As of Tuesday afternoon there already were seven people saying they are interested in the County Commission’s District 3 seat.
The seat became vacant after the Hamilton County Commission appointed Jim Coppinger county mayor.
The newest candidates are: Laurie Shipley, a public affairs manager at Comcast Cable; Micheal Baskette, who owns the logistics consulting business Baskette’s Inc.; and David Howell.
“I will be a passionate advocate for both the residents and businesses in District 3, and consider it an honor and privilege to serve the Hixson community as county commissioner,” Shipley said.
Baskette said his years of experience in the transportation business make him qualified for the job.
“I’d just like to step up and do my part,” he said. “I’ve been behind the scenes in politics for 25 years or so. I’ve never been in a position to step up and do this. I’m now in a position where I could work at this.”
Attempts Tuesday to reach Howell or obtain his application from the Hamilton County Commission office were unsuccessful.
The three new candidates join four others: Randall “Randy” Price, Russell Collins, Mitch McClure and George Patten.
Candidates for the District 3 seat may apply 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.