Friday, July 18, 2003

Edwards backs former commissioner for chairman

By JOHN THOMPSON
jthompson@TheCitizenNews.com

The race is on.

Last week's announcement by Fulton County Commission Chairman Mike Kenn that he was resigning from the commission and heading up a transportation agency left heads reeling from downtown Atlanta to South Fulton County.

South Fulton's Commissioner Bill Edwards categorically denied this week that he would seek out the chairman's post, but already knows who he is supporting.

"I'm throwing everything I have behind Karen Webster," he said.

Webster left the commission last year after getting married. Commissioner Rob Pitts was elected to fill Webster's post.

Pitts and Commissioner Tom Lowe have also made noises about jumping in the race.

The county commission chairman is elected county-wide. If an existing commissioner chooses to run for the post Nov. 4, he would have to vacate his post.

Edwards and Kenn were often at odds during commission meetings, but Edwards had some kind words for the outgoing commissioner.

"I wish him the best. He's good at transportation issues and this should suit him perfectly."

Candidates have until Aug. 27 to sign up for the chairman's race.

Kenn's last meeting as chairman was Wednesday.