Dear Residents of Franklin County,
We have started this journal as a source of information for the residents of our county. We intend to showcase stories of human interest, provide transparency in government, entertain, and most importantly, inform. We hope it becomes a valuable resource in your life.
Hi, I’m Russell Bottoms, and I’m running in District 3 to become your County Commissioner. Since this is our first post, I’d like to tell you a little about myself.
My Family
I’ve been married to my lovely wife, Amber, for 20 years. We have two beautiful, energetic, and adventurous children. We have lived in Franklin County our entire lives; it’s our home. Amber works as a reading interventionist with Franklin County Schools, and both our children attend traditional public school in Franklin County.
Community Service
I have spent my entire adult life serving the citizens of Franklin County. I’ve been a volunteer firefighter for 26 years, a past President of the National Wild Turkey Federation, the Chairman of the Animal Services Advisory Board, and have assisted with countless community fundraisers. Those of you who know me personally know that service to others is a significant component of my character.
Passion for Franklin County
I recently retired from the fire department because I believe Franklin County can do better. I also believe that as a resident, I have an obligation to ensure that, as a county, we do better.
Like most of our residents, we love the rural, agricultural lifestyle, our small-town community, and the friendliness of neighbors. I’m sure many of you have realized that Franklin County is changing before your very eyes, sometimes in ways that do not align with the quality-of-life aspects that define why we live here.
My family has lived in this county since the 1700s. I have an obligation to those who came before me, as well as to my wife and children, and one day, if blessed by God, my grandchildren, to help guide Franklin County into the future.
I care very deeply about my neighbors, the residents of Franklin County. Our residents define our community. Community is the essence, the heartbeat, and the soul of our quality of life.
County Commissioner
Like many areas surrounding larger cities, Franklin County is facing many challenges beyond maintaining our way of life due to urban sprawl. It wasn’t that long ago that our children were sitting on school buses in masks, attending classes due to Covid, and lacking high-speed internet access in our homes. This is unacceptable to me.
Friends, we have challenges ahead of us. From inadequate EMS coverage, managing growth, creating jobs, educational funding, and water issues, to name just a few. I can assure you that I take all of these issues seriously and will do my best to implement intelligent, long-term, fiscally responsible solutions.
My Leadership Style
As a businessman and cattle rancher, I’ve learned a few things about decision-making. I’m a listener. I want to hear from you. We may not always agree, but your voice will be heard. If we don’t agree, I will explain to you the logic of my decision, and we may still disagree. In such a case, I expect that we can remain friends. And if I make bad decisions, you can vote me out of office. I won’t hold it against you because, in that event, I obviously didn’t do the best job possible.
I’m a fact-based leader. A big part of my success in business is a result of doing my homework, gathering facts, and researching issues. I contemplate before I act. I explore the short- and long-term consequences of my decisions and how those decisions impact the well-being of our residents. It’s also important that my decisions reflect my values and that I remain true to my principles, morality, and ethical beliefs.
When I make a decision and cast my vote on your behalf as your County Commissioner, rest assured that I’ve done everything in my power based on all the information and facts available to me at that time to make the best decision for our residents and the future of Franklin County.
Conclusion
I’m not a politician. I’m not going to tell you what I think you want to hear. I’ve never spoken out of both sides of my mouth, and I’m not about to start doing so now simply to get your vote.
A county is a community. A community is our residents. I’m asking for your help. I’m asking for your vote to continue to make Franklin County strong.
Thank you!