Jimmy Hooper has announced that he plans to run for chairman of the Banks County Board of Commissioners.
In a letter to citizens announcing his intentions, Hooper wrote: “Many of you will ask why I am announcing my intentions so early. My answer is that I want to have enough time to meet every person living in Banks County. I intend to shake your hand and ask about your concerns. I want to be able to do this before the Republican primary on July 31.”
Hooper worked for three decades as a principal in the Banks County School System.
“I always took great pride in knowing the names of every student enrolled in school,” he said. “I want to have that same feeling after I campaign this summer. I look forward to renewing friendships with former students, parents and teachers. For people who do not know me, I look forward to meeting you and getting to know your concerns.”
Hooper said that he has dedicated the majority of his adult life trying to help the people of Banks County.
“I have firsthand knowledge and understanding of Banks County from past to present,” he said. I understand the needs and desires of our families as we look to do the very best we can to improve our lives. I am not a professional politician and I have never sought any public office, but I do know how to be an effective leader.”
As for Hooper’s goals and plans for the future of the county, he states: “A few are to provide and maintain quality leadership, to see quality services provided to the citizens in the county, to provide efficient and effective government at the local level. I know how to do more with less. I think we need a county government that is open to input, nothing hidden from the public and maximum use of every tax dollar. I pledge and promise to work as diligently in leading our county as I did for 30 years when educating our children. My motto from the first day I take office will be: ‘The most important person in Banks County is you!”
Hooper and his wife of 40 years, Kathleen Benton Hooper, have two children, Frances “Fran” Hooper Whitlock and Wyatt Hooper. They have six grandchildren, Lydia, 8; John Michael, 7; Katie, 5; William, 2; Matthew, 2; and Isabella, four months.
Hooper is a graduate of Maysville Elementary School, Commerce High School, Gainesville College and the University of Georgia. He has a bachelor’s degree in history, a master’s degree in both education and administration and a specialist degree in supervision.
Hooper has served on several boards, including: vice chairman of BJC Hospital Authority, board of directors Habersham County Federal Credit Union, boards of directors Northeast Georgia Girl Scourts, Masons, Kiwanis, founding member of Maysville Athletic Booster Club, founding member of Generous Hearts, past member of Banks County Athletic Booster Club and Georgia Mountain Official Association (30 years).
Hooper is a member of Commerce First United Methodist Church, where he has served as past chairman of the Administrative Council/usher chairman, past chair and current member pastor/parish committee, past member of finance committee/long range planning, Sunday School teacher/superintendent and Gideon.
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