I am writing this letter on behalf of one of the finest men in our community whom I have known for over 35 years.
In 1980 I went to work in a leadership position in the Assessor of Property Office for Claude Ramsey and worked there for 14 years. Today I have over 50 years of property tax experience. In 1985 Claude hired five young men to assist us in the 1989 reappraisal. One immediately stood out above the rest. Sterling Jetton’s leadership ability, professional skills, and love for Jesus was evident then as it is today. During those years I had a problem and Sterling prayed for me the entire time. You see, he truly cares about people. His compassion shines. In fact, he was the first person I called that morning seven years ago when I got sober. Sterling is the “real deal.”
I don’t know Marty Haynes well, but I do know he hasn’t finished his first elected term as a County Commissioner and has served only three years of his first term in office. As for Randy Johnson, I worked alongside him in the Assessor’s Office as well and can tell you as the old saying goes, “I know Sterling Jetton, and Randy Johnson is no Sterling Jetton.”
Please join me in supporting Sterling Jetton for Assessor of Property. He has the skills, knowledge, and compassion to carry on the excellent leadership we have had in the Assessor’s Office. Early voting begins Feb. 10, and Election Day is March 1.
Wilburn L. (Bubba) Ricketts
Chattanooga, Tn.
* * *
Bravo Bubba on your observation "I know Sterling Jetton, and Randy Johnson is no Sterling Jetton." You're right. Randy Johnston is the only candidate with 31 years of active, full-time experience in the Assessor's Office and truthfully representing that fact to the citizens of Hamilton County.
Randy Johnston is campaigning on the issues and the leadership he brings to the table instead of slandering family members and trying to get the voters' attention off of issues and onto things that don't impact the execution of the job. Randy Johnston is not creating awkward moments in the debates to make sure everyone knows he is married and the other candidates are not.
So yes, Bubba, Randy Johnston is no Sterling Jetton because Randy Johnston is the right man for the job.
Andy Tallent
* * *
It is important to note that one man has been determined to run a positive campaign, and wasn't just "appointed" as a tax assessor, but has received the endorsement of our current Assessor Of Properties Bill Bennett and the honorable Claude Ramsey. We need someone in this office that is known for his honesty, character and experience. A man dedicated to giving us an Assessor of Properties that is not influenced by anyone, but committed to continued fairness for everyone. Someone that each year when we open that envelope and see our property tax bill, we can be at assured has treated each of us with fairness and equality like every other property owner in Hamilton County, and if we did have a question, this man would listen and respond with compassion, and render decisions we can all be proud of.
As a board member of HCRAA (Hamilton County Residents Against Annexation) the group that was influential in preventing forced annexation in Hamilton County, I proudly endorse the one man I know is best suited to be our Assessor Of Properties- Sterling Jetton.
Bill Reesor
Ooltewah