Two contested races formed in the GOP Primary after the first day to file for Hopkins County offices Saturday at the County Courthouse. Three candidates filed for sheriff and four candidates filed for County Commissioner in Precinct 1: Mickey Barker, Pat Chase, Ray Fouse and Maci Newsom.
Ray Fouse, a retired dairyman, stated that he has been interested in running for commissioner for four or five years. He stated that he has managed workers in the dairy business and now has a beef cattle and hay baling operations. He wants a stronger infrastructure for county roads and a strong governing of the tax rate and spending of tax money. He said he would roll up his sleeves and get to work where ever that work might be found. He has already begun his campaign.
Pat Chase has also been interested in the job for several years. He said he has worked in the precinct on a volunteer basis as well served on the Regional Civic Center Board on the budget committee and has played a role in the development of recent changes. He served on the Shady Grove Water Board. He is a member of the Ag tax advisory board. He calls himself a conservative manager of funds.
Mickey Barker retired from Verizon and decided to run for commissioner to be more involved in the community. His community involvement in the past has been with the chamber of commerce. In 36-37 years with Verizon, Barker has worked with construction and was the Northeast Texas manager of construction when he retired. He thinks the roads in the county need more work and improvement. He thinks that with his background, skills and knowledge, he can assist in finding new ways to do the county business.
Maci Newsom said her interest in county government and the commissioner’s post began when she and her husband partnered with another law firm to collect delinquent taxes in the county. She said she familiarized herself with the court and its responsibility and was inspired to seek the position. Calling herself willing to learn, she said that she would work with people in the county to continue an improving lifestyle. Calling roads the most important issue, she said the budget presented a great challenge.
