By Barbara Augsdorfer, Editor for the Effingham Herald

 

[Editor’s note] Continuing with their answers to the last three questions asked of the candidates by the Effingham Herald, the candidates for Mayor of Guyton submitted answers to the following questions:

1)      How will you work with the city’s DDA or historical committee to maintain the “small-town” feel of the city and preserve its historical sites?

2)      How will you work to preserve the city’s wetlands and natural resources? 

3)      How will you work to make people feel safe and reduce crime in the city? 

4)      How many years have you lived in Guyton?

5)      What is your educational background? What is your professional expertise and how will that help you as a member of city council, if elected?

Candidates’ answers are in alphabetical order.

 

Russ Deen, Incumbent

“As Mayor, I will continue to assist all our committees to help Guyton succeed. I believe in providing funds to committees so they can achieve their goals, as well as helping write grants and provide guidance when appropriate. Guyton must act now to preserve what history it has left or the current growth will forever change our city. We cannot afford to lose what makes us Guyton.

“The keys to protecting wetlands and natural resources are proper planning and retaining quality staff. Guyton is currently engaged in two master plans for economic development and recreation. In the near future it will be necessary to revisit our zoning, building, and subdivision codes to make sure Guyton continues to maintain the quality of life we enjoy.

“I will retain the excellent police department we have today and continue to help it thrive through staff, equipment, and policy improvements. We must all work to make Guyton a safe place through communication with our police, city hall, and our neighbors.

“I've lived in Guyton for 37 years. I graduated from Effingham County High School in 1999 and obtained a bachelor of arts in political science from the University of Georgia in 2003. I have owned and operated the Guyton Pet Lodge for the past 19 years. My experience as a small-business owner has taught me to hire good people and be vigilant in making sure they're performing without micromanaging them. The goal is not controlling every aspect personally, but helping make sure the finished product is quality.”

 

Michael Garvin

“Working with the chamber will benefit the city by understanding the needs of the county as a whole and the availability of the city of Guyton.

“Preserving the historical sites in the city of Guyton is an utmost important issue and something that we must do. Working with the newly formed DDA should help in revitalizing our downtown district as well as working with other small businesses that are not located directly within the district.

“By working with the EPD and EPA along with other agencies, we can protect and preserve our wetlands and natural resources.

“Community policing is a great way to make the citizens feel safe and reduce crime, helping them feel a sense of ownership in the department that they employ.

“I have lived in Effingham County for well over 45 years. I'm a 1983 graduate of Effingham County High School, retired from Georgia Pacific after 32 years, the owner and operator of Smalls Funeral Home Inc. and have served on the city council in the past as mayor and as a councilman.”

 

Andy Harville

Harville did not submit answers to the Herald’s specific questions.