My name is Lori Judkins and I am an independent candidate for District 5 County Commissioner.

I was born in McMinnville and have lived here all of my life. I graduated from WCHS in 1990. My parents are Eugene and Doris Wilcher. I have one son, Tyler, who recently completed the Mechatronics program at Motlow. I am a special education teacher at Hickory Creek Elementary.  I have been a special educator for 23 years.

I received a bachelor’s degree in Communication Disorders from MTSU and a master’s degree in Instructional Leadership from Tennessee Tech. I am certified to teach special education, speech language therapy, and I hold an administrator license. I am a member and an association representative of Tennessee Education Association. I enjoy kayaking, playing softball, swimming, and spending time with my family, friends, and pets. I attend church at Westwood Church of Christ.

Promoting economic and industrial development is an area of particular interest to me. Growth management is one of the toughest problems facing local governments today. I would like to see this county grow and be a prosperous and safe environment in which to live. I would like to see our residents obtain good-paying jobs without having to travel out of town. I would like to see more options for employment, retail, and restaurants. Capitalizing on our natural resources to bring in tourism is a step in the right direction.

I also have a compassionate interest in our animal shelter. I do not believe closing the facility is the answer. I believe this would be a huge disservice to our community and outrage the majority of citizens. I have been to this facility on several occasions and have adopted pets myself. I think the staff do their very best to maintain the facility.

I believe extensive research is the answer to making good decisions and plays a vital role in economic growth and problem solving. I consistently research information in the educational realm to keep up with current laws and teaching practices. I would like to utilize my research skills to help make team decisions regarding the prosperity of this county.

I feel like my background with research, children, the educational system, parents/ stakeholders, and my leadership training would be an asset to the panel of district commissioners. I feel as though I am a fair person and believe in listening to all facts before I make any decisions. I am educated, determined, fair, people-friendly, a good listener, and I have experience working with the public.
                                            
My vision for Warren County is to grow economically, maintain safety both in the community and in our schools, and to maintain a cooperative local government that strives for the very best for our citizens. I would appreciate your vote in the upcoming August election for District 5 Commissioner.