Q&A with Loudon City Council Candidates

Alyssa B. Martin news-herald.net

The News-Herald asked each city council candidate to send in details about who they are, where they’re from and why they are running for office. These are their responses, unedited and listed alphabetically.

BRENDAN DEBOER

My name is Brendan DeBoer. I have been a community member of the city of Loudon for 16 years.

During those years, I served the local community as a member of Loudon’s Police Department and as a committee member on several non-profit groups focused on drug prevention and rehabilitation.

I am currently the director of the 9th Judicial Drug and Violent Crime Task Force and a federal task force officer for Homeland Security Investigations.

My career in law enforcement has required me to wear many different hats, which has broadened my understanding of administration, budgets, audits, grants, and how to perform in a professional and productive manner, while working within the confines of the law. On top of the 16 years that I have served in law enforcement, eight of those years have been spent working in administration.

This has allowed me to see how large entities, like law enforcement and state and local governments require assistance from many different areas to comply and protect local citizens.

My purpose in running for Loudon City Council is to allow the citizens and employees a voice in the decisions that will continue to make Loudon a great place to live and raise our families. Admittedly, I have never run for public office, but am confident in my drive, enthusiasm, and ability to listen and affect change based on the wants and needs of our community and team members.

My background has readied me for what it takes to be a member of Loudon City Council. Being a public servant that services multiple cities and counties across the state, I have had the unique opportunity to compare what our city is doing right, the struggles our community faces, and where improvements can be made. I believe, with your help, we can continue to make Loudon City a great place to live, work, and most importantly, raise a family.

Finally, why am I the right choice for City Council? I will bring a fresh perspective, a deep commitment to serving the community, and a strong vision for the future of our city.

My proven leadership, ability to collaborate, and passion for making positive changes will ensure that every voice in the community is heard and represented.

MITCH MILLER

Here’s some words from me: It is a fact that urban growth is pushing south.

While we may not be able to stop growth, we can certainly control the growth and preserve our small town feel through proper zoning and historic area protections.

I grew up in Loudon and I want future generations to have the same experience of community and support that I grew up in. Through proper planning and better choices, I believe that can happen.

City decisions shouldn’t be made only on bringing in new revenues but should also consider the right path for our city and accept the input of the community because the people are the city.

Background: I was born and grew up in Loudon and graduated in the class of 1990. Professionally I am now an IT consultant and local business owner.

I lived away for many years and moved back 3 years ago. I plan to retire in Loudon and want to keep Loudon a strong community by getting involved. I have attended all the city council meetings for the past 3 years so I am well informed about the city’s current business.

ERIC NEWMAN

My name is Eric Newman and I’m running for re-election to the Loudon City Council. I was born and raised here in Loudon.

After graduating from MTSU I moved back home to raise my family in this great community.

The City of Loudon is an important part of my life, and I am passionate about pouring into the community which has shaped me to the man I am today. My love for this community has brought me opportunities to coach little league, support local community events, and serve on the city council. If re-elected, I will continue to operate in a transparent and ethical manner while serving those in the community.

KENNY RIDINGS

(I’ve lived in Loudon) my whole life, born and raised here.

I’m a retired police officer, 37 years from the city of Loudon. I’ve given my whole adult life to the city, and I want to keep giving. I’ve been a retired city employee that long, and I have a lot of insight on city operations.

(Working on the Loudon County Board of Education) definitely (helped me) with budgeting. The school board, you know, they’re picking in on your budget — just learning how to make a budget balance out and not spend more than you have. So, that’s been something you have to be frugal with taxpayers, probably.

Like I said, I’m a retired officer since 2011. I love Loudon. Loudon’s my home. It’s where I’m going to remain no matter what.

I am a conservative when it comes to money, and I love Loudon.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Early voting is until Thursday, Oct. 31, and Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5. For more information about voting in Loudon County, visit www.loudoncountyvotes. com.