By Billy Davis

Panolian: Describe what you mean by your campaign motto, “Avant for Action.”

Avant: Just getting things done. To get some of the things going that I have mentioned, like housing and jobs, and helping to build the economic base of Panola County.

Panolian: What accomplishments can you point to over the past 14 months during your time as county supervisor?

Avant: Well, most of it is going to be communicating activities in the county – communicating to the constituents the direction the county is going in.

Panolian: You mentioned a moment ago about housing and economic development. Can you point to any of those things that you’ve worked on – made progress on – over the past year?

Avant: At North Delta Planning and Development, I’ve spoken with them about housing. They are looking at doing a tri-county Self-Help Housing Program, incorporating two other counties along with Panola County. I count that as an accomplishment. That’s building the economic base, by more housing, because you’re bringing in more taxes.

Panolian: What is the biggest challenge facing the residents of District 2?

Avant: I would say having a cleaner community and raising the level of our schools.

Panolian: At the political forum in Sardis, you mentioned a “cleaner community.” Are you referring to roadside trash?

Avant: That’s one of them. I mean a cleaner environment: the garbage on the side of the road, the emissions our cars put into the air. We just need alternative fuels and alternative electricity to have a cleaner community.

Panolian: Has there been an effort over the last year to pick up roadside trash in District 2?

Avant: Not that I can pinpoint. We just stress not to litter. Everybody’s got a garbage can. They just get used to throwing stuff out the window. We need to educate them to put things where they’re supposed to be.

Panolian: What separates you from your opponent?

Avant: I am open-minded. I have experience on the job. I want the entire county to grow, not just one end of the county, but I want the entire county to have a good economic base.