The board of commissioners leads the county government—passing legislation and administering services and programs. Commissioners approve budgets, hire staff, and set policy.
Why am I running?
I’m running because I believe Rutherford County needs thoughtful leadership that listens to citizens, cares about our neighbors, plans for the future, and stays focused on the work that matters most. Our county is growing fast, and we need smart, steady decision-making to protect our quality of life.
About Me
I have lived in Rutherford County since 1994, and reside in the Scottland Acres neighborhood with my wife, Anne, and daughter, Molly. I am the CIO of the Primary Care & Hope Clinic, where I have been serving for the last 15 years. Prior to that, I spent 15 years as Field Representative for US Congressman Bart Gordon. I am an active member of St. Mark's United Methodist Church, and have remained active in our community through service with Main Street, Leadership Rutherford, the Murfreesboro Youth Orchestra and other non-profit organizations.
Our county commission’s primary task is to control the budget for our county government, and in doing so, they have sway over issues of revenue, spending, and saving.
Just like our family budget, setting those priorities requires difficult decisions about what gets paid first, what are needs verses wants, how we prepare for future expenses, and hopefully, where to save and give. These are important family decisions, and important county decisions that impact all of us. The process of managing these decisions allows us to set priorities on how that money is responsibly and equitably spent.
Our county has made positive steps toward the closure of Middle Point Landfill, and we need to continue fighting for that event, and preparing to deal with our solid waste when that day comes. One of my personal goals is to ensure Republic fulfills their obligations for successful remediation of the landfill site, negating the environmental impact and repurposing the area for our benefit for the next 30 years.
Second, I would like to see the county be more proactive than reactive when it comes to infrastructure improvements. Too often, it seems land is developed well before roads are widened, water lines improved, and schools are built. These investments need to be made before our streets and schools are overcrowded, not after.
My experience has taught me that intentional, open, and honest communication between stakeholders often yields the results we want, and can help achieve consensus. This approach can ensure Republic knows we will not allow them to walk away from their responsibilities, and will bring specialists and community members to the table to discuss the best and highest future use for the site. The same strategy of getting developers, community residents, and county departments to the table can show us what investment is needed, and when. The key is to success is accountability and transparency. I believe I can be a catalyst in this area, using my position on the commission to demand public conversation.
