By Barbara Augsdorfer, Editor for the Effingham Herald
[Editor’s Note: The Herald sent a list of 10 questions to candidates for the various seats up for election on the Nov. 7 ballot. During the weeks leading up to the election, the Herald will feature the candidates’ answers to those questions. Topics covered included reasons for running, issues that the candidate would like to address if elected; growth, business, environment, crime, and TSPLOST among others. Candidates’ answers are listed in alphabetical order.]
Why are you running for city council?
What are two or three specific goals you would like to accomplish as a member of city council? And why?
“I'm running for City Council to continue the work of the last four years. Effingham County is in a time of massive growth which requires someone looking out for the citizens already living here. Our goal is not just growth for growth's sake, but sustainable strategic growth that makes life better for current and future citizens alike.
“I want to see the dream of our new recreation park come to life. Guyton now has 26 acres across from Guyton Elementary School and seeks to turn it into a huge city park with options for all age groups. Through the use of SPLOST funds, grants, and private donations from businesses in our area, we can build something that will serve generations to come.
“I want to continue improving the functions of our city government, such as the new positions recently created by city council. As Guyton grows, we need trained staff that can help preserve our way of life while helping encourage new businesses and services to improve the lives of our citizens.”
Michael Garvin
No response was received by press time.
Andy Harville
"My Goal is to cultivate a community where businesses, families, and individuals can work, play, and live in a safe and diverse environment. I believe that everyone in our
City Council Post 1
“For the past couple of years, I have been a staunch critic of the current administration and feel that change is necessary. Some of you may know me as I have been vocal in my opposition to the actions of the current council. For those that don’t, all I ask is that you take a few minutes and learn where I stand before you decide on how to cast your ballot. My campaign is based upon the three fundamental principles: transparency, inclusion, fiscal responsibility. My ideas and plans are available on my Facebook page, Jeremiah Chancey for Guyton City Council. I believe the people of this city matter and should have their voice heard. For too long they have been told their input wasn’t necessary. I understand that building a strong, supportive community begins with open communication between the people and their elected officials. The people of this community deserve the chance to participate in shaping the City’s future. My goal is to create a community where all are involved in the process. I am committed to transparency for all city actions, inclusion of the people, and fiscal responsibility. I am the candidate that believes change is necessary for this city to reach its potential. I hope that you will educate yourself and cast an informed vote on November 7, I believe if you do that no matter the outcome the city will be better off.”
“During our last term, much has been accomplished from adopting a new city charter to purchasing a beautiful Christmas tree for our downtown. However, I am most proud of the fact that we improved our financial reporting and ensured that the city is in strong financial condition. In addition, we created a fully functioning police department and outsourced our utility and public works management to a professional company to ensure secure and safe management of our wastewater services. Finally, the fun part — we have improved our parks and trail system including developing a camellia walking trail and have cleaned up our existing playground equipment, pavilion and other facilities.
If re-elected, I would hope to continue the positive progress that has been made during my first four year term. Specifically, I would like to see the city’s relationship with the YMCA continue to develop including providing child care services, youth and senior programs and of course fitness equipment. In addition, I am excited about the prospects for our recently created Downtown Development Authority (DDA) and would like to see our town make simulate improvements as Springfield after the creation of their DDA. Finally, I want to preserve the quiet lifestyle that Guyton offers and believe that implementation of our nearly complete master plan including a recreation, housing & small business focus will provide smart growth and increased services for our community and citizens.
I am proud of all the accomplishments that our Council has accomplished during these last four years. We have worked well together and are truly moving in the right direction. I hope to continue to be part of this bright chapter for our city. Guyton is truly a wonderful place to call home.”
City Council Post 2
“I am running for Guyton City Council with a clear focus on addressing crucial challenges that our community faces:
Firstly, I am dedicated to tackling the pressing issues of drainage and sewage. By working closely with experts and involving the community, I will implement comprehensive infrastructure improvements. This will not only mitigate flooding and enhance sewage management but also prioritize sustainability and public health, elevating the overall quality of life for residents.
Secondly, I am committed to transforming City Hall into an efficient hub that fosters economic growth. Streamlining processes and providing user-friendly online resources will make it easier to start and run businesses in our city. Additionally, initiatives to enhance transparency and communication will establish a more inclusive and business-friendly environment, with participatory budgeting empowering residents to shape our city's future.
Lastly, I advocate for "Smart Growth" that promotes innovation, homeownership, and economic expansion. By eliminating obstacles to business and home construction, we can stimulate sustainable growth. Simultaneously, the reduction of certain city taxes will bolster economic activity, ensuring a broader tax base to fund vital services and infrastructure improvements.
With a comprehensive approach encompassing infrastructure, economic growth, and effective governance, I aim to lead Guyton towards becoming a safer, more resilient, and thriving community that values sustainability and inclusivity. Ensuring that Guyton’s greatest days are still ahead.
“I am dedicated to realizing these goals because they hold immense potential to significantly benefit the citizens of Guyton:
“For far too long, the residents of Guyton have borne the brunt of persistent drainage issues, hindering the progress of our community. It's evident that in order for Guyton to grow and thrive, addressing these longstanding drainage challenges is imperative. Equally vital is recognizing that sewage management must be elevated to a top priority for our city. By placing a strong emphasis on comprehensive solutions, fostering collaboration with experts, and actively engaging our community, we are poised to lay the groundwork for a more resilient, vibrant, and flourishing Guyton.
“Furthermore, I am committed to transforming City Hall into an efficient hub that fosters economic growth. Streamlining processes and providing user-friendly online resources will make it easier to start and run businesses in our city. Additionally, initiatives to enhance transparency and communication will establish a more inclusive and business-friendly environment, with participatory budgeting empowering residents to shape our city's future.
“Lastly, I advocate for ‘Smart Growth’ that promotes innovation, homeownership, and economic expansion. By eliminating obstacles to business and home construction, we can stimulate sustainable growth. Simultaneously, the reduction of certain city taxes will bolster economic activity, ensuring a broader tax base to fund vital services and infrastructure improvements.
With a comprehensive approach encompassing infrastructure, economic growth, and effective governance, I aim to lead Guyton towards becoming a safer, more resilient, and thriving community that values sustainability and inclusivity. Together, these efforts will contribute to a city that residents are proud to call home.”
“Let me introduce myself, I am a retired teacher from the Effingham County School Board of Education. I have been married for 36 years and have two daughters, a son who serves in the U.S. Navy in Japan, and am a proud grandmother. I was the 2012 -2013 Teacher of the Year at South Effingham Middle School. I have received the University of Georgia Carl Vinson Institute of Government and GMA Certificate of Achievement and completed The Robert E. Knox, Jr. Municipal Leader Institute. I have lived in Guyton all my life. I love my hometown of Guyton and my county.
“We realized that we needed an interim city manager and Brett Bennett was willing to help. This helped us to quickly determine the condition of our office. We were and still are great financially, but we had several lawsuits that were left by the previous administration, which have since been resolved. This I consider one great accomplishment: the importance of attending sessions concerning businesses and opportunities
“One of my proudest accomplishments in collaboration with Councilman Reiser was to create a comprehensive economic development plan for the city. This positions the city to apply to be viable for grants and most important to be citizen-led. It is expected to be completed before the end of the year. TSPLOST initiative is a great accomplishment because out of 24.7 miles of city roads, we have paved 8.75 miles. TSPLOST has been wonderful for the City of Guyton, and we thank our citizens for voting for TSPLOST. The Guyton Police Department is stronger, and we have a 30-year Marine veteran serving Guyton Elementary School as an SRO.
If I have the honor of serving the citizens again, I would like to complete the Master Recreation Plan, and facilitate the opening of the Guyton YMCA. I would also like to bring more business and entertainment to Guyton and see the Downtown Development Authority facilitate a thriving and vibrant downtown. I hope the citizens look at the progress that has been made in Guyton and it has been done without raising the mileage rate and water and sewer rates. We do not want to grow for the sake of growing, but to grow enough to enhance the good life we have in Guyton.”
