It's a year and a half away for the first election of a five-member Walker County Board of Commissioners, but one candidate is already throwing his hat into the ring.
Jim Hill said he will be running in District 1.
There are four districts with one at-large to replace the current sole commissioner form of government.
The election will be in 2020 and the new board will take over in 2021.
Shannon Whitfield, who ran under a platform of being the last sole commissioner, supported a bill moving Walker County to the commission form. It was approved by the Legislature.
Walker County was among the few in the country to still have a sole commissioner.
Mr. Hill said, "I am the first to announce and my campaign will get kicked into high gear right after New Year's. My full name is James Hill. I go by Jim. I was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee and my family quickly moved to Chattanooga Valley as an infant. We remained in Chattanooga Valley throughout elementary, middle and high school.
"After finding the love of my life, Paula Clark Hill, we moved to Rossville and established our family. So, I've lived in the north end of Walker County for my entire life.
"I have worked for the same broadcast company for 25 years. This has been the best experience in working with the public and businesses - learning how to compromise and stand ground at the same time.
"With this said living paycheck-to-paycheck, I understand. Raising a grandson...yep, I'm doing that too. That is a reason which Paula and I considered for this next decision.
"My friends, I formally announce that I will be a candidate for Walker County Commissioner District One. It's time that the Rossville/Fairview area have a voice which understands what we have lived through and mostly ignored for years. It's time that District One has someone to fight for them.
"Giving a voice for Rossville-Fairview and what is best for Walker County will be my utmost concern. Walker County has excellent potential and District One has what businesses desire. Quick access to the interstate, high-speed fiber optics, excellent power service and workers ready to go.
"I will be having meetings where you can come and ask questions and voice your concerns for District One. I will have several to allow you to be able to come. I look forward to gaining your support and your ultimate vote of confidence at the ballot.
"Thank you and may God bless Walker County, the State of Georgia and the greatest nation ever, The United States of America."