Two Bradley County commissioners will not seek re-election

Sunday, September 29, 2013

photo Bradley County Commissioner Ed Elkins
Arkansas-Ole Miss Live Blog

CLEVELAND, Tenn. - Bradley County Commissioners Ed Elkins and J. Adam Lowe have announced they will not seek re-election in 2014.

In a recent meeting, Lowe, who holds one of the two seats for the 4th District, discussed his decision.

"Though there is another year of work ahead for us, I am well aware of the looming campaign season and want to provide ample opportunity for consideration for those interested in seeking this seat," he said. "Any smart candidate will need time to meet [the people of the 4th District] and develop the same dialogue with them I have been blessed to have."

Lowe, who was elected in 2010, said the three years of his four-year term have been "potent."

His district has faced two cycles of tornadoes, the resignation of Commissioner Howard Thompson in 2011 and a special election to fill the vacancy, Lowe said. He cited multiple challenges the County Commission has dealt with in the last three years, including efforts to expand Bradley County Fire & Rescue, resolve longstanding legal battles with Cleveland and create a plan to renovate Lake Forest Middle School.

For the immediate future, Lowe said, he is keeping focus on his work as a county commissioner, his education and his business, GravelRoad Entertainment LLC.

"I am always seeking the best way to serve my community whether in business, in career or civic service," he said. "In some capacity, I will be here, working for the betterment of our area."

Elkins, who holds a seat in the 1st District, has said on a few occasions this summer that he will not seek re-election. He first was elected in 2006 and has served two terms on the commission.

Although he has been able to accomplish some things for the county, it is time for another person to step into the role, he said.

Petition forms will be available for prospective county commission candidates on Nov. 22, according to the Bradley County Election Administrator's Office. Petitions must be returned to that office by noon on Feb. 20.

Petitioning candidates must receive 25 signatures of registered voters who reside in the district they want to represent.

Primary elections will be May 6 and general elections will be Aug. 7.

Paul Leach is based in Cleveland. Email him at paul.leach.press@gmail.com.