A common theme for candidates running for office in Union County this year is unity. Several candidates have incorporated unity in their campaign slogans. Martin Shafer’s campaign slogan is “The Unity Community”. Charlie Hamilton’s campaign slogan is “The Voice of Unity”. During early voting, the Reverend Gary Beeler led all the candidates in a unity of prayer each morning. Viewed more than 7,000 times over the past 10 days on Facebook, this prayer circle has become somewhat of a social media phenomenon.

According to Lynn Beeler, one of four candidates running for Union County Mayor, “Solving the problems that Union County is facing will only be done by bringing everyone together”. Beeler has focused his campaign message on the need for partnerships in government, particularly with Nashville; the Governor, our elected Senator and Representatives. “I have recently had the opportunity to talk with Speaker Beth Harwell, Senator Frank Niceley and Representative Dennis Powers about real issues that we are facing in Union County,” said Beeler.

“Working together for the citizens of Union County,” that is the message from Stan Dail, one of seven running for 1st District Commissioner. “Look what we have accomplished over the last four years,” said Dail, “a balanced budget, financial accountability and transparency, sound departmental fund balance policies, and establishment of a county capital expenditures fund”. According to Dail, “we must now turn our attention on economic growth”.

“Economic growth is needed in our county, so our young people don’t have to move away to find good jobs”, said Debra Keck. According to Keck, “planning and cooperation” are essential to our counties future. “I have coordinated grant applications that have brought thousands of dollars to our county” said Keck, “but we need millions in investment to make a significant economic difference”.

Most agree that Union County needs improved transportation infrastructure to include completion of the planned SR 33 and SR 61 state highway projects. Most think that bringing a Tennessee School of Applied Technology to Union County would provide workforce development and help attract new businesses to the county. Several have expressed support for and agree that having a next-generation fiber optic network throughout the county would be transformational. Some think that upgrades to Big Ridge State Park would attract more tourism to the county and grow local businesses in addition to providing recreational activities for local children and adults. None of these things will happen without unity of effort, partnerships in government and elected officials working with and for all citizens of Union County.

Record numbers turned out for early voting and most expect a busy election day, especially if the weather is favorable. The General Election is August 2nd. Tag a friend and exercise your right to vote!