Kyle Phillips, a 33 year-old analyst, was kind enough to provide his response to our questions. He is running for Knox County Commissioner 5C.
1. Introduce yourself to Knoxville, who are you, and why are you running?
I am Kyle Phillips and I am running because I believe I have the ability, skills and passion to do the job. Its not enough for us to complain about the system but not do anything about it. As an electorate we must do a better job staying informaed and making educated voting decisions. Once we elect people we have to stay involved not check out til the next election cycle. As for me, I feel I have something to offer beyond an intelligent vote and therefore am honor bound to give it a shot. I can either fight the fight, even if I lose, or sit at home and do nothing.
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?
I really like this question since I’m very much in favor of smaller government and more fiscal responsibility. I don’t think local government should be involved in much more than law enforcement, fire protection, roads and infrastructure. But, to answer your question, the number one thing I think local government needs to get out of is funding private development. Develop a good growth plan, yes. Create a pro business tax structure, yes. Make sure our education system is creating a world class labor force, yes. But actually getting into development, absolutely not!
3. What 5 things could you not live without?
5 things I can’t live without. I’m really pretty simple and my first thought is a air, water, and food. However, I know thats not what your looking for so…
Family is very important
Faith is a must and Freedom
The 3 F’s I guess you could say.