On January 27, 2011 I was honored to be appointed to serve the citizens of District 3 in Hamilton County as their commissioner. This opportunity has afforded me the privilege of making new friends; assisting the community; discovering needs that I did not know existed; and the ability to continue my community service.  

Now it is time to offer Marty Haynes my sincere congratulations as he shall begin representing the citizens of District 3 later this month. I offer Mr. Haynes my full support as he continues the tradition of service to the citizens. It is my hope that the citizens of the district will work with him in the positive manner they have worked with me.

As I reflect on the last few months, I realize God and seven men on the County Commission gave me the opportunity to serve our community. Since my appointment, we have worked with every school in the district. Each school has benefited from funds for technology, libraries, athletic facilities, music programs, science programs, reading programs, JROTC, automotive technology as well as other programs. Each teacher was given money to assist in classroom supplies which amount to hundreds of dollars each year. In addition to assisting the schools physically located in District 3, we have assisted Soddy Daisy and Sequoyah High School since many District 3 students attend these schools. 

Approximately 20 new fire hydrants have been installed in areas that lacked this service in the district. 

Middle Valley and Hixson Youth Athletic Associations have received funds to further their mission with the youth of the district. 

We have supported various projects of Friends of Hixson including the scholarship program honoring former School Board member Everett Fairchild. 

Recently a check to extend the walking trails in the community was donated to North Chickamauga Conservancy. 

We will also be presenting a check soon to Ganns Middle Valley School in the amount of $50,000 for their library and technology needs as a new school is built. An effort has been made to involve as much of our community in these funds as possible, whether in the city or the unincorporated area. 

There are three projects, in particular, that I would like to mention that were priorities for me and have been initiated or completed. They are: the purchase of property for a new Ganns Middle Valley School; the contract with the State of Tennessee to place a traffic signal at the intersection of Thrasher Pike and Hixson Pike; and the placement of fire hydrants in needed areas. 

I cannot close this letter without offering my thanks to Mayor Jim Coppinger. He is a tireless leader who continues to lead our county with fiscal responsibility and fantastic management skills. With his leadership, Hamilton County maintains a AAA bond rating and continues to attract new industry. Additionally, my fellow County Commission colleagues have been a great team who work together to move our county forward. Hamilton County employees are some of the best anywhere. Our citizens are fortunate to have this caliber of leadership and a commitment by employees to provide exemplary public service. 

Again, I offer my support and prayers for Marty Haynes as he begins his time of service to the community. 

Thank you to all who supported and prayed for me. I am thankful. Please continue to pray for me as I continue community service. 

Mitch McClure