Two more people said Friday they are interested in the Hamilton County Commission’s 3rd District seat.
A local employee of Citadel Broadcasting in Chattanooga said he wants to become the next District 3 commissioner.
Randall “Randy” Price, 53, lives in Hixson and works as a sales support supervisor for the company.
“I think it is inherent on everyone living in the community to become involved in the government,” he said.
Lakesite resident Russell Collins, 41, also entered the race Friday. Collins also applied to replace former Hamilton County Mayor Claude Ramsey. He is a director of rehabilitation mobility for Lookout Medical Services and owns Three Dogs Recording Studio in Lakesite.
“I’m a resident of the community,” Collins said. “I have a small business in the community. I believe I’d be a good representative for the constituents of District 3.”
Price said he has worked on and off the air since 1980 in many different roles, including as a reporter and anchor. He said his work gave him a knowledge of the inner workings of government.
Collins cited his experience in the health care industry as one of his qualifications.
“I have to interface with all levels of individuals and all facets of life, whether it be health care professionals or physicians,” he said. “I am on one of the local committees for health care reform in the durable medical industry.”
Both are interested in the seat vacated by Jim Coppinger, who became county mayor last week.
Two others also have declared interest in the position: Middle Valley Church of God pastor Mitch McClure and George Patten, of Hixson.
Candidates for the District 3 seat may apply starting Monday through Friday at 4 p.m. Applicants must be at least 18, qualified voters and residents of District 3.
The Hamilton County Republican Women will sponsor a candidate forum Jan. 24 at 7 p.m. at Hixson Middle School.
The commission plans to vote to fill the vacancy on Jan. 27.