09/21/2022
District 3 Candidate Forum
Introduction (2 mins): Please give a brief description of yourself. Name, time as a resident and occupation history. Good evening, my name is Michael Turner, I want to start by thanking my beautiful wife and my awesome children for their patience and support through all this. I was raised on my families farm and have lived in Lamar County for 34 years and have owned property here in the county since 2005. I started a career in Distribution Line Construction in 2003, starting as a groundman and worked my way up. I have held the following positions: Groundman, Apprentice Lineman, Journeyman Lineman, Troubleman, Team Leader, Supervisor, and now a Training Specialist Sr.
Questions (2 mins):
1) Commercial Development: Would you like to see commercial development in Lamar County? If no, why? If yes, what type of industries or businesses would you like to see come to the county?
Yes, I would like to see commercial and industrial growth in Lamar. We need low impact commercial and residential that will not only provide jobs but also tax revenue to help offset some of the burden for all taxpayers, especially the elderly and those on fixed incomes.
2) Rural County: Many have stated that they would like to see the county remain a rural county. Where do you stand on the issue of keeping Lamar a rural county and what does being a rural county mean to you? What would you say to those with a differing opinion?
I am all for keeping Lamar County rural. However, one of the main concerns we have as a county are the taxes. I say “we” because my wife and I pay the same as everyone else in the county. In order to try and offset some of that we have to look at spending and we need revenue. What does this mean to me? I think we should allow low impact commercial and industrial to come in places designated for this type of growth. For example, the industrial park off Old Hwy 41 and out near the interstate off Hwy 36E. We need to minimize spot zoning farmland and look at impact fees for residential growth. We need to focus on our infrastructure and try and catch up. We are struggling to keep the county water lines flushed because of the amount of people we have on the system. If we do monthly flushes we are wasting clean water we need to sustain the county. We have roads here in the county and city that do not have required lines and markings on them. Some are not wide enough for two full size vehicles to pass.
3) Taxes: Where do you stand on taxes and why? Do you support the current tax proposals and rates? If so, why? If not, why?
This is silly nobody likes higher taxes, but the county has bills they have to pay, and that money has to come from somewhere. We could look into the county budget and possibly save or cut but wherever those cuts are someone will be unhappy, and truth is it probably would not be enough to affect the current tax rate. I commend the county for rolling back the millage rate and trying to relieve some of the tax burden. We have to get commercial and industrial here to help as I previously stated.
4) Spending: Like taxes, government spending is a hot button issue for taxpayers. What projects or programs would you like to see tax dollars going to and why? How is that beneficial for the county?
Currently I think we should try and operate on a minimal budget because I am certain the economy is getting ready to take a turn for the worst. How bad I do not know but with the inflation constantly rising, interest rates rising, and the housing market slowing down these are sure signs we need to save. With the spending we are doing, I think we should focus on getting our infrastructure up to par.
5) Horse Tracks: How do you feel about the horse tracks and the controversy surrounding them and why do you feel that way? What action, if any, do you believe needs to take place regarding the horse track situation?
If all the allegations about the track are true, I believe we need to allow law enforcement to do their jobs. If there have been complaints filed and there have been citations for them breaking the law or violating county ordinances then we should review their zoning and possible pull their permits to do business in the county. Again, this is only after the law has had a chance to do their jobs and a full investigation has been done.
6) Trust in Government: Many have lost trust in the County Government’s ability to act in the best interest of the people. How would you show the people that your decisions are made with the best interest of the county in mind?
I do not trust most government officials or politicians any further than I could throw my house. Although I do believe many of our local officials make decisions they feel are in the best interest of the county and its taxpayers. I will say an elected official will never make everyone happy. However, they should do their best to address any concerns from citizens and try and explain their decisions the best they can. I am an open book and all you have to do is call me directly and hold me accountable if ever you do not agree with a decision that has been made.
7) Accountability: If elected, are you willing to be vocal when other elected officials or county employees are engaged in wrongdoing or abusing their power and position? If not, why? If so, why?
Yes, right is right and wrong is wrong. Nobody is perfect and I think a conversation should take place to make sure you are seeing the big picture and have all the facts. I have zero issues calling out any wrong doing that I see take place.
8) Involvement: How involved are you in the community? If so, what are you involved in? Do you attend Lamar County meetings? If not, why?
I assisted coach rec ball when my children played. When my daughter started playing school ball I spent my time watching her travel around and play. I have no issues helping others and if anyone in the county were to need my hand and call upon me I would be there. That is who I am, and anyone who knows me can attest to that. I was the sole provider for my family for many years, that is no longer the case and I have time to do more and will continue to assist others as needed.
9) Communication and Transparency: How will you go about ensuring that District 3 residents have their voices heard and what extra steps will you take to ensure they are informed of the Lamar County Government’s actions and intentions? Example: issues regarding taxes, spending, infrastructure, maintenance, etc..
Simply put, I have made efforts and will continue to make sure my information is passed to each person in district 3. You can always call me and if I do not answer you can leave a message and I will return your call. You do not have to depend on the paper or someone else to answer a question you have for me.
10) Why do you believe you’re the right choice for District 3?
I am as open and honest as they come, and I am always a phone call away. If you cannot reach me, you are not trying. I will always give you the unfiltered answer and never provide a political response to any situation. I have worked hard in everything I have ever done in life, and I will not stop if I am elected to be your voice in the county. Please, if you have any questions feel free to reach out and give me a chance to earn your support! God Bless you all.
Closing Statements (2 mins): You may use this time to address the people with anything you’d like to say or to touch on any topics that may or may not have been discussed.
I would love to represent each and every voter of district 3. I chose not to participate in the live forum because, the more I thought about it, the more I did not agree with not having the public participate and ask live questions. I know I do not want a rehearsed two minute answer. I want the answer you give off the cuff with no preparation. However, I did answer the questions provided to me by Mr. Floyd so you all would know where I stand. My phone number is 770-856-9820 should you want to speak directly to me.
