Hamilton County Commission Chairman Curtis Adams likes to say he’s listed in the phone book, but his District 8 constituents won’t know whom to call when he resigns in May.
“I think we need representation,” said Frances Pope, an East Ridge resident. “Many civic organizations call Curtis for money. That will be a detriment to them.”
After 22 years on the County Commission, Mr. Adams will leave on May 13 to take the job as city manager in Crossville, Tenn. State law dictates that filling the vacancy is optional because Mr. Adams’ last day falls fewer than 120 days before county elections in August.
Several commissioners reached this week supported filling the seat, but they preferred to wait until Mr. Adams begins working in Crossville.
“It’s like when a person goes to hospice — you’re not going to talk about filling his position until after the funeral,” Commissioner Greg Beck said. “You give Curtis the respect that the position is still filled.”