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Les Center, a small business owner who operates a local aviation service, family farm and event venue, is seeking the District 8 Commissioner seat on the Hawkins County Commission.

“I have lived in Hamblen County for nearly four years,” Center said. “Running a business requires constant attention to budgets, planning, and accountability. Those same principles should guide county government.”

Center decided to run for Commissioner because he believes that the county needs stronger fiscal discipline, true transparency, and leadership that listens to the concerns of everyday residents.

“I pay taxes here, my family lives here, and I want to ensure our local government respects the hard-earned dollars of the people it represents,” he said.

Center does not support additional property tax increases, nor a temporary wheel tax that he believes will eventually become permanent.

“I strongly believe any future property tax increase should be voted on by the residents of Hamblen County rather than decided solely by 14 commissioners,” he said. “When families are asked to pay more, they deserve a direct voice in that decision PERIOD.”

Center said that the commission must examine how money is being spent on things that are already in the budget.

“Before asking citizens for more money, we must examine how we are spending what we already have,” he said. “I support line-by-line budget reviews, stronger justification for new hires and expansions, and identifying unnecessary or redundant expenditures.

“I also support using zero-based budgeting principles in certain departments, requiring expenses to be justified from the ground up rather than automatically increasing year after year,” Center said. “Growth in our county has increased sales tax and development revenue, and we must manage that growth responsibly before considering additional taxes.”

Center agrees that public safety is essential and that deputies deserve adequate facilities, adequate being the key word.

“However, projects like the new jail should require careful long-term financial planning,” he said. “I believe large projects should include phased planning, transparent cost projections, and clear communication with taxpayers regarding long-term operational expenses and financing methods before commitments are made.

“I support structured inmate work and rehabilitation programs that reduce costs while promoting accountability. The recent decision to decline a grant for a men’s work program due to renovation costs shows why disciplined budgeting is important. When finances are strained, opportunities that could ultimately save taxpayers money are lost.”

While there are estimates of roughly $300,000 to $400,000 per mile to pave a single mile of road, Center calls this a “significant investment and that taxpayers deserve transparency.”

Hamblen County currently maintains more than 400 square miles of roadways.

Center has concerns about how roads to be paved are prioritized. He also thinks there should be an objective scoring system for roads and that projects should be consistently put out for competitive bidding.

“How do our paving costs compare to surrounding counties? Why does Hamblen county bid out paving?” Center asked. “Hamblen County wastes half the budget to pave the roads by ‘lining’ other people’s pockets. In my business if I want to keep costs down and (within) budget, I keep as much in house as possible.

“Maybe we should’ve bought paving equipment rather than two new trash trucks that don’t exactly work for most of the county,” Center said. “Residents also deserve a clear accounting of wheel tax revenue and how it has been spent. Roads affect safety, school transportation, emergency response, and economic development. I would advocate for a public road condition report, a multi-year paving plan, and open reporting on road-related revenues and contracts.”

Center is also critical of illegal dumping and large amounts of roadside trash along county roads, saying that both are “growing” concerns.

“There is no reason for piles of bulky waste to sit along our roadsides,” Center said. “I believe the county should explore establishing trash convenience centers on both sides of town to give residents accessible and affordable places to dispose of large household items. If the county is already spending money cleaning up illegal dumping, we should evaluate whether structured disposal sites would be more efficient and cost-effective long term.”

Center supports well-funded public schools in Hamblen County.

“Education is one of the county’s most important responsibilities. However, funding should be transparent and planned carefully,” he said. “Early collaboration between the County Commission and School Board can help prevent last-minute funding pressures and ensure resources are allocated responsibly.”

Center said that citizens who attend County Commission meetings should be treated with respect.

“One of my greatest concerns after attending Commission meetings is what appears to be a lack of respect for citizens who attend,” Center said. “When residents show up, they are there because they care about their community. Too often their concerns feel dismissed. Disagreement is part of government, but respect should always be present.

“If elected, I will listen, ask questions, and treat every citizen with professionalism. People should leave meetings feeling heard — even if the final vote does not go their way. In addition, I plan to hold community meetings at our venue before the votes go in. A place where any and all concerns can be heard.”

Center is advocating change in the County Commission.

“Hamblen County needs change. Government should work for the people, not operate above them,” he said. “Too often, votes appear settled before meaningful discussion begins. In my view, only a small number of commissioners consistently challenge spending decisions and demand deeper review. District 8 deserves a representative who will evaluate every issue independently and vote based on what is best for residents. I plan to hold community meeting for the residents in my district. If elected my voice will always be the voice of the residents.

“My goal is simple: disciplined budgeting, infrastructure accountability, support for public safety and schools, improved public works access, and no tax increases. Budget, budget, budget!”

Center reminded voters that the last day to register to vote is April 6.