Q&A with Todd Golden

Todd Golden is running for Sullivan County District 9 commissioner. Q: What inspired you to run for this position? A: "After 12 years on the Board of Education, I've seen exactly how county decisions play out for families and schools. Some of those decisions haven't made sense. I'm running to bring that experience to the County Commission and help put things back on track for all of Sullivan County." Q: What experiences have prepared or qualified you for this position? A: "I've spent over a decade as an elected Board of Education member working through budgets, tough calls and public accountability. I don't just sit quietly — I ask questions and push for answers. Professionally, I've worked in competitive environments where results matter. That mindset carries directly into how I approach county decisions." Q: What are your top goals and priorities, if elected? A: "My priorities are straightforward: fix the funding issues, protect taxpayers and focus on what actually matters. That starts with restoring the $12 million that's been pulled away from our schools. Beyond that, we need disciplined budgeting, attention to infrastructure and strong support for public safety. Not every problem needs a new program — some just need better decisions. I'm focused on practical solutions that hold up over time, not short-term fixes." Q: What do you believe are the strengths and weaknesses of Sullivan County government? What does this governing body do well, and how could it improve? A: "There are good people in county government, and many core services run well. The problem is consistency and long-term thinking. Too many decisions feel reactive, and at times disconnected from what people actually expect. That's where improvement has to happen. We need clearer priorities, more discipline in spending, and leaders willing to challenge decisions that don't add up. The focus should be on what benefits the whole county — not just certain areas." Q: What issues do you feel are most important to residents, and how do you plan to connect with constituents and address their concerns? A: "Most people care about the same things: taxes, schools, roads and whether their money is being used wisely. They don't want politics — they want results. I've always been accessible, and that won't change. I'll continue to show up, listen and have real conversations. But listening isn't enough. When people bring concerns, they expect action. My job is to take what I hear and make decisions that actually reflect the priorities of the people I represent."