Your questions, their answers Election 2026

The Main Street Journal – Sparta has been listening to the community. Over the past several weeks, readers have submitted questions they want answered ahead of the 2026 election—and we’ve taken those directly to your County Commission candidates.

Here is your first question, and answers from those candidates who chose to respond.

What do you believe are the duties of a White County District Commissioner? 

BRYAN COLE: A District Commissioner’s primary duty is to represent the people of their district by making informed, reponsible decisions on budgets, policies, and county operations. This includes overseeing taxpayer dollars, supporting essential services like public safety and infrastructure, and ensuring transparency in government. Just as important is listening – being accessible and responsive to constituents and serving as their voice in county decisions.

ANDY DAVIS: First and foremost, you have to be willing to show up. As a commissioner the people have entrusted you to do a job and that means being present in order to best represent them. Showing up is half the battle.

A commissioner has to be willing to listen more than talk. God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason. It’s only through listening to neighbors and the people they represent that a commissioner can understand the issues and needs facing community.

Lastly, it’s the duty of a commissioner to speak up on behalf of their constituents. They can’t be afraid to speak up and represent the needs of their district.

As a commissioner I pledge to show up, listen up, and speak up.

ERICK DILDINE: I believe the role of a White County District Commissioner is to serve the people with honesty, accountability, and a heart for the community. For me, that responsibility is guided by my faith in God and a strong belief that leadership should always be about doing what’s right for others.

First and foremost, a commissioner is there to represent their district to listen, to be present, and to make sure the voices of the people are heard when decisions are made. Not just a rubber stamp. That means showing up, not just at meetings, but out in the community, understanding real concerns and real needs.

A commissioner is also responsible for helping manage the county’s budget and making sure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely. Every decision should be made with care, knowing it directly impacts hardworking families, businesses, and the future of our county. It’s about being fiscally responsible, planning ahead, and making sure we’re living within our means , because if I ran my house budget the way our government sometimes runs theirs, my wife would’ve fired me a long time ago.

The role also includes working alongside other commissioners and county leaders to make decisions on infrastructure, growth, and long-term planning. Not everyone will always agree, but it’s important to stay focused on what’s best for the county as a whole and to work together to find solutions.

My faith plays a big role in how I approach this position. I believe we are called to serve others, lead with integrity, and treat people with respect. That’s the mindset I will bring into this role every day.

At the end of the day, the duty of a commissioner is simple: serve the people, stay accountable, and help build a stronger future for White County.

DERRICK HUTCHINGS: We are the legislative body of the county government. Our number one priority is to pass a budget & be the voice of our constituents. Beyond that, we set the county tax rate, oversee public health & safety, such as emergency services, and parks & recreation.

The Main Street Journal - Sparta's 2026 Election Coverage is brought to you by Tennessee Credit.