Meet the Candidate: Winder's Mayor is Seeking Re-election

What would you like to see Winder's mayor address following the Nov. 8 election? Tell us in comments.

George “Chip” Thompson III (incumbent)

• Age: 60
• Occupation: Retired educator
• Education: Graduated from and received bachelor's and master’s degrees from Georgia Southern College
• Family: Thompson has been married to Shadie Howard Thompson for 38 years. The couple has one daughter.
• Political experience: Before being elected as mayor, Thompson served on the Winder City Council for eight years and chaired the water and wastewater committee. The committee's ccomplishments include development of the Laurel Lane reservoir and negotiating and obtaining the water rights at . Thompson also coordinated construction of the John O. Mobley Public Safety Building. While serving as mayor, he has traveled throughout the state seeking information and funding for improving the city of Winder. He has made numerous presentations to groups and agencies that can assist the city.
• Top priorities: Continuing the revitalization of the downtown area through the Streetscape program and through working with the Georgia Department of Transportation, working with the Georgia Initiative Community Housing program to improve residential areas and continuing to promote Winder through events, such as the Lazy Daze Festival, the Jug Tavern Festival and Kansas City Barbeque Society Cook-Off
• In his own words — why he is seeking re-election: "I am running for re-election in order to finish up on the work I have accomplished during my first term. I know that I am the best candidate for this office because of my leadership skills, work experience and political experience. As a retiree, I have the time and commitment to serve as your mayor. I will continue to help the council prioritize the needs and wants of the community. I have a high regard for the members of the council and I am eager to continue working with them for the good of the city and its residents."

Check back Friday for a profile of Thompson's challeger, Winder City Councilman David Maynard.