Tim Boyd and Jack Martin are the Republican candidates in the May 4 election primary for the District 8 Hamilton County Commission seat being vacated by Commissioner Curtis Adams. The winner of the primary will face Kenny Smith, a Democrat, and James E. (Jim) Winters and William T. (Terry) Turner, both running as Independents, in the August general election. The selection of a GOP standard-bearer likely will depend on how district voters view the always hot-button issue of taxes.
Mr. Boyd, a business manager, and Mr. Martin, a retired Tennessee Valley Authority employee, have significantly different views on the tax issue. Mr. Martin is adamantly opposed to any property tax increase. Mr. Boyd prefers to reserve judgment, saying his vote for or against a tax increase would depend on the needs of the county at the time a decision was to be made. Mr. Boyd’s view of taxation and other issues that might face the commission is the wiser one, and we endorse his election in the primary.
The candidates differ, too, in their views on possible property tax relief for the elderly. Mr. Martin favors it, but Mr. Boyd prefers to study the issue and its ramifications for other taxpayers before deciding whether to support or reject it. That, again, is the wiser choice.
Indeed, Mr. Martin is a one-note candidate. His entire campaign, it seems, revolves around his deep-seated opposition to increased taxes. He admits, of course, that taxes are necessary and says that he would not rule out voting for other kinds of taxes. But he’s vague on exactly what source of tax he would endorse and finds it difficult to articulate how he would operate government and provide services if revenues are not adequate. Voters should demand more cogent answers.
On balance Mr. Boyd’s still cautious but more open view of taxation is not the most progressive, but it is preferable to the far more close-minded approach of his opponent.
Both Mr. Boyd and Mr. Martin believe the school system can be improved, though they differ in how that can be accomplished. Mr. Boyd believes educators must work harder to engage students in the education process before or in middle school to prevent dropouts. Mr. Martin says the best way to improve education is to get problem students out of the schools, though he leaves open the legal, social and educational ramifications of doing so. Neither, however, can offer a concrete plan to promote their goals.
Republican voters in the District 8 primary will choose between a pair of earnest candidates to represent their party in the upcoming general election. We recommend they cast their ballot for Mr. Boyd.