The County Commission election in District 8 has become a topic of much discussion here in Hamilton County. In an earlier newspaper article, integrity was discussed. Kenny Smith is not only a person of great integrity; he is a hard working and caring person. I should know, I'm his daughter-in-law.

Kenny has been a successful leader of an electrical apprenticeship program in Chattanooga for many years (NECA-National Electrical Contractors Association) that has trained and helped hundreds of men and women to obtain quality jobs.

He has worked hard on the Hamilton County School Board to better our educational system--a task that is not easy, with no easy fix.

Kenny spends the majority of his time helping other people, his heart is bigger than you could ever imagine. Kenny puts others above himself and doesn't rest until he's done his best. Anyone who knows Kenny, knows this about him. He is a loving and caring part of his extended family and always there to listen and care, a good trait for a family member and elected official.

Kenny has knocked on over a 1,200 doors in this campaign listening to the citizens in District 8. This district and the county as a whole needs a strong, accessible and proven leader who can get the job done, and Kenny Smith is the best man for the job.

Emily K. Smith

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I have followed Kenny Smith over the years as he has served as the chairman of the Hamilton County School Board. What I have admired most is the independence he has shown during his tenure.

Whether the proposal comes from the teachers union, the administration, individual parent, or group of parents, he has “called it like it is.”

We need more public officials like Mr. Smith that are not unduly swayed by one group over another.

Kenneth Simpson

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Anybody that has a clue what is going on in this country knows what unions are doing to us. Unions do not contribute to a campaign without expecting a payback. They have contributed heavily to Mr. Smith. You should ask yourself why.

Government at all levels will/are going broke because of outrageous negotiated pensions, etc. So, I say anybody that is heavily supported by unions as Mr. Smith is will sell us, the taxpayer, out because of those close ties.

Being a member of a very poor school board for a number of years is not a good selling point either.

What District 8 does will affect us all not just the one district. That one vote could make a negative difference to our pocketbooks. You can bet after the election a property tax increase will be on their agenda again. I bet it will be "for the children." Sound familiar. Now what direction do you think Mr. Smith might lean?

Think about what you are doing to us, District 8.

Barbara Yochum

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It has been my good fortune to have Kenny Smith as my representative on the School Board. As a District 8 resident and parent of two children enrolled in public school, I have been impressed and pleased with Kenny’s service on the board. His track record speaks for itself.

Kenny has a no-nonsense approach and gets right to the heart of the issues before the board. His voting record reflects his commitment to putting resources in the classroom.

Kenny is a capable leader, as demonstrated not only in his voting record but also in his tenure as Chairman of the School Board. The fact that his peers elected him Chairman three years in a row is ample proof that Kenny is a trustworthy and impartial leader.

Kenny works hard but doesn’t seek or take credit for his hard work. His heart and his head are in the right place.

I am confident he will be an exceptional commissioner, and I urge my friends and neighbors in District 8 to join me in voting for Kenny Smith.

Travis R. McDonough

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I have thought about what we are doing to District 8 and I think District 8 can do no better than to elect Kenny Smith.

I am at a loss as to why the union contributions are being brought up now. Everyone who knows Kenny know that he grew up in and around the electrical business (his father has been an electrician for over 50 years).

Kenny has worked successfully with NECA and is very vocal about a Career Technical High School. This is because he cares about people who can do a good job with the right training when they cannot afford to go to college.

Why wouldn't the electrical union help one of their own? They certainly made contributions to several other candidates.

Kenny has worked hard on the Hamilton County School Board, and has pushed for the Career-Technical High School because there is a need. Kenny is and has been fair I don't think he could be any other way.

Kenny will listen to you and will make the best decision for District 8. Please vote Kenny Smith for County Commissioner District 8.

E. A. Genter
genter1134@aol.com