Meet county commission candidate Jim Thomas

On Jan.14 two men will face-off for the County Commissioner seat no. 2.

Both candidates Jason Shanks and Jim Thomas are republicans.

Seat no. 2 represents Newkirk, and works along side the Ponca City and Blackwell representatives.

Current seat holder, Steve Austin is stepping down.

I spoke with Jim Thomas, who is a lifelong Kay County, district 2 resident.

He told me what he views as important.

“One of the priorities right now in my eyes is getting the roads and bridges up-to-date and working with the other two commissioners to keep a balanced budget, and governing over our county," Thomas said. "Stop wasteful spending.”

He said roads and bridges are important because it’s a farming community.

He would like to see bigger and wider bridges.

Thomas, father of two, Larin and Hunter said he has the qualities to be successful.

“I am a hard worker, goal oriented, work well with others," Thomas said. " Have some budget experience, as far as helping write the budget.”

We have not been able to schedule an interview with Jason Shanks.

The deadline to register to vote for this election has passed.