MOUNT VERNON — Issues of hydrofracking, new taxes, program cuts, voter ID and the right to bear arms were among the issues addressed Thursday evening when the Knox County 912 Patriots Group hosted a “Meet the Candidates” session at the Knox County Career Center. Candidates for Knox County Commissioner and 68th District State Representative gave their stance on pressing topics and answered questions from those in attendance.
Attending as candidates for county commissioner were Republicans Shirley Fletcher, Thom Collier and Tim Smith. Choosing not to attend was Democrat John Booth who is running unopposed in the March primary.
Fletcher voiced her concern on hydrofracking, a topic which has received much press as of late. “My main concern is the county doesn’t seem to have enough control. I am in favor of money, but not at the expense of compromising the environment,” said Fletcher.
She voiced her support for the county cat shelter. “That place is nice, and it’s been run like it’s originally meant to be run.”



