Your Questions, Their Answers Election 2026

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 Executive candidates.

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

Please explain what you know about the role you wish to fulfill.

KYLE GOFF: The County Executive serves as the chief executive officer of the County. I understand this role from my 8 years as CEO of the YMCA. Additionally, after over 5 years on the County Commission, serving as chairman of the commission and chairman of budget committee, I know how to step into this role and lead from day me.

This person is responsible for all offices within the county that do not have an elected official, appointing and leading department heads. This person is responsibility for the overall culture among the county employment system, as everything rises and falls with leadership.

In partnership with the County Commission, the Executive is responsible for creating and managing the county budget. They should lead all facets of the county government, including managing property, overseeing projects, maintenance and infrastructure.

The executive is also the catalyst tor long term strategic planning and vision casting. This position should have the ability to engage others in a shared meaning, giving a distinctive, compelling, respected voice and providing adaptive competency in the role.

The executive is responsible for the overall economic health of the county. They serve as the representative for economic development. The executive is responsible marketing the county, leveraging its assets, building connections and making points of communication to recruit businesses.

The County Executive represents the County on the state and federal level, lobbying for its best interest. This person must understand the needs of the county better than anyone and work to fill those gaps.

PENNY WHALEY: I know that the County Executive position is to be the administrative officer for the county focusing on key areas such as promote growth, infrastructure, education and government efficiency.  The Executive manages county services, overseeing budget and reviewing economic impact that proposal will have on the county , as well as represents the county on various boards. 

JOE HALLUMS: This role is extremely important for all the citizens of White County. It is a business management position but more so a Servants role to the community. You must have the citizens’ best interests in mind when making decisions. In doing this, first you must be willing to listen to the citizens, second consider all information and options, before acting. This is a high-level leadership role that must be willing to work with all the county department managers strategically and effectively.

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