Ed Shouse continues our County Commission interview series. He is running for Knox County Commissioner 4B.
1. Introduce yourself to Knoxville, who are you, and why are you running?
I am 57 years old; I came to Knoxville (from Birmingham) in 1970 to attend UT, got a job, worked my way through school and never left. I worked over 18 years in the banking industry and the last 16 years in the railroad business. I recently retired as a Vice-President from Gulf & Ohio Railways, a local company that runs the Knoxville & Holston River Railroad, a 20 mile shortline railroad here in Knoxville that delivers over 6,000 carloads a year. My public service includes being a member of the Knoxville City Council, where I chaired the Audit Committee for 6 years and served on the City Investment Committee (which invests the City’s surplus funds). Like most Knoxvillians, I am tired of the self dealing actions of our County Commission. I feel that there should be a strong ethics policy that restricts nepotism and forbids Knox County employees from being members of the County Commission. I have lived in the 4th district for over 30 years. I am married and my wife and I have a 10 year old son who attends Bearden Elementary. Thanks for your interest in our community and in better government.
2. We think it’s better knowing what not to do rather than having an extensive plan. What areas or interests would benefit Knox County not to venture into?
No more bonded indebtedness until the debt is paid down significantly. The debt service is becoming unmanageable.
3. What 5 things could you not live without?
My family
God and my faith.
The freedoms guaranteed me as an American.
My friends
Living in East Tennessee