

Dear Fellow Oconee Countians,
The campaign for your Oconee County Board of Commissioners is in full swing and I’d like to share with you why I’m running for office and what I have to offer.
I decided to run for Post 1 Commissioner for several reasons, foremost is my love of Oconee County. I’ve lived here all my life and share this same sense of “home” with many of you. To those of you who are new to Oconee County, we say “Welcome!” It will not take long for you to love this county, too. Oconee County is truly a great place to live.
Another reason is that I love working with people and problem solving together. I desire to bring the best minds together to accomplish our goals. I want city and county government to be something that people will contribute toward. We must address several issues if Oconee County is to remain such and excellent area, and everyone has something to offer.
I am well qualified and experienced in city and county government. I retired as Fire Marshal from Athens-Clarke County (after 34 years), and I currently work 20 hours a week for nearby Walton County. Throughout my county government career, I have served on many state, regional and national committees and boards. And, having served previously on the Oconee County Board of Commissioners, I know what it takes to get things done. In addition to my past experience, I have completed the Certified County Commissioner certification program through ACCG and have been active in GMA (Georgia Municipal Association) while serving as Mayor of Bishop, GA.
Because I enjoy being around people, you will find that I am very accessible. I try to attend as many county, school, city and civic events as possible while remaining an active member of Briarwood Baptist Church. I welcome your comments, suggestions and observations. By listening to you and giving you a voice, we will make Oconee County government something in which everyone can proudly participate.
I believe in planning for the future, while preserving the past. As a former commissioner, I voted to preserve a portion of the Breedlove Farm through farmland preservation. Now, all Oconee citizens can enjoy knowing that many of the historic homes and farms that add beauty and character to our county will be preserved for future generations.
This election is very important because our county is changing so dramatically. As your commissioner, I intend to answer your calls and letters because I truly value your input. The upcoming four-year term at the BOC promises to be very challenging, but I am eager to be a positive influence in our county government. If you are concerned about government costs, efficiencies, integrity, public safety, taxes, balanced growth, infrastructure, or any number of other issues, then I would like to hear your thoughts. I feel that listening to the concerns of our citizens is the first step in building a positive foundation for progress.
I look forward to hearing from you and earning your vote. Call me…let’s talk.
~Johnny
Please write or call:
Johnny Pritchett
PO Box 245
Bishop, GA 30621
706-769-7383