I, Kendall Mark McClinton, would like to announce my candidacy for the office of District 3 Supervisor, Pearl River County.

I am a life-long resident of Pearl River County being raised in the McNeill/Sones Chapel community. I live in Poplarville with my son, Josh, who attends the Poplarville school system.

I am the son of Frank and Carolyn McClinton, the grandson of Alene McClinton and the late Frank McClinton Sr., and of the late Oscar and Carrie Smith Stockstill.

I am a graduate of the University of Southern Mississippi with a Bachelor of Science Degree, Pearl River Community College, and Pearl River Central High School.

I am employed by Computer Sciences Corporation as a computer systems administrator at NASA Stennis Data Center. My previous positions include data processing manager for Pearl River County, which I served for six years, and electronics technology instructor for Pearl River Community College.

I am an active member of Serenity Baptist Church in the Whitesand Community.

Pearl River County faces many challenging opportunities today and in the future. The office of supervisor is very important in that they make decisions that affect every citizen in the county. First, the amount of tax dollars that are levied upon the taxpayers and the way those tax dollars are spent is the primary responsibility of the Board of Supervisors. Taxpayers should have the confidence that every penny of every dollar is spent in the most effective and efficient manner.

Next, economic development should be at the top of the list of priorities. Good training, good jobs and good pay means that our children and grandchildren will not only be able to stay at home and work locally, but will also have the tax base in place where the burden on them and future generations will be lighter. Citizens should have someone representing them that understands how important economic development is to the present and future generations.

Last, but definitely not least, the quality of life that we enjoy here in Pearl River County should be cherished. Decisions concerning rules, regulations, permits, codes and services should be made with a careful and concerned thoughtfulness. We should always be mindful that every rule or regulation that is established affects the lives of the citizens of Pearl River County. Decisions should be made that will not only protect the quality of life that we enjoy so much now, but prepare and plan for the future in a manner that will assure that our families will have the opportunity to live and prosper in Pearl River County. Residents should have someone that will provide this vision and guidance.

I am the person that understands the importance of these very issues and the many challenges ahead with a growing and prosperous county. I ask that you allow me to represent you. I ask that on Aug. 7 you vote for me, Kendall McClinton, Republican candidate for Supervisor District 3.