Issues 

"There are many critical issues facing DeKalb County, and our citizens need and deserve a representative who will work hard to find real solutions. I want to serve the people of District 24 in the Alabama House of Representatives because I believe I can make a difference. I have a strong track record of pulling together business leaders, volunteers, concerned citizens, school officials and other elected officials to bring progress to an area, and I am committed to putting that experience to work in the critical areas I've outlined below."

Economic Development

"We all want the best for our children. That is one of the primary reasons I have placed such a high priority on economic development throughout my career in government. I want young people in this area to be able to grow up, get a good education and come back home to find jobs that reflect that education. I know what it is like to be a father and to want your children to be able to work close to home. We need to be aggressively pursuing such opportunities for DeKalb County's families.

"While I served as a Councilman and Mayor of Rainsville, I was blessed to be part of bringing companies like Sola Hevi-Duty and RTI to the area. These companies are responsible for hundreds of jobs and an incredible economic impact on this county and beyond. This is the kind of progress I want to work toward as your Representative in Montgomery.

"I believe economic development requires cooperation at the local, state and federal levels. Through 14 years of public service as a Councilman and Mayor, along with my career in industrial retention and development, I have a proven track record, the ability and the experience to work with people and organizations at all levels to bring real progress to DeKalb County."

Education

"There is no one who is more concerned with educating our children than I am. With a wife, two sons, and a daughter-in-law who all work in education, I hear the concerns of our educators, and I know the challenges they face.

"It is unacceptable to be facing a budget shortfall that will require us to cut teachers at a time when we need to be hiring more. It is unacceptable for our state’s public school system to rank 48th in the nation while our community college system ranks 15th in the nation. We must do better. We owe it to our children and grandchildren to do better.

"I will work hard to find solutions to the problems facing our schools, so that our children can receive the education they deserve. No one will work harder than I will to improve our education system."

Agriculture

"Agribusiness is the leading industry in Alabama, and District 24 is one of the top ag producing regions in the state. I am passionate about supporting the work of our farming families. 

"I grew up in a rural area, where I spent time working on a farm. I have hauled hay when it’s 105 degrees in the middle of summer. I have cleaned out chicken houses with nothing more than a scoop. I know what it is like to work and to sweat on a farm because I’ve done it. I understand that way of life, and I know the importance of supporting those who feed America.

"We must protect and support the family farm. As your voice in Montgomery, I will look for opportunities to support agriculture while fighting measures that will put undue hardship and tax burdens on our family farms."

Fire and Rescue Departments

"Fire and Rescue Departments are the backbone of the communities in District 24, and I am committed to supporting the work they do to protect our families and properties. They need our help, especially in this difficult economy.

"Supporting our fire department was a priority for me when I served as a Councilman and Mayor. I understand the challenges they face, and I understand the vital role they play in our communities.

"Many people don’t realize that a single piece of safety equipment (such as the 'turnout,' or full-body protective fire suit), can mean the difference in these brave men and women making it home to see their families after a call. Most fire department personnel do not do this job for the money -- they are volunteers who put their own safety at risk to make their communities a safer place to live. We need to take care of them the way they take care of us, by making sure they have the tools and equipment to do their job effectively and safely. I am committed to making sure every Fire and Rescue Department in this district is properly equipped and ready for the job."

"There are other important issues we must address in District 24. Please sign up for my Email Updates, and contact me to share your ideas about how we can build a better DeKalb County. Thank you."