65 year-old Denise Jones, moved from New York to Statesboro in 2013, where she worked as a custodian in facility services at Georgia Southern University. Where she comes from, there are no county elections. There's only city, state, and national elections.
Moving down south, she got to know a lot more about small county elections and the impact they can have on the citizens living in those communities.
Now retired, Denise uses events like the recent Candidates Forum hosted by the Statesboro Alumnae Chapter and Xi Eta Chapters of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and local NAACP chapters in Bulloch County and Georgia Southern University to be better informed in the election season.
“I like early voting because of my age, and I take my civil duty very seriously,” Jones said. “I got a better understanding of what each candidate's position actually entails and what’s been going on in our community.”
Before, she wasn’t in a position to find out about candidates. Her only knowledge of candidates in local elections was primarily from information provided on their websites. This event allowed her the ability to know more about what each position candidates are running for entails, and she also got a better understanding of what this issues are in her community.
Read on to see more about the key responsibilities of contested seats in Bulloch County during this election. You can also read the biographies and priorities of the candidates who attended this forum. Additional candidates are covered here.
Positions and key responsibilities of contested race offices
Coroner
The Coroner's primary duty is to investigate and determine the cause and manner of death within their jurisdiction. Key responsibilities include:
- Conducting death scene investigations
- Identifying deceased individuals
- Determining cause and manner of death (natural, homicide, suicide, accident, etc.)
- Ordering autopsies and toxicology reports as needed
- Maintaining records and reporting death statistics
- Collaborating with law enforcement and medical professionals
- Providing death certificates and supporting documents
State Representative
A state representative serves as a legislator in the Georgia General Assembly, representing Bulloch County’s interests. Key responsibilities include:
- Proposing, debating, and voting on legislation affecting education, healthcare, infrastructure, economy, and public safety
- Allocating state funds and resources for local projects and initiatives
- Representing constituents’ concerts to pass bipartisan legislation
- Collaborating with colleagues to pass bipartisan legislation
- Participating in committee work, public hearings, and investigations
- Staying informed on state and national issues impacting the district
County Commissioner
County Commissioners serve as the chief elected officials overseeing Bulloch County’s government. Key responsibilities include:
- Budgeting and financial management
- Policy-making and decision-making
- Infrastructure development (roads, utilities, public facilities)
- Public safety (law enforcement, fire services, emergency management)
- Economic development and business attraction
- Healthcare and social services
- Education and community programs
- Land use planning and zoning
- Representing Bulloch county’s interest at state and regional levels
City Council
City Council members make policy decisions and to approve ordinances, resolutions, and other local legislation to govern the health, welfare, comfort, and safety of the city’s residents. Key responsibilities include:
- Setting city policies and ordinances
- Approving budgets and financial decision
- Understanding decisions impacts city departments (public works, police, fire, etc.)
- Planning and zoning decisions
- Economic development initiatives
- Community engagement and constituent services
- Collaborating with regional and state officials
The word 'change' was often used by candidates running for these specific positions and the ones that were represented at the candidates forum. Change is needed to continue moving our communities forward.
Below are the candidates running for specific positions and their platforms that were present at the forum.
Bulloch County Commissioner
District 1, Seat A
Ray Mosley (D)
BIO: Ray Mosley was born and raised in Bulloch County and attended the public schools of Bulloch County.He has spent more than 47 years in the manufacturing industry and retired August 31, 2024 from Brodie International (Brodie Meter LLC) as Manufacturing Manager.
Mosley is married to Odean Mosley and they have three children and four grandchildren. He and his family attend Banks Creek Primitive Baptist Church where he serves as the Chairman of the Deacon Ministry. His personal mission statement is to “live and work in a manner that will impact those around him in a positive way.”
Mosley was elected to serve as a Bulloch County Commissioner in 2012. Prior to being elected in 2012, Commissioner Mosley was appointed by Bulloch County’s Superior Court Judges in 2004 to serve six months of an unexpired term of Commissioner Gordon Alston who passed away February 29, 2004. He was later appointed to fill the unexpired term of Commissioner George Jackson March 16, 2010 by Bulloch County’s Superior Court Judges.
PRIORITIES: Ray Mosley is committed to ensuring that our law enforcement, fire department, and EMS teams have the resources they need to keep Bulloch County safe. As the county has grown, so have the demands on our first responders. Under Ray's leadership, the county has increased personnel and acquired the necessary equipment to meet these challenges head-on.
Ray Mosley is dedicated to improving Bulloch County’s roads and bridges, ensuring safe and reliable transportation for all residents. With nearly 700 miles of unpaved roads, the challenge is substantial, but progress is being made, even with the high cost of $450,000 per mile to pave dirt roads.
Ray Mosley believes that successful economic development in Bulloch County requires strong partnerships working together for the good of all citizens. Collaboration between the county, the City of Statesboro, the Bulloch County Development Authority (BCDA), Georgia Southern University, Ogeechee Technical College (OTC), and the Board of Education (BOE) has been instrumental in driving job growth and creating new opportunities in the region.
Ray understands the importance of job creation, especially given that Bulloch County’s poverty rate hovers between 20 and 22 percent. By fostering economic growth and attracting new businesses, these collective efforts are helping to lift families out of poverty and create a brighter future for all.
Ryan Brannen (R)
BIO: My name is Ryan Brannen. I'm running for County Commission seat 1-A. I'm a lifelong 5th generation farmer here in Bulloch county. My family and previous generations have lived in my district their whole lives. Ive served on local school boards. I am a member at First Baptist Statesboro serving on the safety team. I've farmed and ran other businesses since I was in high school. I feel like I have the common sense experience needed to put our citizens of our beautiful county first. Transparency and communication are key attributes that are important in the office I am seeking. Please, I would like to earn your vote. Thank you!
PRIORITIES: Upon election my priorities are simple. I want to figure out how we can minimize our tax rate hikes and still have businesses come to our beautiful county. Folks can't keep living on fixed incomes with inflation at an all time high and keep getting an increase in tax bills. I want to also figure out a plan moving forward to conserve our beautiful farmland. We like to praise farmers and our love for agriculture but then turn around and don't bat an eye at its demise. It's the elephant in the room. We also need to reevaluate our abatements for businesses moving in. We have a business environment in a rich county. They will come. That is just a few that are big but I hope to earn your vote and dive off head first into helping our county succeed. There are many candidates that are more than qualified to lead this county that are running against the incumbents. Thank you again and get out and vote!
Bulloch County Commissioner
District 2, Seat C
Leonard “Len” Fatica (D)
BIO:
- Gannon University - Business and Leadership Development
- Retired Director of Public Safety for Lucent Technologies
- Vice Chair of Planning and Zoning for City of Statesboro & Etna Township in Ohio
- Vice Chair of New Business Development for Etna Township, Ohio
Community Service has been a key part of my life serving in the following capacities:
- Chairman American Red Cross Erie County and NW PA Disaster chair, Served as a Disaster team member on a number of nationwide natural disasters.
- President of the Kiwanis Club of Erie, PA, Member of the Statesboro Kiwanis Club
- President of the Rotary Club in Reynoldsburg, OH and Secretary of Downtown Rotary Club of Statesboro
- Board Member of Habitat of Humanity Statesboro.
PRIORITIES: We are going to grow as a county very rapidly. We need to handle the growth in a professional matter and with a plan in place. We need the discipline to stick to the plan, and not vary from it without good cause. As we grow we have to remember that agriculture is a key business to this county and it needs to be preserved.
Growth will also put pressure on public safety so we need a pin point plan on how to meet that needs for the citizens of the county. It does not serve the citizens to have a long waiting period for EMS, police or fire. So it makes sense to have strategic locations for these services around the county. I thank you for your continued support of the community.
Nick Newkirk (R)
BIO: Nick Newkirk, a graduate of Effingham High in 1998 and Southern Tech in Marietta in 2002 with a degree in Construction Management, has over a decade of experience in utility contracting and land development. He opened Crazy Nick's Inflatables in 2009 and has several other small businesses. He and his wife, April, have been married for 20 years, they have four sons (17, 15, 9, and 4). Newkirk has served extensively in children's ministry and scouting, he volunteered for hurricane relief efforts, including Hurricane Ian in Florida, and coached various youth sports teams. He and his family have been in Bulloch County for over 20 years.
PRIORITIES: Newkirk advocates for lowering taxes without relying on increasing the tax digest. He believes a thorough review of each department is necessary to identify areas for potential budget reductions. Living within our means is essential, prioritizing spending based on necessities. Distinguishing between critical projects and those that can be deferred is vital. Simply raising taxes and increasing spending is not a sustainable solution in the long run.
Improving our road infrastructure is a priority for our county. Our current roads struggle to accommodate existing traffic, let alone the increasing volume we can expect with new developments and industry. Many major roads are prone to flooding during heavy rain, leading to dangerous driving conditions. Bulloch County's identity is deeply rooted in its farming heritage. Newkirk believes that preserving that heritage is crucial. He believes that we must actively support farmers to prevent the escalating costs and taxes of farmland from forcing them to sell. Our focus should be on maintaining active agriculture, safeguarding against the conversion of farmland into subdivisions and warehouses. We need to keep tractors in the fields.
Bulloch County Coroner
Craig Tremble
BIO: I am a proud Statesboro, Bulloch County native. I am a 1987 graduate of Southeast Bulloch High School, Brooklet, GA. I am also a 1991 graduate of Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Services in Atlanta, GA, receiving a degree in Funeral Services. I received my license as Funeral Director and Embalmer that same year. I received a certificate in Theology from Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, GA on May 11, 2012. I also received my associate degree in biblical studies from Guido Bible Institute in Metter, GA on August 22, 2015. I received my B.S. degree in Biblical Studies from Guido Bible College in Metter, GA on August 18, 2018. I am also a Partner with Creflo Dollar Ministries of College Park, GA. I presently serve as Pastor of Second Saint John Missionary Baptist Church, where I have been pasturing faithfully for the last 28 years.
I have diligently served as Deputy Coroner for 27 years. For the past 23 years, I served as Chief Deputy Coroner under the leadership of former Coroner Jake A. Futch.
I enjoy working for community-focused organizations and building strategic alliances with public and private organizations. My affiliations are with the Georgia Funeral Service Practitioners Association, where I served as Chaplain, Georgia Funeral Directors Association, former Chairman of the First District of the Georgia Funeral Service Practitioners Association, Inc. (GFSPA), a member of Georgia Funeral Directors Association, Georgia Coroners Association. I served the Statesboro-Bulloch Parks and Recreation Department as a recreation advisory committee member, Chairman of the Advisory Board for the Funeral Service program at Ogeechee Technical College. I also serve as Chaplain for the Statesboro police Department and Georgia’s Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security, and Deputy Coroner with the Bulloch County Coroner’s Office. I am a member of the National Funeral Directors and Morticians Association, Bulloch County Branch and Bryan County Branch of NAACP, Statesboro Ministerial Association, Brotherhood Community Fishing Auxiliary, Academy of Graduate Embalmers of Georgia, Inc., Kiwanis Club of Statesboro, 100 Black Men of Funeral Service, Epsilon Nu Delta Mortuary Fraternity, Alpha Omega Chapter. I am a member of the Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice. I am a 2016 Dean’s Day Awards Recipient for Community Service. I was appointed Deputy Coroner on October 1, 1997 by Coroner Barry Turner.
I have served as Deputy Coroner for 27 years. For the past 23 years, I served as Chief Deputy Coroner under the leadership of former Coroner Jake A. Futch.
PRIORITIES: If elected as the next Bulloch County Coroner, I will continue to diligently serve the citizens of Bulloch County and move the office forward with experience, compassion and care.
My priorities for this office is to be open and transparent with all citizens; assuring them that I am working on their behalf to find the cause of death for their loved one. My goal is to help bring awareness to the community about gun violence and the effects of fentanyl abuse. Under my leadership, as Coroner of Bulloch County, I will be an advocate for the community and educate citizens on many issues.
Statesboro City Council
District 1
John Grotheer
BIO: John Grotheer, who is retired, has a background that includes working 20 years with City and County government as a City Clerk, Department Head of Administration, Finance Director, and Interim County Administrator.
His experience includes financial administration, customer service, and working with citizens and business leaders in the community, as well as local and state governmental officials at various agencies. He says this speaks to his belief in the importance of collaboration among local officials to establish priorities and set goals for the betterment of the community.
He is married to Dr. Diane Drew-Grotheer.
PRIORITIES: Grotheer says he would be honored to serve as City Council Member District 1 and if given the opportunity, will give the public his commitment to listen and be their voice as we all work together to plan for a better future, preserve the character and charm of our beautiful City, and maintain the quality of life in our great City of Statesboro.
Tangie Johnson
BIO: Tangie Reese Johnson currently serves as the Coordinator for Records and Compliance in the Office of Human Resources at Georgia Southern University. In this role, she ensures that the university’s records and compliance practices meet the highest standards.
From 2010 to 2017, she was a police officer, which she says demonstrates her unwavering commitment to public safety and community well-being.
Active in her faith community, Johnson is a member of the United Fellowship Worship Center, and she is co-chair of the Statesboro Housing Authority, where she works to improve local housing conditions and foster community development.
She is married to Chadwick Johnson and is a loving mother of three.
PRIORITIES: Johnson says her life is a testament to her values of service, encouragement, and motivation. She believes her willingness to help others and her role as a community-oriented advocate make her a cherished asset to both her local community and her professional environment.
State House of Representatives
District 158
Madeline Ryan Smith
BIO: Madeline Ryan Smith is a native Georgian, born in Savannah. In 1997, Madeline was adopted by her parents, along with her older brother. Raised in a politically and religiously diverse family, Madeline was taught the value of honesty, communication, responsibility and above all, respect and love for your fellow human. Motivated for practical change in our world, Madeline Ryan Smith has set her standards high, and will not stop fighting until we have become a state that can lead by example into 2024.
Madeline is not waiting until she has been elected to begin creating these changes. Nominated in 2022 as the Vice Chair of Communications for the Bulloch County Democratic Committee, Madeline Ryan Smith is helping to generate change within her community by bridging the gap between residents and the party. By echoing the voices of Bulloch County residents, Madeline is helping to ensure that the party is always working in the best interest of the community.
In 2023, Madeline Ryan Smith was elected as the Disability Caucus Chair of the Democratic Party of Georgia. This position will help Madeline further advocate for the disability community throughout the state of Georgia. Madeline Ryan Smith is passionate about disability rights and due to the long term effects of Covid-19, the disability community is growing rapidly and is in dire need of representation.
For her, running for this office means a chance for change, for growth, and to bring new life into rural Georgia. Through supporting our public education system, our family farms and expanding access to healthcare, District 158 can count on Madeline to give a voice to rural Georgia in the Gold Dome, and ensure all of her community members have opportunity for success and prosperity.
Issues & Political Concerns
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Agriculture
- Supporting Local Farms
- Learn More
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Criminal Justice Reform
- Reforming our Prison System
- Learn More
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Disability Policy
- Welcome to the Jungle
- Learn More
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Education
- For a Better Future
- Learn More
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The Environment
- Let's take care of Mother Earth
- Learn More
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Gun Control
- Enough is Enough
- Learn More
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Handling Covid-19
- Acting with Common Sense
- Learn More
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Healthcare
- A Bottom-Up Approach
- Learn More
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Law Enforcement
- Reallocation of Funding and a New Look at Department Policy
- Learn More
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The LGBTQ Community
- Love is Love
- Learn More
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Women's Reproductive Healthcare
- Is a Constitutional Right
- Learn More
This coming week is the LAST WEEK FOR EARLY VOTING in Bulloch County. See times and locations to early vote below.
Bulloch County North Main Annex (113 N. Main St.)
- Tuesday, October 15-Friday, November 1, 2024, Monday through Friday from 8am-5pm
- October 26, Saturday from 9am-5pm
GS BIG's Entrepreneurship Innovation Incubator (former Plunderosa building; 64 East Main St.)
- October 28-November 1 (Mon.-Fri.) from 8am-5pm each day at the
You may vote at any of these locations during early voting, no matter your election day precinct. If you do not cast your ballot at an early voting location by November 1, you must vote at your polling precinct on November 5.
Check out all the information you need here to make your plan to VOTE!
