PICKENS COUNTY — The Easley Progress presented questions to local candidates who will appear on the June 14 ballot throughout the county.
These questions were formulated to reflect some of the biggest issues facing Pickens County and were created specifically for contested County Council seats and S.C. Senate, S.C. House of Representatives and sheriff races.
Here’s a look at the questions we asked:
Pickens County Council
1. What, in your opinion, is the role of economic development within Pickens County and what would be your plan for next term?
2. The Local Government Fund is once again underfunded in the state’s budget. How does the county handle this shortage of funds from the state?
3. What is the biggest issue facing Pickens County and what is your proposed solution to that issue?
S.C. Senate District 2
1. Ethics reform is a concern of a growing number of South Carolinians. What is your proposed plan of action for the next term to address this issue?
2. Roads and infrastructure are a major concern and taking into account all budgetary factors, what is your proposed solution and does it include a tax on gasoline purchases?
3. A growing topic across the state of South Carolina is a concern over Second Amendment Rights. What is your position on licensing/permitting weapons, concealed carry, and gun safety on school campuses?
S.C. House of Representatives District 5
1. Roads and infrastructure are a major concern and taking into account all budgetary factors, what is your proposed solution and does it include a tax on gasoline purchases?
2. What is the one issue beyond roads and infrastructure you would like to see addressed in the next term and what is your proposed solution?
3. Education funding has not returned to 2008 levels following the financial crisis yet mandates have remained steady or increased. How do we solve this issue?
Pickens County Sheriff
1. What is your recommendation to address the overcrowding issue with the detention center?
2. How does an agency such as the Pickens County Sheriff’s Office decrease crime in the community?
3. In your opinion what is the biggest issue the Pickens County Sheriff’s Office face and what is your proposed solution?
4. What is your position on community relations and what/if any role does it play in crime prevention, detection, and prosecution?
