Businessman Dan Eldridge kicks off campaign for Washington County, TN Mayor
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Businessman Dan Eldridge kicks off his campaign...
With current Washington County, Tennessee, Mayor George Jaynes set to retire at the end of his term, two men are now vying for the county's top spot. Jonesborough businessman Dan Eldridge officially...
Nate Morabito/11 Connects
With current Washington County, Tennessee, Mayor George Jaynes set to retire at the end of his term, two men are now vying for the county’s top spot. Jonesborough businessman Dan Eldridge officially threw his name into the hat Tuesday for the Republican nomination. Dozens of people packed the Eldridge family farm to show their support Tuesday.
In his day job, along with a cattle operation, Eldridge also focuses on commercial and residential real estate development. According to Eldridge, attracting and retaining good jobs and running an efficient government are among his top goals. He says he has the business experience needed to steer the county in the right direction.
“I have made the tough decisions,” Eldridge said. “I’ve had to lay awake at night and experience the concern about what to do and how to go about it…I will ensure accountability and transparency throughout county government and this is no time for politics. I am not a politician. I don’t believe that politics is the answer.“
Eldridge will face former Johnson City Mayor and State Senator Don Arnold in the Republican Primary on May 4, 2010. Both men are hoping to replace George Jaynes, who has served as mayor for the last 23 years.
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Reader Reactions
do we want this guy who with other contractors who pushed for the most expensive wheel tax in the history of TN along with a minimal property tax increase. Many conservative business men will attest you never introduce a new tax -you build upon what you have. The tax and spend commissioners are bound by state law on how much property taxes can be increased. By the way over 72 percent of voters voted no on the wheel tax. How can he say he is fiscally responsible. Oh and his campaign treasurer is non other than long time school boardmember clarence Mabe. Remember last year Mabe and other board members voted on a budget that overlooked 1.8 million dollars and recently voted to fund 2 new full time athletic directors position hiring board member danny good who has no degree. Did I mention teachers rec,d no raise and that Good was hired in at more than most longserving teachers who have masters degrees. If Eldridge wants change-what kind. Granted he has been successful but does that mean he thinks others can afford higher property taxes along with new taxes?
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