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Tea Party Oxford provides candidate information in MDOT race
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Voters in 33 northern Mississippi counties will go to the polls on Tuesday, January 11, for a Special Election to elect a new Commissioner for the Mississippi Department of Transportation. The winner will complete the remainder of the term of Commissioner Bill Minor, whose untimely death in November created the vacancy. Minor had served in that office since 2003.
The seven candidates seeking election, and their counties of residence are: John M. M. Caldwell, Sr., Desoto; Dennis C. Grisham, Tippah; Joey P. Hood, Itawamba; Larry Lee, Grenada; Warner F. McBride, Panola; Ray Minor, Marshall; and Mike Tagert, Oktibbeha.
This special election will decide who will fill one of the most important state offices according to Kay Cobb, TEA Party Oxford chairperson, stating "The Mississippi Department of Transportation budget is 1.1 billion dollars, and constitutes a substantial portion of the total State budget. The Commissioner's job requires the highest level of ability, integrity and fairness in not only the expenditure of tax payers money, but also in the research, study, and business decisions which must be made every day in this office." Due to the large district and timing of this election, voters will have little, if any, opportunity to meet the candidates and learn about their qualifications, plans for MDOT projects, and other critical information. The mission of TEA Party Oxford -"working to educate our citizens"- is particularly important in circumstances such as these, and definitely not limited to just those in the Oxford area, Cobb said.
The counties in the Northern District are: Alcorn, Attala, Benton, Calhoun, Carrol, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Clay, Coahoma, DeSoto, Grenada, Itawamba, Lafayette, Lee, Leflore, Lowndes, Marshall, Monroe, Montgomery, Oktibbeha, Panola, Pontotoc, Prentiss, Quitman, Tallahatchie, Tate, Tippah, TIshomingo, Tunica, Union, Webster, Winston, and Yalobusha.
All citizens are encouraged to read the Q&A results presented by the candidates. The questions and responses of the candidates in this race can be found on the TEA Party Oxford website at www.teapartyoxford.com. For more information, contact Kay Cobb at kbcobb@yahoo.com or 662-816-9316.
RESPONSE OF JOHN M. M. CALDWELL, SR
Q1. What experience, education and other qualifications make you the best candidate to serve as MDOT Commissioner for the Northern District? A1. Experienced Transportation Professional
Marine Corps Reserve Colonel/Combat Veteran
Volunteer Fireman/Church and Community Service
Former County Supervisor and Republican Nominee Transportation Commissioner
BS - ASU / MBA (in progress) CSU
The last seven years as a transportation professional has complemented a lifetime of service and leadership. Thirty years and three combat tours in the Marine Corps reserves, twenty years as a volunteer fireman, and two terms as a county supervisor combine to offer a candidacy with unique experience and insight. A Bachelor of Science degree from Arkansas State University, Command and Staff College and current studies in Columbia Southern University's MBA program have also better prepared me for the Commissioner's position.
Q2. What do you believe are the most pressing transportation needs in the Northern District? (Briefly explain your position on each.)
A2. SAFETY. SECURITY. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT.
Safety is paramount in any transportation discussion. Providing safe and well maintained roads immediately comes to mind. While that is certainly part of it, safety today includes security. Safety and security of our citizens can be threats and hazards associated with poorly maintained highways, improperly designed intersections, carelessly enforced regulations and ultimately terrorism.
When safety and security are the priority and adequate resources are dedicated to them, we can begin to realize the extended benefits transportation can provide to our state's economic development effort.
Q3. Is development of an Intermodal System of Transportation important to the future of Mississippi? Why or why not?
A3. YES. An intermodal system already exists today. There is room for improvement. To the extent we can maximize it we can see Mississippi's economy grow. From global access of Gulf Coast ports and river ports our state is uniquely blessed. Containers are transferred to railroads and highways that traverse the nation and continent. Air cargo is also a growing aspect of Mississippi's intermodal transportation system that links us to a worldwide economic network. Mississippi's pro-business climate and mild weather is great for the transportation industry and can springboard us into the next century.
Q4. Do you believe that public participation in highway design and other such matters decided by MDOT is important? If so, how will you increase participation?
A4. YES. Public participation is not only important, it is imperative. It is critical not only for "buy-in" for a predetermined MDOT idea, but it is needed earlier to get the best ideas from the brightest minds. Too many times public hearings are too little too late and only minor tweaks are actually considered. The public knows this and therefore is not motivated to participate. We need to involve the community earlier and be prepared to listen and respond. Also, having the commissioners leading public discussion on projects will encourage more public participation and invite constructive criticism.
Q5. In the past there have been accusations that MDOT leaders conduct business behind closed doors, and make decisions for the benefit of certain supporters/ donors, to the detriment of the State and its citizens. What would you do to prevent this?
A5. This is an easy fix. It doesn't cost a dime. MDOT business doesn't need to be a mystery. By opening our doors and shedding light on our operations we will be more responsive to the citizen taxpayers that employ us. That is exactly what I did as a county supervisor, and it can and should be done at all levels of government.
Q6. What is your position on MDOT Commissioners receiving campaign contributions from contractors who do business with MDOT?
A6. It is certainly an interesting part of the existing political landscape. Sadly, it allows for a few contractors to aggressively fund one candidate early and discourage more capable candidates from running or voters from choosing from a more open slate. On the other hand, contractors have a legitimate interest, and should not be excluded completely from the process. Voters can address this dilemma on January 11 by voting for John Caldwell.
Q7. What, if any, changes do you believe need to be made in the current process of selecting the Executive Director of MDOT?
A7. It is not a process problem. It is a people problem. The Commissioner's are responsible and able to do right or wrong. As the Northern District Commissioner I will do right and accept responsibility for the Commission's choice for an Executive Director that will make Mississippi proud.
RESPONSE OF DENNIS C. GRISHAM
Q1. What experience, education and other qualifications make you the best candidate to serve as MDOT Commissioner for the Northern District?
A1. Tippah County Supervisor for 28 years, Past President of Tippah County Board of Supervisors, Immediate Past President of MAS, Past owner and operator of Grisham Asphalt & Paving Co., Inc., 30 years ownership of asphalt plants in New Albany and Ripley.
Education: Ripley High School, Northeast Mississippi Community College, University of Southern Mississippi
Military Service: 2 years in the United States Marine Corps
Member Dumas Baptist Church, Men's Sunday School Teacher
Q2. What do you believe are the most pressing transportation needs in the Northern District? (Briefly explain your position on each.)
A2. Vision 21 enactment
Q3. Is development of an Intermodal System of Transportation important to the future of Mississippi? Why or why not?
A3. Yes. However, we must complete the Vision 21 proposed projects.
Q4. Do you believe that public participation in highway design and other such matters decided by MDOT is important? If so, how will you increase participation?
A4. Public participation is very important to the decision making process. However, the commissioner needs to make a decision based on available information and best judgment.
Q5. In the past there have been accusations that MDOT leaders conduct business behind closed doors, and make decisions for the benefit of certain supporters/ donors, to the detriment of the State and its citizens. What would you do to prevent this?
A5. I pledge to fairly represent the people of the northern district.
Q6. What is your position on MDOT Commissioners receiving campaign contributions from contractors who do business with MDOT?
A6. As long as the commissioners obey the election guidelines.
Q7. What, if any, changes do you believe need to be made in the current process of selecting the Executive Director of MDOT?
A7. The Commissioners need to take control of the Commission.
RESPONSE OF JOEY P. HOOD
Q1. What experience, education and other qualifications make you the best candidate to serve as MDOT Commissioner for the Northern District?
A1. Graduate of Mantachie High School, Senior Certified by NICET (National Institute of Certified Engineering Technicians), Started my career at MDOT 17 years ago as a General Service Employee, working my way up through the ranks and becoming Assistant to Commissioner Minor. I have hands on experience with the Commission and with employees of MDOT, have been involved with SASHTO (Southeastern Association State Highway Transportation Officials) and AASHTO (American Association State Highway Transportation Officials)
Q2. What do you believe are the most pressing transportation needs in the Northern District? (Briefly explain your position on each.)
A2.Completing Vision 21 as set forth by the MS Legislature. This includes completing SR 6/US 278, SR 7, SR 15, SR 25, and US 49E.
Q3. Is development of an Intermodal System of Transportation important to the future of Mississippi? Why or why not?
A3. Yes, If economic development is to continue in North MS it will be vital that our Intermodal Transportation System be improved. We have existing rails and the Tenn-Tom Waterway. As the amount of goods that are manufactured is increased varied methods of shipping will be important. Our roadways can only accommodate a certain amount of trucks and by having other means of transporting goods there will not be as much need for increasing truck traffic.
Q4. Do you believe that public participation in highway design and other such matters decided by MDOT is important? If so, how will you increase participation?
A4. I do believe that it is important. The public does understand in many cases what is most important to them in terms of the location of new roadways.
Q5. In the past there have been accusations that MDOT leaders conduct business behind closed doors, and make decisions for the benefit of certain supporters/ donors, to the detriment of the State and its citizens. What would you do to prevent this?
A5. I will make every effort to see that the laws of the State are carried out in regard to Open Meetings.
Q6. What is your position on MDOT Commissioners receiving campaign contributions from contractors who do business with MDOT?
A6. Several years ago the law was changed to allow this. I don't see this as a conflict. Attorneys are allowed to contribute to the campaign for Attorney General and judges.
Q7. What, if any, changes do you believe need to be made in the current process of selecting the Executive Director of MDOT?
A7. There are no major problems with the way that the current process of selecting the Executive Director is presently being done. The Commissioners make a recommendation and then this recommendation has to be confirmed by the Mississippi Senate. If any change was to be made, it might be that the Commissioners' recommendation for a new Director needs to be unanimous.
RESPONSE OF LARRY LEE
Q1. What experience, education and other qualifications make you the best candidate to serve as MDOT Commissioner for the Northern District?
A1. I grew up in a construction environment and as an adult I gained hands on knowledge and experience in all phases of construction and with dirt construction included. My education is Drafting and Design taught me how to survey for a road and take those notes and layout a road onto a blue print. My Masters Degree in Education and Administration and Business Ownership background has taught me how to put the right people in the right place to do the best job and as a business owner I know how to budget monies especially when I already know what my expenditures were but my income was uncertain. I developed a system that works especially in tight economic times like today.
Q2. What do you believe are the most pressing transportation needs in the Northern District? (Briefly explain your position on each.)
A2. Most pressing needs are (1) New Leadership, Butch Brown must go. (2) Improved business practices that are fair to everyone. (3) Restoring the trust and respect the people use to have in the Highway Dept. (4) Make sure our tax dollars are spent wisely. (5) Restore the moral of the field workers with an open door policy. (6) Truly be on job sites to oversee projects. (7) Develop a maintenance program that works. (8) Meet the needs of each community. (9) Introduce a way to make our roads last long, save money. (10) Put the best people in the right place to do the best job.
Q3. Is development of an Intermodal System of Transportation important to the future of Mississippi? Why or why not?
A3. No, We do not need an Intermodal System in Mississippi. Urbanized areas for this system should have at least 500,000 people and we do not have such in Mississippi other than the Memphis area, and Jackson. We are building 4 lanes and widening roads daily to compensate the needs we have. Our interstates seem to serve well enough but more information could make a difference in the answer. We do not know what information our National Security people have.
Q4. Do you believe that public participation in highway design and other such matters decided by MDOT is important? If so, how will you increase participation?
A4 Yes! To this day, MDOT staff, engineers, etc. do not care what an impact their decisions may have on a community. They have a cynical attitude that they are always right and no one else matters. All communities must play a part in the designing of projects in their community so the project can become an enhancement to the community and not a destruction.
Q5. In the past there have been accusations that MDOT leaders conduct business behind closed doors, and make decisions for the benefit of certain supporters/ donors, to the detriment of the State and its citizens. What would you do to prevent this?
A5. MDOT business is everyone's business in Mississippi. There should be no favoritism shown to certain supporters, donors, or anyone else. MDOT has been a secret organization in their business practices and I say that must stop. I will work hard and vote to prevent their old ways from continuing.
Q6. What is your position on MDOT Commissioners receiving campaign contributions from contractors who do business with MDOT?
A6. MDOT Commissioners should NOT receive campaign contributions from any contractor. All campaign contributions should be personal investments and/or donations from individuals. I have not received any contributions from contractors or businesses and I think this should be across the board. This prevents candidates from selling their position to special interest groups.
Q7. What, if any, changes do you believe need to be made in the current process of selecting the Executive Director of MDOT?
A7. In selecting a new Executive Director of MDOT, I will be looking for a person who has a past record of good business practices, honesty, integrity and a person who will listen to me as Commissioner to work with me to meet the needs of the people in my District as well as to work to improve Mississippi Dept. of Transportation.
RESPONSE OF WARNER MCBRIDE
Q1. What experience, education and other qualifications make you the best candidate to serve as MDOT Commissioner for the Northern district?
A1. Ran my family's civil engineering business for 25 years, serve as a Member of Mississippi legislature since 1992, Chairman of House Transportation Committee for three years.
Q2. What do you believe are the most pressing transportation needs in the Northern District? (Briefly explain your position on each.)
A2. Economic Development, Safety, and keeping up with population growth are the only things that will guide my decisions in prioitizing our state's transportation needs.
Q3. Is development of an Intermodal System of Transportation important to the future of Mississippi? Why or why not?
A3. Economic development requires each community to be prepared with the best available transportation options for potential business and industrial development. Providing, maintaining, and supporting the methods of road, rail air, and water transportation will give each community those options.
Q4. Do you believe that public participation in highway design and other such matters decided by MDOT is important? If so, how will you increase participation?
A4. Citizen input is critical to making the best decisions for MDOT possible. I would like to see all meetings of the Transportation Commission shown live on the internet, like the PSC does, as well as a series of town hall forums, both in the community, as well as online.
Q5. In the past there have been accusations that MDOT leaders conduct business behind closed doors, and make decisions for the benefit of certain supporters/ donors, to the detriment of the State and its citizens. What would you do to prevent this?
A5. My priority will always remain to make decisions based on the criteria of economic development, safety, and keeping up with population growth. Having an open process with open bidding, full disclosure, and allowing transparency will ensure that the public realize that their tax dollars are spent both efffectively and fairly. I also think broadcasting all meetings of the Transportation Commission on the internet will make sure commissioners remember that it's the TAX PAYERS who are the bosses.
Q6. What is your position on MDOT Commissioners receiving campaign contributions from contractors who do business with MDOT?
A6. I would never want to penalize Mississippi contractors that want to be involved in the business community and leadership at MDOT that ensures an open, fair, and honest use of taxpayer dollars in building and maintaining our state's transportation needs.
Q7. What, if any, changes do you believe need to be made in the current process of selecting the Executive Director of MDOT?
A7. I believe that the three Commissioners of MDOT should act in the state's best interest always and make sure that Butch Brown's exit strategy is carried out in a fair and expeditious manner.
RESPONSE OF RAY MINOR
Q1. What experience, education and other qualifications make you the best candidate to serve as MDOT Commissioner for the Northern district?
A1. Graduated from Hickory Flat school system; Attended NJC; Operated Minor Bros. business with Bill for 45 plus years. This business involved plumbing, electrical, HVAC (heating and air conditioning) as well as our hardware stores in Holly Springs and Olive Branch.
Q2. What do you believe are the most pressing transportation needs in the Northern District? (Briefly explain your position on each.)
A2. Completion of projects begun under Bill Minor. Hwy 15, 9, 25, 78 (the I-22 corridor) and I-69 that would connect Desoto and Marshall counties to Tennessee. Rail system that would connect Greenville to Columbus so products could be shipped by other means than the Tombigbee. This would serve as an important part of the Intermodal System that is vital to North Mississippi.
Q3. Is development of an Intermodal System of Transportation important to the future of Mississippi? Why or why not?
A3. Yes. Without a system for delivering goods and products the economic well being of North Mississippi would be seriously compromised. A versatile transportation system attracts industries that create well-paying jobs for this district as well as the State of Mississippi.
Q4. Do you believe that public participation in highway design and other such matters decided by MDOT is important? If so, how will you increase participation?
A4. The public already participates by electing the person they trust to carry out what is best for the people of the Northern District.
Q5. In the past there have been accusations that MDOT leaders conduct business behind closed doors, and make decisions for the benefit of certain supporters/ donors, to the detriment of the State and its citizens. What would you do to prevent this?
A5. Accusations are just that - accusations. The proof of a commissioner's worth and integrity to do what is best for the citizens will be evident in the projects and decisions that they make.
Q6. What is your position on MDOT Commissioners receiving campaign contributions from contractors who do business with MDOT?
A6. Contributions are vital to the electoral process. Again, a commissioner's decisions should always be made based on what is best for the citizens of Mississippi. Contributions are public knowledge and the voters of this district should elect a man of integrity and honesty.
Q7. What, if any, changes do you believe need to be made in the current process of selecting the Executive Director of MDOT?
A7. The majority rules in this matter of selecting the Executive Director of MDOT. The people of North Mississippi will have their voice heard through the election of the Commissioner for the Northern District.
RESPONSE OF MIKE TAGERT
Q1. What experience, education and other qualifications make you the best candidate to serve as MDOT Commissioner for the Northern district?
A1. Currently President, Tenn-Tom Development Council, economic development responsibilities throughtout North Mississippi and beyond; First-hand experience in how transportation means jobs in North Mississippi; Extensive experience in bridging the gap between transportation needs and local communities for the purpose of job creation and private investment; Extensive management of public funds and resources, including the procurement of state and federal appropriations; Graduate of Millsaps College with a Bachelor of Science Degree; Graduate of Mississippi State University with a Masters Degree in Science and a Masters Degree in Public Policy and Administration; First-hand experience in applying regional transportation strengths to create jobs in North Mississippi.
Q2. What do you believe are the most pressing transportation needs in the Northern District? (Briefly explain your position on each.)
A2. Jobs - Transportation means jobs in North Mississippi. Along with improvements to local roadways (Upgrade and expand local and county roads, begin building Interstate 22 and accelerate progress on State Highways 9, 15, and 30, U.S. 45 and Interstate 278), take advantage of the intermodal transportation strengths Mississippi offers businesses from around the globe to create jobs in North Mississippi.
Safety - Bridge and road safety should always be the top priority for the Commission. Providing adequate funding for safe road construction and maintenance for our children, our workforce, and our families will be my top priority.
Ensuring funds are spent wisely; roads are designed correctly and built in a cost-effective and efficient manner.
Q3. Is development of an Intermodal System of Transportation important to the future of Mississippi? Why or why not?
A3. Yes. Our highways and Interstate system will always provide the primary means for moving the bulk of our raw materials and Mississippi products. However, the development of a truly intermodal system within our State is not only needed but is a necessity for our future growth. Each mode offers unique opportunities as related to economic development and safety. Our rail system, riverports, and airports provide additional access to the world in which we are attempting to attract private investment. These alternative modes are responsible, each year, for thousands of jobs and millions in tax revenue and personal income. As Transportation Commissioner, it will be my goal to continue to connect all modes, via the road system, for the purpose of industrial growth and greater standards of living.
Q4. Do you believe that public participation in highway design and other such matters decided by MDOT is important? If so, how will you increase participation?
A4. Yes. I absolutely believe that not only should the public have the opportunity to participate but that it should be an obligation on the part of the Commission to seek out public input and scrutiny. All projects should be required to seek public input and that input should weigh heavily in the decision-making process, provided that it does not conflict with the overall safety requirements of a project. The Mississippi Department of Transportation has the engineering expertise needed to design safe and pragmatic infrastructure. The public should always have an opportunity to influence the design process and to provide such information to our managers, engineers, and policy-makers. After all, it is public money which makes such projects possible. Advertisements, public hearings, and other public opportunities for input should be increased to ensure that all voices are heard.
Q5. In the past there have been accusations that MDOT leaders conduct business behind closed doors, and make decisions for the benefit of certain supporters/ donors, to the detriment of the State and its citizens. What would you do to prevent this?
A5. I can assure you that I do not operate in such a manner. All decisions with respect to the office will be strictly determined based on the overall effectiveness of public funds and the proper public process. I have experience in executing bids and such decisions should not deviate from the formal and approved process. Furthermore, my decisions will be based on public involvement and observation. Laws governing such public conduct, including the Mississippi Open Meetings Act and the Mississippi Public Records Act, will be ethically adhered to without exception.
Q6. What is your position on MDOT Commissioners receiving campaign contributions from contractors who do business with MDOT?
A6. No company that does business with MDOT should be denied participation in the democratic process. However, no contribution should influence any Commissioner's decision to hire a company to work for MDOT. It certainly will not affect mine.
Q7. What, if any, changes do you believe need to be made in the current process of selecting the Executive Director of MDOT?
A7. I bring a fresh perspective to this office, with no obligations or commitments. In my opinion, the people of Mississippi need to know they're getting the best-qualified person for the job and that a transparent selection process takes place. The responsibility of selecting and maintaining the leadership of MDOT is a critical responsibility, one I will not take lightly.
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©The Democrat 2013
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