BY TOM YANCEY

STAFF WRITER

William T. Cobb Jr. is a Republican candidate for the Greene County Commission in the 1st Commission District.

Cobb, 43, a truck driver and farmer, lives at 3755 Whitehouse Road.

He said most of his working life has been in the construction business, but the recession has required him to take a job driving a truck.

He is a member of the Newmansville Volunteer Fire Department.

Why are you a candidate for a seat on the Greene County Commission?

"I want to see positive change!"

What in your background prepares you for this office? What strengths do you potentially have to offer?

"I have worked in small business for many years and managed my farm for many years."

Because of uncertainty about the state budget this year, related to the ongoing recession, it seems possible that the commission that takes office in September 2010 may have to approve the budget for the fiscal year that starts in July 2010. How will you prepare yourself for that possibility?

Cobb said he will "be ready to make budget cuts for unnecessary expenditures."

The Tennessee General Assembly has given county commissions the power to levy taxes and to spend funds for any lawful purpose, and to enact zoning in unincorporated areas. Although a tight budget year is expected, what are the most pressing spending needs you see facing Greene County? What would you like to see done about each of them?

Cobb listed schools and roads. "We have to have efficient schools and road systems to attract new business, but we must remember, a government thrives from the wealth of its subjects!"

Imagine what Greene County will be like 20 years from now. How do you think Greene County will look in 2030? Will the county still be characterized by large tracts of land devoted to agriculture? Do you see more population growth outside the city limits of Greeneville, Mosheim, Tusculum and Baileyton? If so, what steps do you think the county commission needs to be taking now to get ready?

"Agriculture is no longer profitable due to a lack of markets for its products in our area. Development will take over. We need to strengthen our schools and roads."

Greene County has one of the lowest property tax rates in the state. Do you think the current rate is high enough to cover the county's growing need for roads, schools and public safety?

"If we continue to tax landowners, how can we expect the family farm to survive? We need to decide how much government services we need. Let the people decide!"

In your opinion, is discussion of a new justice center and/or jail over, for the foreseeable future? Can you foresee circumstances under which the County Commission might revisit this idea?

"No, it's not. When a law enforcement entity can be used as a source of revenue, it will continue to grow. We need to find a way to deter people from being a habitual criminal."

Two years ago, the County Commission declined a school board funding request for a new West Greene High School. Do you think this question or some less expensive option for improving WGHS is likely to be on the agenda during the next four years? If so, what would be your view of the issue?

"I'm sure we will have to address this issue at some point. Schools can be built with a more efficient design. We would do well to look at Hawkins County and Hamblen County."

Unemployment has been very high during the past year, and while somewhat better now, is still high. What, if anything, can the Greene County Mayor or the County Commission do to help employers keep jobs here, and help in attracting new jobs and employers?

"Unfortunately, most jobs here are tied to the automotive industry. We need to diversify and look for companies that need a strong work force, as well as a low tax base."

Additional comment

Cobb did not provide an additional comment.