DODGE CITY, Ala. – As the Aug. 25, 2020 Municipal Election approaches, The Tribune is holding Q&A sessions between candidates.
In Dodge City, voters will be choosing their next mayor. Dodge City native Gerald Turner, better known as Cullman Middle School’s head football coach, is challenging incumbent Mayor Tawana Canada, who is seeking a third full term.
Why did you choose to run in the 2020 election?
Canada: “There are some things I’m hoping we can see through, for one thing, a red light at (Alabama Highway) 69 and (County Road) 216. We are working with the State and hoping eventually we’ll meet the warrants and get that red light; I’d like to see that through. We’re growing as a town slowly, but steadily, and I’d like to see that continue to grow, and being mayor is an interesting job. You don’t just sit in the office all day every day; I may be at the senior center or at the park, or following one of the workers on the tractor or I may be filling in for (Dodge City Town Clerk) Vicki (Ogletree). It’s not just a “sit in the office” job; it’s a full-time job. I love Dodge City, that’s the main reason.”
Turner: “I have lived in the Dodge City community all of my life. I decided to run for mayor this year to do more to help Dodge City come together as a community. I would like to see some positive change and collaboration; we can accomplish so much more in our community if we can work together and form positive relationships. I plan on living in this city with my family for a long time and I want to play an active role in making sure Dodge City is a great place for the community and children here as they grow.”
What would you like to do for Dodge City if re-elected/elected?
Canada: “Work on the red light I mentioned is the main thing; we need it desperately. Like I mentioned, we are in the talks. We have got that started, we’re asking for traffic studies, we’ve talked to (Alabama Department of Transportation Director) Mr. (John) Cooper about it. That is one of the main things. It’s my most asked question: ‘When will we be able to get a red light (on 69 and 216)?’ Hwy. 69 is of course a state-governed road, and we’d have to wait until they’re willing to work with us.”
Turner: “There are several projects that have been mentioned by community members. I want to bring new ideas and projects to the community that will make it a safer and cleaner place to raise and grow a family. I know other officials that I can connect with to help bring more opportunities to the area to help the local community with employment. Our community deserves the best around here, and I want to be instrumental in bringing about positive changes to help everyone.”
Are there any specific projects you’d like to work on if re-elected/elected?
Canada: “The red light at Hwy. 69 and County Road 216- I can’t stress enough how much it’s needed than from what I’ve already shared.”
Turner: “I want to address the current, dangerous intersection at S&S Foods: County Road 216 and State Highway 69. A new study needs to be conducted to possibly get a caution light for the safety of everyone. It is very difficult to pull onto 69 from either direction. We have a lot of elderly people who are afraid to visit our local businesses due to the concerns of pulling onto Hwy. 69 in the area. I would also like to improve the safety in the community by adding additional lighting along the highways and exit ramps. Additional lighting at the exit will attract more people to come and shop in our businesses at night and deter criminals. The current lighting is outdated, and new, efficient and brighter lights will upgrade the town’s appearance.
“Finally, I am a good steward of financial obligations and understand that our taxpayers want a mayor that is a good steward of their tax money. I intend to be efficient with taxpayers’ money and use it to the best of my ability to find resources that do not place a burden on our community. I will find and apply for numerous federal grants that are available for upgrades, new resources and new activities for our children and families.”
Why do you think the people of Dodge City should vote for you?
Canada: “I am the candidate that is willing to be here full-time. I’m willing to be here to work with the seniors, the park and our employees.”
Turner: “I am a graduate of Good Hope High School and Athens State College. I have lived in Dodge City all of my life. I have been a successful businessman throughout my life, working hard to provide for my family. I have worked in education for 15 years as a teacher and coach. I understand working as a team and collaborating with people. I am married to Dr. Janet Turner, assistant principal at Holly Pond High School, and have three sons, Kyle, Colton and Houston, and four grandchildren. My parents, Earl and Eunice, loved this community, and I want to make it the best so others will want to live here and love it, too. I intend to be available for the community and lead the community in positive growth and development that will help our community members and the children in this area. I want our community to thrive so that individuals can live here, grow here and raise their families in a safe place here. I respectfully ask for everyone’s vote on Aug. 25.”
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