Get to the polls
To ensure that transportation is not a barrier to voters, officials with GoVoteCHA have partnered with a team of pastors and community leaders to offer free rides to the polls to any voter residing in Hamilton County. This transportation service will be provided during early voting, Oct. 19-Nov. 3, and also on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 8.Local pickup:Eastwood Baptist Church4300 Ooltewah-Ringgold RoadMonday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Early voting for the Nov. 8 election begins today and will continue through Nov. 3.
This year, seven candidates have their eyes on the East Ridge City Council's two open spots, so we asked them the same two questions: "What experience/qualifications make you the best candidate?" and "What do you feel is the most important issue in your city and how do you plan to address it?" Each had 150 words or less with which to answer.
Matthew DeGlopper
Age: 35
Occupation: Business manager at Matthew Ross Gilham Media Inc.
I'm a businessman who finds creative, out-of-the-box solutions to get things done. For years, I've spoken out at council meetings and am well versed on the issues facing East Ridge. I will use common sense to better the lives of taxpayers. As a father of two young boys attending East Ridge Elementary, no one is more passionate about seeing East Ridge prosper.
I believe formulating a budget is the council's most important task. By eliminating wasteful spending, taxpayer dollars can be reallocated. These savings will provide the police department with much-needed equipment, provide codes with manpower needed to inspect and clean up extended-stay motels, and protect our rainy-day fund. The city must operate within its means and taxpayers must receive the services they deserve. East Ridge residents pay some of the highest taxes in Hamilton County, and I will work tirelessly to protect their pocketbooks from unaffordable and unnecessary tax hikes.
Brian Williams
Age: 53
Occupation: Business analyst for Quanta Services
I have been a resident of East Ridge for 18 years. My professional background includes 30+ years in software development, project management, budgeting and forecasting experience. Managing the unique needs and personalities of dynamic groups is not new to me. While I would be a newcomer to elected office, I am no stranger to the needs of our community.
I am a strong advocate for the growth of our local business community (existing and new). By utilizing the Border Regions Act and existing business grants, we can increase growth which would prevent additional homeowner tax burden.
Additionally, I want to provide the best equipment and resources for our first responders, which in turn will protect and serve our city better.
I strongly believe in transparency, accountability, community involvement and supporting first responders. For more information, visit Brian Williams East Ridge City Council Facebook page.
Esther Helton
Age: 54
Occupation: Licensed practical nurse
A career in health care has allowed me to work and care for others. Through my work, I gained the trust of patients, and I feel some of my friends and neighbors have lost trust in city government and we need to regain that trust. I feel I am the woman who can start this process through transparency, accountability, fiscal responsibility and willingness to listen to the citizens of East Ridge.
I feel as though the major issue of East Ridge is revitalization. We need to grow as a community of new businesses. We can do this by utilizing the Border Region Act - East Ridge is one of three cities in the state of Tennessee selected to benefit from this legislation. We have six years left to utilize the opportunity, and my plan is to make sure we do just that and allow for new business development in our city.
Robert Stahl
Age: 62
Occupation: City president at Southern Community Bank
I have been a resident of East Ridge for 50+ years and I have 40 years of business and banking experience. I am currently the chairman of the East Ridge City Beer Board and treasurer of the East Ridge Alumni and Supporters. In the past, I've served as chairman of the East Ridge Charter Review Committee, president of the East Ridge Merchants Association and treasurer of the East Ridge Education Committee.
Economic development and budgetary control is the most important issue we have. My business background and dedication to the city will enable me to ensure the budgetary process focuses on providing first responders with the appropriate needed funds to ensure they have the necessary tools and resources. My experience will also allow me to connect East Ridge with a network of business developers and proven business leaders to help foster economic growth.
Gregg Shipley
Age: 55
Occupation: Dental laboratory technician
I am a lifelong resident of East Ridge, and I've owned and operated a couple businesses in East Ridge. If elected, I will leave my Facebook page open for continued contact with the citizens of East Ridge. Your opinion is very important to me.
My goals will be to keep the police and fire departments up to the highest standards, get the police computers and training up to date and get the #2 Fire Station rebuilt so insurance rates stay low. We also need to move our animal shelter to a new building. This shelter has been out of date since the 1980s. Camp Jordan needs some more updating. We need to use the park's size and RV camping to draw bigger events. I would like to work with EPB and the school board to help get lighting for school children catching buses and walking to school.
Jim Bethune
Age: 70
Occupation: Retired general manager from the automotive industry
I am a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and a past city council member. I believe my services and knowledge give me the insight to help move our city forward. I am an active member of the East Ridge Optimist Club and a past member of the East Ridge Planning Commission and Housing Board.
I want to see the city become part of the economic development taking place in East Ridge. I hope to partner with local businesses and residents to establish a citywide plan that empowers this ongoing improvement.
I want to see affordable or free programs created to address the needs of young and old alike. I want to see the city partner with retired educators to create a free tutoring program, leading to more college attendance and future leaders. I also want to see a program created similar to World Changers, helping homeowners make repairs at minimal or no cost.
Doris Rogers
Rogers did not reply to requests for comment.