Russell County Commissioner Epps faces challenges in Dem primary

In a crowded field, longtime Russell County Commissioner Cattie Epps faces a challenge from two other Democrats in the March 1 primary for the District 5 seat.

Epps, 77, will battle newcomers Charles E. Hollowell, 67, and homebuilder Jeff Faircloth, 40, for the district seat that stretches from Phenix City south along Ala. 165 to Fort Mitchell. There is no Republican opposition for the seat in November.

Epps is seeking a fifth term on the seven-member commission after taking office in 2000.

"I want to continue to serve the people of District 5 and there are projects that we have that we have to continue," she said. "I feel that it would be an advantage to the district that I continue the projects to see other projects also get started at this time."

To improve the district, Epps said the entire board of commissioners is working to recruit industry to the region.

Hollowell wants to serve the district and use skills he honed at Aflac to get things done on the commission. "I grew up in this region and I know that I can bring my skills, experiences and abilities to the table to get things done," he said. "That is the bottom line. Folks want a sports complex. Let's find a way to get it done." Hollowell said he is now retired but remembers what he learned from Dan Amos, the chairman and chief executive officer of the supplemental insurer. "I feel that it's good timing for me," he said.

In his run for the office, Faircloth points to business experience and a different vision for the district.

"I'm looking forward to try and bring new businesses down here and try and hopefully expand it down here," he said. "I think we got just a few more things to really iron out to get some commercial business down here, to be honest with you."

More businesses will create revenue not only for Phenix City, but also for Russell County and the district, Faircloth said. Providing sewer service to industry in Fort Mitchell is among the issues in a district with 13 new subdivisions, Epps said. If the service is provided to industry, Epps said a study would follow to consider the service for residents. She also is concerned about the cost of service once it becomes available. "That is something else

I'm working for," she said. "I'm just praying it's going to happen."

Hollowell said roads and other infrastructure needs are at the top of his list but the district needs road improvements to Fort Benning. "We have a robust military presence," he said.

The district also needs a sports complex in the Fort Mitchell area, Hollowell said.

Faircloth agrees the district needs a recreation park for children.

With many women and men not available for their children, Faircloth also would like to see some mentors step up and work with children for soldiers serving the country.

With heavy traffic on Ala. 165, Faircloth said road widening is needed.

"There are a lot of complaints about wrecks down in Fort Mitchell, starting on 165," he said.

Epps said she would like to see more industry to help the growing region of the county.

"If we could get some industry out there, it would help on the tax base and it would help us do more," she said.

With almost four terms on the commission, Epps said the majority of roads is paved but some still need work. If possible, she could concentrate on roads used to get people to church and school.

"I want to keep those roads in good condition so it will be safe for children on the school bus," she said.

Hollowell said all the districts are tied together and that's how the commission should work -- together. "We've got to arrive at a vision for the entire community and I think that is well underway," he said.

Faircloth turned to social media to get ideas on veterans needs in the district.

"I'd like to see something for our veterans down here," he said.

"We've got Fort Benning. I'd like to have a memorial for our veterans on this side."

When it comes to keeping voters informed, Epps said her town hall meetings will continue if she's re-elected. Getting department heads from offices help to keep people informed on issues from taxes to public safety. She also has an open-door policy.

"I keep the voters informed," she said.

Recalling his service as a lieutenant in Vietnam, Hollowell described his actions as one of a visionary when the bombs were dropped. That's what voters can expect if he's elected to lead the district.

"People under my command knew exactly what to do," he said.

"What I'm saying is that from an aspect of being a visionary, that is what a visionary is about, the careful study of issues."

Faircloth said voters can expect one who is true, honest and fair.

He is looking at the best interests for District 5 if elected.

"It's not a competition on what district is better," he said. "It's a competition to ensure all of Russell County is better."

In his walks through the district, Faircloth said he made no promises on anything but will work hard to bring what District 5 needs.

"You got six more county commissioners you got to work with for Russell County," he said. "If anybody stands up and says, 'I can promise you this,' they are lying because they can't."

Epps said she has been fair and honest in representing the district and hopes to continue serving residents.

"They can call me anytime," she said. "I don't want them to serve me. I want to serve them."

Hollowell said he brings a vision, leadership and an attitude to work with other commissioners.

"I'm not perfect," he said. "If the people of the district elect me, they are going to have one hell of a commissioner."

If elected to the seat, Faircloth said it will be because people believe in him and his ability.

"It is strictly for the betterment of District 5," he said of his campaign. "We have lived down here for six years now."

This story was originally published February 24, 2016 at 9:58 PM with the headline "Russell County Commissioner Epps faces challenges in Dem primary ."