conservation goals, turning potential degradation into opportunities for renewal.Ultimately, preserving places like Lick Creek and the Duck River demands a blend of policy, science, and public engagement. State and federal programs, including the Clean Water Act and Tennessee's Nonpoint Source Program, offer funding for monitoring and habitat improvement, but success hinges on local buy-in. Educating residents about low-impact land use, promoting eco-friendly tourism, and fostering partnerships between landowners, scientists, and policymakers create a sustainable framework for the future. When we protect these waters, we preserve a legacy of natural beauty and functionality that benefits generations, reminding us that environmental health is inseparable from human prosperity.

As your County Mayor, I’m proud to invite you to experience the natural beauty and wholesome recreation that define our rural home. Our county parks are more than green spaces—they’re the heartbeat of community life, offering miles of scenic trails for hiking and biking, tranquil lakes for fishing and kayaking, and shaded picnic groves perfect for family gatherings under our signature oak canopy. Maintained with local pride and taxpayer care, these parks provide safe, welcoming retreats where residents and visitors alike can unplug, explore wildflower fields, or simply enjoy a sunset stroll, strengthening the quality of life we all cherish.At the center of our active lifestyle stands the modern Rec Center, a year-round hub for fitness classes, youth sports, and community events that keep our families strong and connected. When summer heats up, the Centerville Pool becomes the county’s coolest destination, with lifeguard-supervised swimming, dive boards, and lessons for every age. These facilities, paired with our growing tourism attractions—think guided farm experiences, harvest festivals, and historic landmarks—showcase the best of rural living. Together, we’re building a vibrant, healthy future, and I encourage everyone to dive in and make memories right here at home.

As your next County Mayor, I will champion the infrastructure upgrades our rural communities urgently need to stay safe, connected, and thriving. From pothole-riddled back roads to bridges that can’t handle modern loads, we’ll prioritize practical improvements that support farmers, families, and first responders alike. High-speed internet must reach every doorstep, and we’ll fight for the funding and partnerships to make it happen—no more leaving our kids and businesses in the digital dark.In East Hickman, reliable sewer service is long overdue. Septic systems are failing, and clean water is at risk. I’ll make it a top priority to bring modern, affordable sewer solutions to the area, working with experts and neighbors to get it done right. Rural doesn’t mean forgotten—vote for progress that puts our people first.

Boosting sustainable tax revenue in our rural county starts with a smart, targeted sales tax strategy that captures untapped economic potential without overburdening residents. By promoting agritourism—such as farm stays, seasonal harvest festivals, and local craft markets—we can draw visitors from nearby urban areas, generating steady sales tax from lodging, dining, and retail. Pair this with incentives for small-scale renewable energy projects, like community solar farms on underused land, which create jobs, attract eco-conscious tourists, and yield ongoing sales tax from equipment and services. These initiatives keep revenue flowing year-round, fund essential services like roads and schools, and position our county as a rural innovation hub—all while maintaining low property taxes to support homeowners and farmers.Lowering property taxes is a promise I’ll keep by shifting the burden to voluntary, growth-driven sales tax streams that benefit everyone. We’ll streamline county permitting to encourage value-added agriculture, such as on-farm processing of dairy, meats, and crops, boosting local sales without raising land costs. A county-backed online marketplace for our producers will expand reach to regional buyers, increasing taxable transactions. This balanced approach ensures fiscal stability, protects family budgets, and invests in our rural strengths—delivering prosperity today and security for generations to come.

Transparency in local government is the bedrock of public trust and effective governance. When county officials openly share decision-making processes, budgets, meeting minutes, and policy rationales, citizens gain a clear view of how resources are allocated and problems are addressed. This openness reduces opportunities for corruption, favoritism, or waste, as every action is subject to scrutiny. For instance, publishing detailed financial reports and contract awards allows residents to verify that tax dollars fund roads, schools, and services rather than hidden agendas. Without transparency, misinformation spreads, eroding confidence and leading to voter apathy or unrest. In contrast, accountable leaders who prioritize clear communication foster civic engagement, encouraging residents to participate in town halls, submit feedback, and hold officials responsible—ultimately creating a more responsive and equitable community.As a candidate for county mayor, embracing transparency from day one demonstrates integrity and sets the standard for future leadership. By sharing a detailed platform, personal financial disclosures, donor lists, and real-time updates on campaign finances, the campaign builds trust with voters. Policy positions on key issues like infrastructure, public safety, and economic development are presented with data and clear explanations, avoiding vague promises. This open approach not only differentiates the candidate from less forthcoming opponents but also models the accountable governance residents deserve, proving a commitment to leading with honesty and direct engagement.