Republicans elected to council

Nancy Fogle (R), Opal Sutherlin (R) and Larry Parker (R) won their bids for Putnam County Council At-Large Tuesday.

Fogle -- who won the most votes -- said she was motivated to run for office because "as a property owner and a realtor, I have always been interested in keeping property taxes under control."

That is not an easy task with prices on supplies being expensive, she added.

Fogle's plan to ensure county tax dollars are spent responsibly is to stay within the budget and not approve any additional spending except on an emergency basis. She stands in favor of supporting some organizations such as the Putnam County Humane Society, Away Home Shelter and Senior Center.

Fogle previously served on the county council from 1993 to 2004 and likes to be involved in the community.

Sutherlin's decision to run for county council was due to wanting to be a part and a voice in seeing the community succeed and grow for her children, grandchildren and all the residents of Putnam County.

"I knew it would be a big turnout (Tuesday) and it was a good race. I am excited and proud to be a member of the council," she said after the results of the race were tallied.

She said her knowledge in dealing with day-to-day problems, working with people, meeting schedules and working on budgets will help in the county council.

Her position on how to spend county tax dollars responsibly is to look at how the money is being spent and cut any unnecessary spending. She feels it is important to be "extra cautious when approving all budgets."

"I believe council members should be more visible in the court house and in the community with the office holders, to gain a better understanding of how they operate. This I feel will be valuable information when approving each department's budget," she said.

Sutherlin too is in favor of giving financial support to the humane society, Away Home Shelter and Senior Center.

"I remember when we supported these agencies and the council had to make some difficult decisions and make cuts," she acknowledged.

Sutherlin has 14 years experience in county government.

"Thank you to the voters who voted for me. I will work for them," she declared.

Parker came in third in votes.

Also in the race were Democrats Bette Bertram and Dale Pierce, who finished fourth and fifth, respectively.