Pope JP #13
Over their two-year term, a JP is responsible for:Setting real estate, personal property and sales tax rates in the county.Determining the final budget for county departments and offices - including salaries - and appropriating funds for county expenses.Preserving the peace and order in the county, though they do not have the authority to make any offense a felony. This often takes the form of passing county laws and in some counties making planning decisions.Contract or join with any other county or city, or the federal government for a public purpose.Creating, consolidating, separating, or abandoning any elected office in the county if first approved by voters.Filling vacancies in elected county offices.Providing for any service or performance of any function related to county affairs.Many Quorum Courts also have subcommittees that JPs serve on and discuss the more nitty gritty details before an issue appears before the whole group. These committees have included budget/finance, building, economic development, environmental, personnel, legislative affairs, public safety, Justices of the peace also have the authority to marry a couple.https://www.uaex.uada.edu/business-communities/ced-blog/posts/2022/may/what-is-a-justice-of-the-peace.aspx
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Benjamin Masters Gunter
(Rep)
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David Ivy
(Rep)
Describe in your own words the duties of the office you seek.
Describe in your own words the experience and skills you have that qualifies you for this position.
Describe the first thing you plan to change/improve when you take office and how you will accomplish that goal.
Campaign Phone
412-918-0096
Contest
Pope County Justice of the Peace District 13
The Justice of the Peace serves on the county Quorum Court, which acts as the county’s legislative body. The role includes adopting the county budget, setting tax levies, passing ordinances and resolutions, and providing oversight of county operations. A JP represents the people of their district by listening to concerns, asking hard questions, and voting in a way that balances fiscal responsibility, public safety, and basic services. The job is not about day-to-day politics, but about responsible governance, accountability, and making sure county government works efficiently for taxpayers.
I bring real-world experience in business, property management, and community problem-solving — not career politics. I’ve worked directly with budgets, contracts, regulations, and people from all walks of life. That background has taught me how to ask the right questions, spot inefficiencies, and make practical decisions with limited resources. I value accountability, clear communication, and common-sense solutions. Most importantly, I approach this role as a representative, not a ruler — someone who listens first, respects taxpayers’ money, and takes the responsibility of public trust seriously.
My first priority will be improving transparency and accountability in county decision-making. Too often, residents don’t know how or why decisions are made. I will focus on clearer communication about agendas, budgets, and votes, and I will actively engage with constituents to explain issues before major decisions are finalized. I’ll accomplish this by preparing thoroughly for meetings, asking direct questions on the record, and making myself accessible to residents. Good government starts with trust, and trust comes from openness and follow-through.
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