Assessor Bennett, Former Assessor Ramsey In Jetton Camp For Assessor Of Property

  • Saturday, August 29, 2015
Claude Ramsey speaks in favor of Sterling Jetton for assessor of property
Claude Ramsey speaks in favor of Sterling Jetton for assessor of property

Assessor of Property Bill Bennett and former Assessor Claude Ramsey recommended Sterling Jetton as the next assessor at a breakfast fundraiser at Wally's Restaurant in East Ridge on Saturday morning.

Mr. Jetton, who spent 27 years in the assessor's office, is running against County Commissioner Marty Haynes in the March 1 Republican primary.

Noting the political heavyweights present, Assessor Bennett said, "If I walked in this room and was told I had to run against this bunch, I believe I'd quit today."

Assessor Bennett said he earlier received a call from Mr. Ramsey, who went on to serve as county mayor and then deputy governor, who told him, "We don't need a train wreck. We've got a guy we need to help."

Assessor Bennett said when Mr. Jetton worked for him prior to retiring "I would send him out when we had problems. I knew he was going to tell me exactly the truth and work out the problems."

 Mr. Ramsey said of Mr. Jetton, "I never questioned his integrity or his honesty."

He said the office "takes a lot of staying power" as well as specialized knowledge. He said, "You're foolish if you think 27 years doesn't matter."

Mr. Ramsey said, "He'll work hard for you. I'm just overwhelmed to see the support he's got here."

Former state Rep. Bobby Wood said Assessors Ramsey and Bennett "brought prestige to the office statewide. We can't let it go backwards.

"It's easy to elect a person to just fill the office. But we have a person who has gone through six appraisal cycles. Sterling can hit the ground running."

Mr. Wood said, "Every home is affected by this office. Governments and businesses depend on the office for accurate information."

He said Mr. Jetton has served as a minister and chaplain, on a mission to Haiti, in the Big Brothers and Big Sisters and as a Little League coach.

Former City Councilwoman Marti Rutherford spoke from the audience that as a longtime realtor she depends on having a top-flight assessor operation.

Mr. Jetton, who said he grew up nearby in East Ridge with his mother and grandmother after his father left the family, spoke of those who have influenced him. He mentioned several coaches and teachers at Central High School.

He introduced his wife, Kay Hannah Jetton, who is the secretary at East Brainerd Elementary School, and their two sons.

Mr. Jetton said his opponent said he "wants to earn your trust." Mr. Jetton said, "I am battle tested. I didn't get my real estate license 30 days ago or take the test 45 days ago."

 

Candidate Jetton addresses crowd at Wally's Restaurant at East Ridge
Candidate Jetton addresses crowd at Wally's Restaurant at East Ridge
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