Larry Henry said Monday he is seeking re-election to his District 7 seat on the County Commission.
He said, "Today, I am announcing my intent to run for re-election to the Hamilton County Board of Commissioners as the representative for District 7. I have been humbled and honored by the opportunity the citizens of District 7 have given me to serve over the past seven years, and I am asking that they give me the opportunity to continue that service for another term.
"Hamilton County is on the brink of an economic transformation. We are making significant strides in overcoming the greatest nationwide economic downturn since the Great Depression. And the Volkswagen plant under construction in Ooltewah holds even more promise for continued economic recovery. According to the current construction schedule, the Volkswagen plant will open in 2011. With the opening of the Volkswagen plant, Hamilton County will probably continue the positive economic trends of the past few months.
"But, while the future is bright for Hamilton County, significant issues remain. Hamilton County citizens are still struggling to pay bills, especially those on fixed incomes. For this reason, Hamilton County needs experienced leaders to keep the tax burden as low as possible while continuing to lead Hamilton County toward the promise of economic prosperity. I can provide the experience and leadership necessary to keep Hamilton County on the right path. My experience on the Hamilton County Board of Commissioners – including back-to-back terms as Commission Chairman – makes me uniquely qualified to serve District 7 during this time of economic transition.
"If elected to another term on the Hamilton County Board of Commissioners, I promise to maintain the same open-door policy that has characterized the past seven years. I will remain responsive to the concerns of the citizens of District 7 and Hamilton County. I will continue to keep the best interests of the taxpayers in mind when deciding how to spend their money. And I am confident that, with the support of District 7 voters, I can continue to work with the other Commissioners to move Hamilton County forward in a time of economic promise and hope."