MOUNT VERNON — Thom Collier announced that he is a candidate in the March 6 Republican Primary for Knox County Commissioner, for the term commencing Jan. 3, 2013. This seat will fill the position soon to be vacated by Allen Stockberger.
“I have been deeply involved in the community for many years and am looking forward to serving the public as county commissioner. I will continue to be responsive to the people of Knox County and committed to fiscal responsibility,” Collier said.
Over the past 30 years, Collier has been active in a number of local organizations including his church, American Cancer Society, Care Net, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Junior Achievement, Toastmasters, Marriage Encounter, National Speakers Association; and served on the local, district and national boards for the national Exchange Club. Among other accolades, Collier has received recognition for his community service to Jaycees’ Distinguished Service Award, Big Brothers/Big Sisters’ Big Brother of the Year Award and Modern Woodmen of America’s Community Service Award.
After being elected to Mount Vernon City Council in the 3rd Ward, Collier served four terms in the Ohio House of Representatives before being term limited in 2008. While in the state Legislature, Collier served as chairman of the Economic Development and Environment Committee, and served on numerous other committees including: Agriculture, Local Government, Commerce and Labor, Ways and Means.
“During my time in the Legislature, I worked closely with county commissioners and township trustees around the state. I understand issues facing our county and want to be a part of a team of commissioners that will lead us into the future. As a lifelong resident, I want to protect the rural nature of Knox County while also using my experience to enhance the economic opportunities here,” Collier stated.
In 2003, Collier received the designation of Henry Toll Fellow, which is the highest nationwide designation for the Council of State Governments. The Henry Toll Fellow designation is earned by less than 50 state government officials across the country annually, from all three branches of government. Collier also completed the Bowhay Institute for Legislative Leadership in 2001, and received numerous awards during his time of service, including the Outstanding Service to Agriculture from the Knox County Farm Bureau and was twice awarded the Watchdog of the Treasury Award by the United Conservatives of Ohio.
Collier is a top producing Realtor with Real Living Home Team Real Estate and a property management specialist. He provides speaking and consulting services for organizations and corporations through Right-Side Up LLC.
Collier resides in Mount Vernon with his wife, Diane, and their two daughters, Cathern and Natoli.