GOP candidates outline positions at forum

Seth Dukes OCTN News

HARTFORD — Republican candidates for the May primary took part in a candidate forum April 16, addressing local issues and answering questions from constituents.

Candidates for magistrate, 14th District state representative and Ohio County judge- executive participated, with much of the discussion focusing on the county’s top leadership race.

Judge-executive candidates Tracy Beatty, Jason Bullock and Niki Tichenor Riley each outlined their priorities.

Housing availability emerged early, with all three acknowledging a shortage. Bullock said the fiscal court has already formed a committee to study housing needs and pursue partnerships with developers, particularly for middle-income housing.

“If you’re going to bring industry in here, you need the housing for them to live in,” Bullock said.

Beatty said the county should pursue grants and consider hiring a full-time grant writer to secure outside funding for new construction and renovation of existing homes.

“My plan is to find money in our budget to hire a full-time grant writer for the county,” Beatty said.

Tichenor Riley said housing development should remain largely in the private sector rather than becoming a primary county responsibility.

On small business support, Bullock called local businesses the backbone of the economy and pointed to the county’s ability to waive occupational taxes for new businesses during startup phases.

Beatty again emphasized the need to seek grant funding and said county leaders must better understand the needs of local businesses. Tichenor Riley highlighted the role of the Ohio County Economic Development Alliance in business recruitment and support.

Candidates were also asked about partnering with cities such as Hartford and Beaver Dam to expand walking and biking trails. All three supported collaboration, though Beatty noted budget limitations would likely require outside funding.

Transparency and public notice, particularly regarding developments such as the proposed biodigester, were also discussed. Beatty said transparency is a central theme of his campaign and emphasized the need to keep citizens informed.

Tichenor Riley said major projects should be communicated to the public earlier in the process.

“We should have heard about that from the get-go,” she said.

Bullock said transparency is important but noted some early-stage negotiations may need to remain private.

The candidate forum was moderated by WXMZ’s Josh Wright and The Times-News’ Jeff Jobe.

The event was slotted for two hours, with candidates speaking for offices including magistrate and state representative, among others. Food trucks were set up for attendees to enjoy during the event, although rain limited outdoor dining opportunities.

This coverage is intended to highlight the event. The full forum is available on the WXMS and The Times-News Facebook pages.

Judge-executive candidates Tracy Beatty, Jason Bullock and Niki Tichenor Riley each outlined their priorities. Questions were asked by Josh Wright and Jeff Jobe. Submitted photo.