Sheriff, Tax Commissioner Races Will Be Hotly Contested

DAWSONVILLE, Ga. — The three local races that have attracted the most interest in Dawson County this year are County Commission Chairman, Sheriff and Tax Commissioner where a total of nine candidates will campaign.

Sheriff Billy Carlisle, who has been Dawson County’s top cop for 18 years, will not seek reelection. Chairman Michael Berg, who has devoted nearly half his life to public service has announced his retirement and Tax Commissioner Linda Townley, who has served the county for 12 years, said she is leaving to spend more time with her family.
Their departure creates opportunities for others to serve. Billy Thurmond and Peter Hill have tossed their hats into the ring to vie for County Commission Chairman.

Four veteran law enforcement officers will battle it out for Sheriff. Tony Wooten is an 18-year veteran of the Dawson Sheriff’s Office. Jeff Perry has 26 years experience, serving the last 18 as a parole officer. Jeff Johnson has nearly 23 years of experience in both a sheriff’s office and police department and Frank Sosebee has 32 years experience. He is currently the chief of security at the Hall County Correctional Institute.

Townley’s departure has attracted three potential replacements, Karin McGee, Johnny Glass and Nicole Stewart
District 4 County Commissioner Julie Hughes Nix, who seeks her fourth term in office, has drawn one challenger in Heather Hulsebus.

Incumbent Board of Education members Elaine Wilson, Roger Slaton and Doris Cook will return to office without opposition and so will long time Coroner Ted Bearden.