2016 Local Election Guide

Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Messenger-Inquirer’s

Owensboro/Daviess County Local Election Guide

2016

INSIDE Mayor of Owensboro...........................................2 Owensboro City Commission................................4 Family Court Judge..............................................5 13th District House of Representatives....................6 14th District House of Representatives....................6 7th District House of Representatives......................7 11th District House of Representatives....................8 12th District House of Representatives....................8 Owensboro City School Board..............................9 Daviess County School Board................................9 Whitesville City Commission............................... 10

2 Election Guide MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Mayor of Owensboro

Five seeking to be city’s next leader

BY STEVE VIED

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

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former mayor, the current mayor pro-tem, a young business owner, an electric utility official and a military retiree are seeking to become Owensboro’s next mayor, with the latter three running for political office for the first time.

Tom Watson, mayor from 2005-08, is seeking a return to City Hall in the same role he left eight years ago. Jeff Sanford, a three-term city commissioner and the current mayor pro-tem, is seeking a promotion to the mayor’s chair.

The newcomers are Neil Johnston, owner of CDR Auto Sales, Doug Hoyt, director of procurement and contracts at Kenergy and a former Green River Area Development District employee, and David Crane, who retired from the military after serving in the Marine Corps, Army National Guard and Air National Guard.

One of the five candidates will replace Mayor Ron Payne, who has two months left in his second term. Payne at first said he would run for a third term, but later decided he would not seek re-election.

DAVID CRANE

DOUG HOYT

Elected offices held: None

Elected offices held: None Education: Bachelor’s degree, political science, Kentucky Wesleyan College; master’s degree, urban and regional development, Indiana State University Occupation: Kenergy, director, procurement and contracts Age: 54 Family: Married; one son; one daughter Address: 2760 High Pass Point

Education: Bachelor’s degree, arts education, Brescia University Occupation: Hotel maintenance supervisor Age: 45 Family: One son Address: 1226 Ninth St.

being mayor will be his only job.

“It should not be a part-time job, no distractions,” he said. “If you work full time, when do you have time to be mayor?”

Crane retired from the military in 2009. Single since 2003, he has worked as a hotel maintenance supervisor the last several years.

about what he called the need for more openness in city government.

“We need a good community vision with input from everybody,” he said. “I don’t want decisions made behind closed doors.

We have to focus on all of Owensboro, not just one population segment or area. We have to build a community that will attract and retain people like you, but also our senior population, which is our fastest-growing segment.”

As the election nears, Hoyt said he talks to voters about “being inclusive of everyone and offering everyone the opportunity to participate. If not, we will fail. Developing a community vision depends on what everybody wants.”

NEIL JOHNSTON Elected Offices held: None Education: Bachelor’s degree, business, Western Kentucky University Occupation: Owner, CDR Motor Sales Age: 26 Family: Single Address: 1220 Nassau Ave.

the International Bluegrass Music Center during a forum at the Riverpark Center, Johnston went beyond saying he did not support it. “If elected, I will shut it down,” he said. “The majority of the community does not want it.

“I am capable of holding the position and leading the city to a better future and a better quality of life,” Johnston said. “They (residents) want change and something different.”

Johnston said entertainment is “pretty nonexistent” and people worry that taxes will have to go up to pay for city spending projects.

“They want someone with financial sense,” he said.

Johnston suffered a setback early in the campaign season when he was arrested for trying to re-enter the Big O Music Festival after being “kicked out by Big O staff” in mid-August.

He was charged with one misdemeanor count of third-degree trespassing.

Johnston called it a misunderstanding and the charge was eventually deferred for a year and will be dropped if he isn’t arrested again.

JEFF SANFORD

TOM WATSON

Elected offices held: Owensboro City Commission, three terms, currently mayor pro-tem Education: Bachelor’s degree, business, Western Kentucky University Occupation: President, Scoreboard Publishing Inc. Age: 48 Family: Wife, Misty BreySanford; one son; one daughter Address: 1914 Lexington Ave.

Elected offices held: Mayor of Owensboro from 2005-08 Education: Trained at Northwestern University in Chicago and the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago; certified in prosthetics by the American Board for Certification in Orthotics and Prosthetics Occupation: Certified prosthetist and business owner Age: 65 Family: Wife, Barbara Aull Watson; two sons; six grandchildren Address: 3622 Bridge Pointe

ment Corporation, the Chamber of Commerce, the City Commission, the county and business,” he said.

“I will focus on economic development. I want everybody to have an opportunity.

DOUG HOYT We have debt, but you grow Hoyt said everybody yourself out of it with good should give back to the jobs. Jobs are coming. We community where they haven’t seen anything like are qualified to do so. He this in years.” said his experience and Sanford said he decided background working for to get involved because he Kenergy and the Green wanted to see Owensboro DAVID CRANE River Area Development grow.

Crane has also raised District for a total of 31 “My belief is if you don’t questions about openness. years qualifies him to be invest in yourself, or your “The big thing is we mayor. business or your communidon’t have transparency,” At the Neblett Center ty, nobody else will invest in Crane said at the Chamber candidate forum in October, you,” he told students durYoung Professionals forum Hoyt used his opening ing an October forum at the last month. “We don’t really statement to remind Wendell H. Ford Governhave it. We have notices in ment Education Center. “I the paper that we did this or voters of his 36 years in the community (18 years think that has happened. We that, but it’s after the fact.” working for Kenergy and have seen $1 billion invested Crane called on elected 13 years for the GRADD), in Owensboro in eight NEIL JOHNSTON officials to be pro-active in including 31 years years. That’s a lot. You have Johnston, by far the seeking information from managing large budgets. to try and make things hapyoungest of mayoral canpeople instead of simply “I believe I can bring a pen. It is starting to pay off. didates, has said he wants inviting people to contact Hopefully, we can encourto use his business skills to them by email. “The mayor business background to Owensboro,” Hoyt said. “I age you to come back to this help the city find solutions has to get out,” he said.

JEFF SANFORD believe the city can use this community. People all over to what he calls its financial “You have to maintain good Sanford, an Owensboro background, and I can bring problems. are telling me their kids are communications.” native, is a strong proponent coming back. There’s a new At the Chamber Young Crane has also called for more openness.” of the downtown’s revitaliza- pride in Owensboro, and it’s At an earlier forum, Hoyt Professionals forum on restraints on spending and tion initiative that cost the said he came to Owensboro exciting.”

Oct. 10, he described the borrowing. in 1980 to attend Kentucky city’s indebtedness as “not a city $80 million. He said the “We’re getting to the TOM WATSON good thing” and said people dramatic improvements point that our grandchildren Wesleyan College and has are paying off with private lived here all but one year It has been almost eight leave the city to have fun will have to pay for some of investment in the riverfront years since Watson left the since then. “My wife and and that the east and west this stuff,” Crane said. corridor, including last I raised two kids and with mayor’s office, after serving sides of the city have been Crane said he was month’s announcement that one term. He chose not to four grandchildren, I want neglected. motivated to run for mayor customer service company run for re-election. In April, them to have a great future.

When he filed for the as he watched the city Alorica, Inc. will bring 840 I think I can help,” he said. when he announced he was office, Johnston made a borrowing money to pay jobs to the former BB&T Hoyt is supportive of running for mayor again, point of his youth. for projects, most notably building.

Watson said he was plan“Being younger, I can the downtown revitalization recent improvements made “I am for lifting everyone ning to cut back to a partby the city and wants to relate to young people and initiative. The city needs a up,” Sanford said. “I have time schedule at his Tom to the future,” he said. “A different viewpoint, he said, see the trend continue, a vision for five years from using the term “responsible 60- or 70-year-old man or Watson’s Prosthetics and and more more financial progress” to describe what Orthotics lab next month. woman is unable to relate to now. Our investment is accountability is needed in he wants to push. But he An Owensboro native, the younger generation. My finally paying off. New busicity government. ness and private money is Watson said his involvement also has expressed concern background allows me to “It seems everything coming in daily. I’m working in Matt Bevin’s successful about the size of the city’s relate to all groups.” we’re doing, we just get a with people who want to do campaign for governor in debt, which was increased Johnston said he is not bond,” he said. “That’s my something new. I’m always 2015 got him interested in by $80 million with a proponent of downtown tax money. We need more politics again. That, and his investment in downtown revitalization, which he said about private investment, information going out to and here it is. Alorica would misgivings about the city’s revitalization. was poorly executed. The taxpayers.” not have come here without now sidelined plan to sell “I am for responsible city has overspent, he said.

According to his the Sportscenter to Icethe investment. When dolprogress,” Hoyt said. “I am Johnston said not campaign materials, Crane in favor of moving forward. enough involvement by peo- lars turn over, business will Men hockey team owner was born and raised in Ron Geary earlier this year, We’ve done great things, Owensboro and retired ple is the city’s top problem. benefit. People want to be caused him to be interested around success.” but there is a lot of debt. It from the military.

“People my age don’t care, Sanford lists his commu- in running for another term “There are three pillars doesn’t mean we have to middle-age people don’t as mayor, especially with for my time as mayor; stop spending, but we have care and older people don’t nication skills as as asset. transparency, financial Payne’s surprise decision “My communication to manage growth. We need care,” he said. accountability and not to run for a third term. to grow to create additional When the mayoral candi- abilities give me the ability accessibility,” Crane said.

When Payne withdrew, revenue and add jobs.” dates were asked about the to bring everyone together Crane has said if elected, “I thought we will need — the Economic DevelopHoyt has been outspoken city’s commitment to build

Primary Precinct

Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer

On May 19, 2015, JoAnn Vessels, left, and her husband, Robert Vessels, walk into Owensboro Christian Church on New Hartford Road to vote during the statewide primary election.

some critical thinking, and I coached or mentored a lot of young people making their careers in our town,” Watson said.

When he filed, Watson expressed admiration for the elected leaders who brought about improvements to the city in recent years, praising their courage and stick-to-it-iveness, especially Payne’s drive.

But he called for increasing the local tax base without raising taxes to sustain progress.

In his first term, Watson pressed unsuccessfully for city-county merger. While he was mayor, a $37 million federal appropriation was awarded to the city to build the downtown river wall that today is the underpinning for Smothers Park. But Watson and the city were not successful at getting a tax increment financing district approved for the Gateway Commons development on Kentucky 54, which is now on the verge of being approved.

Lately, Watson has talked of wanting to repay a debt to the community dating to the time when he was seriously injured in a work accident and lost his right leg. When he needed help, many people helped him, he said.

As others have done, Watson called for more public input into decision making.

“I believe everyone should have the opportunity to have a say in what we do,” he said. “Right now, we don’t have much input. It’s mostly done, and we’re told about it.”

At the Wendell H. Ford Center, Watson said downtown redevelopment started when he was in office. He listed public safety, sustainable economic growth and controlling spending as three important priorities he will pursue.

“Jobs are good,” he said.

“But there’s a big difference in jobs and careers.”

Sporting the sticker

Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer.com

On May 17, Jana Boswell of Philpot leaves voting precinct H110 at Bittel Hall at the Daviess County Fairgrounds during primary.

3 Election Guide MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Wednesday, November 2, 2016

MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Wednesday, November 2, 2016

e t o

Election Guide 3

Paid for by Susan for Judge

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The most experienced candidate for

I am the Managing Attorney at Kentucky Legal Aid and I practice full time in every type of family law: Divorces, Custody, Dependency/ Neglect/Abuse, Domestic Violence, Paternity and Child Support, and adoption/termination of parental rights. According to the official court records from the Kentucky Court of Justice, I have tried more

cases in family law then all of the other candidates combined.

Also, no other candidate has the breadth of experience in a true family court setting.

In five of the seven counties I serve, I practice that family law in Family Courts. I work closely with families, social service workers, therapists/case managers, Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers, police officers, domestic violence advocates, interpreters, school personnel, other attorneys and Family Court judges.

LEADERSHIP AWARDS: • 2015 Recipient of the Diocese of Owensboro’s Bishop McRaith “Providing Help, Creating Hope” Award • 2015 Owensboro Human Relations Commission R.L. McFarland Leadership Award • 2016, 2014 Girls, Inc. Athena Award Nominee • 2015 Sts. Joseph and Paul Catholic Church Sr. Fran Wilhelm Stewardship Award EDUCATION: • Graduated at the top of her class (Magna Cum Laude) from University of Louisville Brandeis School of Law, 2005 J.D. • Graduated Magna Cum Laude graduate from Washington University in St. Louis, 1998 B.A. in Political Science • Graduated as an AP Scholar from Owensboro Catholic High School, 1994 PERSONAL: • Married to Chad for 19 years, four children: 16 year old Jacquelyn, 12 year old JoJo, 9 year old Michael, 2 year old CeCe, and are parishioners of Sts. Joseph and Paul Catholic Church

4 Election Guide MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Owensboro City Commission

10 candidates pursue four commission seats

BY STEVE VIED

T

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

en candidates are seeking to fill four seats on the Owensboro City Commission in the Nov. 8 general election.

The list of hopefuls seeking the two-year terms in the nonpartisan race includes incumbents Pam Smith-Wright and Bob Glenn.

Larry Conder, a visible downtown entrepreneur and property owner, is running for one of the seats and is joined by commercial real estate broker Jay Velotta, college professor Joey Connelly and OMU retiree and former Old Owensboro Neighborhood Alliance chairman Bob Darling.

Teresa Thomas, Joseph Martin, Mark Anthony Howard and Andy Gamblin are also in the race. Martin is back in the race after two unsuccessful previous attempts. Darling also is a previous City Commission candidate, coming up short in his attempt in 2004.

LARRY CONDER

Conder and his wife, Rosemary, have managed to put their stamp on downtown by buying and restoring several existing properties and building Court Place, a $3 million, four-story, 16,000-square-foot retail-residential development at St. Ann and Second streets.

Conder, a frequent attendee of City Commission meetings, is a member of the board of the Owensboro RiverPort Authority, sits on the Owensboro/Daviess County Historic Preservation Board and is a member of Brescia University’s board of trustees.

Conder said for the city to continue to flourish, tough “future-oriented decisions” must be made.

“We need to move the whole idea of place-making into the rest of the community — east, west and south,” Conder said. “People believe it’s only one area. It needs to go into the county and the region. Critical thinking needs to be applied to all projects and issues for this community to grow for the next 20 years.”

Conder called for a revenue-sharing program with county government when he spoke recently at the Neblett Center candidate forum.

“I have a passion for all of the city of Owensboro, including our downtown,” Conder said. “This passion seed of “Place Making” needs to be planted in our entire city for a better place for all of us to live, work and play. I sowed those seeds in our downtown eight years ago, and now it is time to cultivate the rest of community.

“We must grow the tax base throughout Owensboro and Daviess County. This will be done with cooperation between the city and county governments working together not only in our area, but in Frankfort and Washington, D.C. Owensboro’s time is now. What we have done over the last 10 years is astounding, yet we have much more to do, all the while making sure the checkbook of the city is financially sound.”

BOB GLENN Elected offices held: Owensboro City Commission Education: Bachelor’s degree in communications/ theater from the University of Southern California; master’s degree in communications studies from the University of Nevada, and a Ph.D in communications from the University of Southern Mississippi.

Occupation: Professor of communication and director of forensics at Owensboro Community & Technical College Age: 56 Family: Wife, Holly; one daughter; one son Address: 1829 Munday Court

ties. Innovative sources of revenue and cutting city expenditures will allow us to tackle our debt service so we can continue giving taxpayers the amenities, like parks, OPD, fire and sanitation, that make Owensboro a great city to live in without increasing the cost of living.”

Connelly said he wants to be an advocate for all people and balance business interests with people’s interests.

“I don’t understand why it takes many months to vote on issues like the fairness ordinance, but it takes 20 minutes to sell the Sportscenter,” Connelly said.

“I want to address issues that impact citizens as well as issues that concern economic development so people feel valued and heard. I want city buses to run seven days a week. I want to see an effort made to have an inclusive municipal government with more diversity in all departments so that every citizen feels represented. I want citizens to know they are integral to decisions that affect them and their tax money, and the key to that is transparency in all areas of governance.”

Connelly mentioned a desire to preserve and expand parks and green space, including Hillcrest Golf Course. He said he would look for ways to lower taxes and relax penalties for late tax payments. He said he supports a fairness ordinance and pro-business practices.

BOB DARLING

Twelve years ago Darling was eliminated in the May primary, finishing well down in the voting. He is a frequent visitor to City Commission meetings and often makes his opinions on various matters known.

A water plant retiree from Owensboro Municipal Utilities, Darling is a former chairman of the Old Owensboro Neighborhood Alliance and former president of Community SoluJOEY CONNELLY tions for Substance Abuse.

Connelly is a former He has remained active and administrative aide in the vocal regarding substance Owensboro Parks and Recabuse issues. reation Department who Darling said city resiis now an assistant English dents have been shut out of professor at Kentucky planning decisions made by Wesleyan College. He said city elected leaders in recent he decided to run because years. he loves Owensboro and “My whole thing is, I wants to serve the city. think we’ve lost the conver“Owensboro is carrying a sation with the citizens on heavy debt burden because what they want,” Darling of the downtown improvesaid. “For these last eight ments,” Connelly noted. years, it’s been ‘my way or “I believe the city can conthe highway.’ I could tell tinue to grow and address citizens were happier when our debt issue with new we were having community sources of revenue that do meetings. I think we’ve lost not include raising property that a little bit.” or occupational taxes. PosDarling said he is also sibilities include cost sharing concerned about the state of the city’s finances and programs with businesses warns that taxes may be or increased rental fees for exclusive use of city proper- going up. He complained of

BOB DARLING Elected offices held: None Education: Attended Western Kentucky University Occupation: Retired, Owensboro Municipal Utilities Age: 66 Family: Single Address: 414 Geary Court

JOEY CONNELLY Elected offices held: None Education: Bachelor’s degrees in English and religion-philosophy at Kentucky Wesleyan; master’s degree in poetry at Ashland University.

Occupation: Assistant English professor at Kentucky Wesleyan College Age: 37 Family: Husband, Josh Castlen Address: 108 W. 22nd St.

ANDY GAMBLIN Elected offices held: None Education: High school graduate Occupation: Bus monitor, Owensboro Public Schools Age: 54 Family: Single Address: 711 Kentucky Parkway

JAY VELOTTA Elected offices held: None Education: Associate’s degree in business and marketing, Owensboro Community & Technical College.

Occupation: Commercial real estate broker Age: 46 Address: 103 E. 23rd St. Family: Wife Lyn; three children

LARRY CONDER Elected offices held: None Education: Brescia University, bachelor’s degree in business administration with a minor in economics; attended Murray State University MBA program Occupation: Director of Operations, Public Energy Authority of Kentucky (natural gas broker), real estate owner and developer Age: 55 Family: Wife, Rosemary; six children Address: 201 St. Ann St., Suite 4A

PAM SMITHWRIGHT Elected offices held: Owensboro City Commission Education: Cosmetology, Rosebud Beauty Academy, St. Louis, Owensboro VocationalTechnical School; South Seas Cooking School, Captiva Island, Florida Occupation: Cosmetologist, Mary’s Beauty Salon; Owneroperator, Tastefully Yours Catering Age: 67 Family: Husband, Eugene Wright; one son, one daughter.

Address: 3520 Christie Place

JOSEPH MARTIN Elected offices held: None Education: Daviess County VocationalTechnical School (welding and auto body repair), attended West Valley Technical College, Santa Cruz, California (technical engineering) Occupation: Janitor, Holiday Inn Age: 61 Family: One daughter; one son Address: 1001 W. Parrish Ave.

TERESA THOMAS Elected offices held: None Education: Attended Owensboro Community & Technical College Occupation: Director of the Hines Center in Philpot Age: 44 Address: 1122 Booth Ave. Family: Husband, James Everly; three children

MARK HOWARD Elected offices held: None Education: Attended the University of Kentucky.

Occupation: Kroger, customer service manager Age: 34 Family: Single Address: 4132 Settlers Point

“crumbling streets, lack of property maintenance oversight (and) higher fees from all agencies with any connection to city government” in a campaign document.

“I believe folks still want more attention paid to the rest of the city,” Darling said.

“They hope future leaders will pay more attention to the rest of the city. A lot of things have been overlooked the last eight years. The city is looking more shabby than it has for a long time.”

Darling said it’s not OK to have “shiny downtown” and a not-so-shiny rest of the city.

“The city has almost the highest debt load in the state,” Darling said earlier.

“Even national bond raters are complaining. Here’s an idea for the next City Commission to use: Let the hard-working citizens of Owensboro keep more of their hard-earned money by not trying to deplete every agency with ties to the city of their money they need to operate.”

ANDY GAMBLIN

Andy Gamblin, a bus monitor in the city school district, said he filed to run for the City Commission because the city “doesn’t need to be in debt.”

“We should watch what we spend and we need to keep Owensboro moving forward,” Gamblin said. “We should work on that debt, and I’d like to help small business and relieve the tax burden on business and eventually cut taxes across the board for everybody. I know it can be done if we all work together. Don’t cut anything and make sure we help law enforcement with all the equipment they need and keep up our infrastructure.”

Gamblin said the city’s SEE PURSUE/PAGE 11

As a life long resident of Owensboro and a retiree from OMU I have devoted my time to serving our community and its residents with many of its social needs. As chairman or board member of many organizations I have seen the need for leadership that can move our community in a positive direction. This is why I now seek your vote for City Commissioner on November 8th. We must now work on maintaining our entire community.

That is my pledge to you the voter. Please allow me to serve you.

Robert Darling #2 on your ballot.

Paid for by Robert Darling P.O.Box 231 42302

5 Election Guide MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Wednesday, November 2, 2016

MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Election Guide 5

Family Court Judge

Family Court candidates tout experience

BY JAMES MAYSE

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

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aviess County officials worked a long time in their efforts to get a Family Court judgeship in Owensboro. Funding to create the position was included in the 2016-18 judiciary budget, which was signed into law by Gov. Matt Bevin.

Family Court operates under the philosophy of “one family, one judge, one court.” Family Court hears divorces, child custody, paternity visitation and support, child abuse and neglect and domestic violence cases. The Family Court judge also hears “status offense” cases, which are offenses that only apply to juveniles, such as being a runaway or chronically truant from school.

The overarching idea is that families often have several interconnected cases, and those cases are best resolved by a judge who knows all of a family’s issues and needs. Before the position was created in the budget, Daviess was the biggest county in Kentucky without a Family Court.

Bevin could have appointed someone to the judgeship, but chose not to make a selection out of the three ­— Susan Montalvo-Gesser, Julie Hawes Gordon and Angela Thompson — selected as finalists by a judicial nomination commission. With no appointment made, four candidates — Gesser, Gordon, Thompson and Clifton Boswell — are vying to be elected to the judge’s post.

CLIFTON BOSWELL

JULIE HAWES GORDON

Elected offices held: None Education: University of Kentucky (B.A.); University of Kentucky Law School Occupation: Attorney in private practice Age: 39 Family: Wife Jana; four children Address: 5560 Dee Acres Drive

Elected offices held: None Education: University of Kentucky (B.A.), University of Kentucky School of Law Occupation: Attorney in private practice Age: 37 Family: Husband, Sale Gordon; four children Address: 901 YelvingtonGrandview Road

custody and abuse cases.

“I’ve always done a large amount of family law in my practice,” Boswell said. “ ...

I’ve been involved in every type of family law matter I would preside over as Family Court judge.”

When asked how he has handled a difficult decision, Boswell said being in solo practice has helped him develop judgement.

“I’ve had to make decisions as a business owner as to whether to take a specific case,” Boswell said.

“I’ve had clients ... where maybe I didn’t agree with how they wanted to move forward with a case.”

When deciding if he can take a case, Boswell said he looks for “whether I feel they are truthful, if they are genuine, and if it’s someone that needs my help.

I feel I’ve become a good judge of character by being CLIFTON BOSWELL involved in thousands of Boswell has a solo law these cases. I feel I’m able practice in Owensboro.

During his career, Boswell to tell if (a person) is credsaid he has handled domes- ible or not.”

Boswell said if he is tic violence, adoption, child

SUSAN MONTALVOGESSER

elected judge, he’ll follow the law when making decisions.

“These are all very emotional cases ... and it’s important for a judge to set emotions aside,” he said.

“It’s OK for a judge to feel compassion, but our decisions have to be based on what the law requires, not emotion.”

Boswell said he would have divorce cases mediated. If parties are brought together and given “realistic expectations, often times, they’ll reach an agreement,” before seeing the judge, he said.

The state funded one Family Court judge for the county, so the new judge will handle most of the cases with some help from the county’s two Circuit Court judges.

“I’m going into this under the assumption there will be a tremendous workload,” Boswell said.

Boswell is already preparing to transfer his current cases to other attor-

Elected offices held: None Education: Washington University (B.A.); University of Louisville School of Law Occupation: Staff attorney, Kentucky Legal Aid Age: 41 Family: Husband Chad Gesser; four children Address: 221 Wildwood Drive

neys if he becomes Family Court judge. “I’m going to miss (private practice), but I feel this is a way I can be of service to the community,” he said.

“We can’t stop divorces and the breakdown of the family, but I do believe there are things we can do through Family Court to alleviate the consequences of the breakdown,” Boswell said.

ANGELA THOMPSON Elected offices held: None Education: Kentucky Wesleyan College, Northern Kentucky University School of Law Occupation: Attorney, Daviess County domestic relations commissioner Age: 48 Family: Husband David Thompson; four children Address: 6430 Alvey Bridge Road

out of court.”

Gordon said Family Courts have the ability to mediate cases, such as divorces. “That’s one great thing about Family Court — you have a staff attorney and have a way to mediate and come up with as much common ground as you can.

“I think my experience in and out of the courtroom JULIE HAWES GORDON qualifies me,” Gordon said.

Gordon has been a prac- “I feel like I’m the most ticing attorney for 12 years qualified candidate, but I and works primarily in fam- believe what truly sets me apart is my proven dedicaily law, she said. tion to families outside the Family law “has been a courtroom.” passion for me since day Gordon has been one,” Gordon said. “I think involved in reviewing the partly because I saw a lot state’s Family Court rules, of ways the system isn’t is an Advocate for Families meeting the needs of our First superadvocate and families ... I found there is a member of Kentucky was a real need to reduce Youth Advocates. the adversarial nature of When asked how she family law issues with effective communication in and has dealt with a difficult

decision in a family law case, Gordon said: “Every day, there are difficult decisions you have to make, particularly when you are representing the interests of a child. I take those cases very seriously, because we know that trauma negatively affects, or can affect, children for the rest of their lives.”

About her plans for a Family Court if elected, Gordon said: “In my work for over a decade, I’ve already established those relationships with stakeholders in law enforcement, juvenile justice, foster care agencies and the Cabinet (for Health and Family Services). I plan to have an experienced staff attorney in place and an experienced case manager in place,” and have a mental health professional in the courtroom to help people through “what can feel like a very intimidating court system.”

Families that need services would have them scheduled by service providers during their court appearances, Gordon said, “so the family would leave having their next steps lined up ... That leaves families feeling a lot less overwhelmed by the process,” she said.

SUSAN MONTALVOGESSER

Montalvo-Gesser is an attorney for Kentucky Legal Aid, which represents clients who can’t afford an attorney.

As KLA’s family law attorney, Gesser represents clients in seven counties, five of which have Family Courts. The goal for the attorneys and Family Court judge is to reach “the best outcome” for the children SEE FAMILY/PAGE 11

I AM READY to put my leadership skills to work for my city.

As Muhammad Ali once said; “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.”

The VOICE of the people.

Paid for by Jay Velotta for City Commissioner

As your City Commissioner, I believe in bringing outside investments into the community is a step in the right direction, creating jobs for local people along the way. A dollar earned is a dollar put back in the community!

6 Election Guide MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Wednesday, November 2, 2016

13th District

Glenn looking to fend off challenger Johnson

BY JAMES MAYSE

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

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emocratic incumbent Jim Glenn and Republican challenger Stanley “D.J.” Johnson are competing for the state 13th District House of Representatives seat in a year Republicans are again trying to take control of the state House while Democrats are working to keep or expand their slim majority The 13th District covers the city of Owensboro.

Glenn, who has been in office since 2007, is a professor of business administration at Owensboro Community & Technical College. Johnson, a retired Army officer, is general manager of Owensboro Car Wash Inc., which operates Sparkle Brite Car Wash on Emory Drive.

JIM GLENN

The 2016 legislative session was largely dominated by disputes over how to address the state’s pension systems for retired teachers and state employees. Glenn said government needs to maintain a “balance” by continuing to fund priorities such as education while also working to address the shortfalls in the public employee and retired teacher pension systems.

“I agree we have to get the pension back in balance,

JIM GLENN Party: Democrat Elected offices held: State representative since 2007 Education: Western Kentucky University (B.A.), University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh (MBA); University of Kentucky (Ph.D.) Occupation: Professor of business administration, Owensboro Community & Technical College Age: 68 Family: Wife, Cornelia (deceased); two children Address: 1001 Michaels Court

but it’s also about educating the next generation of workers,” Glenn said in a recent interview. “There is a group of people who only want to do pensions, but you have to balance pensions with education for the future.

“If you don’t balance, you’ll hurt the economy,” Glenn said. “You’ll hurt the growth of the cities.”

STANLEY ‘D.J.’ JOHNSON Party: Republican Elected offices held: None Education: Western Kentucky University (B.A.) Occupation: General manager, Owensboro Car Wash Inc. Age: 59 Family: Wife, Ellen Address: 1333 W. 12th St.

Glenn said the shortfalls in the pension systems can be addressed gradually over time, which will leave funds for other priorities.

“It’s like your mortgage payment,” he said. “You buy a house and you pay a little each year until it’s paid off.”

As state representative, Glenn said he has gotten more funding for cancer screenings into the state budget and has worked to put more money into education and scholarships.

Glenn said he also had a hand in state incentives that created jobs locally at Specialty Foods Group and Glenmore Distillery. He said

he has also helped obtain “$178 million in new road money for Daviess County in the 10 years I’ve been in office.”

Glenn said jobs, education and health care will remain his priorities if he is sent back to Frankfort.

“We have to work on getting more high-paying jobs in the community,” Glenn said.

Alorica, which recently announced it will create about 840 jobs in Owensboro, is receiving state tax incentives, “which is an initiative we did,” Glenn said.

House Democrats will likely try to expand the state’s felony expungement law during the 2017 session, and Glenn said Democrats will “revisit” changes made to the state’s implementation of the Affordable Care Act

by Gov. Matt Bevin, which includes a provision that people who receive medical coverage through Medicaid pay something for their care, either by work or by volunteering.

“They’re asking (low income) people to pay in, and that’s not going to work,” Glenn said. “A little bit of money is a lot to them.”

Glenn said his experience in education and finance make him an asset in Frankfort.

“It helps if you have someone trying to pass small-business bills who

understands how the economy works,” Glenn said.

education came up with a plan to do something with (the former Texas Gas building), and the state shot it down,” Johnson said. “I D.J. JOHNSON don’t think the state has Johnson said he was any business telling the motivated to run by local board of education “watching what was going on in state government — or what to do ... They have an attitude of ‘we will tell the the lack of what was going communities what to do,’ on in state government. rather than ‘we will support “I moved back here in 2003 from the (Washington) the communities.’ ” Johnson said Bevin’s D.C. area, and the same emphasis on putting more issues that were being money into the pension discussed in 2003 are still being discussed today. ... We system was a “good start,” and he agreed with Senate have the same tax issues efforts during the last we’ve had since I’ve moved session to make the pension back.”

With a Democratic House systems more transparent to legislators and the public. and Republican Senate, “state government has been He said Bevin’s plan to modify the state’s Medicaid at an impasse for the last 10 years, and with this election, expansion was a “good first step” and that the state we have a chance to break can’t afford the current that impasse and do things for the state of Kentucky and expansion.

“To do nothing would Owensboro,” Johnson said. be a financial catastrophe,” His career as an Army he said. officer helped him develop He favors school districts “critical problem-solving skills,” Johnson said, and he having more control over themselves, rather understands business. than being directed to by “What I bring to this Frankfort. race is the common sense If elected, Johnson decision-making I learned said he would work with in the military, combined with what I’ve learned in the Republicans in the Senate.

“I’m very excited about, business world, and that will as a state representative, help Owensboro,” he said. being able to coordinate As state representative, with (Sen.) Joe Bowen,” an he would work with city Owensboro Republican, leaders, said Johnson, who Johnson said. “... We have a believes state government tremendous opportunity for hasn’t always worked to state government to actually further the city’s interests. function.”

“The local board of

14th District

Castlen looking to deny Thompson an eighth term

BY DON WILKINS

T

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

wo Daviess County businessmen will be vying for the Kentucky 14th District House of Representatives seat.

Tommy Thompson, a Philpot Democrat, is seeking his eighth term while Matt Castlen, a Maceo Republican, is making his first run for public office.

Thompson, who served as House majority whip from 2011-14, said his experience and the relationships he’s built in Frankfort benefit Ohio and Daviess counties.

“I’m not a career politician; I’m a career businessman,” said the chairman of Thompson Homes. “...I don’t run for office to make a point. I run to make a difference.”

Castlen is a political newcomer who wants to take a fresh perspective to the House of Representatives.

Castlen said his message to the 14th District voters has been about “preserving the American dream.”

“We live in one of the only countries where you can start something from absolutely nothing and become something,” said

MATT CASTLEN

Party: Republican Elected offices held: None Education: Owensboro Community & Technical College welding certification Occupation: CEO of Castlen Steel Age: 30 Family: Wife, Laura Hawes Castlen; one daughter; one son Address: 6707 Barkcroft, Maceo

Castlen, who started his own welding company.

“It’s not about parties; it’s not about Democrats; it’s not about Republicans; it’s about being Americans and working together, being on the same team again to keep this the greatest country in the world.”

During the 2016 legislative session, Thompson supported the local option tax with House Bill 374, which was enabling legislation

TOMMY THOMPSON Party: Democrat Elected offices held: State representative since 2003 Education: Bachelor of science/bachelor of arts, University of Florida; MBA, Indiana University Occupation: Home builder, chairman of Thompson Homes Age: 68 Family: Wife, Judi; three sons Address: 4460 Kentucky 142, Philpot

to House Speaker Greg Stumbo’s House Bill 2.

The local option tax would give local governments the power to enact an up-to-1 percent sales tax to the current 6 percent rate for specific community projects for a limited time, but only if the tax is approved in a local referendum.

Thompson described the local option tax as a “democratic tool” for city and county governments.

“It’s totally up to the community whether they want to enact it or not,” Thompson said. “Nobody forces them to do it; they just have the option to do it.

I don’t know anything that’s more fair than that.”

Castlen, however, said that he wasn’t in favor of any bill that introduced new taxes.

“I’m for lower taxes, period,” Castlen said. “...We waste so much money in this country. We don’t need to raise taxes. We can cut spending.”

On the issue of right-to-work, neither candidate endorsed the idea that has been championed

by Gov. Matt Bevin.

A right-to-work law would prohibit employers or unions from requiring employees to join a union or pay union dues.

Castlen said he was currently “neutral” on the right-to-work issue.

“I own a union and a non-union company,” Castlen said. “I believe in equal opportunity employment, and it’s important that both are successful in today’s economy.”

Thompson said the state

is home to successful union companies such as UPS and non-union companies such as Toyota.

“They’re both thriving in Kentucky,” said Thompson, who also cited the $300 million expansion by UPS in Louisville. “And Toyota has its largest automobile facility in North America in (Georgetown) Kentucky.”

Both candidates also touted education as an important cause, whether through improving or funding Kentucky’s schools and universities.

“We can’t have economic success without academic success,” Thompson said.

“They go hand in hand.

And education is a great equalizer.”

Castlen touted GO-FAME — the Greater Owensboro chapter of the Kentucky Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education — as one way to combat rising tuition costs for students.

GO-FAME applicants must have a high school diploma or GED and be willing to participate in the program’s 40 hour-per-week, apprenticeship-style format.

“I have a student who we pay 50 percent of their tuition, and they work for us three days a week and go to school two days a

week,” said Castlen, who’s a GO-FAME founding member. “So I think there are other options we can look at that involve private enterprises and our educational programs.”

With the national election also at the forefront of voters’ minds, Thompson said he shouldn’t be lumped in with the Washington, D.C., Democrats and blamed for President Barack Obama’s policies.

“I hope people will disassociate my local race from the national race and national positions,” Thompson said. “...

Kentucky Democrats are not national Democrats, and Kentucky Democrats are much more conservative because Kentucky is conservative. If we don’t recognize that and adhere to that, we shouldn’t be in office.”

As for Castlen, he said voters can be secure with him because he understands the business, working and farming sides of Kentucky.

“I was raised on a family farm and started our (welding) business in a garage behind our house,” Castlen said. “I feel like we’ll bring that common sense approach to grow the economy.”

7 Election Guide MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Wednesday, November 2, 2016

MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Election Guide 7

7th District

Challenger Gray squaring off against Miles

BY DON WILKINS

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

V

oters in the Kentucky 7th District House of Representatives race will be deciding Nov. 8 between Republican incumbent Suzanne Miles and Democratic challenger Joy Gray.

The two candidates, both of Owensboro, are seeking the seat that serves all of Union and parts of Daviess and Henderson counties.

Miles is running in her third election since first winning a special election in 2013 and then the general election in 2014.

For Miles, pension transparency remains the biggest, ongoing issue for her.

Miles said she supported Senate Bill 2, legislation sponsored by Owensboro Republican Sen. Joe Bowen, during the 2016 session that would’ve made state worker and teacher pension records public. A similar bill has already been filed in the House of Representatives for the 2017 General Assembly.

“If the pensions aren’t doing well, we need the transparency to find out why they’re not,” Miles said. “And then, hopefully, we can find solutions to help those pensions do better than what they’ve been doing.”

For Gray, who taught in the Daviess County school system, education is a priority with her because of her teaching background.

Gray said the state legislature isn’t doing enough to financially support its school systems and colleges.

“The cuts and not fully funding education hurts

JOY GRAY

SUZANNE MILES

Elected offices held: None Education: Bachelor of Science from Brescia University; master’s from Western Kentucky University; Rank I from Indiana Wesleyan University Occupation: Retired teacher Age: 63 Family: One son; one daughter Address: 3769 Legacy Run

Party: Republican Elected offices held: State representative since 2013 Education: Bachelor of Business from Transylvania University Occupation: Field representative for U.S. Rep. Brett Guthrie Age: 45 Family: Single Address: P.O. Box 21592

ment than giving individuals the right to vote whether or not they want a tax,” Miles said. “... I don’t the entire state.” Gray think we got it right this said. “Education is the past time, but I do think basis of your jobs. You don’t have to go to college there are opportunities going forward by allowing to be a successful person communities to figure out because there are the job ways to help themselves.” trainings, internships and Gray, however, said she technical schools. Any couldn’t say whether the training you receive after local option tax would be high school benefits you “a good idea” or “a bad greatly.” idea.”

Tax reform is another Gray said she wouldn’t issue that Miles is advocating, calling the state’s cur- “blindly” support any bill before knowing all of its rent tax code “outdated.” details.

Miles went further by “Once you get in Franksaying she would be in fort, they try to attach favor of a local option tax, other issues to a bill that which failed to pass durdon’t belong there,” Gray ing last year’s General Assembly. The local option said. “... Am I going to lie and say, ‘Oh yes, I’m tax would give local govgoing to vote for that no ernments the power to matter what,’ or do I say, enact an up-to-1 percent ‘I will look and see what’s sales tax to the current 6 attached to the bills and percent rate for specific look and see what my community projects for a limited time, but only if the constituents think about these bills.’ ... I don’t think tax is approved in a local we listen enough to the referendum. people we’re elected to “I don’t think there is any purer form of govern- represent.”

The two candidates were far apart on the right-to-work issue, which would prohibit employers or unions from requiring employees to join a union or pay union dues.

Although right-to-work has been one of Gov. Matt Bevin’s top priorities, Miles called it “an extra item.”

Miles said pensions and infrastructure should be among the main focal points during the 2017 session.

“There’s no point to discuss right-to-work at this time,” Miles said. “There’s not any talk of that at this time.”

Gray said she comes from a union family and has witnessed the benefits unions provide.

“Unions train their people; they provide good workers,” said Gray, who supports the Kentucky Education Association. “... I had a state senator tell me if I didn’t like the (teacher) benefits and salaries I could find another job. So I think it’s the same thing; if you don’t want to pay union dues, then go work somewhere that doesn’t have a union.”

Miles, a field representative for U.S. Rep. Brett Guthrie, a Bowling Green Republican, touted her involvement with getting the federal money to turn the William H. Natcher Parkway into an I-65 spur.

“That’s been one of the most important things to me,” Miles said. “It’s one of the things I was able

to work toward without having the blessing of the Speaker of the House (Greg Stumbo).”

If elected, Gray said she would be a voice for the 7th District and not cater to any special interest groups or their agendas.

“You’re there to represent the people,” Gray said. “And to be a servant of the people, it doesn’t mean you make pledges to entities that you’re going to support them over the people you’re elected to represent. This isn’t my seat; this isn’t Suzanne Miles’ seat; this is District 7’s seat.”

Don Wilkins, dwilkins@ messenger-inquirer.com, 270-691-7299, Twitter: @ DonWilkinsMI

Casting a Ballot

Photo by Greg Eans, Messenger-Inquirer

Lauren Early of Owensboro brought daughter, Lilah, 3, along while voting Nov. 4, 2014, at precinct No. 21 at Owensboro High School.

8 Election Guide MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Wednesday, November 2, 2016

11th District

Mills aims to unseat decade-long incumbent Watkins

BY AUSTIN RAMSEY MESSENGER-INQUIRER

K

entucky Republicans are looking to the 11th District this election cycle to take one of just a handful of seats needed for control of the House.

Henderson businessman and city commisParty: Republican sioner Robby Mills is camElected offices held: paigning to unseat 10-year Henderson city incumbent David Watkins, a commissioner since Henderson Democrat. The 2000 battleground district, which Education: Oral Roberts covers portions of HenderUniversity (B.A.) son and Daviess counties, Occupation: is at the center of a proposed Interstate-69 bridge Owner, Nu-Look project between the city of Restoration and Henderson and Evansville, Nu-Look Cleaners in which could have real Henderson implications for future busiAge: 49 ness and job prospects in Family: Wife, Vickie; three a region that once relied children heavily on the coal mining Address: 2392 industry.

Cobblestone Drive, Both candidates say Henderson they favor streamlining the Ohio River bridge project, but they differ on statewide I’m in this race to bring issues like public pension change.” debt and proposed Medicaid The house has remained changes. solidly Democratic for almost 100 years in KenROBBY MILLS tucky, which Mills said Henderson Republican is partly what has led to Mills wants to take his lifea number of economic long business experience problems, which include a and 16 years on the Hender- massive pension debt and son City Commission to the an economy struggling to House of Representatives. bring jobs to the common“I’ve watched Kentucky wealth. government from afar as a No. 1 on his list of prioricity commissioner,” he said. ties is the Ohio River bridge “I’ve seen the dysfunction, project. Republican Govs.

Matt Bevin of Kentucky and I’ve seen the lack of and Mike Pence of Indiana good legislation for years.

ROBBY MILLS

and transportation jobs in the commonwealth and right here in western Kentucky.”

But meanwhile, Mills said the state’s public pension deficit has limited the economy from flourishing.

He proposes cuts to wasteful spending and rerouting funds back to where they matter, such as schools and infrastructure. He called it his plan to bring fiscal responsibility back to Frankfort, and it starts with public employees like legislators themselves.

“I understand what it takes for small businesses to succeed,” he said.

“Seven out of 10 new jobs are created by small businesses in Kentucky, and I’m listening to those business owners who are losing jobs out the back door from big government, like federal environmental regulations.”

He said he supports local coal jobs and the governor’s plan to make the Medicaid population expansion under the Affordable Care Act more economically feasible.

in health care,” he said. “I’ve expanded that mission to include better education and more opportunities to work, among other things.”

He said he backs those missions up with proven leadership. Watkins vice chairs the Health & Welfare and Tourism Development & Energy committees Party: Democrat in the house and serves Elected offices held: on the Appropriations & State representative Revenue and Transportasince 2007 tion committees. Each Education: Western of those leadership roles Kentucky University has given him a first-hand (B.S. and M.A); account of what works and what doesn’t in the comUniversity of monwealth, he said, and his Louisville (M.D.) commitment to bipartisan Occupation: Retired solutions has given the family physician 11th District first-hand repAge: 73 resentation in all of those Family: Wife, Peggy; areas. three children That’s particularly imporAddress: 1280 Taransay tant, he said, when urging Drive, Henderson state and federal action in regards to the I-69 project.

Watkins also said he’s still signed an agreement in hard at work fixing KenJune to spend a combined tucky’s flawed health care $17 million on preliminary system, made worse by studies aimed at bringing Kentucky’s new Republican the I-69 corridor across governor. the river directly into the “Gov. Bevin’s decision city of Henderson. Mills to dismantle Kynect shows DAVID WATKINS applauded both governors a shallow understanding of Watkins, a Henderson for their efforts and said he how important it is to keep Democrat who has been will do whatever he can in health care local, rather government to expedite that serving in the House for than putting us in a federal almost a decade, says process. exchange,” he said. “Our he’s prepared to return to “When we have extra governor has made a great Frankfort once again and cars and trucks driving deal of foolish decisions as double his efforts in fightthrough our community, ing for a healthier Kentucky. shown in the courts and by they bring jobs and opportaking money from commu“I went to Frankfort tunities,” he said. “We’re right in the middle between initially with the idea of try- nity colleges and universiCanada and Mexico, which ing to help move Kentucky ties. None of that is good for from the bottom of the heap Kentuckians or workforce could mean warehousing

DAVID WATKINS

development.”

Watkins said he wants to develop quality manufacturing and small business job opportunities in the area. He has worked hard, he added, to drive down unemployment rates in the district. So, as the cost of living continues to rise, Watkins said he now supports raising the minimum wage in Kentucky to bring the commonwealth’s work force out of poverty. Watkins said he supports local coal miners, and he cites competitive natural gas prices as a reason jobs are becoming more scarce. Uncertainty in the market, he said, is why it’s important to diversify job opportunities and limit the strain on mining companies.

“I stand for the working individual,” he said.

I stand for making sure our education and health care systems are designed for working men and women, and ensuring that everyone is making a livable wage. I’ve put hundreds of millions of dollars into roads and special projects in Henderson and Daviess counties, and I will continue to fight for all.”

While Watkins said his opponent is a right-to-work candidate who wants to break up unions. His experience with professional organizations, he said, has taught him the importance of working together and standing up together for workers’ rights.

12th District

Gooch’s party switch prompts Townsend’s bid

BY JAMES MAYSE

R

technical training programs at the community college.

Townsend said he also worked to create a scholarship program that raised

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

ep. Jim Gooch, who had represented the 12th District in the state House of Representatives as a Democrat since 1995, switched his party affiliation to Republican last fall after Republican Gov. Matt Bevin was elected to office.

Now, Gooch is up for re-election and is facing a former Webster County judge-executive who said he got into the race in part because of Gooch’s party switch.

The 12th District covers McLean and Webster counties, and parts of Daviess and Hopkins counties.

JIM GOOCH

Gooch, former chairman of the House Natural Resources committee, said his switch from Democrat to Republican was not based on any promises he received from the Republican party.

“I switched at the end of December so I could file as a Republican,” Gooch said.

“What I was doing was putting it in the hands of the voters.

“I haven’t changed. I’m the same person.”

Gooch said he is concerned about education and infrastructure, and energy continues to be a high priority for him.

“Kentucky has had the third-lowest energy rates for the longest time,” Gooch said. “We were allowed to choose our own source of energy production.”

Federal environmental regulations that curb the use of coal have caused coal’s decline, Gooch said.

“I have a problem when the federal government comes in and picks winners and losers (in energy), even if it kills jobs,” Gooch said. “... From the outside, (the Obama) administration has done everything it can to limit mining. That’s why they say natural gas is cheaper, because the regulations have made it so expensive to burn coal.”

Gooch said he supports investing more money into coal technology.

“If you invest in technol-

JIM GOOCH JR.

JIM TOWNSEND

Party: Republican Education: Zanesville High School, attended Western Kentucky University Occupation: Insurance agent; part-owner West Kentucky Steel and Construction Co. Elected offices held: Mayor of Providence, Providence City Council, state representative (1995-present) Age: 65 Family: Wife, Alta; three children Address: 806 Princeton St., Providence

Party: Democrat Elected offices held: Mayor of Dixon, Webster County JudgeExecutive (1982-2016) Education: Murray State University (B.S. in agriculture) Occupation: Retired teacher Age: 70 Address: 167 Kentucky 132 E., Dixon Family: Wife, Carolyn; two children

ogy, there will be a success,” Gooch said. “But you have to let technology advance and not pick winners and losers.”

Gooch said he supports efforts to shore up the pension systems for public employees and retired teachers. The pension systems need more transparency, he said.

When asked about the state’s Medicaid expansion, which Bevin has proposed to change, Gooch said the state can’t afford the current system.

When asked why he was running for a new term, Gooch said: “There are some things I’ve tried to do that are not finished yet.” He said he is proud of his work in education legislation, such as where “we built up our community college system” and the passage of the Kentucky Education Reform Act. But the theme Gooch returned to again and again was coal.

“This state, we’re in a very bad position, and our way of life could be changed because of decrees coming down from Washington,” said Gooch, who added that switching from coal to natural gas energy production is con-

cerning, because gas has to be piped to generating plants.

“I’m very concerned we don’t have the infrastructure” for natural gas, he said.

JIM TOWNSEND

Townsend retired as Webster County judgeexecutive this year to run for the 12th District House seat. Townsend, who is also a former city commissioner and mayor of Dixon, said others had asked him previously to challenge Gooch.

“I wouldn’t do it, because we were both Democrats,” Townsend said. “But when he switched parties, the people who wanted me to run came out in numbers and convinced me to do that.”

Townsend said Gooch, who was chairman of the Natural Resources committee before being removed after he switched parties, did not do enough to help the coal industry.

“Jim was chairman of Natural Resources ... and we lost 70,000 coal jobs in Kentucky,” Townsend said.

“I’m not blaming that on Jim, but he could’ve worked harder. Being chairman of that committee, he needed to step up and go to Washington, if necessary.”

Townsend said as judgeexecutive the county donated money to help create

more than $500,000 for Webster County students.

“I think the only way we can get jobs is though education,” Townsend said.

“I think we need to spend more money in the development of students ...

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9 Election Guide MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Wednesday, November 2, 2016

MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Election Guide 9

Owensboro City School Board

Five vie for three seats on city school board

BY KEITH LAWRENCE

F

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

ive people are running for three seats on the Owensboro Board of Education.

Two of them — Dan Griffith and Steve Knight ­— are incumbents.

Board chair woman Cate Lauzon did not seek re-election, so there will be at least one new member on the board in Januar y.

Melissa Decker, an education activist, said she’s running “because I care ver y much about our children and want what’s best for them.”

She said, “I’ve been a staunch supporter of Owensboro Public Schools for a long time.

I want to see the system grow and be even stronger in the future.”

Decker said, “I was always taught that you give back to the community. And I want to give back.”

She said, “The schools have done a great job. I like the trajector y they’re on. But our population is growing faster than our buildings can handle.

I’d like to create more space.”

Decker said, “I believe ver y strongly in the need for preschool. I want to see it grow. Arts, academics and athletics are all important, but preschool is the best foundation we can give our kids.”

Jeremy Edge, a financial consultant, said he’s been active in the city schools for years.

“I think having someone on the board with kids in the school system is important,” he said.

Edge said he’s

MELISSA DECKER

JEREMY EDGE

DAN GRIFFITH

STEVE KNIGHT

Elected offices held: None Education: Bachelor’s degree from Western Kentucky University Occupation: Homemaker Age: 49 Family: Husband, Tony; two daughters; two sons Address: 2742 Western Parkway

Elected offices held: None Education: Bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Kentucky Occupation: Financial consultant at Hilliard Lyons Age: 41 Family: Wife, Sheryl; two daughters Address: 1810 Fieldcrest Drive

Elected offices held: Owensboro Board of Education since 2012 Education: Bachelor of arts degree from Georgetown College; master of public administration degree from Western Kentucky University Occupation: Chief executive officer of Owensboro Symphony Orchestra Age: 55 Family: Wife, Beverly; one daughter Address: 1919 Lexington Ave.

Elected offices held: Owensboro Board of Education since 2012 Education: Bachelor of science, masters, Rank I and work toward a doctorate at Western Kentucky University and the University of Kentucky Occupation: Retired school superintendent, Marshall County Age: 66 Family: Wife, Sharon; two daughters; one son; four grandchildren Address: 1610 Dean Ave.

on the site-based decision-making council at Sutton Elementar y School, the budget advisor y council for the school district and the board of the Daviess County Public Librar y, where he has been treasurer for the past five years.

“Being on the school board is a way I can give back and be more involved,” he said.

Edge said, “I want to see Nick Brake’s contract extended. I’d like to start developing a solution to the Texas Gas property.

That’s the biggest thing out there. We can’t just let it sit there and deteriorate. There are opportunities to put the building to use. And we need to work on solutions for when utility rates start increasing.”

Dan Griffith, chief executive officer of the Owensboro Symphony Orchestra, said, “Over the past four years, we’ve accomplished a great deal with our superintendent,

Nick Brake. We’ve got a lot going on. Our test scores are getting better.”

He said, “The Owensboro Innovation Academy is attracting a lot of attention.

We’ve just completed a major project at Sutton Elementar y and we’re getting ready to do one at Newton Parrish Elementar y. They both have an arts component.”

Griffith said, “I want to see us continue to focus on our students, giving them a well-rounded education and preparing them for college and careers. I want us to make a difference in their lives.”

Steve Knight, who retired a few years ago as superintendent of Marshall County schools, said, “When I ran the first time, I had just retired and moved back to Owensboro after being gone since I was 15. I knew when I retired that I would stay involved with

education at some level.”

He said, “We have a ver y good school system, a strong superintendent and tremendous teachers.

It’s been ver y satisfying to be part of something like that.”

Knight said, “There are always challenges.

I hope to see the legislature realize that the most important thing we can do is educate our children. I’m really optimistic about the Owensboro Innovation Academy. In a little over two years, we’ll have our first graduating class.”

He said, “Reading is crucial to ever y kid.

We’ve concentrated our efforts on improving reading skills and we’re really starting to see results. Our goal is to have ever y kid reading at grade level. That’s what

we’re striving for.”

Stephanie Smith, a substitute teacher, said, “I’ve worked with abused and neglected children through volunteering with Court Appointed Special Advocates. Then, as a substitute, I’ve had the privilege of working in almost all of the city schools. I love working with kiddos and seeing their love for life and learning come shining through.

“Thanks to some ver y interesting events in my life I have been given some pretty wide experiences. I’ve had to deal with a teenager who liked drugs and got a court-designated worker twice. A teenager way smarter than I am.

A kiddo that is obsessed with the fine arts. And then my Down syndrome,

STEPHANIE SMITH Elected offices held: None Education: Bachelor of arts degree in biology from the University of Louisville Occupation: Substitute teacher and works with people with disabilities Age: 46 Family: One son; three daughters Address: 600 Fleetwood Drive

chronic neutropenia child who gets sick at the drop of a hat.”

Smith said, “If I can teach a lesson on dinosaurs during a math lesson, so much the better. Over time, I’ve become attached to Owensboro’s students, teachers and parents. I want to make sure all of those individuals have a voice in education and someone watching out for ever yone from the smartest, most talented to the non-verbal children who have a hard time telling you their issues.”

She said she wants to help “ever yone get the chance, resources and experiences they need to lead our future and make Owensboro proud.”

Board members receive $75 for each meeting they attend, up to $3,000 a year. klawrence@messengerinquirer.com, 270-691-7301

Daviess County School Board

Anderson, Mackey vie for District 3 board seat

BY KEITH LAWRENCE

T

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

he race for the District 3 seat on the Daviess County Board of Education pits two candidates whose families each have held school board seats in the past against each other.

Meanwhile, Dale Stewart is running unopposed as a write-in candidate for the District 5 seat.

And Frank Riney, who’s been on the board since 1977, is unopposed for another term in District 4.

Dianne Burns Mackey, whose grandfather, Fred I. Burns, served on the county school board from 1930 to 1945, is being challenged for the District 3 seat by C. Todd Anderson, whose father, Andy, was a long-time city school board member until his retirement in 1992.

Mackey has served two terms on the board and is seeking a third.

“A number of teachers have encouraged me to continue on the school board because they know that I represent their perspective — not an administrator’s viewpoint — on the board,” she said.

Mackey said her faith, teaching for nearly 35 years and coming from a family of educators all help her “understand the challenges facing our students and teachers and how the board can enhance their efforts and remove obstacles to providing every student in our community with a high-quality educational experience.”

She said she believes she is the only teacher — “who remained a teacher

C. TODD ANDERSON Elected offices held: None Education: Western Kentucky University, associates degree; certified insurance counselor.

Occupation: Managing director at Assured Neace Lukens insurance Age: 53 Family: Wife, Joy; one daughter; one son Address: 3359 Shadewood Terrace

throughout her career” — ever elected to the board.

She said she’ll also “continue to push for solutions to the teacher pension underfunding issue, which affects every teacher in our county and across the state. We have discovered mounting discrepancies and actuarial problems between administrator’s and teacher’s retirement schedules. If a solution is not reached, eventually, there will be a real problem for future retirees.”

Anderson said the community has been good to him and he wants to “give back to the community.”

He said, “Our family has had great experiences with both the city and county school systems.

My dad served on the city school board for a number of years. And I would like

DIANNE BURNS MACKEY Elected offices held: Daviess County Board of Education, eight years Education: Bachelor of science in education; master of arts in guidance counseling, Rank I in guidance counseling, and gifted and talented certification, all from Western Kentucky University.

Occupation: Retired teacher from Daviess County Public Schools and co-owner of small businesses Age: 69 Family: Husband, Jay Mackey; three children; six grandchildren.

Address: 135 Browns Valley-Redhill Road

to serve on the county school board.”

Anderson said his wife, Joy Beasley Anderson, is a former employee and parent volunteer with Daviess County Public Schools.

His daughter, Katy, is a 2008 graduate of Daviess County High, and his son, Connor, is a 2012 graduate of Apollo High School.

He said he is a former president of the old Utica Elementary PTO, a member of the Daviess County SEE BOARD/PAGE 10

Dedicated more than 3 decades to ensuring the economic sustainability of this region.

31 years making and meeting multi-million dollar budgets.

Committed to creating a community vision with ALL citizens having a voice.

A FRESH

PERSPECTIVE FOR OWENSBORO

www.hoytformayor.com

10 Election Guide MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Whitesville City Commissioner

Five candidates seeking four seats on city commission

BY DON WILKINS

F

MESSENGER-INQUIRER

or the second time this year, Whitesville voters will head to the polls.

Instead of deciding whether to allow alcohol sales, this time it will be to choose from the five candidates running for the four Whitesville City Commission seats.

The four who receive the most votes will fill the city commission positions.

The candidates include one challenger — Clarence Julian Merritt — and four incumbents — Patsy Mayfield, Joseph “Buddy” Mattingly, Joseph Beatty and Robert “Bob” Abell.

Merritt is making his second attempt at joining the commission after being denied by voters two years ago.

According to Merritt, he’s running to give the Whitesville City Commission a new perspective and “to have input on what’s going on.”

“The people need a choice,” Merritt said. “If I wasn’t running, there would be no need for an election.

You’ve got the same group

JOSEPH BEATTY

ROBERT ‘BOB’ ABELL Elected offices held: Whitesville City Commission since 2011 Education: High school graduate Occupation: Whitesville IGA meat manager Age: 57 Family: Single Address: 10363 Kentucky 54 Apt. 3

running that’s been there for years, and they’re entrenched. I’m fighting against entrenchment.”

Mayfield is seeking her ninth term on the city commission.

Mayfield, who is also the only female member of the Whitesville Volunteer Fire Department, said being a city commissioner is one of the ways she has been able

Elected offices held: Appointed to Whitesville City Commission in November 2015 Education: Bachelor’s degree in accounting from Brescia University Occupation: Purchase officer for the Kentucky Department of Education Age: 54 Family: Wife, Robin; three daughters Address: 10835 Kentucky 764

to serve her community.

“I just enjoy helping people out in my community and doing stuff for my community,” said Mayfield, who has organized the city’s annual Independence Day fireworks show for the past

JOSEPH ‘BUDDY’ MATTINGLY Elected offices held: Whitesville City Commission since 2011 Education: High school graduate and U.S. Army Occupation: Retired from Green River Steel Age: 67 Family: Wife, Janice; four children Address: 10322 Kentucky 54

PATSY MAYFIELD Elected offices held: Whitesville City Commission since 1999 Education: High school graduate Occupation: Retired school bus driver for Daviess County Public Schools Age: 68 Family: Husband, Ronnie; three children Address: 10735 Green St.

police force.

10 years. “I just try to do the “It’s hard to get patrols best I can for the city and try up here,” Mattingly said. to keep moving forward.”

“We complained about it but Mattingly is running we didn’t get any response. I for his third term on the guess we might have to talk commission. to them again.”

Mattingly said he would Beatty was appointed to like to see a greater law the City Commission last enforcement presence from November. the Daviess County Sheriff’s Beatty said being on the council is a way he can Department because the make a difference. city doesn’t have its own

CLARENCE JULIAN MERRITT Elected offices held: None Education: High school graduate Occupation: Retired painter Age: 64 Family: Wife, Rita; six children Address: 10588 Franklin St.

“I care about Whitesville and what happens to it,” Beatty said. “I want to do my part.”

Abell has been on the city commission since 2011.

Abell said he has a “passion” for the community.

“I just want to see the community do well; I want to see the community grow,” Abell said. “I want to help our businesses grow.”

Election 2016

BID FROM PAGE 8

in what we used to call the trade schools.”

Townsend said a goal as representative would be to help promote western Kentucky.

“When people come to Kentucky (to scout locations for business), it’s easy to take them to the counties adjacent to Frankfort,” he said. “It’s hard to get them to come west of Elizabethtown.

“We are not getting our fair share in western Kentucky.”

The region has the infrastructure to support industries that employ 2,500 people, he said.

BOARD

“First I’d like to get them to look down here and see what we have and give us the opportunity to make it work,” he said.

Townsend said coal companies have not done enough to develop technology to capture pollutants emitted by coal.

“There’s so much coal left in this area, we could burn it for over 100 years,” Townsend said. “If they (coal companies) had worked harder, I think we’d still be burning coal.”

Townsend said jobs and education would be his focus, and that he’d work in a bipartisan manner.

“I can work with anyone,” Townsend said. “... I can get along with people pretty well.”

Public Schools’ Long-Term Proper ty Planning Committee and a board member of Owensboro Community & Technical College.

Anderson said, “We have to make sure our kids get the best education possible.

I do not have an agenda. I am not a yes man. I will make the tough decisions.”

He said, “We have a great school system. I want to make sure our district continues to change with the times. I will listen. And I will learn.”

James Mayse, 270-691-7303, jmayse@ messenger-inquirer.com, Twitter: @JamesMayse

Tom Purcell, who retired as principal

FROM PAGE 9

WRITE-IN CAMPAIGN

of Apollo High School in 2010, had been the only candidate for the District 5 seat.

But he dropped out of the race recently when he discovered that he’s ineligible because he works part-time at Ben Hawes Golf Course, a city-owned facility.

That set up a rare race relying on write-ins for that seat.

Stewart, another former principal at Apollo, filed as the only write-in candidate.

He spent 38 years in education before retiring in 2011.

School board members are paid $75 per meeting with a maximum of $3,000 per year. klawrence@messenger-inquirer.com 270-691-7301

CLIFTON

BOSWELL FAMILY COURT JUDGE

•Experienced Attorney •Endorsed by KY Right to Life •Mentor, Board Member and •Member NRA Past President MentorKids KY •Equal consideration to both parents, regardless of gender “I will work tirelessly to protect families and children and to uphold the law.”

- Clifton Boswell www.voteboswell.com Paid for by the Committee to Elect Clifton A. Boswell

11 Election Guide MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Wednesday, November 2, 2016

MESSENGER-INQUIRER, Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Election Guide 11

Election 2016

FAMILY

ily Court. I’ve seen judges in all of those scenarios, and I’ve picked up the best practices in all those areas.”

FROM PAGE 5 Gesser said she would adopt some of the practices she has involved, Gesser said. seen in other Family Courts, “You have to follow the law,” such as having a social worker Gesser said. “We have a scientific work with families who come process assigned to something before the court, having a syswhere emotion would prevail. tem for moving cases efficiently, How do you do that in the court making sure people in domestic system? You have rules of eviviolence cases thoroughly underdence ... You look at the law and stand what protections domestic apply the facts to the law you see. violence orders provide and “At the end of the day, you lay enforcing orders that perpetrayour head down knowing you tors of domestic violence attend made the best decision, based on counseling. the law.”

Gesser said she would have “I think (my) experience quali- experts in the courtroom to fies me. There could be no other determine what services a family experience to qualify you to be needs to avoid having to remove Family Court judge than to prac- children from a home. Another tice in several different Family goal would be to have four case Courts. management conferences daily, “Because of my job at KLA, I where the staff attorney mediates have experience in juvenile court, disputes so they don’t have to be with domestic violence (cases) ... taken before the judge.

Daviess Family Court is anything that comes before Fam-

PURSUE FROM PAGE 4

debt should be reduced.

“We need to take care of all of Owensboro and be better stewards of our money,” he said.

Gamblin was born and raised in Hopkins County.

He said he moved to Owensboro about six years ago.

“I’m letting people know I want to cut taxes and reign in debt. work on streets, take care of law enforcement and the fire department and bring in high-tech jobs and work with unions to do that,” Gamblin said.

BOB GLENN

When he filed for a third term, Glenn said his main reason for running has not changed since his first campaign.

“Ordinary people who get up every day and go to work and do the best they can for their families deserve someone who thinks of them and will be the voice for them,” Glenn said.

Glenn said he wants the city to follow through on its promise to build a senior center, continue the momentum for an Interstate 65 spur and keep a strong emphasis on education.

Speaking to the Chamber Young Professionals, Glenn said the city had a lengthy discussion before adopting the downtown revitalization initiative.

“Now look what we have,” he said. “You have to act. Louisville and Lexington were winning, and we were not. I’ve talked to people who are moving back. They say they love what is going on.”

Glenn said all areas of Owensboro have seen economic improvement. “This is a city on the move,” he said.

Glenn listed low unemployment of slightly more than 4 percent, 840 new Alorica jobs and 3,500 new jobs over the last three years as evidence of progress. Owensboro “is the envy of the state with growth throughout our community, not just downtown,” he said.

“And this growth is drawing new residents of all ages to our community to live and work,” Glenn said. “City investment encompasses every section of the city including Kentucky 54, West Parrish, Triplet Twist (neighborhood redevelopment), Germantown, Baptisttown and Mechanicsville areas.”

MARK HOWARD

Howard, a 2000 graduate of Apollo High School, has worked at the Kroger store on East Fourth Street since 2008 and also worked there as a teen. He attended the University of Kentucky for several years.

Howard said his motivation to run for the City Commission is his desire to be involved in community

expected to have an overwhelming caseload. “I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t think I could do it,” Gesser said. “That’s where my current job has prepared me. I’ve always been prepared to work long hours.”

ANGELA THOMPSON

Thompson was appointed Daviess County’s domestic relations commissioner in 2013.

Domestic relations commissioners exist in counties that do not have Family Court. A commissioner hears family law cases and makes determinations that have to be approved by a Circuit Court judge.

Family law “was what I became focused on initially 22 years ago, when I started my practice,” Thompson said. “I focused on divorce, child custody ... I was appointed on numerous cases to represent children as guardian ad litem, and I’ve handled adoptions.”

As commissioner, “I’ve pre-

things to be done. There are things I want to look at ... in the areas of human rights.”

Smith-Wright also defended the city’s progressive moves.

“We borrowed money to have the downtown to bring people in to make money,” Smith-Wright said. “It is an economic development cycle. Everybody is concerned about downtown, but I grew up in Mechanicsville. It looked nothing like it does now.

Whoever said nothing has been done in the west end, it’s not true. And Germantown is beautiful and now we’re doing the Triplett Twist area.”

Smith-Wright said she is telling voters she wants to be re-elected so the city can continue making the kind of progress it has made in the last six years.

“I understand we have to be more financially responsible, but that doesn’t mean we have to stop the growth,” she said. “We can continue making progress with partnerships. We can make sure Owensboro is JOSEPH MARTIN inviting to business and to Martin, who finished last people wanting to re-locate in the eight-candidate field here.” in the 2014 general election, Smith-Wright said it is said he is running again nonsense to believe that because “they are not getthe city has only improved ting done what is supposed downtown and neglected to get done,” he said. “A lot other areas. “One of the of stuff needs to be done.” biggest things are all those Martin said streets are water basins that have being neglected and need to been built around town to be fixed and the city needs control flooding,” she said. to be more efficient and less “That’s important. It’s a wasteful. health issue.”

Martin has since said the city needs a zoo, solar TERESA THOMAS energy, a riverboat and fire Thomas has said she department ambulance wants people who grew up service. here and went off to college Martin called for plans to come back and live in to cut spending and reduce their hometown. debt. “I’ll be Owensboro’s “It is vital that we keep watchdog,” he said. “I am moving forward,” Thomas 100 percent for accountabil- said. “We just need to be ity and transparency. You smart. Do we need it, how have to know what your city can we pay for it and will it is doing.” be an economic value, those Martin said his policy are the questions that I will would be to ask: “Can we ask if voted in as your city afford it, and do we need it?” commissioner.”

“The riverfront is great, Thomas is the direcbut we need to work on the tor of the Hines Center in rest of the city,” Martin said. Philpot and was this year’s “I want to make sure things chairwoman of the Friday are getting done that should After Five committee after be done.” serving on that committee Martin said ambulance for five years. She said she service should be combined is a big fan of downtown with the Owensboro Fire redevelopment, but other Department to reduce costs parts of the city need more attention, and singled out to users. A lot of cities provide ambulance service that Gabe’s Tower as an “eyesore” that needs a more way, he said. forceful approach by city “Private ambulance service costs $600 to $800,” he government to either have the building renovated or said. torn down.

PAM SMITH-WRIGHT Thomas called for more Smith-Wright, a former transparency on the part of mayor pro-tem, is seeking city leaders and criticized a fourth term. Shortly after the decision to sell the filing, she said she enjoys Sportscenter for use as being a city commissioner an ice hockey arena, calland believes residents like ing it an example of a deal the job she’s doing. worked out behind closed “There are a whole lot doors with little chance for of things I think I want to public input. The deal never see completed, like the materialized.

International Bluegrass “We need to be more Music Center and the TIF transparent and tell people (tax increment financing what’s going on instead of district) on Kentucky 54 reading about it in the newsand the TIF downtown,” paper,” she said. she said. “I’ve been a part Thomas graduated from of all that, and I want to see Owensboro High School it finished. There’s always in 1990 and attended

affairs.

“I’ve been thinking about it for a few months and it’s something I’ve always wanted to do,” Howard said.

“I love this community and I want to be part of the process. I’m learning as I go. “ Howard said he would like to be a voice for people who aren’t being heard, mentioning the homeless and disenfranchised.

“I lean to the left on social issues, but I enjoy the satisfaction of a balanced budget,” Howard said.

Howard thanked Sanford, Smith-Wright and Glenn for what he called great work. “Our city has much to be proud of,” he said. “Downtown is amazing. The new board will face challenges. The days of having OMU money are over.

How long can we expect OMU to provide free electricity to city buildings and the convention center?”

Howard said he supports a fairness ordinance and a tenant-landlord law.

“Compassion and unity will move Owensboro forward,” he said.

sided over cases, made decisions, wrote opinions and researched the law,” Thompson said.

When asked how she handles difficult decisions in family law cases, Thompson said: “I spend a great deal of time reviewing the evidence that is presented before me, I review the law before me, and a I make the best decision according to the law.

“I think the most important thing is to look at all of the evidence that has been presented and make a decision in a fair and impartial way,” Thompson said.

“I’ve been told I make decisions without fear or favor.”

Due to Daviess County’s large number of family-related cases, the Family Court judge will have to hold sessions five days a week, Thompson said.

“The caseload will be extreme,” Thompson said.

While state Chief Justice John Minton has pledged to request funding for a second Family Court judge for the county in the

Owensboro Community & Technical College.

“The secret of change is to focus all of your energy not on fighting the old, but building the new,” Thomas said. “I love this quote by Socrates and this is how I will be running my campaign. Make our community marketable to the younger generation. We need new companies/factories with a better pay scale to come to our community. There has already been movement in this area with 840 coming with Alorica, now we need to make sure we can fill their employment needs. I do know that is one of the main things that is focused on when a new business is looking. We need to collaborate to find ways for people to want to come to Owensboro, to live, to raise families, to make roots here.”

JAY VELOTTA

Velotta, a commercial real estate broker for Gulfstream Commercial Servic-

2018-20 state budget, the decision to fund the post will be up to the legislature.

“That’s why it’s so important we have a Family Court judge that has the knowledge, experience and work ethic, because we’re only going to have one” judge, Thompson said. “I believe, with my experience, we can transition from the system we have now to a successful Family Court system.

“The Family Court will have a staff attorney who can help with mediating some of the divorce cases,” she said. “(The caseload) is not going to be easy, but we can do it.”

Thompson said, “This is a huge responsibility. We are talking about the families and children of Daviess County, and what’s more important than your family?”

James Mayse, 270-691-7303, jmayse@messenger-inquirer.com, Twitter: @JameMayse

es, is a lifelong Owensboro resident who has been involved in many community activities, including serving of the boards of Friday After 5 and CrossRoads Inc. He is a graduate of Daviess County High School and has an associate’s degree in business and marketing from Owensboro Community & Technical College. By trade, he is a journeyman maintenance mechanic.

Recruiting industry, growing and retaining small business and being fiscally responsible were listed as items deemed important by Velotta.

“Actually we are moving in the right direction,” Velotta said. “All the growth in downtown and (Kentucky) 54 is good. We need to continue to promote small businesses and incentivize them if we can and retain them.”

Velotta said his main objectives is that the community supports its essential services pro-

vided by the Owensboro Police Department, the Owensboro Fire Department and first responders.

“We have to continue to support our infrastructure as the community grows,” Velotta said. “We have to be able to drive on the roads that bring in business opportunities and be able to drive to and from work every day. We need to continue to attain and retain new and existing businesses and industries in our community along with small business and entrepreneurs in all areas of Owensboro to grow our revenue generation base without increasing taxes.”

Velotta also listed as priorities support of retirees and veteran organizations.

“We must keep local dollars local as new projects develop. We need to make an extra effort to keep our local contractors working here at home,” he said.

Steve Vied , 270-691-7297, svied@messenger-inquirer.com

In Last 8 Years ✓ Over 1 billion in private investment ✓ Over 3,700 jobs created ✓ 4.1% unemployment under state and federal averages And we’re just getting started

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